The proclamation by El Pirata kicks off the Marbella Carnival

Marbella has officially kicked off Carnival 2026 with the celebration of the traditional Proclamation, which took place last night at the Adolfo Suárez Palace of Fairs and Congresses. The event gathered institutional representatives, carnival groups, and a large audience, marking the beginning of one of the most anticipated festivities on the local event calendar. The proclamation was delivered by José Antonio Ortiz Fernández, popularly known as 'El Pirata', who provided an emotional journey through his career and the history of this festival in the town, highlighting the importance of family tradition and its sentimental value in his life.

During his speech, the herald expressed gratitude to his loved ones and also remembered historical figures of Marbella's Carnival, claiming the roots that have kept the festival alive through generations.

Additionally, during the evening, the Golden Shield of Carnival 2026 was awarded to Marco Antonio Gil Enríquez, in recognition of his career and contribution to the city's carnival tradition. The event also included the official presentation of this year's festival court, with the proclamation of Natalia Bernal Puertas as Venus, Scarlett Romina Cabrera Tapia and Yasmina Vega Gómez as Nymphs, and Miguel López Gómez as God Momo, key figures in this year's festive programming. The night continued with performances by various local groups, who brought music and songs to the start of the festivities, featuring the comparsa 'Al Sur del Sur', the chirigota 'Los Graduados', and the comparsa 'El Desvelo', showcasing the talent and vitality of Marbella's Carnival.

The chirigota from Cadiz by José Antonio Molina and El Melli, titled 'Los que la tienen de mármol' brought humor and carnival atmosphere to the Palace of Fairs and Congresses

As the closing act, the audience enjoyed the performance of the Cadiz chirigota by José Antonio Molina and El Melli, titled 'Los que la tienen de mármol', which brought humor and a carnival atmosphere to a night characterized by emotion, tradition, and city pride. With this opening act, Marbella kicks off the Carnival 2026 program, "reaffirming its commitment to keeping alive popular traditions and continuing to promote a celebration that is an essential part of the cultural identity of the municipality," according to the Councilor for Festivities, Yolanda Marín.