Mexico’s iconic Mazatlán International Carnival 2026, themed “Arriba la Tambora,” is expected to generate an economic impact exceeding 1.2 billion pesos (US$69.55 million), reinforcing its position as one of the most important cultural and tourism events in the country and a major draw for international visitors.
The announcement was made at Punto México, the promotional space of Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism, where federal, state, and municipal authorities presented the 2026 edition of the Carnival, scheduled to take place from February 12 to 17.
This year’s concept places the “tambora”, a traditional brass percussion instrument, at the heart of the celebration, recognizing its deep cultural significance and role as a living symbol of Sinaloa’s identity.
Representing Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism, Deputy Minister Nathalie Desplas Puel emphasized that the Mazatlán Carnival aligns with the federal government’s vision of promoting development with well-being and Shared Prosperity. She emphasized that, as stated by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, culture is a key pillar for strengthening national identity, boosting local economies, and projecting Mexico internationally.
“The Mazatlán Carnival raises its voice to tell the world that its history is alive, its music continues to set the beat, and its people celebrate with joy, unity, and dignity,” Desplas Puel said.
According to estimates from the Sinaloa state government, the Carnival is expected to result in 87% hotel occupancy, welcoming approximately 92,000 tourists. Total attendance is projected to exceed 1.26 million visitors, generating an estimated 1.21 billion pesos (US$69.55 million) in spending, directly benefiting tourism service providers, local businesses, creative industries, and the broader cultural sector.
The 2026 Carnival will feature a robust calendar of traditional and artistic events, including the coronations of the King of Joy (February 12), Queen of the Floral Games (February 13), Carnival Queen (February 14), and Children’s Queen (February 16). Other highlights include the iconic Naval Combat reenactment on February 14 and the grand Carnival parades on February 15 and 17.
Major musical performances will also be part of the festivities, with artists such as Edén Muñoz (King of Joy), Yuridia (Carnival Queen), Belinda, and Lara Campos (Children’s Queen), as well as a special tribute to Germán Lizárraga, accompanied by the Sinaloa Symphony Orchestra of the Arts during the Floral Games coronation.
Sinaloa’s Director of Tourism, Mireya Sosa Osuna, described the Carnival as one of the most important in the world and a defining expression of Mazatlán’s cultural heartbeat. Meanwhile, Mazatlán Mayor Estrella Palacios Domínguez noted that the city is celebrating 128 years of Carnival tradition, with a renewed focus on preserving its cultural essence while ensuring that its positive economic impact reaches local communities.
To ensure public safety during the festivities, authorities will deploy a special security operation involving 3,000 personnel from municipal, state, and federal agencies, reinforcing surveillance, civil protection, and visitor assistance.
Related: Mexico Strengthens Its Global Tourism Leadership After Historic Turn as FITUR 2026 Guest Country
