Elizabeth Ledesma Laker, representing McDonald’s and the daily opinion of Tenerife, with a design by Alexis Santana, was crowned Queen of the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2025 during a gala that radiated the vibrancy and colour of this highly anticipated celebration, once again showcasing the magnificence of this iconic event.
The ceremony, hosted by Alexis Hernández and Lara Álvarez, featured eleven contestants who captivated the audience with their stunning outfits, each one reflecting the dedication and ingenuity of its creators. From the outset, it was made clear that this gala would encapsulate the true essence of the Carnival, and it certainly fulfilled that promise. Although the opening act, characterised by an impressive visual display inspired by Africa, elicited mixed reactions, the event gained momentum through the participation of Ni Fú-Ni Fail and the candidates’ parade, which drew cheers from the crowd.
The honourable ladies completing the Court included: Laura Fernández Ruiz, representing Dormitorum with a design by Sedomir Rodríguez de la Sierra; Marta Pérez Baute, from the Añaza Carrefour shopping centre, showcasing a creation by Santi Castro; Ainhoa Díaz Sánchez, from the Alcampo La Laguna shopping centre, with a design by Juan Carlos Armas; and Michelle Castro Adrián, representing Mediterranean Broker Insurance Broker, with a design by Jorge González Santana. Each contestant shone individually, standing out for the elegance and grandeur of their costumes, in an edition where the quality of the outfits reached an extraordinary standard.
One of the most eagerly awaited moments was the candidates’ parade, where each outfit impressed with its creativity and magnificence. Elizabeth Ledesma Laker emerged as an early favourite with her innovative design by Alexis Santana, successfully connecting with both the audience and the judges. Marta Pérez Baute also received acclaim for her outfit by Santi Castro, solidifying her place in the Court of Honour. The blend of tradition and modernity in the costumes served as a hallmark of this edition, featuring intricate details, dramatic structures, and innovative materials that astonished spectators. Particularly, Ledesma Laker’s costume stood out for its meticulous craftsmanship, masterfully integrated recycled elements, and a flawless presentation that secured her victory.
The event surpassed all attendance expectations, with a bustling fairground and eager spectators requesting access until the very last moment. This contest experienced an unprecedented turnout, and the audience’s enthusiasm resonated throughout the evening. The vibrant energy of the street carnival transferred onto the stage with performances from renowned orchestras that enlivened the atmosphere. Additionally, the witty humour of Carmen Cabeza emerged as one of the evening’s highlights, bringing laughter from the audience with her clever staging and proving that humour remains a vital aspect of the Carnival.
The grand finale of the night was marked by the performance of the Cariocas troupe, delivering an exhilarating show, followed by the highly anticipated presentation of Orishas, whose infectious rhythm enlivened the attendees and elevated the gala to new heights. Despite a hesitant beginning, the evening transformed into one of the most unforgettable editions, affirming that the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife retains its status as an international benchmark. The excitement lingered until the end, as all eleven candidates returned to the stage for the announcement of the queen and her court of honour, culminating in a magical night filled with confetti, music, and a surge of collective joy.
The 2025 Carnival made a lasting impression with a gala overflowing with emotion, spectacle, and a deep-rooted passion for tradition. From the brilliance of the contestants to the fervour of the audience, every element contributed to an unforgettable celebration that reinforced pride in this event. This edition was characterised by elegance, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of the attendees, confirming that the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife remains the most awaited celebration of the year. Pride of the Queen. Gala. Carnival.
