Miguel Arroyo Wins 2026 Isleño Cocktail Competition in Isla Mujeres

ISLA MUJERES, Quintana Roo — Bartender Miguel Arroyo took first place in the 2026 Isleño Cocktail Competition, earning 287 points and a 10,000-peso prize for his performance in the island’s annual celebration of local mixology.

The competition was held Thursday, August 13, at the Municipal Plaza as part of the monthlong festivities marking the 176th anniversary of the founding of Isla Mujeres.

Bartenders, mixologists and representatives of local businesses competed in two stages. The opening round tested their ability to prepare classic cocktails, while the finalists were asked to create original drinks inspired by the island’s history, culture, natural surroundings and culinary traditions.

Competitors incorporated regional ingredients and Mexican spirits into their signature drinks. Municipal officials said the event was designed to recognize the people working behind the bars of Isla Mujeres while encouraging cocktails that give visitors a stronger sense of place.

Five competitors receive cash prizes

Arroyo finished 15 points ahead of second-place winner Víctor González, who received 272 points and a prize of 7,000 pesos.

Oswaldo Alcaraz placed third with 250 points, earning 5,000 pesos. Alberto Lira followed closely with 248 points and received 3,500 pesos, while Diana Muñiz completed the top five with 243 points and a 2,000-peso prize.

The final results were:

1. Miguel Arroyo — 287 points and 10,000 pesos
2. Víctor González — 272 points and 7,000 pesos
3. Oswaldo Alcaraz — 250 points and 5,000 pesos
4. Alberto Lira — 248 points and 3,500 pesos
5. Diana Muñiz — 243 points and 2,000 pesos

All participants also received recognition for taking part. Mayor Atenea Gómez Ricalde congratulated the competitors and said their original drinks reflected the flavors and character that distinguish Isla Mujeres as a tourism destination.

Part of a larger celebration of island food

The cocktail contest was organized through the municipality’s General Directorate of Economic Development and Tourism. Participants paid a 600-peso registration fee and were required to follow competition guidelines calling for ingredients representative of Isla Mujeres.

It was paired with the fifth Ceviche Competition, “El Cangrejito Playero 2026,” held at the Municipal Plaza on August 7. Together, the events put two parts of the island’s hospitality industry in the spotlight: the cooks who work with its seafood traditions and the bartenders creating drinks for its restaurants, hotels and beach clubs.

The cocktail competition has become a recurring part of Isla Mujeres’ anniversary program. The municipality also held the event in 2025, when local officials described it as a way to connect the island’s food and drink culture with its identity and tourism economy.

Isla Mujeres marks 176 years

The modern settlement on Isla Mujeres was founded as the town of Dolores on August 17, 1850. More than 250 Maya and Yucatecan fishermen settled there after fleeing the Caste War, according to Mexico’s National Institute for Federalism and Municipal Development.

This year’s anniversary celebrations run throughout August and include historical exhibitions, traditional religious observances, sporting events, concerts, an artisan fair and activities connected with International Whale Shark Day.

The formal anniversary falls on Monday, August 17.