Sorry. I can’t talk right now. I’m working…
– rumbero talking overheard
San Francisco Carnaval 2026 took place on May 23 and 24, 2026. The tradition continues! It is a very local festival celebrating the cultures of Latin America, Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, Chicano culture, even Black culture from the southern United States. It may be the last place in San Francisco where there are no big tech or corporate sponsors. There are always a lot of local dance groups, school groups, amazing costumes and floats, way too loud local DJs and very good local bands.
This year there were a lot of groups in the parade from Colombia. The Mexican animales costumes (I know not where this tradition comes from) were off the charts. The parade is always on Sunday, starting at around 10am. It was a mild sunny day. Later in the afternoon the wind came up (as it does this time of year) out of the northwest – swirling around the Mission. Big kudos to Carlos Franco and his All-Star Band who pulled off a very challenging windy situation on the 17th and Harrison stage. Imagine a high pop fly in the gusty winds of summer at Candlestick – I’m not sure how they caught those things. Music was flying everywhere. Letter C everyone!!! Yes. The mambo!!! More clothes pins!
On Sunday near the end the Radio Havana Rumberos had the spot on Harrison by 21st. Amazing all-star cast of musicians and the drumming and dancing were off-the-hook. “Sorry. I can’t talk right now. I’m working…”
