The Toronto Caribbean Carnival began in 1967 as "Caribana," a community-led initiative to celebrate Canada’s Centennial by showcasing Caribbean culture. The carnival is rooted in the desire to create spaces where the Caribbean diaspora can connect, express their cultural identities, create opportunities for financial success, and enhance their ability to thrive in Canada.
From its early days on Yonge Street, the carnival has expanded significantly, attracting international attention and participation. The inaugural Toronto Carnival parade took place in 1967. It was a groundbreaking event and a gift from the Caribbean community to Canada in honour of the country’s centennial. The original parade attracted 50,000 people, setting the stage for the future of the carnival, and laying the foundation for the massive cultural festival it is today.
The Caribana festival was eventually renamed “Toronto Caribbean Carnival” to better reflect the diversity of the Caribbean nations represented and to emphasize the carnival’s location, in keeping with international trends.
Today, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival features a series of events, including parades, music competitions, and cultural showcases, all highlighting the rich traditions of the Caribbean.
In 2022, a new leadership team assumed management of the carnival. The FMC focuses on not only showcasing the vibrancy of Caribbean culture through large-scale events like the Toronto Caribbean Carnival but also acts as a catalyst for economic empowerment, educational advancement, and social inclusion for racialized and marginalized communities.