The registration period for the Official Group Competition of Mérida (COAM) 2027 has been opened, allowing both adult and youth groups to apply until 19 November 2026 at 14:00. The youth competition is scheduled for 30 January, while the adult semifinals will commence on 25 January, culminating in the final on 4 February.
Following the approval of the competition rules by the Local Government Board, the Festivities Delegation has provided the necessary information for groups and associations to prepare for the upcoming Roman Carnival. Ana Aragoneses, the Festivities Delegate, emphasised the importance of the group competition, stating, "Behind every chirigota, comparsa, or quartet, there are months of work, enthusiasm, rehearsals, and many people who keep alive a tradition that is part of Mérida's identity."
adult group competition details
The adult category of the COAM will take place at the Teatro María Luisa and will feature chirigotas, comparsas, and quartets. Participants must be aged 16 or older by 2027. Chirigotas must consist of a minimum of eight and a maximum of eighteen members, comparsas must have between twelve and twenty-two, and quartets must include three to five members. The chirigotas and comparsas will have semifinals and a final, while quartets will hold a single session unless more than six groups register, in which case an additional final may be scheduled.
The adult semifinals will begin on 25 January 2027, with the final taking place on 4 February. The specific dates and session details will depend on the number of registered groups.
youth group competition
The youth competition will occur on 30 January 2027 at the Teatro María Luisa and will consist of a single phase. Participants aged 12 to 18, including those who turn 12 during 2027, can compete. At least half of the group members must fall within this age range. The performances will include a presentation, two pasodobles, two cuplés with a refrain, and a popurrí, with a maximum performance time of 30 minutes.
highlighted events
One of the standout events is the XIX National Drag Queen Competition “Tomás Bravo,” scheduled for 8 February 2027, aimed at participants aged 18 and over. Applications must be submitted by 29 January 2027, with each performance limited to six minutes. Original costume designs are required, and participants may include up to four dancers, aged 16 or older.
Additionally, the XI Competition for Shop Windows and Interiors invites local businesses to participate, with entries due by 3 February 2027. The decorations must remain unchanged from 5 to 9 February.
other competitions and activities
The programme also features the III Competition of Coplas for Equality on 6 February, the XIII Regional Competition of Tamborada and Percussion on 31 January, and the IX Competition of Monumental Copla on 6 February, all celebrating various aspects of the carnival.
The Grand Parade of the Roman Carnival will take place on 7 February, with participant registration open until 14 January 2027. A Sports Costume Competition will also occur on the same day, organised by the Mérida Cycling School.
Finally, the call for the official carnival poster design is open to graphic designers and artists, with applications due within fifteen days of the announcement.
Ana Aragoneses has encouraged participation from groups, businesses, and the public, thanking those who contribute to the success of this annual event.
