The Miss Orlando Carnival Queen Pageant was a beautiful celebration of talent, grace, culture, and community. However, the magic of pageant night was only one part of the story. Behind the dazzling costumes, inspiring performances, and emotional crowning moment were months of preparation, dedication, and hard work from each contestant who proudly represented what it means to be a Miss Orlando Carnival Queen.
The journey officially began in August 2025 when Pageant Director Joah Merrifield announced the casting call at the CAP Village studio. Young women from across the community arrived ready to showcase their confidence, personality, and passion for Caribbean culture. From the very beginning, it was clear that this year’s competition would feature an exceptional group of contestants with the potential to inspire the Orlando community.
The official sashing ceremony took place on October 25, 2025, marking the moment the contestants were formally introduced to the public. Each contestant proudly shared the country or culture she represented before officially beginning her journey toward the crown. From that point forward, the contestants dedicated themselves to community involvement and promoting Orlando Carnival Downtown throughout Central Florida. The competition originally featured eight contestants: Shana Raymore, Kassandra Perozo, Dyarah Powell, Vicky Jhingai, Bri’nya Williams, Zurisaday Rivera, Sarah Krishna, and Misty Rose, who later withdrew from the competition due to personal circumstances.
Throughout the year, the contestants participated in numerous community events while promoting the pageant and celebrating Caribbean culture. One of the most impactful appearances was Orlando’s annual MLK Parade, where the contestants danced behind the carnival truck dressed in colorful feathers while handing out promotional flyers to the crowd. Their participation symbolized unity, diversity, and cultural pride while introducing many people to the vibrant spirit of carnival traditions.
The contestants also made appearances at “La Sanse Takes Orlando,” one of Central Florida’s largest Puerto Rican cultural celebrations. Several contestants joined the marching band festivities while promoting the pageant, with Zurisaday Rivera especially shining as she proudly represented Puerto Rican culture.
Their community involvement extended far beyond parades and festivals. Contestants interviewed actors for Orlando Shakespeare Theater, actively promoted the pageant on social media, and attended additional cultural events including FusionFest and Pointe Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebrations.
When pageant night finally arrived, it exceeded expectations and delivered an unforgettable evening of elegance and entertainment. Contestants competed in several categories including Pre-Judged Personal Interview, Swimwear, Carnival Costume, Performing Talent, Evening Wear, and Question & Answer. Audience members were captivated by the contestants’ creativity, stage presence, and breathtaking carnival costumes.
The talent competition highlighted the diversity and artistry of each queen. Shana Raymore performed a dramatic monologue, while Kassandra Perozo delivered an energetic Bachata dance duet. Dyarah Powell wowed the audience with interpretive dance, and Vicky Jhingai showcased Bollywood and Indian dance traditions. Bri’nya Williams performed spoken-word poetry, Zurisaday Rivera presented a traditional Puerto Rican dance, and Sarah Krishna blended Bollywood dance with chutney music and soca rhythms in a memorable performance.
At the end of the evening, contestants were honored for their accomplishments and dedication throughout the competition. Awards included Miss Cooperative, Miss Congeniality, and Miss Social Media awarded to Shana Raymore; Miss Photogenic, People’s Choice, and Miss Intellect awarded to Sarah Krishna; Director’s Choice awarded to Bri’nya Williams; Best Swimwear, Best Talent, and Best Evening Wear awarded to Dyarah Powell; and Best Carnival Costume awarded to Kassandra Perozo.
The evening concluded with Sarah Krishna being crowned Miss Orlando Carnival Queen 2026. Dyarah Powell earned the title of 1st Runner-Up, while Kassandra Perozo was named 2nd Runner-Up.
Congratulations to all of the contestants who participated and helped make this year’s pageant a success. As the organization looks ahead to the future, the search for the 2027 Miss Orlando Carnival Queen has already begun. As Pageant Director Joah Merrifield perfectly stated, “This pageant was created to empower women as royal ambassadors. This platform celebrates talent, intelligence, beauty, and Caribbean cultural pride while elevating the Orlando Downtown Carnival Organization brand and sharing the vibrant spirit of carnival culture across the United States.”
