Cajamarca Carnival 2026: Dates, Queens & Prizes Revealed!
Cajamarca, Peru, known as “The Carnival Capital of Peru,” has recently concluded a series of gala events to select its Carnival Queens. These newly crowned representatives – the Reina del Carnaval, Reina Infantil, Reina de Centros Poblados, and Reina Integración – will officially begin their duties this month as the city prepares for its annual Carnival celebrations.
A Tradition of Celebration
The Carnival of Cajamarca is widely considered the most joyful festival in Peru, offering a diverse programme of cultural activities, entertainment, and competitions. According to the portal Y tú qué planes, the festival has “earned the name of ‘The most joyful festival in Peru’ thanks to its various parties, processions, festivals, contests, and dances.”
Key Dates for 2026
The festivities begin with the ‘Bando de Carnaval,’ a large parade organized by local authorities and neighborhood committees. The celebration spans several weeks, with the central dates for 2026 scheduled from February 14th to 18th.
Royal Selection and Prizes
Daniela Reaño Díaz, a 21-year-old Business Administration graduate representing the La Merced neighborhood, was crowned Reina del Carnaval 2026, chosen from a pool of 22 candidates. Her prize includes the keys to a brand-new pickup truck. Marlett Flores Villalobos, age 9, representing the Urubamba neighborhood, was named Reina Infantil 2026 and also received the keys to a new pickup truck. Olenka Fernández Murga, 19, representing Pariamarca, earned the title of Reina del Carnaval de Centros Poblados 2026 and was awarded a motorcycle. Finally, Valentina La Vera Castañeda, a 21-year-old medical student representing the province of San Marcos, was crowned Reina Integración 2026 and received the keys to a new car.
Reina del Carnaval Daniela Reaño Díaz stated, “I finished my degree last year and worked for three months. I had to leave it to prepare for the contest. I am a girl proud to be from Cajamarca and who intends to promote the traditions of our land.” She was crowned by Cajamarca’s mayor, Joaquín Ramírez, and dedicated her win to her late grandmother, her family, and her neighborhood, which she described as “a cradle of queens.”
Looking Ahead
With the queens now selected, preparations for the main Carnival events will intensify. The festival is expected to draw both national and international tourists. The first ‘globeada’ of the 2026 Carnival took place on Sunday, signaling the start of the public celebrations. It is likely that the coming weeks will see a surge in activity as Cajamarca prepares to host what it proclaims as “the most joyful festival in Peru.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the central dates of the 2026 Carnival of Cajamarca?
The central dates of the 2026 Carnival of Cajamarca are February 14th to 18th.
Who was crowned Reina del Carnaval 2026?
Daniela Reaño Díaz, a 21-year-old representing the La Merced neighborhood, was crowned Reina del Carnaval 2026.
What prizes were awarded to the Carnival Queens?
The Reina del Carnaval and Reina Infantil each received the keys to a new pickup truck, the Reina del Carnaval de Centros Poblados received a motorcycle, and the Reina Integración received the keys to a new car.
As Cajamarca prepares to welcome visitors for its vibrant Carnival celebrations, what aspects of this cultural tradition do you find most appealing?