CariVaughan Brings A Taste Of The Caribbean To Toronto’s North End

Pridenews.ca
Aug. 19, 2015

Toronto’s north end will experience the splendor and vibrancy of the Caribbean with CariVaughan, a three-day festival devoted to celebrating Caribbean culture in the City of Vaughan.

“We want to bring a bit of our rich culture to Vaughan,” says Sandi Folkes, Executive Director of the festival, which takes place at the Woodbridge Fairgrounds from Friday, August 21 to 23.

“The festival raises funds for a cultural center to motivate, educate and promote the pride of Caribbean culture. Our aim is to support local charities and to contribute to the community’s infrastructure.”

York Region proclaimed August Caribbean Cultural Month because of a deputation put forth by the CariFestival Association and The Vaughan African Canadian Association (VACA) three years ago. CariVaughan is the flagship Caribbean festival to celebrate during the month.

Now in its fifth year, the festival promises to be the best yet.  CariVaughan kicks off with a Tropical Lime Blocko on Friday, August 21, followed by a Las’ Lap Parade, Family Faceoff Group Game, a Beach Volleyball Competition, a concert and a Rum Tasting event on Saturday, August 22. The festivities wrap up with a J’ouvert Play Day and a Tropical Talent Show competition on Sunday, August 23.

“There’s fun for everyone,” says Folkes.  “CariVaughan is truly a family event.”

CariVaughan is presented by the CariFestival Association, a not-for-profit organization, founded in 2010, to foster pride in the Caribbean’s culture, support and mentor artistes and educate and share the vibrant mosaic of the Caribbean.

In May, 2015, The Government of Canada provided a generous grant through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program to support the 5th edition of CariVaughan.

The organization’s partners include Ontario Trillium Foundation, the province of Ontario, The Government of Canada, Central Counties, Power Stream, The City of Vaughan, G987 FM and Pride News Magazine.

Admission to the festival is $5.00 per day and parking is $2.00 per day. For more information on CariVaughan, visit : www.carifestival.com.