Caribana 2010 Officially Launches in Toronto!

The 2010 Scotiabank Caribana season officially kicked off last Thursday, July 15 with a celebration at Toronto's Yonge-Dundas Square.

Hosted by CP24's NNeka Elliott, the launch featured a short "parade of bands" which showcased the vibrant costumes worn by parade revellers as well as performances from local artists.

An announcement was made earlier this week that the festival is $100,000 short on funding after not qualifying for money from the Ministry of Tourism.

The two-week long festival now in it's 43rd year is gearing up for the big parade on Lakeshore which takes place on July 31st.

Other events leading up to the parade include the From the Soul Art Exhibit which launches on July 22nd; the Caribana Gala, at the Liberty Grand on July 23rd; and the King and Queens Competition at Lamport Stadium on July 29th and Pan Alive celebrating the steel pan on July 30th.

For more information visit: http://www.caribanafestival.com