During the start of the WNBA Olympic break our team was blessed with 10 days off. So I booked myself a ticket and headed home! What I failed to realize, was that Caribana would be taking place while I was home. Talk about perfect timing. The last time I can remember going to Caribana was when I was a young kid with my parents, so maybe 10 years ago?
Caribana weekend is a big deal every summer in Toronto. Millions of people fly in from all over the world to play mass (see pictures below), watch the parade go by, listen, dance or whine to the island soca music and grub on scrumptious ethnic Caribbean food. It's a weekend long party in Toronto with activities going from sun up, to past sun down. It's a great time for families, couples, and singles of all ages. Activities include theatrical performances, art displays, night club parties, the Junior Carnival Parade, the King and Queen competition and of course the signature Parade itself!
I wasn't planning to go because I didn't know it was taking place this weekend. However, my sister was eager to enjoy the festivities, so I accompanied her downtown the 48th annual Caribana Parade.
First thing we noticed after the vibrant beautiful costumes that both the women and men were rocking was the diversity of the crowd. There were people of all races, ethnicities, ages, genders and body types celebrating and partying together. The diversity of Toronto is something I love and miss when I travel to other parts of the world.
A mixture of people and costumes partying around the moving party truck!
Since I am rarely home I took on the role of a tourist and asked many of those playing mass if I could take pictures with them. Some wore the typical body suit costumes with their mini tops, bottoms, leg covers and large head pieces. Others went all out sporting elaborate designs that were so massive and heavy that they rolled on wheels attached at the hip!
These gorgeous ladies are wearing a beautiful array of green, yellow and gold! And their headpieces are amazing!
Look at the massiveness of her parade costume, so detailed and intense! Just Fabulous!
You can't go wrong with a tropical drink... or two!
Kesia cooling off near the water, away from the heat of the crowds and foods.
My sister and I ended up having a great time, we ran into old friends who we hadn't seen in years and even ran into a few family members as well! I also munched on some delicious curry goat, rice and peas and cheese empanadas... YUM!
If you haven't had the chance to experience Caribana, you should definitely plan a summer trip to Toronto next year. You will not be disappointed!