Toronto Carnival Guide 2022

The Toronto Guide 2022

For Masqueraders

In case you’re wondering - yes that’s me in the photo above! It was captured moments before I hit the stage with Kes The Band at one of their Toronto shows. Caribbean carnival “mas” costumes is such a work of art - I am so excited that thousands of us will get to wear one again soon! WHY? Well, in 40 days Toronto will be hitting the lakeshore for the first time in 2 years for Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

This is a huge deal for the Caribbean community! What seems like just a “street party” to some, to others, is a cultural celebration, a source of pride, a display of months of work such as glue gun burns, feather placement etc. a place to feel free and liberated, a meeting ground to connect with others and a showcase of ones talent and skill. The city is buzzing with excitement - so much so that costumes are selling out left, right and center! As a result I am releasing my annual Toronto Carnival guide one month early.

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Below you will find a list of Caribbean Carnival - related business and brands in the GTA that may help you, the masquerader, get ready for the road. Back in the day most of these companies were unheard of leaving masqueraders to fend for themselves - so I am proud to see how the carnival world is evolving.

To the artists and business owners listed - I see you! Keep doing what you love and keeping the culture alive where you can. To the readers, if you enjoy this post, please leave a comment below and share and be sure to let the vendors know Simply Shakera sent ya! Xo

Fitness

• @ele.vated.fitness Soca and Dancehall Indoor & Outdoor Step Fitness Class in Toronto

• @clubenhergy a Black owned fitness club empowering women through health & fitness

• @_therellway has a Caribana Body bootcamp running three days a week until July 27th at Earl Bales Park

• Socacize offering classes soca dances globally to positively impact social, physical & mental health through their F.L.A.U.N.T. philosophy.

• Werk Dat - Dance Fitness offers virtual dance fitness and more via YouTube.

• @CarnivalSpice offers Caribbean Dance Fitness virtually through the Spice On Demand program as well as corporate and private workshops throughout the year. Be sure to also visit carnivalspice.com to learn about their Caribbean Carnival entertainment services and child youth programs.

Accessories

Carnival Kicks has a wide selection of carnival boots, sneakers, hosiery & more! Use code: “SIMPLYSPICE” for 5% off your purchase.

@jaynenicolehosiery offers skin-tone tights for women and men of all colour.

@carnivalpacks offers a collection of waist packs to hold your carnival day essentials.

@matchedforme is a Carnival Tights company based out of Toronto Canada. They also distribute Micles Tights.

A few of the bands have accessory pop-ups at their mas camps too.***

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Make Up Artists:

Disclaimer, I have not used these artists myself - so be sure to look at their portfolios to see if they are the right fit:

@facesbypureness

@facesbytatiana

@glowbyyj

@glam.rush_

@nymkjthemua

@faceology101

Products & Services:

@CarnivalMakeUpKits (CMK)

Provide professionally-selected carnival makeup designed to match your costume in a compact kit!

Each kit is customized to your costume and includes:

1. Glitter (x2 jars)

2. Jewels (x2 sheets)

3. Waterproof Cellphone Pouch

4. Lash + Glue OR Glitter Primer

@SocaSitters

The 3 Day Caribana Long Weekend Day Camp Experience - for those looking for childcare.

Brown Sugar Spray Tanz

Specialist in POC Spray Tanning

5 Accounts To Follow For Carnival Updates:

@torontocarnival.ca

The official account account for Toronto Caribbean Carnival

@everybodyplayahmas

A body positive movement to showcase and celebrate diversity in Caribbean Carnivals.

@ceeforcarnival

The Face of The Festival for Toronto Carnival 2022.

@socaprince
A pioneer deejay for the Toronto Soca scene

@fetenet
Events, carnival news and more


 

If you enjoyed this post, please leave a comment below and share. 

If tagging, you can find me on social @simplyshakera 

… and definitely let the vendors know Simply Shakera sent ya! Xo

xo

International Dance Day

International Dance Day

Highlighting Black / Caribbean Owned Dance Studios in the GTA

Wishing everyone a happy international dance day!

