Cambridge Carnival Int.

Cambridge Carnival International is the organization behind Cambridge Carnival, a free, Caribbean-style festival held each September and considered a Cambridge institution. Rooted in African traditions, Carnival has become a celebration of emancipation, freedom and expression since the abolition of slavery in the United States and the Caribbean. The festival is the largest in Cambridge and draws thousands of people to Central Square.

The centerpiece is a grand costume parade, with revelers in dazzling handmade costumes dancing through the streets to steel pan, soca, reggae and Brazilian rhythms. Around the parade, the festival celebrates the city’s diversity with international food vendors, multicultural crafts from around the world and live music. The organization’s programs also include Pan in the Park, a steel pan festival, and a Carnival Jamboree in Lafayette Square.

What to Know

• Vendors, volunteers, parade groups and steel bands apply to take part each year.
• Nicola Williams serves as president of the Cambridge Carnival board.
• The organization describes itself as part of the MA250 commemorations.
• The festival includes a KidsFest area for children.