Competition for the King and Queen

Earlier this week, Caribana festivities took off at the Yonge-Dundas Square downtown. There must have been hundreds or maybe even thousands of people packed into the area on a Tuesday lunch break. The atmosphere was lively with music flowing through the crowd of people who were dancing and having a great time. Dancers in bright, colourful costumes danced on stage, swinging their hips like no tomorrow.

I was actually eating lunch on the patio at Jack Astor's at Yonge and Dundas. This Jack Astor's is several floors up, so the outdoor patio overlooks Yonge-Dundas square. It was a a really good view of the party that was going on down below. But of course, no one ever just looks at a party. I wrapped up my meal and went down to join the festivities. At first, I was just kind of bobbing my head to the music, but eventually a headbob became full out dancing. It's hard to not dance and move to the music when everyone else around you is letting themselves go and letting the music take them.

I'm sure that some people there were just there by coincidence. Not knowing what Caribana really celebrates, but joining in on the fun regardless. But that's all that matters, right? People, of all race and culture, age and gender, social class and wealth, joining together to celebrate diversity and appreciate the cultures and heritages present in Canada, the Caribbeans and the rest of the world. People may not know, but by simply dancing and jamming to the music, they are already celebrating freedom, equality and diversity. That's the spirit of Caribana.

The history of Caribana is quite interesting. It's based on the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival which began before slavery was even abolished. The Carnival featured slaves dressed as pompous plantation owners and plantation owners dressed in bizarre costumes as their own slaves. Music and culture were components, but it wasn't until after slavery was abolished, did former slaves bring their dances, songs, and festival traditions to the Carnival. It was a fresh wave of culture and diversity. Initially, the upper and middle class weren't too fond of it, but eventually they realized the benefits of the festival and figured it will be an annual event from hereon in.

In Toronto, Caribana happens every summer. People are dressed in extravagant masquerade costumes, dancing down the street to the beats of soca, calypso, steel pan, reggae, and salsa. There is also a contest for the best costume, the crowning of the Queen and King of Caribana. The actual Caribana Parade will take place on August 1st at the Exhibition Place and the Caribana Lime, which is a full day of performances will take place on August 2nd on Olympic Island.

Each year, Caribana attracts millions of tourists from around the world. If you haven't experienced it, you don't know what you're missing out on. Summer really is the best time to visit Toronto, so come to the lively city and remember to bring your party spirits, a costume, and comfortable shoes.

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For more information on Caribana, http://www.caribana.com/

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