Carnival kicks off with Scarborough Town Centre launch

By Anthony Joseph

The 2025 Toronto Caribbean Carnival season officially kicks off on Saturday, June 14, with a day-long block party at Scarborough Town Centre, celebrating culture, community, and Caribbean pride.

Running from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., the event will feature a dazzling display of Carnival costumes, mouthwatering Caribbean cuisine, and live music. This year’s theme, “Take Me Home,” reflects the deep connection between Canada and the many homelands represented in its diverse Caribbean communities — a tribute to shared roots and a place where everyone belongs.

The program begins with a welcome from Executive Chair Jennifer Hirlehey and greetings from government officials, followed by Carnival updates and an overview of the summer’s festivities. From 2:50 p.m. onward, the stage will come alive with performances by Jfyre, Jaxx, Hummingbird Tassa, Dance Caribe, Pan Fantasy, Terry Gajraj, David Rudder, Ossie Gurley, Panatics, and more.

Tickets are now available at torontocarnival.ca, priced at $10 for general admission and $40 for a group of five. Children five and under enter free.

With energy, rhythm, and unity at its heart, the Carnival launch promises a day to remember.

Correction Notice:

David Rudder Not Performing at Carnival Launch Event

In a previously published article about the upcoming 2025 Toronto Caribbean Carnival Launch at Scarborough Town Centre, The Caribbean Camera included information provided by a reputable media advisory, which listed legendary calypsonian David Rudder as one of the performers at the June 14th event.

We have since received confirmation that Mr. Rudder will not be in attendance and does not have a contract with the festival to perform at this event.

The information naming Mr. Rudder was included in error, based on a media advisory issued to several outlets. We regret the confusion this may have caused to Mr. Rudder, the festival organizers, and members of the public who were looking forward to seeing him perform.

The Caribbean Camera remains committed to accurate reporting, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Publisher of The Caribbean Camera