Where to Stay Near San Francisco Carnaval: Hotel Julian

A swirl of samba, feathers, music, and movement, San Francisco Carnaval is one of the city’s most vibrant traditions—celebrating Latin American and Caribbean cultures with a weekend of dancing in the streets, live music, and the iconic Grand Parade. Held in the Mission District, Carnaval is pure joy in motion.

If you're looking for a place to stay that matches the energy of the celebration but offers a sophisticated downtown escape, Hotel Julian is the boutique experience you’re after. Just a short ride from the parade route, Julian offers moody elegance, artistic soul, and brunch at Carlotta’s Cocktail and Wine Bar every Saturday and Sunday—ideal for fueling up before the parade or winding down after the party.

About San Francisco Carnaval

Now over 45 years strong, Carnaval San Francisco is a celebration of cultural pride, community spirit, and visual spectacle. It features two full days of live performances, international cuisine, art, and family programming, culminating in one of the most colorful and spirited parades on the West Coast.

???? When It Happens:

Carnaval takes place every Memorial Day Weekend in May. In 2025, the festivities will be held Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25, with the Grand Parade on Sunday, May 25, starting at 9:30 AM.

Carnaval highlights include:

• The Grand Parade with hundreds of dancers, musicians, and floats representing Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond

• Multiple live stages with salsa, samba, reggae, Afrobeat, and more

• Food vendors serving traditional dishes from Brazil, Mexico, Cuba, El Salvador, and Peru

• Community murals, kids’ activities, and celebration of the Afro-Latino diaspora

It’s a street festival with deep roots, bold color, and boundless rhythm.

Hotel Julian: A Boutique Hotel Near Carnaval San Francisco

If you're looking for a hotel near San Francisco Carnaval, Hotel Julian offers a design-forward alternative just minutes from the Mission District. Located in the city’s creative corridor, Julian gives you fast access to the energy of the festival—and a refined space to recharge in between.

Why Carnaval guests choose Hotel Julian:

• Quick access to the Mission District via rideshare or public transit

• Stylish, quiet guest rooms to recover and reflect between parades

• Exhibit A, our rotating sculpture series that complements the weekend’s artistic vibe

• Carlotta’s Cocktail and Wine Bar—home to weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday, and a perfect meet-up spot for your festival crew

Julian celebrates culture, creativity, and the city’s multi-sensory moments—all while giving you space to breathe.

Brunch with Flavor at Carlotta’s

Before the drums call or after the last dance, join us for brunch at Carlotta’s Cocktail and Wine Bar. Served every Saturday and Sunday, brunch at Carlotta’s features bold flavors, easy elegance, and cocktails worth toasting to.

Gather your group. Rehash the parade. Stay just long enough to start planning next year’s outfit.

Planning Your Carnaval Weekend?

With tens of thousands attending each year, hotels near the Mission District book up fast. If you're asking where to stay for San Francisco Carnaval, Hotel Julian offers culture, comfort, and a front-row seat to the best of the city—without the chaos.

Book your stay at Hotel Julian—where the rhythm of Carnaval meets the style of San Francisco