WE ARE THE CREATIVE CAPITAL OF THE NATION

Without doubt, Los Angeles is one of the most exciting and creative regions in the world.  Immigrants from across the globe have come here seeking fame, fortune or a better life and made Los Angeles a diverse, complex, and creatively rich region that has contributed to California’s designation as the Creative Capital of the nation.  Along with exuberant hopes and dreams, immigrants have brought their heritage, values and traditions and integrated them into the cultural fabric of their new communities. The desire to maintain ties to their cultures of origin has developed creative expressions that have inspired pride and will continue to redefine their communities for generations to come.

Los Angeles Carnival is a mix of Caribbean and California cultural expressions.  Rooted in Caribbean arts, culture and traditions it captures not only the essence of Caribbean heritage, but integrates the hopes, values and creative expressions of Los Angeles itself, resulting in a celebration for families across the region. 

Welcome to LA Carnival!

LA CULTURE IS A VIBE

Sometimes hard to define, LA Culture is probably best expressed as ‘a Vibe.’  Expansive and laid back, LA is the place the nation follows for innovation and style. Keeping true to LA’s reputation of setting trends, LA Carnival exudes a vibe all its own and maintains its heritage while breaking with some of its Caribbean traditions.  Migrating from its Hollywood beginning in 1998 to its Westchester home of over 18 years, LA Carnival has come home to its true community,  the iconic Crenshaw/Leimert Park Village with a new look and a multicultural community vibe!

Honoring Leimert Park’s incredible cultural richness and amplifying its most visible and ever present drum songs, in 2023 LA Carnival invited the community to present 100 Drums for Peace, Love and Healing. Multicultural drummers from across the region responded. Following the devastating effects of Covid 19, the drummers led the carnival procession in a spirit of unity and community healing.

LA CARNIVAL IS TRADITION

From 1999 to 2018, LA Carnival brought together a multigenerational mix of Caribbean immigrants and friends to pioneer the longest running Caribbean carnival in Southern California.  Following the Covid hiatus, LA Carnival launched in Leimert Park in 2023 with its 100 Drums Parade and Starlight Spectacular, lighting up Crenshaw Boulevard.