Cozumel, Mexico — The Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC) launched the 2026 Carnival season with a vibrant opening night featuring a historical photo exhibition and a tribute to a beloved local figure known as “Mr. Spectacle.”
The event at the Museum of the Island inaugurated the exhibition “Between Feathers and Sequins,” which showcases photographs and iconic costumes tracing the history of Cozumel’s Carnival. The night also included a special recognition for Fernando Ferráez, whose voice and presence have been a staple of the festivities for nearly four decades.
FPMC Director General Juanita Alonso Marrufo emphasized the cultural significance of the Carnival, now in its 152nd year. “The Cozumel Carnival represents a living cultural heritage that we must preserve and strengthen,” she said, adding that the institution is committed to safeguarding this tradition for future generations.
One of the emotional highlights was the tribute to Ferráez, visibly moved by the honor. “Long live the Cozumel Carnival 2026! It’s so good to be in Cozumel!” he told the applauding crowd.
The evening attracted past and present Carnival royalty, including elected queen Jojo Ramírez and king Eduardo Alcalá, emperors Patricia Sosa and Arturo Díaz, and other notable figures. A surprise performance by singer and former carnival queen Priscila Vivas, who performed “La Vida es un Carnaval,” added to the festive atmosphere.
The museum was filled with community members and visitors who enjoyed a concert and reminisced over the displayed images and garments. The event aligns with cultural promotion efforts under Quintana Roo’s New Agreement for Well-being and Development, led by Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa.
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