This year, the Miami-Broward Carnival celebrated its 40th anniversary with a series of vibrant events. Kicking off the Columbus Day weekend was Panorama. Every year, this celebration of Caribbean culture draws thousands of attendees to Miami, eager to revel in the rich heritage of the region.
The 2024 Panorama event took place on Friday, October 11th, at Carnival Village North in Central Broward Regional Park, running from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. One of the key highlights of the event is the Panorama steel pan competition, which never fails to captivate the crowd. Melodic steel band performances showcased the diverse musical traditions of the Caribbean diaspora, leaving spectators in awe.
Our photographer, Nick Ford, was on the scene to capture this remarkable event. Below are photo highlights from the festivities, showcasing the energy, music, and vibrant culture that make Miami-Broward Carnival so unforgettable.
Panorama has long been a favourite for music lovers, with the event attracting audiences across all age groups. The steel pan holds a unique place in music history as the only newly invented instrument of the 20th century, and its significance at Carnival has never diminished. Over the years, Miami’s steel bands have become a central feature of the Carnival, drawing participants from across the U.S. and beyond to compete for musical supremacy.
According to the program guide, the steel bands competing included New Generation Branches, Metro Steel Orchestra, Lauderhill Steel Ensemble, Melo Groove Steel Orchestra, Resurrection Steel Orchestra, Genfusion Steel Orchestra, and Stick N’ Tones Steel Orchestra. A special performance by the renowned Trinidad All Stars added even more excitement to the night.
This year, the competition’s judges, who hailed from various parts of the Caribbean and South Florida, brought a wealth of experience to the table. Many had performed with steel bands themselves, making them especially knowledgeable about the rich history and techniques behind this distinctive instrument. With their expertise, the judges ensured that the best of the best would rise to the top.