Dance is and will always be something in my life that I cherish. It has given me discipline, a way to share my culture, and provided an outlet for me to express myself. So blessed to have transformed my passion for dance into a business, a lifestyle, and a source of inspiration for others. With dance as a foundation of Simply Shakera, I have been able to grace many stages and be featured by: CP24, The Canadian Olympic Committee, The Marilyn Denis Show, Breakfast Television, etc. while simultaneously teaching 100s of women and children dance over the years. 

Similar to me, there are other artists in the General Toronto Area who are passionate about dance so much so that they founded companies to share their passions with the world. I have compiled a list of local Black / Caribbean Owned Dance Studios.

Over the past few months I have seen many lists of small businesses and/or Black owned business to support and often I see this group left out. These companies need support just as much as retail stores and restaurants. They provide training, variety and most offer styles rooted in culture.

Support local. Support the arts.

Without continued participation in virtual classes, competitions and conventions etc. these companies will be negatively impacted. Check out the list below and if I missing any, please add in the comments! Support can be in the form of participation or amplification.

Afiwi Groove School

Aifwi Groove aim to empower, educate, and inspire all ages through African and arts and culture. Their programs promote positive self-esteem, confidence and an active lifestyle while educating and connecting participants to arts and culture of the African Diaspora.

400 Monarch Avenue. Unit 11. Ajax, ON. L1S 2G6

https://afiwigroove.com

https://www.instagram.com/afiwigroove

A New DAEI Dance School

A New DAEI Dance School is an award-winning family-friendly community space for toddlers, children, tweens, teens and adults. 

1 Nelson St W (Inside the Art of Dance Centre). Brampton, Ontario, L6X 1B6

https://anewdaei.com

https://www.instagram.com/anewdaei

City Centre Dance 

City Centre Dance is the hottest drop-in dance studio located in Downtown Mississauga, offering a wide-selection of classes in various styles and levels for people of all ages and abilities.

68-5359 Timberlea Blvd Mississauga, ON L4W 4N5

https://www.citycentredance.com

https://www.instagram.com/citycentre_dance

DOAHL Dance Academy

DOAHL provides a full dance curriculum for dancers age 3 and up looking to make dance as a career, and for those who simply want to enjoy the art of dance, learn new skills, and make life-long friendships.

50 Anderson Ave,Markham, ON,Canada L6E 1A5

https://www.doahl.com

https://www.instagram.com/doahlacademy

Industry House Studios

Industry House Studios an elite dance training facility located in the Stockyards District.

100 Symes Rd Unit 202 & 203

https://www.industryhousestudios.com

https://www.instagram.com/industryhousestudios

Jade's Hip Hop Academy (JHHA)

JHHA is the only all Hip Hop and street dance studio in Toronto, the GTA and one of the few of its kind in Canada.

1310 Steeles Ave E Unit 6, Brampton, ON L6T 1A2

https://jadeshiphopacademy.com

https://www.instagram.com/jadeshiphopacad

Riddim Fitness Wellness Centre

The Riddim Fitness Wellness Centre serves the community by offering fitness programs, personal training and dance classes for children, youth and adults that also want to live their best lives and take the journey to wellness in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment. 

845 WESTNEY ROAD SOUTH, UNIT#7. AJAX, ONTARIO 

https://riddimfit.com

https://www.instagram.com/riddimfit

Socacize

Socacize Fitness is a creative blend of authentic Caribbean and African dance techniques, in harmony with effective fitness moves, resulting in a unique, non-judgmental and exhilarating dance fitness program.

2811 Weston Road. North York, ON M9M 2R8

https://socacize.com

https://www.instagram.com/socacize

The Space

The S.P.A.C.E. is a full performing arts centre focused on building self-esteem. They encourage students to dream, challenge them to develop determination and perseverance along with technique and give them the confidence both to get up on stage and perform and to believe in themselves.

