Carnival kings crowned: Aalborg Karneval reveals this year’s names

Becoming Carnival Kings at Aalborg Carnival is more than just a title—it is a special role rooted in carnival traditions, where everyday norms and power structures are temporarily set aside.

Each year, a king or queen is chosen to represent the carnival’s values of community, diversity, and joy—someone thousands of participants can relate to.

In 2026, the honour goes to Hav and Kamal.

The announcement was made by Aalborg Carnival in a press release.

The two friends and hosts will take the throne at Northern Europe’s largest carnival, becoming figureheads for this year’s theme, “Without You – There Is No Us,” setting the tone for community, inclusion, and togetherness.

With their honest approach and ability to bring people together across differences, they are seen as a natural choice for the role.

“Aalborg Carnival has always been on our bucket list, so being crowned this year’s Carnival Kings is just crazy. We can’t wait to arrive in Aalborg and meet all the thousands of happy people and great vibes,” says Hav, as Kamal laughs alongside him.

Prominent voices in Denmark

Hav and Kamal have been friends since childhood and grew up side by side.

They previously hosted their own show on P3 and are now prominent voices on the podcast platform Podimo, where their shows “Hav og Kamal” and “Hjulspin” have gained significant popularity.

In their podcasts, they speak openly and unfiltered about everything from everyday life and global events to relationships, food, love, and music.

A royal duo built on community

Hav and Kamal are a strong duo—a symbol of community, which is central to this year’s carnival theme.

“Hav and Kamal represent one of the most important aspects of Aalborg Carnival: community. They are not afraid to address difficult topics, while also bringing people together through humour and presence.

That makes them an obvious choice as Carnival Kings,” says Jeanett Kaare.

A royal run comes to Aalborg

In addition to their title, Hav and Kamal are bringing their running community, Hav Runners, to Aalborg, where a 5 km run will take place in the morning before the parade.

The run is part of Hav Runners’ nationwide tour and focuses on community, movement, and enjoyment rather than performance.

Participants can join at their own pace—preferably in costume—when the run starts from Comwell Hvide Hus Aalborg at 08:00.

Guest participants will include Emil Lange and Stine Rex.

Hav Runners originally started as an idea during the Royal Run, and with Hav and Kamal as Carnival Kings, it can truly be called a royal run.

The initiative combines movement, community, and well-being—showing how fitness and carnival can go hand in hand.

After the parade, the day will culminate when the newly crowned Carnival Kings take the stage in Kildeparken, helping to kick off the celebration in front of thousands of participants.

The official crowning will take place at 17:55 in Kildeparken.