LAS VEGAS - Fifty-one beauty queens from around the country are getting ready to smile and strut before a panel of judges and a live audience in Sin City to determine the country's next Miss USA.

Sunday night's winner will replace Miss USA 2010 Rima Fakih and be America's representative at the Miss Universe pageant in Brazil in September.

Fakih overcame a near-stumble in her evening gown to win last year. This year's contestants hope to avoid missteps and shine in swimwear, evening gown and interview competitions at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

A Las Vegas oddsmaker has tabbed Miss California Alyssa Campanella the favourite of the competition.