Carnaval Calendar

Here is a schedule of today’s events:

11 a.m.--Carnaval parade, featuring floats, costumed dancers and live music, begins at Long Beach Boulevard and 6th Street, moves south to Ocean Boulevard, west to Pine Avenue, then turns up Pine to Third Street.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.--A “battle of the bands” will take place at the downtown Amphitheatre stage, Promenade and First Street.

1:30 to 6:30 p.m.--Children’s entertainment is offered at the downtown Amphitheatre. Featured acts include the International Peace Choir, Martin and Marguerita and the Neato Banditos.

2 p.m.--Adult entertainment begins on four other stages in the 12-block Carnaval area. Featured acts include Poncho Sanchez, Sambin, Embrasamba, the Pandemonium Steel Band, Rudy Regalado and Chevere, Eric Bobo and Combo Rio.

2 p.m.--Samba dance contests will be held on two stages, with a final dance contest scheduled for 8 p.m. Anyone can participate. Prizes will be awarded to the best dancers.

6 and 8 p.m.--Carnaval headliner Jose Feliciano performs.

How to get there and where to park:

From Los Angeles, take the Long Beach Freeway south to the Broadway exit, then follow signs to the Carnaval site, which is bordered by Pine Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard, and by Ocean Boulevard and Third Street. Signs will also lead to free parking at a number of private lots and at the Long Beach Convention Center.