Bring sunglasses and sandals to Ottawa's Carivibe festival

Canada Travel Tips

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Friday, 23 March 2012 17:04

A little tropical flair will come to Ottawa this June for the annual Carivibe celebration. Travellers who love sunny weather and interesting cultural events should not miss the chance to take part in this year's Carivibe Beach Festival.

On Petrie Island June 16, the area will be filled with great attractions, exotic cuisine and live performances of traditional song and dance from many different Caribbean regions. This gathering of fans and spectators is an official kick-off to Canada's summer carnival season, which will present tropical-themed events in several major cities nationwide.

Although the official lineup of musical guests has not yet been announced, in the past there has been an eclectic gathering of talented musicians gracing the two stages on Petrie Island. Some of the genres represented  will include soca, calypso, reggae and steelband.

Guests may be able to pick up a few unique souvenirs, as many vendors will offer handmade pottery, paintings and cultural clothing. Children can enjoy both the vendors and music, but they may especially delight in the carnival rides and games at the event.

If travellers miss the festivities in June, they will have another chance in August to celebrate Caribbean culture at the Carivibe Street Parade and Block Party. Similar to the event at the beginning of the summer, the highlight of the parade will include a massive procession down St. Joseph Boulevard featuring individuals from nearby Orleans and Ottawa as well as visitors from all over the world dressed in traditional carnival garb. Most will perform to fun Caribbean music and dance the day away, which will continue at the Shenkman Arts Centre after the parade as an all-ages block party.

More information about these festivities can be found on various social media platforms, including its Facebook fan page and Twitter. Tickets will soon be sold on the Carivibe website as well.

Those who like to participate in various events where people honour different kinds of cultures can make plans for either of these events in June or August. Participating in Carivibe will pair perfectly with tours of Ottawa, as this city is ideal for an exciting and memorable holiday destination.