Fajardo Porras Crowned La Orotava Carnival Queen 2026

La Orotava has chosen its Carnival Queen for 2026, an event that marks the start of one of the most traditional and important celebrations in the Canary Islands. Bárbara Urimare Fajardo Porras, 27, was crowned at a gala themed around the world of cinema, hinting at a carnival dedicated to movies.

Fajardo Porras won with her costume, "Goddess of the Night" (Diosa de la Noche), designed by Alfonso Baute Páez and representing Ferretería La Luz. Her court of honor includes Ananda Martín Díaz, who was named first maid of honor for her costume "Solaravia," designed by Fran Yanes. Claudia Dóniz Dóniz was chosen as second maid of honor with "Fire Opal (Fairopal)," created by Sergio and Octavio Hernández Hernández. Five candidates competed in total.

Mayor Francisco Linares and Festivities Councilor Alexis Pacheco attended the coronation. Along with the outgoing queen, Mónica Mesa, they presented the crown and sash to the new queen. The gala, directed by David Hernández and hosted by Elvis Sanfiel, lasted until almost midnight. It opened with a tribute to cinema, featuring dance, video projections, and live music from Alma Show, the comparsa Carabao Guayana, and Wt Revolucion Dance. Throughout the evening, local groups like rondallas, murgas, and fanfares performed. Guest artists, including the group La Década Prodigiosa, also entertained the audience, adding to the spectacle.

Now that the queen has been chosen, La Orotava Carnival moves into the streets. A variety of cultural and food-related activities, along with traditional gatherings, will take place, reinforcing the festival as a community celebration. The Plaza de la Constitución will be the main hub for these events, hosting activities for both families and carnival groups. The carnival will end with major events like the Coso Apoteosis, a grand parade through the historic streets, and the burning of Crispín, which marks the official close of the festivities. Through these events, La Orotava shows how its carnival successfully blends entertainment with tradition and community involvement, keeping a cherished custom alive while adapting to modern times.