A spectacular and joyous celebration of African and Caribbean culture, the 30th Cambridge Carnival once again takes to the streets in and around Central Square on September 8 from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Consisting of a one-mile parade featuring vibrant costumes, lively dance and thunderous music, this extravaganza of sight and sound also features a festival centered around University Park near the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. There, visitors can find vendors selling all kinds of artisan goods, food and drink as well as a family-friendly, all-day KidsFest highlighted by crafts, lawn games, face painting, balloon animals, a fire truck and a stage showcasing puppets and storytelling. Whether a fan of soulful moves, dazzling pageantry or the sonorous sound of steel drums, you’re sure to find something to satisfy at this much-anticipated annual gathering.