1324 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, ON M5J 1M9

https://the-space.ca

https://www.instagram.com/thespacetoronto

Lastly, although we do not have a physical studio, I would be remiss not to shoutout my company Carnival Spice!

Carnival Spice is an award winning dance and fitness company that showcases Caribbean carnival arts. We are currently offering a variety of virtual programming HERE . You can also connect on instagram via https://www.instagram.com/carnivalspice

Get Into The Groove

Get Into The Groove

A Discussion On Dance Fitness

"Get into the groove" is more than just a phrase, it is a an action that everyone should be practicing.

I encourage you all to embrace the power of movement and if you have not tried a dance fitness workshop or class, then you are definitely missing out! I do understand however if you are unable to participate because of physical injury or other health reasons but any other concerns shouldn't stop you -  instead they should motivate you!

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of leading a dance fitness workout on an episode of the Social. To increase the difficulty of the workout I added the use of a household item that is accessible around the house. This was a perfect opportunity to incorporate my Caribbean flair; the item I chose was a flag!

Check out the full segment here:

My outfit in the segment is by Tendu Active. Their clothing is super cute and comfy plus the company is female run and Caribbean fuelled!

Dance fitness is a type of group exercise that incorporates dance moves/technique. This full body workout is tons of fun and the overall intensity of a class varies depending on the style of dance you are doing.  I often hear folks call dance fitness “ Zumba". To clarify, "Zumba" is a TYPE of dance fitness workout and one of the more popular dance fitness brands. Their instructors go through a training process based on the Zumba style, class format, and program principles. So for example, if you were to call a class I teach "Zumba", you would be incorrect for a variety of different reasons.

One of the main differences between dance fitness classes is style. There can be fifty different hip hop classes out there but I promise you they are not the same. I challenge you to try them all so you can experience the difference for yourself and feel which one you enjoy the most. 

For most of us, the way we workout has changed significantly since the start of the pandemic. Instead of hitting the gym/studio, we have been required to workout in our homes or outside. Whether in class or online there are so many great dance fitness classes out there that provide amazing results. Benefits include building your stamina and energy levels, strengthening and toning your muscles, burning tons of calories etc. Dance fitness workouts can also help you avoid or overcome plateaus because they will challenge the body in a different way. Plus most classes are super fun so you do not realize how much work you are putting in. 

Listed were only a few benefits that affect your physical state but there are amazing social benefits as well such as boosting your confidence, building your performance ability, releasing stress and meeting amazing people who are active and may also be looking for support for their workout too.  Not everyone in the class will be at the same fitness or dance level, but that is the beauty of it, you have to start somewhere in order to grow or see results. As as I would say, you have to "pace", listen to the music, listen to your body and take everything in stride. 

What you need for a dance fitness class:

• a water bottle

• comfortable fitness attire and shoes

• a yoga mat (if you have & incase there is floor work)

• and a change of clothes because you will get sweaty!

There are so many different classes to choose from out there.  Do some research and ask yourself:  What music do you like? How long is the class? Check out different videos and see how you feel while watching. 

To experience more Caribbean Dance Fitness classes, try Carnival Spice’s new Spice On Demand programming - now available online here.

Caribana Without The Parade

Caribana Without The Parade

Toronto Carnival 2020 Recap

Happy Toronto Carnival Weekend Everyone!

Wow - for the first time in YEARS we had no parade because of lockdown restrictions due to COVID-19. When this decision was announced in March I did not know how to feel. Disbelief was the most prevalent emotion.

Here’s the thing, Caribana without the parade is my pretty much my life. The work I do with Carnival Spice calls for me to be immersed in Caribbean Carnival 365 days a year so I did not think the cancellation would effect me greatly as it did. Kudos to all the promoters who offered alternatives to fill the void… I saw a Zoombana, Quaranbana and festival organizers even hosted a Virtual Road. I know this sounds terrible, but I chose to take a nice long nap on August 1st. I was completely overwhelmed with emotions and could not bring myself to do anything else. I did have a glass of wine and played some Voice to sooth my soul (add the song ”By Any Means” to your playlist). Although logistically, the parade itself can use a LOT of work, those who self identify as Caribbean or those who annually play mas feel a massive sense of pride in anticipation of this weekend. From revelling in the streets... to getting your hair/nails/lashes done and seeing your completed look carnival morning... to running into celebrities/friends/coworkers/exes etc on the road… to hearing YOUR SONG for the first time behind a big truck and going OFF… my song would have been anything on the “Yuh Bad” or “Caution” Riddim! The level of excitement is unmatched; arguably comparable to your wedding day or christmas morning…sigh..

