Santa Cruz de Tenerife capped off its carnival festivities for 2025 with the crowning of Elizabeth Ledesma Laker as Reina del Carnaval, following a spectacular gala filled with vibrant performances and cultural tributes. The event took place at the Recinto Ferial, where the evening was marked by the theme "Secrets of Africa," bringing to life the revelry and spirit of the carnival through dance and elaborate costumes.
Hosted by Alexis Hernández and Lara Álvarez, the evening saw Ledesma take the crown before midnight, officially marking her reign as the new queen of carnival. Ledesma dazzled the audience with her stunning costume, "Conexión," crafted by designer Alexis Santana. She represented notable sponsors, including McDonald's and the local newspaper El Día.
Over 7,000 enthusiastic attendees witnessed the gala, enjoying not just the competition among the eleven candidates, but also performances from renowned artists, including the popular Cuban band Orishas. This year, the venue accommodated 1,500 more people than last year, highlighting the growing popularity of this iconic festival.
The gala featured elaborate presentations, starting with vibrant African rhythms and choreographies embodying the culture and flora of the continent. The initial act included dancers portraying the African fauna, culminating with the entrance of the lion, the king of the savanna. The grandeur of the opening captivated the audience, exemplifying the artistic potential of the carnival.
Elizabeth Ledesma's honor was celebrated by the city’s mayor, José Manuel Bermúdez, and the outgoing queen, Corina Mrazek, who handed over the ceremonial scepter, symbolizing the transition of power and festivities. The carnival tradition, with its colorful parades and entertainment, is set to continue with the anticipated Cabalgata Anunciadora this upcoming Friday, February 28.
Ledesma's court comprises several other contestants with equally impressive costumes: Laura Fernández Ruiz as the first lady with "Gotas de cielo," Marta Pérez Baute as the second lady with "El cielo y tú," Ainhoa Díaz Sánchez as the third lady with "La Fontaine," and Michelle Castro Adrián serving as the fourth lady with "Origen." Each of these designs showcases the creative talent of local designers, enhancing the carnival atmosphere.
The jury, which included various fashion and artistic professionals, contributed to the evaluation of participants and the overall success of the event. Members included Spanish designer Alejandro Palomo and established figures like María Escoté and Marianela Hernández, ensuring the competition was judged with expertise and appreciation for the arts.
The carnival's theme was not just reflected through costumes but also through music and dancing throughout the event. Local bands and performers not only maintained the festive atmosphere but also paid homage to the diverse cultural roots of the island and its people, engaging the audience with lively performances as the competition unfolded. The selected musical acts included those awarded the first prize for interpretation, Caña Dulce, who entertained the crowd with well-known themes, keeping the energy high.
A special nod to pop culture was presented through the adaptation of "El ciclo sin fin" from the animated film El Rey León, bridging emotional resonance with entertainment tropes familiar to the attendees. This fusion of local talent with broader cultural references demonstrated the carnival's ability to connect with various audiences.
After the candidate presentations, an online voting process allowed attendees to contribute to the selection of this year's queen. This modern method of participation indicates a dedication to inclusivity and community involvement, fostering heightened enthusiasm for the results.
The gala transitioned from the intense moments of competition to collective celebrations across the Recinto Ferial, as orchestras and performers gathered to celebrate the evening's conclusion with music and dance. The audience, energized to engage with their local culture, eagerly anticipated the official start of the outdoor carnival festivities.
The humor during the evening was well-received, especially with the comedic acts from beloved local figure Carmen Cabeza, who kept the atmosphere light and engaging amid the grandeur of the event. Following her act, the celebrated murgas and comparsas took to the stage, enhancing the lively carnival spirit.
Orishas' performance was one of the evenings' highlights, infusing Cuban rhythms and Afro-Caribbean flavors, with the crowd enthusiastically engaging with songs like "Nací Orishas" and "Represent." Such performances tap deeply entrenched traditions, illuminating the diverse influences shaping the carnival experience.
The 2025 election of the Reina del Carnaval encompassed more than just pageantry; it embodied the vibrant culture, creative prowess, and rich heritage of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The anticipation surrounding the forthcoming street festivities speaks volumes about the community’s commitment to celebrating their unique culture, ensuring the carnival remains not only relevant but cherished. With the crown placed on Elizabeth Ledesma, another chapter of this colorful and rhythmic festival began, inviting everyone to join the party on the streets of Santa Cruz.