SF’s Carnaval Is a Memorial Day Weekend Must

If Carnaval conjures up images of a Latin version of Mardi Gras, complete with elaborate body paint, all-night partying, and infectious dancing, you’re not far off. The festival that kicks off the start of Lent marries some of the best elements of diverse cultures, from Brazilian samba music, to Italian gastronomic enthusiasm, to African-influenced costumes and parades.

Latin America isn’t the only place that can throw a fiesta—celebrations take place across the U.S., but this year’s in San Francisco, celebrating its 40th anniversary, promises to be unlike anything else stateside. What began in 1978 as a small, if festive, gathering on a rainy afternoon in the city’s Mission District has blossomed into the largest multicultural celebration on the West Coast, drawing crowds of 400,000-plus participants of all backgrounds.

This year’s anniversary theme, Raices del Carnaval (Portuguese for “Roots of Carnaval”), celebrates the medley of communities that has come together to form the Bay Area’s vibrant cultural diversity. The two-day festival will feature the global cuisines, multinational crafts, and performances from international acts like Puerto Rican Grammy-winning salsa singer La India; rock’n’roll band Malo; and musical groups playing Native, African, Caribbean, and Central and South American beats.

General viewing of the parade and entry to the festival’s hub on Harrison Street is free of charge, with festivities kicking off on May 26 at 9:30am. If your Memorial Day Weekend plans need a mix-up, vamos.