“Carnaval on the Mile” returned to the iconic Miracle Mile in Coral Gables this past weekend, bringing together artists, vendors and South Florida families for a two-day cultural festival that paid tribute to Greater Miami & Miami Beach’s Latin and Caribbean community.
The boulevard – known for its shops, restaurants and entertainment – was lined with more than 100 booths where local Hispanic artists from South Florida showcased everything from paintings and photography to jewelry and crafts, as well as live painting.
“I wanted the artwork to celebrate who we are, our culture, our roots and the stories of people who came to Miami from across Latin America,” said Maria Fernanda Vogel, the official poster artist for the festival.
Part of the festival included crowning this year’s Miss Carnaval Miami, Fabiana Petruzzi. She was selected from a field of 15 contestants during the annual pageant, one of the festival’s signature events.
“Carnaval” also featured live music, culinary delights and activities such as face painting and a petting zoo.
The event is part of the larger Carnaval Miami celebration organized by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana, which raises money to support local community programs throughout the year.
