María José Olivares represented Ojinaga in the ExpoGan Chihuahua 2026 queen competition, part of an annual livestock fair that brings together ranching communities from across the state.
The competition accompanies the 43rd edition of ExpoGan, running Oct. 22 through Nov. 1 at the Unión Ganadera Regional de Chihuahua grounds in Chihuahua City.
ExpoGan combines a livestock exhibition and agricultural trade gathering with concerts, food vendors, carnival rides and family entertainment. Its agricultural program includes cattle judging, livestock auctions and exhibitions of horses, sheep and pigs.
Participating cattle breeds include Angus, Brangus, Charolais, Beefmaster, Salers and Hereford. The fair also features equestrian activities and a traditional horseback procession.
The queen competition emphasizes knowledge of ranching and the ability to represent local livestock associations, alongside presentation and stage presence.
This year’s candidates participated in interviews and evaluations, photography sessions, social gatherings and a visit to Yeguada Los Alazanes, an equestrian facility. Their activities also included a tour of Chihuahua City’s historic center.
Olivares’ participation placed Ojinaga among the communities represented in the competition. Promotional photographs showed her wearing a sash bearing her hometown’s name.
The coronation took place Oct. 28 during the fair’s “Noche de Reinas” at the Palenque, with a performance by singer Majo Aguilar.
Paulina Miramontes, representing Cuauhtémoc, won the 2026 crown and received it from outgoing queen Azul Portillo Cruz of Guazapares.
Beyond the competition, ExpoGan’s entertainment schedule includes regional Mexican music and other performers. La Fiera de Ojinaga was included in the fair’s concert lineup, providing another connection to the border community.
The fair continues through Nov. 1, with livestock activities remaining a central part of its program.
