Thousands gather for the Calle Ocho Music Festival (includes video story)

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This past Sunday, thousands gathered on Calle Ocho to celebrate the finale of Carnaval Miami. 

Despite the rain, residents gathered to recognize different Latin cultures and music with activities, performances, food and dancing. Many shared what the festival means to them and why they come every year.

 “The energy, the vibes, the positivity, that’s what we love,” said Steven Bartumeu, a dancer who performed on stage. 

Thomas Falcon, the president of the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana, said the work that goes into organizing the festival benefits the community. “We are always working to make the event better.”

Frida Flores is a journalism student at FIU, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Digital Communication and Media. She focuses on culture, community, social and political topics that help shape public understanding. Through reporting and writing, she aims to bring attention to voices and experiences that tend to go unheard.

Rachael Renae Oquendo is a junior at Florida International University majoring in digital media broadcasting. She enjoys reporting on cultural and political events and stories; with one of her articles being featured in the Miami Herald. She hopes to pursue a career in journalism and graphic design upon graduation.
Patricia Varas is a graduate student in the Spanish-language journalism master’s program at Florida International University. She majored in political science and minored in communications at Florida Atlantic University. She loves to cover breaking news, entertainment and sports, and hopes to pursue a career as a multimedia journalist, anchor, or TV host.