The countdown to the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is on and there are a number of events happening this long weekend in celebration of the festival. Some events include a steel pan showcase, an international food festival and a grand parade, among others.
Island Soul
Harbourfront Centre presents the 25th edition of Island Soul, a series of events honouring the best in Caribbean culture. From Aug. 3 to 7, visitors can enjoy an exciting lineup of Caribbean musical performances, multidisciplinary arts, film, comedy, family crafts and of course, delicious eats. The four-day festival includes a range of free and ticketed events. The first event, “The Woman King of Comedy: Gina Yashere,” starts on Aug. 3 at 8p.m. at Harbourfront Centre Theatre.
PAN ALIVE Panorama
Organized by the Ontario Steelpan Association, Pan-Alive Panorama is an annual steel pan showcase that will include quality steel pan renditions, sounds, tone, and rhythm. It aims to promote and preserve the classic musical art form. The event is on Aug. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 10: 30 p.m. at 1151 King St. W. Tickets are $40 each for adults.
DAYLIT
Toronto’s Cabana Poolbar is hosting a Caribana party on Aug. 4 where you can drink cocktails, wine with friends and swim in their famous pool. Previous artists that have performed at this bar are Fetty Wap, French Montana, Swae Lee and more. Tickets always sell out, so visitors are encouraged to plan ahead. Tickets are $80 each and the event is from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m.
The Grand Parade
It’s the grand parade everyone’s been waiting for. The Caribbean Carnival parade will feature thousands of masqueraders dancing and performing along the streets of Lakeshore Boulevard. In addition, this all-day event will include live performances, food and drinks. Parade attendees can watch for free along Lakeshore Blvd. or get tickets to watch the ultimate carnival experience, on the Exhibition Place Grounds. The event kicks off on Aug. 5 at 8 a.m. and runs until 8 p.m.
CARNIVALE MUSIC FESTIVAL WITH RICK ROSS
Fans of hip-hop and rap can go to the Carnivale Music Festival where artists such as Rick Ross, Polo G, Lola Brooke and more will be in attendance. To make things even better, there will also be over 15 interactive art pieces to check out. The festival is at Markham Meadow, located at 8100 Steeles Ave. E., and runs from 3 p.m. to midnight. General admission tickets are $70 each.
Pan in de Park
On Aug. 6, guests can watch “Pan In D’ Park,” a performance composed of the city’s top steel bands and steel pan performances. The family friendly event will include Old Mas Characters, DJs, calypso/soca artists, a marketplace and amusement area, in addition to other entertainment. It all gets going at 2 p.m at Malvern Park/Malvern Recreation Centre, located at 30 Sewells Rd.
TCC International Food Festival
If you’re looking for some authentic Caribbean food, head to the TCC International Food Festival at Malvern Park/Malvern Recreation Centre from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 6. There will be an array of foods from all the Caribbean Islands to enjoy, paired with live performances and artisanal goods. This event is also happening alongside Pan In D’Park.
For a list of events, check out the events calendar, powered by Now Playing Toronto.
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