On Feb. 7, the Parkland High School Class of 2026 officers hosted one of the most anticipated senior events of the year – Mr. Parkland. This annual tradition is a talent show in which senior boys compete for the title of Mr. Parkland by creating their own acts displaying their talents as well as participating in group dances and interviews.

This talent show was scored by a panel of judges including talented Lehigh Valley natives and 2025 Mr. Parkland, Garet Hill.

This year, Mr. Parkland had one of the highest numbers of contestants in history with 25 incredible participants. Mr. Parkland 2026 was also remarkable in its number of attendees – the show completely sold out with 1,300 tickets sold. The first come, first served seating, as well as the show’s incredible promotion in the weeks leading up to this event, led to attendees waiting outside the PHS auditorium doors for over a half hour in order to get the best possible seats.

This show consisted of several portions that contributed to the contestants’ scores. After their entrance and first collective group dance, the boys participated in the Hawaiian competition, in which contestants showed their best Hawaiian wear alongside their dance moves and overall stage presence.

Following the Hawaiian competition, the boys presented their individual acts in order to display their talents. These contestants had an array of talents to show, including playing various instruments, singing, dancing, stand up comedy and even synchronized swimming.

After a brief intermission and the conclusion of the talent portion, the boys proceeded to show their best formal wear and perform yet another group dance.

Audience members used a QR code to vote for the audience choice award, which was announced alongside the top five contestants. These five contestants were then interviewed live, leading to the selection of the top three contestants, and ultimately, Mr. Parkland.

This year, Brandon Gonzalez was crowned as Mr. Parkland 2026. His act consisted of an inspiring self-written rap, which he performed with an incredible stage presence and passion.

He concluded his rap by revealing a T-shirt with a powerful and personal message written on the back, stating, “You are not alone.” This message brought his act to an impactful close.

During the final top five interview, when asked what advice he would give to his freshman year self, Brandon shared yet another powerful message with the crowd, encouraging not only his freshman year self, but the audience, to stay true to themselves, spread kindness and embrace unity with those around them.

This year, the senior class officers, as well as class advisers and Mr. Parkland choreographer Mrs. Amanda Slotter, came together to produce yet another incredible Mr. Parkland show. This tradition has continued to be a beloved senior year event that allows not only contestants, but Parkland High School seniors, to come together.