Thousands of people party on the famous street of Little Havana at the Calle Ocho festival

MIAMI (WSVN) – A multi-year party billed as the world’s largest Latin music festival drew huge crowds this weekend on Little Havana’s iconic Eighth Street.

The revelers could hardly contain their excitement on Sunday afternoon as they rocked to the beats of Calle Ocho.

The dancing was not limited to the performers on stage, as patrons of all ages danced and danced in the middle of the street.

Aimee Nuviola, queen of this year’s Miami Carnival, stirred up the crowd.

Those who did not dance were treated to drinks and delicious food.

The Kiwanis Club in Little Havana, organizers of the annual event, said that Calle Ocho is much more than just music and fun.

“We can go out and have a good time, enjoy our camaraderie, and still develop an earning system to be able to have summer camp, scholarship programs and all the other little things we do to give back to the community,” the organizer said. .

Calle Ocho brings the Latin world to 15 blocks of Little Havana.

The Kiwanis have been throwing this party for 45 years. It is the Miami Carnival event that draws the most attention and provides a party for the senses.

Return visitors and newcomers shared what they love about the holiday display.

“I’ve been living in Miami for 15 years and this is my first time at this festival,” Devin said. “It’s amazing. I like it.”

“I am Colombian but my wife is Cuban and we are having a great time,” said Mauricio Salcedo.

“The music, the food, the drinks, the crowd — it was just a fantastic day, pure fun,” said Jeff Mariner.

The organizers of Kiwanis Club of Little Havana are gearing up for their next event: the first Art on the Drive in Miami Beach this coming weekend. Click here for more information.

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