Pride News Canada's Leader In African Canadian & Caribbean News, Views & Lifestyle
By Lincoln Depradine
Pride Contributing Writer
TORONTO, Ontario – Showers, on Tuesday, sent organizers, performers, spectators, and government and private sector officials scampering for cover at Nathan Phillips Square at the formal launch of this year’s Toronto Caribbean Carnival.
But, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of the Scotiabank-sponsored carnival insists that nothing – including inclement weather – will dampen the 2014 festival.
“Rain or shine, people will come out to play mas,’’ CAO Chris Alexander told Pride News Magazine at the launch that was attended by representatives of all three levels of government.
“We wish we didn’t have to run out of the rain. But it’s amazing; it’s a good launch and we want it to continue to be like that.’’
Carnival organizers have listed a schedule of 16 official Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival events.
They include an “Opening Church Service’’ this Sunday, July 13. It’s from 10 am at Church of Nativity, 10 Sewells Road, Scarborough.
Other official events included a junior carnival; steelpan, calypso and king and queen of the bands competitions; art exhibitions; a gala; J’ouvert; and a Canada versus Jamaica rugby game.
Alexander said measures have been put in place for greater enjoyment of August 2 “Grand Parade’’, which is held along Lakeshore Boulevard and inside Exhibition Place.
“This year, what we’re doing is bringing the Caribbean-style carnival inside Exhibition Place,’’ he said.
“If you remember growing up in the Caribbean what it was like walking alongside the street and seeing the bands, we’re doing exactly that this year inside Exhibition Place,’’ Alexander explained. “So that, you can come in there and enjoy the carnival as opposed to just being along the Lakeshore.’’
Photo by Lincoln Depradine.
