Carla Castro Crowned Santa Cruz Carnival Queen 2026
The most eagerly awaited, and most prestigious, announcement of the year has arrived: Santa Cruz de Tenerife has a new Carnival Queen. Carla Castro Castellano has been crowned Queen of the 2026 Carnival with her stunning costume, “Icónica”. Representing McDonald’s and El Día, she captivated the jury and claimed the crown.
Her spectacular design paid tribute to the creative spirit of the Canarian people and involved more than 30 artists from across the islands, highlighting the collaborative talent behind one of the world’s most famous carnival celebrations.
All 11 candidates were the stars of the evening, presenting breathtaking costumes filled with colour, sparkle and originality. The Gala once again marked a glittering highlight of the festivities, selling out its 4,000 available tickets in just half an hour.
More than 1,000 performers, including extras and carnival groups, brought Latin rhythms and vibrant choreography to the stage, creating an electric atmosphere inside the Recinto Ferial.
With the Queen now crowned, celebrations move out onto the streets. The traditional Cabalgata Anunciadora parade takes place this Friday, 13th February, officially launching the main street festivities and bringing the opening events at the Recinto Ferial to a spectacular close.
Ladies-in-Waiting
The new Queen will be accompanied throughout her reign by four ladies-in-waiting:
- First Lady-in-Waiting: Arlena Rubí Mantecón Hernández with “Luminis”, representing Centro Comercial Añaza Carrefour.
- Second Lady-in-Waiting: Cecilia Esther Díaz Hernández with “Sueños de Cristal”, representing Dormitorum and Diario de Avisos.
- Third Lady-in-Waiting: Daniela Sánchez Padilla with “Atamande”, representing Repsol Grupo González Canarias.
- Fourth Lady-in-Waiting: Alianara León Hernández with “De tu infierno a mi cielo”, representing the Cabildo Insular de La Palma and the Ayuntamiento de El Paso.
The crowning of Carla Castro marks the beginning of what promises to be another unforgettable Carnival in Santa Cruz — a celebration of artistry, tradition and the unmistakable spirit of Tenerife.
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