San Francisco, CA – January 28, 2025 – This Memorial Day weekend, San Francisco’s Mission District will come alive as the 47th annual Carnaval San Francisco pays tribute to the global impact of the African diaspora through the theme “AfroMundo: African Diaspora in the Americas.” Taking place May 24–25, 2025, this two-day free festival is a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and culture, drawing more than 500,000 attendees for an unforgettable experience of joy, resilience, and unity.
For over four decades, Carnaval San Francisco has been more than just a celebration—it's a movement of empowerment, transforming lives through the arts while embracing the rich diversity of the Americas. This year’s event will include seven exciting lead-up activities and culminate in a spectacular festival and grand parade, offering attendees the rhythms, flavors, and energy of the African diaspora.
"AfroMundo celebrates the profound cultural contributions of the African diaspora, from Samba and Tango to Jazz, Hip-Hop, Salsa, and beyond," said Rodrigo Durán, Executive Director of Carnaval San Francisco. "These genres, shaped by African traditions and rhythms, resonate globally, and our festival honors this legacy with a lineup of music, dance, and art that connects communities across the Americas."
Exciting Developments for Carnaval San Francisco
Adding to the excitement, Carnaval San Francisco’s parent organization, Cultura y Arte Nativa de las Américas (CANA), has unveiled its new permanent home: Casa de Carnaval at 683 Florida Street in San Francisco. The space serves as a cultural hub for year-round events like dance, arts and music classes.
Carnaval San Francisco 2025: Key Events
• Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Celebration: Tuesday, March 4, 5–10 p.m., at various Mission District venues. A festive evening supporting local businesses.
• CubaCaribe Series at Casa de Carnaval: A trio of engaging events in partnership with CubaCaribe and the Museum of African Diaspora (MoAD):
o Master Dance Class: Monday, March 31, 6:45–8:45 p.m.
o Film Shorts and Q&A: Wednesday, April 2, 7–8:30 p.m.
o Artist Panel Discussion: Thursday, April 3, 7–8:30 p.m.
• King & Queen Competition: Saturday, April 5, 5–7 p.m., at Casa de Carnaval ($25 in-person, $10 online).
• Carnaval SF Nightlife at the California Academy of Sciences: Thursday, May 8, 6–10 p.m. (ticket details pending).
Main Event
• 2-Day Festival: Saturday, May 24 & Sunday, May 25, 11 a.m.– 6 p.m., Harrison St. between 16th & 24th Streets (free entry).
• Grand Parade: Sunday, May 25, 10:00 a.m.–2 p.m. (free, with $35 grandstand seating available).
Community & Economic Impact
Beyond the festivities, Carnaval San Francisco serves as a lifeline for local businesses and street vendors, infusing the community with $12 million dollars in much needed support.
“Congratulations to Carnaval San Francisco celebrating its 47th year of bringing joy and economic empowerment to our historic Mission District and our overall City,” said Carlos Solórzano-Cuadra, President & CEO of the Hispanic Chambers of Commerce of San Francisco. “Carnaval San Francisco helps our community in more ways than just providing a good time.”
"Carnaval San Francisco is more than a celebration—it’s a lifeline for our small businesses and a reminder of the joy and resilience that bring us together," said Brigette LeBlanc, President and CEO Elect of the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce.
Rodney Fong, President and CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, added, "We’re proud supporters of Carnaval San Francisco and encourage businesses to join us in uplifting our city by becoming sponsors of this extraordinary event."
For more information about Carnaval San Francisco and its theme “AfroMundo: African Diaspora in the Americas“ visit - Carnaval San Francisco and follow us on Instagram; Facebook; YouTube Channel
Note to Editors: Image Poster, See and Download Image. Please credit Artist: Vanessa “Agana” Espinoza###
Media Contacts:
De Alba Communications
Victoria Sanchez De Alba | (650) 270-7810
Jackie Wright | (415) 525-0410