Welcome to the first issue of the new Pageant Magazine, America’s Digest of Character and Culture.

Why Pageant Returns
When Pageant Magazine first appeared on newsstands in 1944, it offered readers something both simple and powerful: a window into the wider world. Within its pages readers encountered artists and scientists, explorers and entertainers, photographers and writers. It celebrated human curiosity and the remarkable individuals whose stories illuminated the age in which they lived.

Much has changed since the early days of American magazine publishing. The ways we consume information have multiplied, and the pace of modern media often moves at dizzying speed. Yet the needs of readers largely remain the same. We still seek stories that inspire curiosity.
 We still value thoughtful perspectives on culture and creativity.
 We still believe that the human being is a most interesting subject.

The relaunch of Pageant is not an attempt to recreate the past. Rather, it is an effort to carry forward the spirit that made the original magazine meaningful. The new Pageant is dedicated to Character and Culture. Character, because the individuals who shape our communities, arts, and ideas deserve to be understood in depth. Culture, because the music we hear, the stories we tell, the art we create, and the places we inhabit reveal who we are as a society.

We want to feature remarkable people, compelling stories, thoughtful essays, photography, music, literature, and the many creative expressions that make life richer. We’re gonna try some things that nail that and we’ll likely swing and miss a few, too. That’s all part of a realistic process of growth and adaptation. Our goal is that Pageant remains committed to something timeless: the pleasure of reading and discovery.

In every era, culture is shaped by those who care enough to explore it, celebrate it, and contribute to it.

We invite you to do exactly that. Welcome to the new Pageant Magazine.

Contributors in this issue: Angela Burk, Glenda Benevides, D.E Johnson, Josh Mills, Alexandra Vale, Gene Williams, Chris Herren, Leia Dimalanta, Michelle Chén, Billy Warren and Debra Wilson.