‘Mas’ in the Six’

By Twylan Best

Masquerade, or ‘Mas’, as we know it in the Caribbean, has flourished into a grand and globally celebrated tradition, bringing vibrant energy to many cities around the world. But beyond the dazzling costumes and pulsating rhythms, do we truly understand how and where it all began?

The Caribbean Carnival traces its roots back to the days of slavery when French plantation owners hosted lavish masquerade balls and feasts leading up to Lent. African slaves were excluded from these grand affairs. Yet they found a way to reclaim their own space, using music, dance, and storytelling as a means of self-expression. In response to their oppressors, they created their own celebration—one that would become a powerful cultural statement. Stick-fighting, drumming, and symbolic portrayals of their struggles through costume and performance laid the foundation for what we now know as Carnival.

At its core, the Caribbean Carnival is a defiant and joyous celebration of freedom. It stands as a testament to resilience, honoring the sacrifices made by those who fought for their rights and cultural identity. Though it has evolved over time, with an emphasis on high-fashion costumes and extravagant revelry, the essence of the Carnival remains deeply tied to its historical roots.

Among the many Carnival celebrations worldwide, the Trinidad version is regarded as one of the most iconic, drawing thousands of revelers and spectators each year. Meanwhile, Toronto has carved out its own place on the global Carnival stage with the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, formerly known as Caribana.

Toronto’s first official parade looked quite different from the spectacle we see today along the Lakeshore. The original route wound through the heart of downtown, passing along major city streets and ending up at City Hall. Over time, the parade grew, shifting locations to accommodate the ever-expanding crowds. The route later moved to University Avenue, before eventually finding a home at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE),.

As preparations ramp up for this year’s festivities, Toronto’s Mas’ Band leaders are making their presence felt across social media. Excitement is building as they unveil band themes, announce launch events, introduce section leaders, and reveal the DJs who will set the pace on the road.

The anticipation is palpable, and the city is gearing up for another unforgettable season of revelry.

Over the coming weeks, The Caribbean Camera will shine a spotlight on the history of Mas Bands and their impact on Toronto’s Carnival culture. Our special feature, “Carnival and Mas in the Six”, will take readers behind the scenes, offering exclusive interviews with the creative minds shaping the parade.

What’s in a band name? What goes into designing a winning costume? What fuels the dedication of the Mas Band leaders? Readers will get a rich history behind Toronto’s Carnival.

As band launches unfold, we’ll take a closer look at the creative process, uncovering the inspiration behind this year’s themes and showcasing the stunning costumes set to hit the streets.

The first interview in our “Carnival and Mas in the Six” series will be published in next week’s edition. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the vibrant world of Mas right here in Toronto!

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