Fat Tuesday Season Kickoff Celebration

This free kickoff to the 48th anniversary of Carnaval San Francisco (themed around “La Copa del Pueblo,” inspired by the World Cup) takes place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 5 PM (or around 6 PM in some listings) to 10 PM across multiple venues in the Mission District. It’s a lively, neighborhood-wide party to meet neighbors, make new friends, and celebrate Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday with authentic Carnaval SF style. Highlights include live samba drummers, energetic dance performances, and a mix of music spanning soca, cumbia, rumba, and more. Dress in costumes, masks, and beads for the full festive experience. Performance spots and highlighted businesses include Arcana, Casements Bar, Kimbara SF Ritmo y Sabor, Make-Out Room, The Hall SF Bar & Billiards, and others offering specials. Supported by partners like Cultura y Arte Nativa de las Americas (CANA), Calle 24 Latino Cultural District, Mission Merchants Association, Grants for the Arts, and more, it’s a vibrant, inclusive way to launch the Carnaval season with color, rhythm, sabor, and community spirit in the Mission.