Caribbean Carnival takes over T.O.
Posted July 30, 2011 12:10 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The sounds of soca filled the streets of Toronto Saturday, as more than a million people are expected to visit Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto.
After months of preparation, sewing costumes and practising dance moves, the parade kicked off at 10 a.m. from Exhibition Place.
“A lot of people have fun. You have fun, come down here, it doesn’t cost anything. It’s good to let your hair down once in a while,” said Toronto Mayor Rob Ford.
“We get to invite the world to come and participate in our Caribbean Carnival. It’s going to attract more than a million festival-goers,” saod Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.
Around 20,000 participants were “jumping up” along the expanded 3.5 km route along Lake Shore Boulevard West, from Strachan Avenue to Colborne Lodge Drive.
“I love it. I’ve been in this festival for almost 28 years,” said participant Gerald Pierre.
There was even some reggae royalty at this year’s parade – Bob Marley’s granddaughter joined in on the fun.
“My grandfather’s music and lots of rasta women to support, it’s just a great vibe,” said Donisha Prendergast.
An expanded number of ticketed seats were offered this year.
The party continues Saturday night at Bacchanal in De Kingdom, at Wild Water Kingdom in Brampton. Organizers say 10,000 people are expected to attend.
Sunday and Monday, the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Lime festival takes over Ontario Place.
Do you have great photos or video of this year’s Caribbean Carnival? Send them to us at torontoweb@citynews.ca.
