The 42nd Annual Scotiabank Caribana officially kicked off this past Tuesday at a new venue, Yonge-Dundas Square. The launch party, usually held a few blocks west at Nathan Phillip's Square, had to be moved as a result of the city workers on strike. Events such as the King and Queen Competition and Pan Alive traditionally held at Lamport Stadium, a city-owned facilty located at King and Dufferin Streets, have been the topic of much discussion recently. There was some speculation that these events would be cancelled or moved, however, Joe Halstead, Chair of the fesiival managing committee announced that there would be no cancellations and that he was hopeful that a deal would be worked out. The Olympic Island venue used for the Scotiabank Caribana Lime on August 2nd may be moved to another location.
Overall, the two-hour lunchtime launch was filled with lots of entertainment and colourful costumes, however the opening introductions from government representatives, committee members and sponsors dragged on for way too long. So, despite the strike, the parade is scheduled to go ahead as usual along the Lakeshore beginning at the Exhibition Place on August 1st.
For list of events visit: http://www.caribanafestival.com/pagedisplay.aspx?i=203&pmExp=1332
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