Memories of Hamilton

I'm really missing Hamilton Mardigras! Right about now, we'd be chippin down de road parading our mas, with spectators watching us.

Due to the heavy rain last year that poured down once we reached Bayfront Park, the bands couldn't go into the park. At the time, people were truly freeing up themselves in the rain and getting on real bad in the parking lot - but that rain came at a cost. All those vendors lost money. So carnival couldn't happen this year. Another signifigant reason why rain ruins a parade.

Anyway, we're left with many wonderful memories of Hamilton - what are yours?

Click here for more 2008 pictures.
Our first year going ('02), we didn't know we could wear our Caribana costumes & be in the parade. We followed the bands along Main St., thought it was perfect to end up in a park, and knew we'd be returning. So in 2003 we kept our costumes in tact and were officially a part of Mardigras. Needless to say, it was a much better time wearing costumes. We were hooked! Last year they switched the gathering spot from city hall to Wilson St. We walked around downtown trying to find the bands, and luckily Hamilton is small, so we eventually found everyone.

2007
Here are more 2007 pictures.

The parade gets bigger and bigger every year, with more bands participating and more masqueraders realizing it's only a 1 hour drive from Toronto. However, the feel of Hamilton Carnival is not like Caribana. Because there are no judges and stormers, there's no pressure. The vibe has remained positive, safe, and well, free.

2006

2005

2003

We certainly hope Hamilton carnival returns in 2010. Until then, remember you still get your las lap in Barrie next Saturday!