If you're looking to celebrate Carnival, you need not go outside of the United States. Orlando hosts its own version of Carnival, a Caribbean celebration of music, dance, and culture.
During Memorial Day weekend, all of Tinker Field is booming with the festitivities of Carnival. Originally a celebration of the coming Lenten period, Carnival is also recognized as a celebration of Caribbean culture. This year's Carnival features reggae, calypso, socca, and hip-hop music by artists such as Machel Montano, Shurwayne Wincester, Traffix, Dungko, Red Hot Flames, and many more on Friday and Saturday of the festival.
Carnival also features a kiddie parade and parade of bands for visitors to watch processions of the celebrated Caribbean culture. Visitors may also treat their ears to unique Caribbean music with the Steelband and calypso competitions. However, be prepared to stay out late for Carnival activities because these parties call some all night celebration.
From 2 am to 6 am on Sunday morning is the traditional Carnival event J'ouvert. J'ouvert, translated literally from French as "day open", is large street party that features yet more music and dancing. If you're looking for an entire weekend of unique Caribbean culture and convivial Mardi Gras-style celebration, come out to Tinker Field this Memorial Day weekend.
