The heart of Coral Gables community came alive last weekend at the annual Carnaval on the Mile, continuing a community tradition that showcases local art, music and fine cuisine held by the Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation. This event, held on Miracle Mile in Downtown Coral Gables, welcomed hundreds of attendees from all over Miami, including many Gables High School students and families.
The Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation began in the 1970s when a group of high school students from Miami wanted to become an affiliate of Kiwanis International. It began at the Calle Ocho Music Festival, which later became the largest Hispanic festival in the country. Soon after, they expanded their audience, reaching Miracle Mile in 1999.
Spanning over two days, this year’s Carnaval lived up to its reputation, showcasing a lively celebration of culture Many festivities kicked off on Saturday morning, transforming Miracle Mile into a festive paradise filled with colorful booths displaying the work of local artisans and vendors. Attendees explored an impressive variety of handcrafted jewelry, unique artwork and trendy fashion, all while supporting local entrepreneurs who were showcasing their talents and creativity.
“For me, the Carnaval is a chance to step out of my comfort zone. Even if it is joining random dance circles or talking to new people, each moment there forces me to be bolder and gain new experiences,” senior John Mestres said.
Food was a center focus of the event, the Carnaval featured an abundance of food trucks and stands all serving Latin American cuisine. Many enjoyed traditional Cuban sandwiches, paella and desserts like pastelitos and funnel cakes. The mix of flavors created a mouth-watering atmosphere, reminiscent of Miami’s rich cultural heritage.
“Eating all the different kinds of food is my favorite part. Trying new dishes and sharing them with my family is what makes the Carnaval unforgettable. It introduces me to a new dish every year,” freshman Dianer Torres said.
Three stages set up along Miracle Mile showcased a diverse lineup of performers, blasting music throughout the weekend. Sponsored by various organizations, including The Guitar Hotel and the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, the stages featured a mix of genres, showcasing salsa, rock and even performances by local school groups, such as the School of Rock and the Miami School of the Arts.
“The music at the event is really the spotlight of it all. Each performance makes you want to dance or sing along. It creates such a fun atmosphere that makes the celebration feel even more special than it already is,” sophomore Jesus Diaz said.
The sounds of live music filled the air, as families and friends wandered through the colorful booths, admiring handmade crafts and artwork. The aroma of delicious Latin cuisine came from food trucks, enticing many to sample everything from empanadas to churros. Each corner of the event offered something unique, sparking excitement among visitors.
“It feels like stepping into a whole new world. The music, the colors, the food, it is a celebration that makes you feel alive and connected to the culture of Miami. The energy of the crowd also makes it such a positive environment. The event is just such a great, necessary addition to the community,” sophomore Alejandra Irias said.
The Carnaval is worked by volunteers from the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana and benefits the Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation’s youth development programs. It shows an economic impact of $40M for local artists, vendors and small businesses throughout the area.
Carnaval on the Mile is more than just an annual festival, it is a symbol of the culture of the Latin community in Coral Gables. By bringing together local artists, musicians, food vendors and families, the event highlights the cultural diversity that defines the area while also supporting great causes. As this tradition continues to grow, it strengthens the bonds among residents and helps to create a lively and inclusive community.