To be clear though, the anticipation for Caribana weekend goes far beyond the fetes, costume pick up and walmart selling Caribbean based products at the front of the store. IT’S A CELEBRATION OF CULTURE, FREEDOM, UNITY, BLACKNESS, TOGETHERNESS, SOCA, FAMILY, FRIENDS, BODY-POSITIVITY, DANCEHALL, MAS, CHUTNEY, WELLNESS, LOVE, THE CARIBBEAN.

We Can’t Get Enough.

Even if you don’t play mas, it’s a weekend to just be proud and cultivate joy.  Most have celebrated this period from the were toddlers and hope to pass the traditions on to their children. 

Caribbean heritage and history is also deeply connected to the participation in Caribana weekend. The parade was gifted to Canada from Trinidad in 1967 and has grown to be one of the largest festivals in North America. The date of the festival also coincides with the the emancipation of enslaved people from Africa.

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Since I cannot share photos of myself taking a nap. Here are 5 Toronto Carnival Experiences I would like to highlight:

1995

Little Miss Shakera, always dancing… even at this age. My mom’s workplace at the time was a sponsor for the “Kiddies Carnival” (now called Junior Carnival) that took place in Little Jamaica on Eglinton West. The good ole days!

We were offered costumes the morning of but my mom had already picked out my outfit that’s why it does not match the costume! LOLOL… I remember this day like it was yesterday. I danced my little heart out.

Watch the pose; you could tell I meant business… was even featured on CITY PULSE… go figure.

2007

This was my first time playing mas as an adult. "Jamaicans don’t play mas” - or so I thought. During university, I met a trini dawlin, named Akeisha, who put me in a costume for the school’s talent show. I was SO shy that I wore the costume with black yoga pants. She then challenged me to play mas in Caribana that year- THE REST IS HISTORY.

I had no idea what I was doing but I still came hard. Matching shoes and bags; The shoes gave crazy blisters because the spray paint made them hard. The fabric on the bag was meant to be sprayed so the paint transferred on my skin! Lol. And are you seeing this eye make up? I believe this eye shadow that I had no idea how to apply cost about $40 and I used it once! The costume was made well though. I still have it and it is in perfect condition. The bra was 3x too big because I was scared of spillage. At the time I was a B cup, lol - the nerve!

2011

Back in these days when you modelled for a Toronto mas band, you could select any costume from the presentation to wear on the road. However, the costume I picked was the one I modelled since I fell in love with it the moment I put it on. It literally set the tone for the rest of this carnival season. This was my favourite Caribana to date. For the road, I even remember the song my section crossed the stage too: “ADVANTAGE” by Machel Montano. The stage was EPIC! Lost my rag, an eyelash and broke my purse. So glad I dismantled my headpiece and transformed it into a backpack for parade day. Everything was perfect and we were on the road for hours. I loved theme of the band too - we were different sea creatures. My section were the mermaids.

What solidified this magical experience happened the following morning. I woke up to the news that my photo was on the cover of the Toronto Star newspaper… and not just any photo... The photographer captured the euphoria I felt - crossing the judging stage!

2012

This pink costume was one of my faves to wear but I did not get many photos in it. I also paired it with nude fishnets before it was a trend in Toronto. Unfortunately this was not a good carnival year for me. I am sharing so you will take caution in the future. Scorching hot temperatures mixed with our band not having enough food and water led to me having extreme hit exhaustion. My symptoms were so bad that I had to leave the route early. Friends, although you have paid for food with your costume, do not rely on your band to feed you. Always have a hearty meal before you leave home. The day can be very unpredicatable and your safety is most important. Set yourself up for success. Ensure you are on top of hydration and vitamins leading up to the parade (and afterward of course.)

