5 events to check out at the Toronto Caribbean Carnival this weekend

If one thing’s for certain, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival completes summer in the city.

Caribana, as it was formally known, has always been one of the biggest cultural festivals the city experiences in the summer.

From the Soca rhythms to the extravagant, colourful costumes, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival continues this weekend.

And while the festivities officially kicked off on July 9, here are some of the best upcoming events to check out before Carnival is over.

King and Queen Showcase

The grandest and most spectacular show of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. The Kings, the Queens, and individuals of the Carnival bands will unveil their elaborately themed costumes highlighting the creative minds and imagination of the designers. Male and female performers embody and showcase the creative work of the talented artists, designers, and costume builders.

When: Thursday, August 1
Time:  6 pm to 12 am
Where: Allan Lamport Stadium, 1155 King Street West

DAYLIGHT

A social concept that has become synonymous with Toronto as the event that launches Toronto Caribbean Carnival weekend. DAYLIGHT, the Day-to-Night experience makes its much-anticipated return! Join the festival organizers as they celebrate the fifth anniversary of the annual event featuring NBA Superstar Lebron James.

When: Friday, August 2
Time:  1 to 6 pm
Where: Lavelle – 627 King St West

Friday Night Mass

Friday Night Mas is the newest addition to Toronto Carnival. A Carnival Friday night parade presented by the Festival Management Committee and taking place at Exhibition Place. It’s a night festival bringing Carnival into the light with glow in the dark costume components, music and massive vibes.

When: Friday, August 2
Time: 8 pm to midnight
Where: Exhibition Place

Grande Parade 2019

The Grand Parade is the largest event of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. It is the highlight of the annual Festival. After months of preparation, masqueraders in colourful and striking costumes and steel pan bands wind their way from Exhibition Place moving east along Lakeshore Boulevard and returning to Exhibition Place. The road becomes the stage for the masqueraders and steelpan performers. It truly is something you can’t miss.

When: Saturday, August 3
Time: 8 am to 9 pm
Where: Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd

Toronto Rum Festival

The Toronto Rum Festival seeks to be the newest addition to the event calendar of Toronto Carnival. This festival will professionally showcase various Rum of the Caribbean while creating a true Caribbean atmosphere through live entertainment, competition, and the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Caribbean.

When: Sunday, August 4
Time: 12 to 7 pm
Where: Ontario Place – West Island, 955 Lakeshore Blvd West