Caribbean Coalition celebrates culture at Montreal Carimas Parade downtown Saturday

Masqueraders in vibrant costumes lit up René-Lévesque Boulevard on Saturday, July 4, for the annual Carimas Parade—a celebration of Caribbean cultures organized by the Caribbean Coalition Network of Montreal.

Twelve different bands, each broken into sections with their own unique costume designs, marched through downtown. The parade drew crowds seeking music, dance, and the spectacle of feathers, gems, and jewels.

For Sharlene Henry, a masquerader in the band Rayne Carnival, the parade carries deep historical roots. "It's about freeing yourself, it's about the freeing of slaves in the Caribbean, it's about emancipation, it's about being yourself and loving each other and having a good time." Henry and her section-mates wore pink, gemmed outfits with jewel-toned feathers, emphasizing the importance of diversity in the celebration. "We feel empowered as women that we are able to express ourselves in any way we feel comfortable, no matter our shape, size, color or race."

Caribbean Coalition spokesperson Sharon Baptiste stressed the parade's role in keeping the community visible and vibrant. "The Caribbean community is much smaller than it used to be, so we want whoever is here to know that we have a Caribbean community here. Not only a community, but we have a culture that is thriving."

Miss Chinese Montreal 2025 winner Louese Hu also attended to celebrate her heritage alongside the Caribbean celebration. "Everyone is so loud, that's what makes the city shine," she said. "Montreal is known for the culture, the art, of course, and all the colorfulness from everyone in the communities, different communities, all together."

For those wanting to keep the energy going, Carimas offered an after-party at Place du Canada Park with DJs spinning soca, dancehall, and afrobeat, plus food and beverage vendors.