2016

This year was super fun. I worked a lot of promo events for the costume and did a lot of press with Carnival Spice. Plus, I had about 30 people from the #SpiceFam playing mas with me. Most were playing for the first time (something I cherish greatly). We were in different sections but arranged for everyone to be in the same band. It was also a year that I wore a wire bra for the first time. The ultimate highlight was two fold - one was performing for Kes the band and two was thiefin’ a wine on Kees on the road (member that Michelle???? Woyyyyy)

BONUS

Some 2020 Highlights:

As I was preparing to publish this blog I found out that Carnival Spice is trending #1 on TIK TOK via the #Caribana hashtag.

Pretty cool

You can also check out an interview I did with Kiss 92.5, Breakfast Television and the Toronto Festival Committee.

Breakfast Television: Moving in the Morning

https://youtu.be/Go7ZpURAiLE

Toronto Carnival Festival Committee

https://youtu.be/l53DvpbDaqw

Kiss 925 Interview

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDMWVwwnd-q/

Toronto Carnival Guide 2019

The Toronto Guide 2019

For Masqueraders

In case your wondering - yes that’s me in the photo above! Living out my glory in one of my favourite Toronto Carnival moments EVER! It was 2011, crossing the judging stage to ADVANTAGE by Machel Montano. Never saw that white rag again, popped the strap on that cute matching purse, and one of my lashes floated off into the horizon. Best moment ever… but it gets better… after parading with meh friends, going home to relax and sleep… I woke to the news that this photo was on the FRONT COVER OF THE TORONTO STAR!!!!!!!! THE FRONT COVER OF THE TORONTO STAR YALLL! Magic captured in real time.

It’s carnival season in Toronto so the city is buzzing with the Grand Parade only 10 days away! I am asked daily where to find this and that so I’ve compiled a list of a few Carnival - related business in the GTA that may help you, the masquerader, get ready for the road.

Back in the day most of these companies were unheard of leaving masqueraders to fend for themselves so I am proud to see how the carnival world is evolving. To the artists and business owners listed - I see you! Keep pushing doing what you love and keeping the culture alive. Enjoy the rest of your Toronto Carnival season.

READERS, If you enjoy this post, please leave a comment below and share share share. 

If tagging, you can find me on social @simplyshakera 

… and definitely let the vendors know Simply Shakera sent ya! Xo

Fitness

• @werkdatdennis offers dance fitness in Brampton Saturday mornings and Thursday evenings.

• @carnivalcurves offers carnival bootcamps and more across the GTA.

• @CarnivalSpice offers Caribbean Dance Fitness and Carnival Choreography year round with a pop up dance work Friday, July 26th. Be sure to also visit carnivalspice.com to learn about their Caribbean Carnival entertainment services and child youth programs.

• @islandwukout present #WukoutWednesday July 31st in Mississauga

• The Fitlife Bootcamp; a dance fitness event featuring soca star FayAnn Lyons Aug. 1st in Scarborough

Accessories

@thecollabovibe is a local distributor of @carnivalista products including fishnets, tights and pasties. Their main service is providing mas coverage of band launches and carnival - look out for them on the road.  

@carnival_queens_accessories offers bedazzled water bottles, flasks, cups, and more. See page for designs

@cleoluxe offers fanny packs, fishnets in all shades, sunglasses, and lashes

@mas.vlstockings are advertising fishnets with low waistbands. These are good for those of you wearing spider pants!

@carnivaldepot offers glitter fishnets and miles tights.

A few of the bands have fishnet and tight vendors at their mas camps too.

Notes:

• If taking the fishnet or tights approach, try to find a color to match your skin tone. It should blend!

• The pantyhose you wear to the office or church is not the same. Carnival tights/fishnets don’t have seams and are a much thicker material.

