The world’s largest and most popular celebration of Caribbean culture, food and music (formerly known as Caribana) is back and bigger than ever July 17th ““ August 12th. The Toronto/Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival is a 3 week cultural explosion of the hottest Caribbean music, cuisine, revelry and stunning costumed performers.

Caribana (as it will always be remembered) is the largest cultural event/festival of its kind in North America with 200,000 (plus) guests attending each year. During the 3 week celebration guests will enjoy Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Hip Hop, Steel Pan and brass band music. Some of the festivals most popular events include: “˜The Junior Carnival & Family Day’ event on July 21st, the “˜FMC BBQ’ on the 25th and the “˜Canada v. Jamaica’ rugby game also on July 21st @ 7pm (tickets are $25). Enjoy delicious authentic Caribbean cuisine at the “˜Tropical Food Festival’ on August 5th from 11am-8pm. Most of these events are free, visit the official website for the complete listing.

The festivals signature parade starts at 10am on August 4th. To view the parade up close and personal in the exhibition area costs $15, VIP tickets are $50. You can also enjoy it for free, viewing it from the parade route down Lakeshore Blvd.

Caribana is more than just a festival celebrating music and food. The festival also has a wonderful charitable division that works to raise funds for “˜The Caribbean Children Foundation (TCFF).’ This year the festival will host its annual gala event benefitting TCFF. The 2012 annual gala event takes place on Friday July 27th from 5:30pm to 2am at the Liberty Grand. Tickets for this formal gala event are $160 with proceeds benefitting TCFF. For more information please call 416-391-5608.

This year’s marks the 45th anniversary of the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival/festival. Don’t miss this wonderful cultural event for the entire family. For more information and tickets, please visit: www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com or call 1-866-960-7666 or 416-391-5608. Check out www.caribanatoronto.com for info on after parties and special events.

By Kirstin Fuller (The Travelin Diva)

Follow The Travelin Diva on twitter…@thetravelindiva!