Pompano Beach is a wonderful melting pot of different cultures, where diversity is welcomed and celebrated. The rich soul of the Caribbean, colorful costumed dancers, infectious rhythms, pounding drums, and the scent of jerk spices come alive at the Caribbean Fest. Known as one of the standout annual Pompano Beach festivals, this celebration takes place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Community Park from 5 PM to 10 PM, with more than 5,000 attendees expected.
Now in its fourth year, this family-friendly festival continues to grow, adding new national artists, and celebrates the many islands its residents proudly represent. Crowds often wave their islands’ flags and erupt in cheers as their home’s music or dance is featured, and it’s not uncommon for kids to be invited on stage for a lively dance competition.
Music & Entertainment
Caribbean music has always been a way for islanders to tell stories and honor their distinct cultures and lifestyles, and at the Caribbean Fest, you’ll hear everything from reggae to calypso, dancehall, and kompa. The festival kicks off with DJ Mike Cooley, who will pump out a variety of Caribbean music, cheering on the crowd to get up and dance when he calls out their beloved island.
If you’re not already on your feet, you will be when the Miami Generation Junkanoo group comes dancing through with their vivid costumes, drums, and cowbells. You’ll also be entertained by the Haitian band T-Vice, well known for their kompa dance-music style. Headlining the festival is the legendary Jamaican dancehall duo, Tanto Metro & Devonte, whose 1997 hit "Everyone Falls In Love" helped propel dancehall into mainstream charts.
Food & Drink
This is your chance for an authentic taste of the entire Caribbean. Vendors include Jamaican Jerk, serving up grilled jerk chicken and pork; the Conch Shack, whipping up fresh conch salad and fried conch; Jamaican vendor Nubian Jerk, dishing out fish and oxtail; and South Peach Bistro, offering a variety of empanadas. Stop by a handful of bars crafting potent tropical cocktails from the islands, like the popular Rum Runner drink, and frozen fruity drinks served in pretty pineapples by Frost Daiquiri. And if you need a non-alcoholic refresh, don’t miss the vendors selling sugar cane juice.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Caribbean Fest is one of the top family-friendly events in Pompano Beach, and parents are encouraged to bring footballs or kites to let the kids run free on the open fields. There will be a game truck to keep children entertained with different activities and video games outside. Families can gather at tables to eat together and spread out their lawn chairs and blankets on the grass in front of the entertainment.
Plan Your Visit
Since the event takes place at Community Park, there’s plenty of free parking. Rangers will be on hand to guide attendees on where to park in the open field lot, with additional spaces available nearby at the baseball fields, youth complex, and Pompano Beach High School.
What To Bring
This is an outdoor event, so bring sun protection for the early events and whatever you need to be comfortable, from folding chairs to blankets. Most vendors accept cash, credit cards, and Apple Pay, making purchases easy and convenient. For everyone’s safety, note that coolers and weapons of any kind are not allowed.
Tips For First-time Attendees
To snag the best parking and a prime spot in front of the stage, plan to arrive early. Once the concert starts, the front area fills up quickly. Your best bet is to set up your chairs and blankets first, and then explore the food vendors. Be sure to check the schedule so you can grab a bite or a drink before your favorite artists take the stage.
The Caribbean Fest brings the islands to life in Pompano Beach. To soak up the non-stop energy, live music and dance, and bold flavors, plan your visit around this annual event.