Annika S. Holder, Miami-Dade Director of Community Action and Human Services, Presented Machel Montano with a Distinguished Visitor Certificate on Behalf of Mayor Daniella Levine Cava's Office
MIAMI — Miami Carnival is always one of South Florida’s most anticipated events, and it proudly celebrated its 40th anniversary this past Sunday. The event showcased a vibrant tapestry of Caribbean culture through a colorful Parade of Bands featuring 19 masquerade groups. This milestone reinforces Miami Carnival’s status as a cornerstone of cultural unity and creativity in the region.
Named one of the Top 100 Events in South Florida, Miami Carnival is a thoughtfully curated celebration of Caribbean heritage. It features a dynamic blend of pageantry, music, food, arts and crafts, and cultural experiences. This year’s festivities captured the essence of Caribbean culture, drawing thousands of attendees eager to embrace the joyous spirit of the event.
The Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau was the host sponsor, and the event was also made possible by the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor, and the Board of County Commissioners.
“Miami Carnival brought the vibrancy of Caribbean culture, creative self-expression, and entrepreneurial spirit to life this past weekend! For those who experienced it for the first time, we hope you threw away your inhibitions and fully embraced the joy of the celebration.” — Joan Hinkson-Justin, Carnival Board Chair.
Machel Montano Award Presentation
Annika S. Holder, Miami-Dade Director of Community Action and Human Services, Presented Machel Montano with a Distinguished Visitor Certificate on Behalf of Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s Office. | Photo Credit: @mymatv
Highlighting the celebrations, renowned soca artist Machel Montano received the proclamation and keys to the City of Miami from Chairwoman King to recognize his significant contributions to the community and culture. Montano expressed the importance of Caribbean unity: “Regardless of the island you’re from, this is our culture. The idea is one Caribbean… Let’s be proud of our islands, music, food, dance, and people.”
Montano energized the crowd with an impromptu performance in a surprise appearance to create a memory for the 40th celebration of Miami Carnival. This performance complemented a mega concert featuring other Caribbean musicians such as Lyrikal, Teddyson John, and more, ensuring an infectious atmosphere filled with rhythm and celebration.
L-R: Miami Carnival-Director of Marketing, John Beckford, Annika Holder-Director of the Miami-Dade County Office of Neighborhood Safety, City of Miami Chairwoman Christine King, Soca King-Machel Montano, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick | Photo Credit: @mymatv
“This event is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to our rich cultural heritage and community resilience,” said John Beckford, Marketing Director. “Miami Carnival has brought together diverse cultures in a vibrant display of pageantry and music, significantly boosting our local economy and reinforcing the importance of cultural events in fostering community spirit.”
Attendees had the opportunity to leave messages on a 16×8-foot signage board created by local artist Dave Cooper to commemorate this significant anniversary.
Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton, the resilience of the Miami Carnival community shines through, demonstrating the enduring spirit of celebration and unity that defines this beloved event.
For over 40 years, Miami Carnival has been the nucleus of Caribbean culture every Columbus Day weekend, and this year’s celebration was a memorable reflection of its legacy.
In light of Hurricane Milton’s impact on the Caribbean, Miami Carnival encourages community support for relief efforts through donations and volunteer opportunities with Caribbean Strong. More information can be found at www.globalempowermentmission.org/volunteer.
2024 Sponsors
Sponsors include the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Guinness Extra Stout- Imported By Diageo Beer Company USA, New York, NY, Red Stripe Canned Cocktails, Monster Juice, Duke and Dame Whisky, and King Leo.
Media Partners:
iHeart Media, Inc., South Florida Caribbean News, Trini Jungle Juice, Caribbean Smoothies with Mike Andrews, Caribbean American Passport, Caribbean National Weekly, Jamaica Observer, Jamaicans.com, Global Media 99.5 Bahamas, Synergy TV, and Fyah105 FM.
