Reinas de Carnaval - Queens of Carnival

There are queens and then there are queens.

While working on these photos I flashed back on the whole queen thing on St. Thomas in the USVI where it was HUGE.  Of course, Carnival there is almost a month long and one of the biggest events of the year.

And maybe there is some comparison to the reinas in the villages near Pinotepa Nacional.  I am still wondering why there were two queens in Pinotepa Don Luis, a "real" queen and an "indigenous" queen.  

I am sure there is some not-so-subtle shot at the Spanish, but both women were treated well, although the "real" one seemed to get preferential treatment.  
At least the "indigenous" queen rode in the shade and believe me, it was hot in the sun.  I love her beautiful basket with her name carved into the gourd.

They were both radiant, obviously happy with wonderful smiles for the crowds.

While in San Juan Colorado, I snuck up onto the reviewing stand where the queen and other notables were watching the dances.  Hey, it was in the shade and I have learned that a camera can get you almost anywhere.  If you want the shot, you have to do what you have to do to get it.  She was in her element.

Her gown from the back. Hey, it is Fashion Week somewhere. 

And she even got on a tee shirt.

The queen from Santa Maria Huazolotitlan.

And the gay queen from the Pinotepa Nacional parade.

However, the real queen was Soyla from Pinotepa Don Luis.  She sells textiles and art.... and lots of alcohol, which, I believe, is made from sugar cane and flavored with fruit.  It packed a real punch judging from the patrons in front of her place.  She is a real pistol, kinda like a high energy Miss Kitty with an edge.  She has a wonderful sense of humor and a rapier sharp wit.  And back in the day....

Long live the queen!