Toronto is about to turn up.

From Thursday, July 31 to Monday, August 4, Caribana 2025 takes over the city in full colour, sound, and spirit. Known officially as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, Caribana is the largest Caribbean celebration in North America, drawing over a million people from around the world to dance, celebrate, and embrace the vibrant culture of the Caribbean diaspora.

Whether you’re a longtime masquerader or a first-time spectator, Caribana weekend is one of the most electric events on Toronto’s calendar—and in 2025, it’s back bigger and brighter than ever.

What Is Caribana?

Caribana began in 1967 as a gift from Toronto’s Caribbean community to Canada for its 100th birthday. What started as a one-day parade has exploded into a full, city-wide festival spanning weeks of parties, concerts, panels, and cultural programming—all leading up to the iconic Grand Parade.

The event is a celebration of freedom, identity, resilience, and joy—expressed through masquerade (or mas), music, movement, and endless creativity. Caribana is more than just a party; it’s a cultural phenomenon.

Caribana 2025 Event Highlights

Here’s what you can expect during this year’s epic weekend:

1. The Grand Parade (Saturday, August 2)

This is the heartbeat of Caribana. Thousands of masqueraders dressed in jaw-dropping costumes take over Toronto’s Exhibition Place and Lakeshore Boulevard in a massive, all-day street parade. Expect booming trucks, nonstop soca and dancehall, and wall-to-wall energy.

Tip: Arrive early if you want a good view—and bring water, sunblock, and your best carnival vibes.

2. J’ouvert Events

Kicking off the festivities with early-morning powder and paint parties, J’ouvert is a deep-rooted Caribbean tradition that’s messy, spiritual, and unforgettable. It’s all about liberation, rhythm, and releasing your inhibitions.

3. The Fetes (All Weekend Long)

From boat cruises and rooftop parties to dancehall nights and soca takeovers, Toronto’s nightlife explodes during Caribana weekend. Major DJs and artists from across the Caribbean and diaspora fly in to perform, and tickets go fast.

If you’re planning to party, secure your fete tickets early—they will sell out.

4. Cultural Events and Family Fun

Caribana is also about storytelling, heritage, and education. Throughout the week, look out for pan competitions, costume showcases, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly events happening across the GTA.

Who Attends Caribana?

Everyone.

Toronto’s Caribana attracts people from the Caribbean, the U.S., the U.K., Africa, Latin America, and beyond. It’s a mix of locals, tourists, Carnival veterans, first-timers, and celebrities alike. Hotels book out, Airbnbs get scooped up, and the city buzzes like no other time of year.

How to Join the Parade

Want to be in the parade instead of watching from the sidelines? You can register with a mas band, which includes costume access and participation in the Grand Parade. Costumes range in price and style, but all offer an unforgettable experience of being part of the road.

Major bands usually start registration months in advance—follow them early if you want in for 2026.

Get Ready for the Vibes

From the moment you land in Toronto during Caribana weekend, the energy is different. Music spills into the streets, strangers become friends, and the city feels fully alive. Whether you’re dancing until sunrise, watching the parade, or just soaking up the culture, Caribana is pure joy.

So grab your flags, your feathers, and your crew—Toronto Caribana 2025 is calling.