The Miss Delaware Pageant held the first night of the two-day event Friday night at Dover Downs Hotel and Casino.

The first night saw all 15 contestants compete in all phases of competition. The roster will be cut down to the final eight Saturday night culminating with the crowning of the new Miss Delaware who will go on to compete in the Miss America Pageant.

She will succeed Miss Milford Brooke Mitchell of Selbyville, who won the title last year.

Saturday night's final day of competition will start at 7:30 p.m. at Dover Downs. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.missde.org.

Delaware State News photos by Marc Clery.