It's officially here!

Ravi B. performing at the official launch

Well it's official, officially Caribana - Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival festival season that is. Last night's major downpour and flooding of much of the city left today looking gray and threatening, but the rain stayed away so the launch could happen successfully.

 

 Pan Man Pat singing a tribute song for Charles Roach 

 

 

 Socacize demo 

 

After all the speeches (and there were {too} many), models from many mas bands showcased their costumes, giving the public a taste of what's in store for the parade on August 3. 

 

 

 

 

 

I like the new covered stage at the Square, it worked well to have the models displaying the costumes on the steps as a backdrop. Ravi B.'s appearance was great, he really got the crowd wining & singing along. I'm sure the crowd would agree with me that we'd appreciate more performances, less talking, but I know, politics.
Anyway, the costumes look fantastic, does seeing them get you ready, ready, ready..... ready for de road!?

Order of the bands has been announced:
Connections
Blues Carnival Fusion
Fantazia
Saldenah
Carnival Nationz
Toronto Revellers
Tribal Carnival
Concept Creations
Black Sage
Mas Toronto
Carnival Revolution
D'Regulars