Join a weekend-long celebration of Caribbean and carnival culture this Memorial Day weekend.
Experience the vibrant rhythms, colorful costumes and infectious energy of Caribbean culture right in the heart of downtown Orlando this Memorial Day weekend, May 24 – 26, 2024. Four events will celebrate the rich traditions of Caribbean and carnival culture, produced by local organizers Guenet and Sam Roberts.
From mesmerizing fashion showcases to spirited street parties and pulsating music concerts, you will immerse yourself in a whirlwind of festivities that embody the essence of art, beauty and creative freedom. Whether you’re a seasoned carnival-goer or a newcomer eager to dive into the excitement, this series of events promise an unforgettable celebration of unity, community bonding and cultural pride. Get ready to dance, revel and make memories that will last a lifetime.
All images courtesy United Arts of Central Florida.
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Carnival on the Runway
A “Red Carpet” fashion and Carnival costume showcase celebration with elaborate costumes, body-wear, “Monday-Wear” and so much more. Carnival on the Runway will feature student, emerging and international fashion designers in a festive environment that celebrates art, beauty and creative freedom. The winning design will receive a $3,000 cash prize. It takes place at Camping World Stadium in downtown’s West Lakes Market Street District.
- What: Carnival on the Runway
- When: Friday, May 24, from 6 – 9 p.m.
- Where: Camping World Stadium’s East Lounge (1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando)
- Admission: From $40 (Get Tickets)
Jouvert
This is Orlando’s take on the traditional pre-dawn street party celebrated in many Caribbean countries and communities around the world. In this vibrant and colorful event, participants throw paint, powder and water on each other, and dance to the rhythmic beats of calypso, soca and steelpan music. It’s a time of unity, community bonding and cultural pride. Join the celebration at Tinker Field Historic Plaza adjacent to Camping World Stadium.
- What: Jouvert
- When: Saturday, May 25, from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Where: Tinker Field Historic Plaza (287 S. Tampa Avenue, Orlando)
- Admission: $40 (Get Tickets)
Soca Anthropology: Back in Time Lime
With the theme of “Drums & Dragons,” The Vikings of Soca, Bunji Garlin & Fay-Ann Lyons, will be the headliners of this event. Steelpan orchestras, Tassa drums, African drums, fire breathers, stilt walkers, spoken word artists and authentic Caribbean food are among the many attractions of Soca Anthropology. You can experience it at Seneff Arts Plaza, an open-air space at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown’s City District.
- What: Soca Anthropology: Back in Time Lime
- When: Saturday, May 25, from 6 – 11 p.m.
- Where: Seneff Arts Plaza at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts (445 S. Magnolia Avenue, Orlando)
- Admission: From $40 (Get Tickets)
Orlando Carnival Downtown
The weekend’s signature event starts with a parade in the streets of downtown Orlando’s West Lakes district and ends at Tinker Field Historic Plaza, where some of the most renowned international Caribbean artists will perform. The Mas Band parade will showcase artistically designed and handmade costumes. Judges will select the Band of the Year, along with the King and Queen of 2024 Orlando Carnival Downtown, as well as the Truck of the Year and the People’s Choice winners.
Free for public viewing along the route, the parade starts on Church Street between Tampa and Rio Grande avenues and ends at Tinker Field Historic Plaza. The latter will host the festival village, which requires paid entry.
- What: Orlando Carnival Downtown
- When: Sunday, May 26, from 1 – 11:30 p.m.
- Where: Tinker Field Historic Plaza (287 S. Tampa Avenue, Orlando)
- Admission: From $40 (Get Tickets)
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