The intense, rhythmic sounds of soca music filled the air in South Florida for the Miami Carnival 2019 celebrations. Starting with an energetic Panorama showdown, Junior Carnival road march and raucous J’ouvert, the celebrations culminated with the grand parade on Sunday, October 13. At the main event, masqueraders converged in full costume, transforming the Miami-Dade County Fair and Expo Center into a riot of color and Caribbean frivolity. Let’s take a moment to look back at this year’s landmark event, celebrating 35 years of Miami Carnival.
J’ouvert Jumping
Saturday, October 12 marked a major pre-Carnival day of revelry, as the epic street party known as J’ouvert drew thousands into Central Broward Park. More than 10 groups participated in the day-long event, pumping colored paint, foam and water into the air on their followers.
Premium Party
Groups like Lily White J’ouvert offered their members a full throttle experience, including gourmet breakfast, a premium full bar for the day, and tons of exclusive items to commemorate the event.
Forever Family
Neither the distinct differences between J’ouvert groups nor nationalities could stop the one love vibes of the day, as revelers hailing from across the Caribbean formed new bonds among the crowd. The event perfectly built up the momentum for the road march to come.
Steady Grind
The Red Antz truck kept the soca booming for miles as their masqueraders made their way slowly through the parade. The groups walked for what felt like miles in the Miami sun, displaying the spirit and vitality that is Carnival.
Birds of a Feather
The Euphoria Mas band was pretty in pink this year, with elaborate costumes cladding men and women alike in flirty feathers and beading for their All That Jazz section.
Savannah Grass
Concert headliner, Trinidadian soca star Kes’ hits “Savannah Grass” and “Wotless” doubtlessly played several hundred times throughout the weekend. Still, nothing proved more powerful than his live performance filling the stage with pure energy and enthusiasm.
Island Pride
Thousands of carnival fans from around the world teemed around the stage as they cheered on their favorite mas bands, competing for the best band title near the close of the day’s activities. There was an electrifying excitement and exhilaration in the air.
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