Santa Cruz Dragnaval Gala Set for Feb 16, Audience to Crown Winner

The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Dragnaval Gala is set for February 16 at 8:00 PM, taking place on the Dormitorum stage in La Candelaria square. The performance order for its twelve contestants has already been decided. This event is unique because the winner is chosen by the audience's applause. It's a significant moment for including the LGTBIQ+ community in Santa Cruz de Tenerife's festivities, an initiative the city council has championed through its Festivities and Equality and Diversity departments since the gala began in 2024.

The performance order was decided at a draw held at the Exhibition Center. Attending were Javier Caraballero, Councillor for Festivities, Gladis de León, Councillor for Equality and Diversity, and presenter Exhuberancia Carey. The twelve contestants competing for the title, in their order of appearance, are: Hocklin, Havana Rey, Zayra González, Dummy Porcelain, Demii, Joel Peraza, Hary Vicious, Zhora León, Karen Danger, Kiki Nobi Narie, Isabella y Punto, and Fiona Fairfax.

The competition will begin with an elimination round, where a jury will select three finalists. The winner, in keeping with this gala's tradition, will then be chosen based on the intensity of the audience's applause. This unique method highlights the event's direct connection with public enthusiasm.

The Dragnaval Gala joined the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival in 2024. It was initially planned to be a smaller event compared to the established competition in Gran Canaria's capital. Back then, Festivities Councillor Javier Caraballero stated that the carnival had a "historical debt" to the LGTBIQ+ community, recognizing their artistic contributions, talent, and professionalism over many years.