Montreal's Caribbean community is looking forward to a revived Carnival parade after last year's cancellation

Montreal's Caribbean community is excited that the city has approved plans for this summer's Caribbean Carnival parade. Last year, organizers were denied permission to hold the parade for a long time due to management issues, much to the dismay of the community. However, this year, the Caribbean Coalition Network of Montreal (CCNM) has been granted permission and funding to hold events over a four-week period under the new name of the Montreal Karimas Festival. Festivities begin on June 9 and end on July 6 with the 50th Anniversary Parade of Montreal's Caribbean Carnival.

Montreal's Carimas Festival includes four events, including two pageants, a children's carnival called Petit Carimas, the Carimas Parade, and the Carimas Sizzle, a post-parade gathering of cultural activities. CCNM is seeking a five-year mandate to host the parade and is awaiting a response from the city. Attendees at the Jamaican Community Dinner in Montreal, a member of the CCNM, expressed their anticipation for the upcoming festival. While some are worried about the tight schedule of organizing the carnival, the organizers have quietly prepared for months and are confident that they will be able to deliver a great event.

Jason Forbes, Montreal Soca DJ and YUL Cultural Association member who helps organize the Petit Carimas and Carimas parades, assures the community that preparations are well underway. They've launched an additional fundraising campaign, and Forbes notes that excitement is building in the city as the parade approaches. Kathleen Maitland Blades, president of the Cultural Association of the Dominican Islands in Montreal and another member of the CCNM, notes the outpouring of support and donations that came in after news of the parade was approved. Despite the challenges ahead, organizers are optimistic and grateful for the community's support.

The Montreal Caribbean Carnival Parade is a noble tradition that brings together communities from different Caribbean islands to celebrate their culture and heritage. The approval of this year's parade was met with relief and joy among Montreal's Caribbean residents, who were disappointed by its cancellation last year. Montreal's Karimas Festival promises to be a lively and exciting showcase of Caribbean music, dance and traditions, with a series of events leading up to the grand parade in July.

The support and enthusiasm of the community makes the Montreal Carimas Festival a success as organizers work tirelessly to revitalize the carnival. With events scheduled over a four-week period and an array of activities for all ages, the festival aims to honor the 50-year legacy of Montreal's Caribbean Carnival. In collaboration with various local organizations and communities, CCNM is dedicated to providing a memorable and inclusive celebration that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Montreal's Caribbean community.

As the countdown to Montreal's Karimas Festival begins, anticipation builds and residents prepare to partake in the festivities. The outpouring of support and donations from unexpected sources underscores the importance of Montreal's Caribbean Carnival Parade and the unity it brings to its diverse communities. With careful planning, dedication and community involvement, organizers are poised to deliver a spectacular celebration that will bring joy and pride to Montreal's Caribbean residents. This year's festival promises to be a testament to the resilience, unity and enduring spirit of the Montreal Caribbean community.