CARIBANA IGNITE
4 things you need to know
Caribana Ignite is summer’s newest street party! This year’s event takes place August 22-23, 2025 in Downtown Kitchener, and celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the Caribbean.
Wondering what to expect? Here are 4 things you need to know so you’re ready to join the celebrations at Caribana Ignite!
1. Caribana Ignite – Meet Us on the Road
Last year’s Caribana Ignite festival in Kitchener marked the first time Toronto’s Caribana festival was hosted outside of the GTA.
Caribana Arts Group – the organization behind Caribana – chose Kitchener to host Caribana Ignite thanks to the strength of the community, the region’s multiculturalism, and its energy.
Just like Toronto’s Caribana festival, Caribana Ignite is a celebration of Caribbean heritage, music, dance, and cuisine. From electrifying performances to delicious food and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.
2. Meet Us In the Square – Friday
The Caribana Ignite festival weekend kicks off with a Glow Party in Downtown Kitchener’s Carl Zehr Square.
This family-friendly opening event will be jam-packed with the sights, sounds and flavours of the Caribbean. At dusk, grab a free glow stick and join in the party as we light up the square!
DATE: Friday, August 22nd, 2025
TIME: 6-10PM
LOCATION: Carl Zehr Square, Kitchener
COST: Free!
3. Meet Us on the Block – Saturday
Carnival Mas (short for ‘masquerade’) Bands are the carnival version of a parade float! Masqueraders gather into groups that are represented by similar costumes/themes, and dance down the parade route following a truck playing music.
Revellers will travel along King Street showcasing stunning costumes, energetic dance, and live music with steel drums, soca and reggae. The party will continue at Carl Zehr Square a vibrant cultural celebration that will include food trucks, vendors and music, along with a kids’ zone on Gaukel Street.
DATE: Saturday, August 23rd, 2025
TIME: Noon – 6PM
LOCATION: Mas parade starts at Carl Zehr Square, Kitchener
4. Meet Us After Dark
When the sun goes down, the heat kicks up at Caribana Ignite! Imagine two nights of non-stop dancing that celebrate Caribbean culture and music: it’s exactly what you can expect at the Friday and Saturday night after parties taking place at the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts in Downtown Kitchener.
The Friday Nite Party starts at 9PM.
Saturday night, the After Party begins at 10PM.
Caribana Ignite will showcase the true essence of carnival and the vibrancy of the Caribbean.
Get ready to Meet Us on the Road and join in the excitement of Caribana Ignite!
