Miami Carnival, one of the biggest celebrations of Caribbean culture, is back to bring a flurry of brightly-colored feathers and rhinestones, steel bands and authentic island eats to the city.
Orchestrated by the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee, the festival brings in visitors from all across the globe over multiple days. It began in 1984 and has evolved ever since, marking a milestone 40th anniversary this year. So it’s time to turn up and bring the best energy!
What is Miami Carnival?
Hosted by the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, Miami Carnival provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in the dazzling costumes, culinary flavors and whirlwind of infectious beats and dance that “make the Caribbean a source of endless fascination and joy”.
It features several signature events, from a J’ouvert where powdered paint gets thrown around to a costumed Parade & Concert where attendees dance to the rhythms of the steel drums and captivating bands. Visitors are also treated to arts and crafts and delectable food from various vendors serving Caribbean and international delicacies.
When is Carnival?
Celebrations begin the week before Columbus Day in October. Following the Junior Carnival on October 5th, the Miami Carnival kicks off with the Steel Band “Panorama” competition on Friday, October 11th (5 p.m. – 11 p.m.). Then the official J’ouvert, where revelers immerse themselves in paint, powder and water, takes place Saturday morning on October 12th (7 a.m. – 3 p.m.).
Sunday is when the party really starts, with the Miami Carnival Parade of Bands and Concert, an explosion of colorful, vibrantly clad parade revelers parading to the sounds of soca music, taking place on October 13th (11 a.m. – 11 p.m.).
Who’s on the lineup for Carnival Day?
The lineup of talent set to take the stage during the mega soca concert, which kicks off at 1 p.m., includes performances by (Trinidad) –A Team,(Trinidad)- Patrice Roberts,(St Vincent) –Lyrikal, (Trinidad )-Mikal Teja,(Dominica)- Triple K Band,(Trinidad) Preedy, (Bahamas) –Julien Believe, (St. Kitts) –Pumpa, (USA)- Sizwe C, (St Lucia)- Imran, (St Lucia)- Teddyson John,(St Lucia)- Arthur Allain, (Antigua )-Young Vice, (Antigua)- Tian Winter,( Antigua)- Kid Fresh, (USVI)- Thr3d, (USVI)- Temisha, (Haiti)- DJ Stakz with Kay Love Dancers, (St. Kitts)- Kollison Band, (USA)- Sweet Shells, (Monserratt)- Scrappy, (Trinidad )-Ms Cali, (USA)- Vortex Capone, (USA)- Emily Singh (Trinidad )-Roger George.
Where is Carnival?
The Steel Band Competition and J’ouvert take over Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, 3700 NW 11th Place.
The anticipated event, the Mas Band Parade and Concert, brings the celebration to the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds, 10901 SW 24th Street. It’s important to note that the Carnival route takes place inside the fairgrounds, not on the street.
Ways to get to Miami Carnival
There’s ample opportunities for transportation to get to the grounds on time and without a hassle. There’s Park N Ride shuttles for Sunday, Oct. 13, available from the following locations:
- Lauderhill Performing Arts Center – 3800 NW 11th Pl, Lauderhill, FL 33311
- Tropical Park – 7900 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33155
- Lincoln Square Building – 18441 NW 2nd Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33169
The first bus leaves at 9 a.m. and the last leaves Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds at midnight. Parking at the above locations are free and the shuttle is free.
For more information, visit miamicarnival.org. Check their website and social media for daily updates regarding Hurricane Milton. Miami Carnival has put out a press release noting that the event will continue as scheduled.