SF celebrates another year of Carnaval, highlighting Latin and Indigenous community

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Carnaval is back in San Francisco and once again it is highlighting the city’s diverse Latin community.

“Being Latino my parents coming here, there is something to be proud of, you know?” said Christian Solorio, a city resident who comes to event every year.

The city closed four blocks on Harrison Street so vendors, live performers, and festival attendees could gather for the annual celebration. Roberto Hernandez, one of the organizers, says San Francisco has so much diversity that needs to be shared with everyone.

“Here people get an opportunity to showcase who they are,” he said. “Carnaval is celebrated around the world, and here in San Francisco, you get a little bit of everything from every country that celebrates Carnaval in all of Latin America and the Caribbean.”

Carnaval is usually celebrated before Lent. However, the weather can sometimes challenge outdoor gatherings that time of year. Hernandez says moving it to Memorial Day weekend avoids any weather delays, and he says it is less about the religious ties and more about the culture. There was live music, dancing and plenty of food. Local vendors also used this as a way to connect with the community.

“It helps people to get to know us,” said Reggie Wise, a vendor. “It also helps people to have a good time and share the best that the mission has to offer and the best that the city has to offer.”

The event continues Sunday with the Carnaval parade.