Titled Caribana until 2010, Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival annually attracts more than a million spectators with island-style parades, parties, food and music. It's become one of the world’s largest celebrations of Caribbean culture.
Carnivals are celebrated throughout the Caribbean on Emancipation Day Weekend to commemorate the abolition of slavery in the West Indies. In Toronto, it provides both a cultural and artistic connection between Canadians and Caribbean culture.My father, Russell Preddie, smiles when he thinks back to attending the first Caribana in Toronto. As a Jamaican immigrant, seeing so many Caribbean people in one place gave him a sense of identity and validation.
“All of the islands came together. It was a transportation of culture and a relief from the discrimination that made us feel invisible.”In its 55th year, North America’s largest Caribbean Carnival continues to celebrate Canada’s strong connection with the Caribbean diaspora.
This year’s theme is “Embrace the Carnival in you,” inviting attendees to don colorful costumes, dance to steel-pan bands, and indulge in jerk chicken, fried festivals, patties and Trini doubles. There are also nighttime cruises, dance hall club nights and family-friendly zones where kids can enjoy the party.Carnival kicked off earlier this month with the Junior King & Queen showcase: Kids 12-and-under show off colorful costumes in the hopes of being crowned.
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