Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is gearing up for its annual Drag Queen Gala, a cornerstone event of the city’s vibrant Carnival celebrations. This year, Radio Televisión Canaria (RTVC) is set to deliver comprehensive, live coverage of the spectacle, bringing the event to audiences both domestically and internationally. The gala, scheduled for Friday, February 20, 2026, promises a dazzling display of artistry, performance, and celebration of diversity.
The Drag Queen Gala has become a defining symbol of the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival, attracting both local and international attention since its inception in 1998. Its growing prominence is reflected in its recognition by organizations like the Federación Estatal de Lesbianas, Gais, Trans y Bisexuales (FELGTB), which awarded the gala its ‘Premio Pluma’ in 2018. The event has also garnered attention in publications like Shangay, solidifying its place on the cultural calendar. This year’s gala will be broadcast live across multiple platforms, ensuring widespread accessibility for viewers.
Broadcast Details and Platforms
RTVC will provide a full live broadcast of the Gala Drag Queen through Televisión Canaria, Radio Canaria, the Canarias Play platform, the rtvc.es website, and its official YouTube channel. The broadcast is scheduled to initiate at 9:00 PM local time (21:00 hours) and is expected to last three hours. This extensive coverage underscores RTVC’s commitment to showcasing the cultural richness of the Canary Islands. The event will be hosted by Roberto Herrera and Yanely Hernández, adding their expertise and flair to the proceedings.
The competition will feature 12 finalists – Drag Vilanz, Drag Ácrux, Drag Ígnea, Drag Shíky, Drag Vintash, Drag Eiko, Drag Sequins, Drag La Tacones, Drag Hefesto, Drag Ego, Drag Yshia Taisma, and Drag Avalon – each vying for the coveted title and crown. Contestants will showcase elaborate costumes, impressive platforms, and captivating performances, embodying the spirit of creativity and self-expression that defines the gala.
Preparations and Behind-the-Scenes Access
To build anticipation, RTVC is integrating the Gala Drag Queen into its regular programming. Shows like ‘Buenos Días Canarias,’ ‘Ponte al día,’ ‘Telenoticias 1,’ ‘Hay que verlo,’ ‘Telenoticias 2,’ and ‘1 Hora Menos’ will feature special segments, exclusive interviews, and live connections to the Parque de Santa Catalina, offering viewers a glimpse behind the scenes of the event’s preparation and the contestants’ final moments before taking the stage. This immersive approach aims to enhance the viewing experience and provide a deeper understanding of the artistry and dedication involved.
The Parque de Santa Catalina will be transformed for the event, hosting a large audience eager to witness the competition. The gala is known for drawing significant crowds, often selling out in advance, and is considered one of the most anticipated nights of the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival. The event’s enduring popularity highlights its importance as a celebration of inclusivity and artistic expression.
Héctor Alemán, the concejal de Fiestas (councilor for festivities), has been actively involved in the preparations, working alongside the presenters to ensure a seamless and memorable event. The gala’s continued success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the organizers, performers, and the community.
As the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival progresses, the Drag Queen Gala remains a focal point, attracting attention from across the region and beyond. The event’s live broadcast by RTVC will undoubtedly extend its reach, allowing a wider audience to experience the energy and excitement of this iconic celebration. The gala is not just a competition; it’s a vibrant expression of the city’s cultural identity and a powerful statement of acceptance and diversity.
Following the crowning of the new Drag Queen, the city is expected to approach alive with celebrations, continuing the festive atmosphere throughout the night. The impact of the gala extends beyond the immediate event, contributing to the overall vibrancy and appeal of the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival. The event’s continued success promises another spectacular showcase of talent and creativity in the years to come.
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