It’s time, folks. North America’s largest Caribbean Carnival is underway and when I say there’s a lot to do this weekend at the event, I mean a lot. I’m talking parades, showcases, food, entertainment and the works. It might seem a bit overwhelming or you might not know where to start, but don’t worry. I’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide on what to check out at the 2022 Toronto Caribbean Festival.
Toronto Caribbean Festival
These three days are certainly going to be lit, quite literally, with the incredible lineup. Here are the things to do at the festival and some road closures to watch out for:
OSA Pan-Alive Showcase
Taking place on today on July 29 at Lamport Stadium, the annual showcase will feature steel pan renditions and sounds. Food and drinks will be available at the stadium as well as you enjoy the performers’ shows.
Colours J’ouvert Night
Taking place on July 29 at Assembly Park, the event will have Kes The Band with Patrice Roberts & Ricardo Drue for a concert at 8pm.
DAYLIGHT
Hosted by NBA icon, LeBron James, the party’s taking place today on July 29 at Lavelle from 1pm. It’s also being presented by the baseball star’s own tequila brand, Lobos 1701.
Island Soul
The event, which is part of the programme at the Harbourfront Centre, features performers of soul, blues, and soca. Different concerts and performances will be taking place from July 29 to August 1.
The Grand Parade Day
Over 10,000 masqueraders. F&B. Live performances. It’s all happening at the Grand Parade on July 30 at Exhibition Place Grounds and Hotel X. It’s going to be colourful costumes galore, so you don’t want to miss out.
Carnival Celebration
This event, hosted by Golden State Warriors, NBA Champion, and All-Star Andrew Wiggins at Arcane, is taking place on July 30 from 10pm after the Grand Parade. You’ll also be able to check out some tunes by Team Hennessy and Cleveland Cavalier’s official DJ, Steph Floss.
adidas Carnival
adidas Canada and Carnival Nationz Inc. are also coming together during the parade in celebration of the event. You can catch them on July 30 from 11am – 5pm.
Carnival Flavours
This is taking place at Stanley Barracks, Hotel X Toronto. You’ll get to try out F&B options from different islands in the Caribbean and their GTA communities, so best to bring your appetite. You’ll find Carnival Flavours happening on July 31.
Road closures during Toronto Caribbean Festival
For the duration of the festival, there’ll be several road closures from 2am on July 30 to 8am on July 31:
- Lake Shore Boulevard West between Colborne Lodge Drive and Bathurst Street
- Strachan Avenue from Fleet Street to Lake Shore Boulevard West
- Jameson Avenue from Springhurst Avenue to Lake Shore Boulevard West
- Dunn Avenue at Springhurst Avenue
- Dufferin Street at Springhurst Avenue
- Fort York Boulevard between Fleet Street and Lake Shore Boulevard West
- The westbound Gardiner Expressway off-ramp to Dunn and Jameson Avenues (Exit 149)
More details on the closures can be found online.