Regional beauty pageants and festivals announced in Dominican Republic and Ecuador

Various regional cultural festivities and beauty pageants are underway in the Dominican Republic and Ecuador.

In Hato Mayor del Rey, Dominican Republic, the municipal government and the Organizing Committee for the Patronal Festivals have presented the candidates for ‘Miss Hato Mayor 2026’. The contest, dedicated to Nuestra Señora de Las Mercedes, features seven representatives from local neighborhoods. The pageant is scheduled for September 9, as part of a broader festival cycle including cultural, artistic, and sporting activities.

In Ibarra, Ecuador, seven candidates have begun their official agenda for the ‘Reinado de Ibarra 2026-2027’ to celebrate the 420th anniversary of the city's foundation. Mayor Álvaro Castillo confirmed that the election will be held at the Teatro Gran Colombia and will be funded by private enterprise rather than public resources, as the municipality has redirected festival budgets toward urban transport subsidies.

Additionally, in the Dominican Republic, preparations are finalized for a Miss International event. The gala will be hosted by communicators Jessica Pereira and Marielva Hernández. The event features international guests, including Catalina Duque and Stephen Diaz, and serves as a precursor to the 64th Miss International edition to be held in Japan.