Miami Broward Carnival expands 2026 celebrations across Broward County
Key Points(5)
- Miami Broward Carnival has unveiled an expanded schedule for its 2026 staging, with events set to take place across Broward County over two weekends in October.
- Organizers say this year’s celebration will feature new collaborations and experiences alongside traditional Carnival staples, including mas, steelpan, J'ouvert, Caribbean music, food and cultural activities.
- The festivities will begin Oct.
- 3 with Junior Carnival and Pan Jamboree at Tamarac Sports Complex.
- Both events will be held in collaboration with the city of Tamarac, with Junior Carnival presented by TD Bank.
Miami Broward Carnival has unveiled an expanded schedule for its 2026 staging, with events set to take place across Broward County over two weekends in October.
Organizers say this year’s celebration will feature new collaborations and experiences alongside traditional Carnival staples, including mas, steelpan, J'ouvert, Caribbean music, food and cultural activities.
The festivities will begin Oct. 3 with Junior Carnival and Pan Jamboree at Tamarac Sports Complex. Both events will be held in collaboration with the city of Tamarac, with Junior Carnival presented by TD Bank.
More than eight children’s mas bands are expected to participate in Junior Carnival, showcasing costumes and cultural storytelling, while Pan Jamboree is expected to feature more than four steelbands.
“Miami Broward Carnival is about preserving our traditions while creating opportunities for them to grow and reach new generations,” said Joan Hinkson-Justin, chairwoman of the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee.
“The support of our sponsors, government and community partners, along with the changes we’re introducing for 2026, gives us an opportunity to create something truly special. From our youngest masqueraders and steelpan musicians to the Official J'ouvert and the thousands who will celebrate with us on Carnival Sunday, this year’s experience will showcase the full spectrum of what makes Carnival such an important part of our culture.”
The celebrations will continue Oct. 9 with the addition of Red Road Fete to the Carnival calendar. The event, produced by the city of Tamarac and powered by Miami Broward One Carnival, will feature Caribbean music, entertainment and cultural activities.
The Official J'ouvert will return to Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium the following morning, Oct. 10.
More than 20 J'ouvert bands are expected to participate in the event, which will feature the traditional combination of paint, powder, music and dancing. The event is powered by the city of Lauderhill and hosted by Visit Lauderdale.
The celebrations will culminate Oct. 11 with the Miami Broward Carnival Day Parade & Fete at Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium.
More than 16 masquerade bands are expected to participate in the parade, showcasing elaborate costumes and portrayals representing communities across the Caribbean diaspora.
Following the parade, the event will transition into a live concert featuring Caribbean artists. Attendees will also have access to a Caribbean Food Village, arts and crafts vendors, cultural experiences, sponsor activations and other entertainment.
“2026 represents an opportunity for Miami Broward Carnival to evolve while remaining firmly rooted in the traditions that have brought us this far,” Hinkson-Justin said.
“We’re excited about creating new experiences, strengthening our community partnerships and welcoming residents and visitors alike to celebrate Caribbean culture with us. There is a renewed energy around this year’s Carnival, and we cannot wait for everyone to experience it.”
Organizers said the expanded schedule is aimed at strengthening Miami Broward Carnival’s presence throughout Broward County while building on its role as a major Caribbean cultural and tourism attraction in South Florida.
The Carnival also provides a platform for masqueraders, steelbands, musicians, designers, artisans, food vendors, small businesses and cultural organizations, while contributing to the region’s tourism, hospitality and creative industries.
Miami Broward Carnival 2026 schedule
Oct. 3 — Junior Carnival & Pan Jamboree
Tamarac Sports Complex, Tamarac
More than eight children’s mas bands and four steelbands are expected to participate.
Oct. 9 — Red Road Fete
Tamarac
Produced by the city of Tamarac and powered by Miami Broward One Carnival.
Oct. 10 — Official J'ouvert
Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium
More than 20 J'ouvert bands are expected to participate.
Oct. 11 — Miami Broward Carnival Day Parade & Fete
Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium
The event will feature more than 16 masquerade bands, live Caribbean entertainment, a Caribbean Food Village, arts and crafts, vendors and other cultural experiences.
