PHOTOS: Caribbean Parade Takes Over Hollywood Boulevard

The sounds of the Caribbean filled Hollywood Boulevard as the rhythmic beat of the steel drums set a festive tone for the inaugural Caribbean Parade early Saturday afternoon.

The event was part of the three day Los Angeles Culture Festival which celebrated the tradition of a Caribbean-style carnival. Colorful costumes, a variety of rhythmic music and live performances took over the usually busy street.

Some onlookers waited nearly two hours in anticipation for the parade to make its way from Vermont Avenue to Vine Street. 

When the parade arrived around 1 p.m. many onlookers were moving to the beat and cheering on those in the parade. Even a crowd waiting for Million Dollar Quartet, currently playing at the Pantages Theatre, waited near the venue's entrance to catch a glimpse of the festivities.

The parade prompted the closure of Hollywood Boulevard, but traffic was permitted to cross the street intermittently.

The celebration was held in conjunction with National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Organizers had planned tributes to The Republic of Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica as they both celebrate their 50th anniversary of independence.

View the slideshow above for a look at the action.