5 Shocking Revelations About Raquel Reyes: The American Girl Of The Year 2026
The American Girl of the Year (GOTY) 2026 doll, Raquel Reyes, is here, and her story is a groundbreaking blend of past and present. In a highly unusual move for the brand, Raquel was officially announced and released well in advance, giving fans a deep dive into the character who will define the year 2026. This early reveal, which took place in late 2025, confirms that the next Girl of the Year is a vibrant, mixed-heritage girl from Kansas City with a passion for DJing and a surprising, direct lineage to one of the original and most beloved historical dolls.
This article provides the most up-to-date and comprehensive look at Raquel Reyes, exploring her full biography, her unprecedented connection to the historical collection, and the modern themes she brings to the American Girl line. Get ready to discover the full details of this exciting new character who champions family, culture, and finding your own unique beat.
Raquel Reyes: Biographical Profile and Doll Details
Raquel Reyes is the 24th Girl of the Year, and her introduction marks a significant step for American Girl in weaving together its historical and contemporary lines. Her story, set in the modern day, is a celebration of family heritage, entrepreneurship, and pursuing creative passions.
- Full Name: Raquel Reyes
- Year of Debut: 2026 Girl of the Year (Released in September 2025)
- In-Story Birth Date: January 20th, 2016
- Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri/Kansas
- Family Heritage: Mixed. Her father is Mexican-American, and her mother is a direct descendant of the original historical character, Samantha Parkington.
- Primary Interests: DJing, helping at her family's *paleta* shop, learning about marine life, and pickleball.
- Book Title: Raquel Reyes Saves the Wedding (Written by Angela Cervantes)
- Doll Details: The 18-inch doll features the popular Joss face mold, medium skin tone, brown eyes, and long brown hair styled in a half-updo with a bow hair tie.
- Initial Outfit: A gingham ruffle-sleeved dress, pink platform shoes, and a bracelet.
The Unprecedented Connection to Samantha Parkington
The biggest headline surrounding Raquel Reyes is her direct, familial link to one of the three original American Girl historical characters: Samantha Parkington. Samantha, originally introduced in 1986 and representing the Edwardian Era of 1904, is Raquel's great-great-grandmother.
Bridging the Historical and Modern Lines
This is the first time American Girl has established a direct, in-universe family connection between a contemporary Girl of the Year and a historical doll. This narrative choice serves to honor the brand's heritage while firmly placing the new doll in the present day. The connection is a core part of Raquel's story, which centers on a family reunion and wedding in New England—the same area where Samantha's stories were set.
During her trip, Raquel discovers a mysterious family treasure in the attic of an old mansion, which links her directly to Samantha’s past. Her initial outfit, a gingham dress, is a deliberate nod to the turn-of-the-century styles worn by her great-great-grandmother. This storyline encourages young collectors to explore the historical collection, specifically Samantha's world, creating a powerful intergenerational narrative about family legacy and the importance of knowing your roots.
A Celebration of Mixed Heritage
While the Samantha connection is significant, Raquel’s story is equally focused on her Mexican-American heritage from her father’s side. This mixed background offers a rich tapestry of culture, which is evident in her Kansas City life. Her family owns a popular *paleta* shop—a business centered around the traditional Mexican frozen treats. Raquel's full collection includes accessories related to this shop, celebrating small business ownership and cultural entrepreneurship.
Raquel's story is penned by acclaimed author Angela Cervantes, a choice that ensures an authentic and joyful portrayal of her bicultural background and family life.
Raquel's Modern Passions: DJing and Marine Rescue
American Girl has a tradition of giving its Girl of the Year dolls relevant, modern hobbies, and Raquel Reyes is no exception. Her two main passions—DJing and marine rescue work—reflect a contemporary girl's diverse interests and commitment to community.
The DJ Dreamer
Raquel's love for DJing is a central part of her character, representing a modern creative outlet that involves technology, rhythm, and self-expression. This passion is reflected in her full collection, which includes a detailed DJ set accessory. This set allows children to explore music creation and performance, a theme that resonates strongly with today's youth. Her ability to "find the perfect beat" is a metaphor for finding balance and confidence in her own life, especially as she navigates her family's history and future.
A Heart for the Ocean
Despite living in landlocked Kansas City, Raquel has a strong interest in marine life and rescue work. Her story takes her to the coast, where she engages with the environment and learns about conservation. This theme is supported by accessories such as a dolphin duo set and a seaside car, suggesting a summer adventure that combines family history with environmental awareness. This dual focus—on both creative arts and environmental stewardship—positions Raquel as a well-rounded and inspiring role model for the 2026 year.
The Full Raquel Reyes Collection and Topical Authority
The full collection for Raquel Reyes is one of the most extensive in recent memory, providing a wealth of accessories and outfits to build topical authority around her character. The collection is designed to reflect her diverse interests, from her family's Kansas City life to her New England summer.
Key Collection Entities:
- Raquel's Accessories: A 10-piece set that includes a canvas tote bag embroidered with her name, a pair of sunglasses, a camera, and a journal.
- Raquel’s Dog, Luzita™: A lovable rescue pup, who is a staple companion in her adventures.
- Raquel's Seaside Car: A large accessory that facilitates her summer journey and marine rescue themes.
- The Paleta Shop: While not a single accessory, the theme of her family's *paleta* shop is reflected in various smaller food and shop-related items within the collection, celebrating her Mexican-American culture and family business.
- Sports Theme: The inclusion of a Piney Point Pickleball set suggests a nod to the growing popularity of the sport among all ages.
In summary, Raquel Reyes is more than just a doll; she is a bridge between American Girl's past and its future. By linking a modern, mixed-heritage girl with a historical icon like Samantha Parkington, the brand delivers a powerful message about the enduring value of family, the richness of diverse cultures, and the excitement of chasing a modern dream. Her early release ensures that the spirit of the 2026 Girl of the Year will be celebrated long before the year even begins, making her a highly anticipated and significant addition to the American Girl universe.
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