This edition will feature three candidates for Children’s Queen, four contenders for the title of King of Joy, and eight young women competing for the Carnival Queen crown.
“Arriba la Tambora” will be the theme of the 2026 Mazatlán International Carnival, taking place from February 12 to 17. The official announcement also included the presentation of all candidates vying for the crowns of Mazatlán’s most iconic celebration.
The theme honors the tambora as one of the most distinctive sounds of Mazatlán’s identity. The Sinaloan tambora is considered a cultural symbol of Mazatlán — its powerful, festive rhythm has accompanied local celebrations for more than a century and forms an essential part of the traditional regional bands that define the area.
Fireworks illuminated the presentation of the candidates at the event, which took place at Fuerte 31 de Marzo, organized by the Mazatlán Institute of Culture. The royal court was present, including Lucero I, Carnival Queen; Desiré, Queen of the Floral Games; Ángela, Children’s Queen; Ximena, Queen of Poetry; and Víctor, King of Joy. Municipal authorities also attended, led by Óscar García, director of the Municipal Institute of Culture.
Candidates for the Royal Titles
The event also featured the official presentation of the candidates for the upcoming Mazatlán International Carnival.
Children’s Queen
• Eileen
• Noelia
• Elisabeth
King of Joy
• Víctor
• Romeo
• Guillermo
• Javier
Carnival Queen
• Joanna Castillo
• Montserrat Zamudio
• Marbella Medina
• Marbella Rivera
• Anahí Esparza
• Kareli Tirado
• Mariana Guerrero
• Danya Moreno
• Andrea García
The announcement concluded with fireworks, a drone show, and a parade of the candidates along the Mazatlán malecón, marking the official start of the journey toward the 2026 International Carnival.