• You don’t have to wear fishnets by the way - it’s not mandatory. Many feel more comfortable in them or want to give their costume a little extra sparkle.

• AND PLEASE STOP PULLING UP YOUR FISHNETS TOWARD YOUR BRA. That trend has passed and it has never been cute. The waistband of your fishnets should be covered either with your belt, costume panty or if applicable.
  

• The masquerader (@bahayogi) on the left models exactly how the fishnets should be worn!

• The model on the right is a NO!!!!!!!! The band needs to be lowered and the fishnet color is wrong. Black would only work if the costume was black or had black accents.

Bags

@StyledfortheRoad

Carnival purses designed and handmade by Suzanna

She offers a variety of colors and currently has a sale going on. They are super cute.

styleprolix.com

@LimeCarnival

Stylish hydration packs for carnival or music festivals. (So you don’t have to get the hideous ones from Canada Tire)

https://www.limecarnival.com

DIY

Fanny packs are the trend for the road

Locally, take a look at places like ardent, urban behaviour, stitches, or forever 21; the quality isn’t the best tho!

Make Up

@CarnivalMakeUpKits 

Provide professionally-selected carnival makeup designed to match your costume in a compact kit!

Each kit is customized to your costume and includes:

1. Glitter (x2 jars)

2. Jewels (x2 sheets)

3. Waterproof Cellphone Pouch

4. Lash + Glue OR Glitter Primer

You can check out a recent interview they did we CP24: https://www.cp24.com/video?clipId=1734491

Make Up Artists:

@nikkidmakeup

The photo is of some of Nikki’s work. She will be taking appointments on a first come first serve basis - connect with her to determine location.

@PreciselyYourPassion are providing carnival make up experiences including breakfast, photoshoot and more.

book online: preciselyourpassio.wixsite.com/precisely-pop-2

The accounts below I have never personally used before but they had quite attractive ads on IG. Nonetheless, sharing is caring:

@sholaseraphinabeauty offers brow styling and Caribana make up for Saldenah and Carnival Nationz

@facecandystudio limite slots remain.

Carnival Beauty Lounge at the Radisson Hotel @honeybeautyinc - cool idea!

• They’re promoting a variety of things such Makeup application, photoshoot, and shuttle to parade.

TIP:

• If adding gems to your face from Dollarama; please place them INDIVIDUALLY not as the strip. Cute > Laziness.

• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on your face!!!

Footwear

• Unfortunately there aren’t many local boot vendors but with a quick google you’ll see a bunch of vendors pop up that sell online. Hopefully you have a friend with Amazon prime.
  

• Running shoes or sneakers are always your best bet.
  

• Unless you’ve done it before avoid sandals, heels, and flats.
  

• ANY footwear you pick Comfort IS KEY! It should also match your costume. 

• PS: Carnival is a time to be larger than life! Bedazzling your shoes is welcomed - dohhh hold back!

• Designer and Carnival Beauty @fon_rose some great footwear style below:

Community

Carnival Day Camp

Child Care Service For Masqueraders aged 4-12 years.

http://carnivaldaycamp.com

I believe registration deadline is July 26th - inquire ASAP.

@everybodyplayahmas

A body positive movement to showcase and celebrate diversity in Caribbean Carnivals.

Use the hashtag #EverybodyPlayAhMas in your social posts to be a part of change.

Karabana 

Enjoy some of the best carnival coverage from this true masquerader.

She will more likely take your picture.

http://karabana.blogspot.ca

Couple More Tips Before I Go.

• EAT BEFORE YOU GO ON THE ROAD - don’t rely on your band to feed you.

• Leave the cards at home - cash is ideal

• Invest in a battery pack for your phone. Reception is terrible along the route which quickly drains your battery.

• Ensure you’re wearing good sunblock - costumes make for ugly tan lines

If you enjoyed this post, please leave a comment below and share share share. 

If tagging, you can find me on social @simplyshakera 

… and definitely let the vendors know Simply Shakera sent ya! Xo

xo