San Francisco Carnaval

San Francisco Carnaval is a cultural arts celebration born of the determination of a strong-willed neighborhood collective.

Website: http://www.sfcarnaval.org

Now in its 34th year, this lively and colorful event has grown into one of California’s largest multi-ethnic events. This year, Carnaval invites locals to participate in a lavish, two-day, all-ages event. Live music and dance, floats, and costumed street performers flood a seven-block expanse in the Mission District. Artisan booths boast handmade jewelry and international bites, while a kids’ section provides activities such as an inflatable bounce house and face painting. The festival culminates with the coronation of Carnaval royalty and a parade of contingents by the thousand. Carnaval celebrates San Francisco’s diversity by putting cultural traditions in front of us, in the forms of people, music, food, and art. — By : Jessica Hilo