Jade Chale, Queen of Joy of Cozumel Carnival 2026, Dies

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Jade Chale, who was crowned queen of the Joy category at the Cozumel Carnival 2026, has died, municipal president José Luis Chacón Méndez confirmed. Her death prompted an outpouring of condolences from members of the island’s carnival community.

The young woman, whose full name was Jade Betzzabel Chale Chi, took part in this year’s edition of one of Cozumel’s most representative celebrations.

After news of her death spread, farewell messages began circulating among her family, friends and acquaintances. Local officials and people close to the carnival community said she had been battling an illness and was widely loved on the island.

Crowned at the 2026 Carnival

Jade Chale ran as a candidate for carnival queen during the voting stage held on February 1 at the Moby Dick entertainment venue. That day, Jojo Ramírez and Eduardo Alcalá were chosen as carnival queen and king, respectively, while Jade and Pepe Rosado took the titles of king and queen of the Joy category.

Her presentation was a show dedicated to Cozumel, its history and its traditions. She appeared in several costumes, including a red outfit, a gold design with blue tones and a look trimmed with orange feathers, closing her performance in a tricolor costume.

On February 11, the official coronation of the 2026 sovereigns was held at Quintana Roo park, where Jade formally received her crown alongside Pepe Rosado.

Carnival community mourns

Cozumel’s carnival is a cultural tradition with more than 150 years of history. The 2026 edition brought together representatives across several categories, including children’s, youth, fantasy, diversity and Joy.

Jade was among that group of sovereigns who took part in the celebrations and events organized during February. Cozumel’s municipal government and members of the carnival community expressed their condolences.