Ignite the Culture. Feel the Carnival.

SAVE THE DATE
AUGUST 20 - 23, 2026

Lime - Glow - Paint&Powder - Carnival - Brunch

About Us

REGISTER HERE

PLAY MAS

EVENTS YOU CAN'T MISS

Caribana Ignite and The City of Kitchener Presents

FRIDAY NIGHT FAMILY GLOW PARTY

Friday, August 21 2026 (6-10p)

CARIBANA IGNITE PARADE

Saturday, August 22, 2026 (12-6p)

Who We Are

18,000 ATTENDANCE IN 2025

Caribana Ignite is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, heritage, and community spirit brought to life in the heart of Downtown Kitchener. Inspired by the colourful tradition of Caribbean Carnival, this immersive festival showcases the rhythm, energy, and artistry of Caribbean culture through music, dance, costume, and cuisine. Over the course of an exciting weekend, attendees can expect electrifying performances, street parades bursting with dazzling Mas bands, live DJ sets, mouth-watering food vendors, and family-friendly activities—all designed to ignite the senses and unite people from all backgrounds in joyous celebration.

More than just a party, Caribana Ignite celebrates community, creativity, and cultural connection. From the iconic glow party that lights up Carl Zehr Square to the spirited parade and festival experience along King Street, every moment is an invitation to express yourself and embrace the rich traditions of the Caribbean diaspora. Whether you’re joining as a masquerader on the road or soaking in the atmosphere with friends and family, Caribana Ignite brings the essence of Carnival to life in a way that’s inclusive, unforgettable, and uniquely local.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 SPONSORS

FOUNDING PARTNERS & SPONSORS

PLAY PRETTY MAS

01.

THE RE-WINE

Wear any mid to frontline costume from any carnival, From anywhere in the world! Pay Once, Play Twice! ITs the ultimate re-wine!

02.

TECH CAPITAL

Pay homage to the heartbeat of Waterloo Region! We are the tech hub, projected to be one million strong by 2030!

Get in your TECH section!

03.

KIDDIES CARNIVAL

Parents pay once, play twice! Calling all kids, bring the costume form any carnival and re-wine on the road in Kitchener! Includes the KIDS ZONE too!

04.

JAB JAB TAKEOVER

Jab is a traditional and satirical form of masquerade!

Play mas in one of its traditonal forms!

05.

SAILOR MAS

Traditional mas inspired by the naval presence of British, French, and American sailors!

06.

BIG MAS

Play Carnival in the grandest way, calling all Big Mas performers and costumes.

LET'S PARTY!

Impact Stories

From First Beat to Lifelong Pride

For many attendees, Caribana Ignite is their first true connection to Caribbean culture. What begins as curiosity quickly turns into pride as the drums echo through the streets, colours fill the air, and strangers become family. Year after year, we hear stories of people discovering their roots, embracing their heritage, and finding a space where their culture is not just welcomed—but celebrated loudly and unapologetically.

Building Community, One Carnival at a Time

Caribana Ignite is more than a festival—it’s a platform. Local artists, designers, performers, and small businesses come together to showcase their talent, share their stories, and grow their dreams. The festival creates opportunities for youth to see themselves represented, for entrepreneurs to thrive, and for the wider community to connect through culture, music, and joy. The impact lasts long after the last song plays, strengthening community bonds all year long.

Join Us!

Looking to sponsor or be involved?

Get in touch.

Let's Party!