Photos: Carnaval San Francisco 2024 fills, thrills Mission District

Michelle Jeffers, chief of community programs and partnerships for the city’s public library, said Sunday would be her first Carnaval, and pointed to her parade float members preparing for the day’s displays of community presence. 

Many on the float work at the Mission branch’s temporary site on Valencia Street between 23rd and 24th streets during the original location’s renovation, which is due to finish in 2025.

“We’re trying to stay hydrated, getting our scarves ready, and we’ve got our ride,” Jeffers said, pointing to one of the library’s bookmobiles. “We just love a parade!”

Sunday’s parade followed a Carnaval festival that began Saturday along several blocks of Harrison Street, featuring music, dancing, food and crafts.

Musical headliners included Mexican singer Noel Torres, Latin fusion group Pirulo Y La Tribu and Honduran band Banda Blanca blending merengue and punta sounds. Cuban Latin pop star Franco was also set to perform. Previous headliners have included Santana, Tower of Power, Los Lonely Boys, Celia Cruz, Los Tigres del Norte and Tito Puente.

The festival typically draws 400,000 people, according to local organizers, and generates about $10 million for local businesses.