Caribbean Carnival[1] is the term used in the English-speaking world for a series of events, held annually throughout almost the whole year in many Caribbean islands and worldwide.[2]
The Caribbean's carnivals have several common themes, all originating from Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, also known as the Mother of Carnival, whose popularity and appeal began well before 1846, and gained global recognition in 1881 with the Canboulay riots in Port of Spain.[3] Trinidad Carnival is based on folklore, culture, religion, and tradition (thus relating to the European use of the word, not amusement rides, as the word "carnival" is often used to mean in American English.[4] Carnival tradition is based on a number of disciplines including: Parade of the Bands /Carnival parade /"Playing Mas"/masquerade; calypso music; soca music and crowning a Calypso monarch aka Calypso King; Soca monarch aka Soca King; Panorama (steelpan/steelband competition); Old mas aka Traditional mas competition; J'ouvert celebrations inclusive of traditional characters such as jab molassie / jab jab, Moko Jumbie, Dame Lorraine, Blue Devil; and a number of other Trinidad Carnival / Trinidadian traditions.[1]
Approximate dates are given for the concluding festivities. Carnival season may last for more than a month prior to the concluding festivities, and the exact dates vary from year to year.
A unique attraction distinguishing this Caribbean event is its location. This dynamic, exciting event features some of the best Canadian and international Caribbean performers in music, dance, costumes, and world drumming. Events are held from Friday to Sunday throughout every third weekend of August. The Grand Parade in Toronto is held on the first Saturday of August to commemorate the abolition of the slave trade on August 1, 1838.