Looking to celebrate Carnaval, but don't want to invest the time or money to head down to Brazil? Not a problem. Since 1979 San Francisco has been holding its own version of the marking of lent, and tens of thousands of people line the streets for a parade and party. The music, food, and dancing will make you believe that you're in the Rio streets, minus all the trouble to get there.

California's largest annual multi-cultural celebration, Carnaval San Francisco 2008 – themed "Many Cultures - One Spirit" – will showcase the very best of Latin American and Caribbean cultures and traditions with a diverse array of food, music, dance and artistry, including works created by the talented community of Mission District residents and Bay Area artists.

While there have already been a few Carnaval-related events that have already passed, the event that captures the attention of thousands is the colorful and festive Carnaval Grand Parade and Festival, which are happening on May 24 and May 25. Many local schools and other groups participate in the parade by constructing their own floats, and a Carnaval King and Queen are crowned every year.

The Festival and Parade are both free. If you would like more information, check out the Carnaval SF website.