Montreal Carimas

When is the 2026 Carimas?

Montreal ​Carimas will take place on July 4, 2026.

Where is the Carimas celebrated?

The Carimas is celebrated in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

What is Montreal Carimas?

Carimas is a vibrant cultural festival produced by the Caribbean Coalition Network of Montreal (CCNM), a collective of Caribbean associations dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of the Caribbean diaspora in Montreal. Established in 2019, CCNM includes member organizations from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Through Carimas, the coalition aims to foster cultural exchange, community pride, and unity, while empowering youth and highlighting the diverse traditions that enrich Montreal’s multicultural landscape.

 

With a professional yet distinctly Caribbean flair, Carimas serves as a platform to showcase the vibrant music, dance, cuisine, and artistry of the Caribbean community. The festival embodies the spirit of togetherness, providing a space for people from all backgrounds to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the shared heritage and contributions of the Caribbean diaspora. By organizing Carimas, CCNM continues its commitment to promoting Caribbean culture and strengthening the bonds within the community.

Haitian masqueraders in colorful costumes performing at a Carnival parade in Montreal

What to Expect at Montreal ​Carimas?

At Carimas, attendees can expect an immersive experience filled with lively performances, flavorful Caribbean dishes, and engaging cultural displays. The festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Caribbean community, enjoy traditional and contemporary expressions of Caribbean culture, and participate in a celebration that honors the vibrant spirit and resilience of the Caribbean people. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer to Montreal, Carimas invites you to join in the festivities and embrace the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Caribbean diaspora.

Here are some highlights of Montreal's Carimas:

Colorful Parade

Experience the vibrant procession featuring extravagant costumes, elaborate floats, and energetic dance performances representing various Caribbean nations.

Pulsating Music

Enjoy the rhythmic beats of soca, reggae, calypso, and other Caribbean music genres played by live bands and DJs along the parade route.

Family-Friendly Activities

Participate in family-friendly activities such as face painting, carnival games, and interactive workshops for children and adults alike.

Delicious Cuisine

Indulge in mouthwatering Caribbean dishes such as jerk chicken, roti, curry, and other authentic delicacies available from food vendors.

Costume Competitions

Marvel at the creativity and craftsmanship of participants competing in costume contests for titles such as King and Queen of the Carnival.

Community Unity

Witness the coming together of diverse communities to celebrate unity, diversity, and cultural pride in a festive and inclusive atmosphere.

Montreal Carimas 2026 Schedule

Petit Carimas — Junior Carnival

Date: June 20, 2026
Location: Martin Luther King Park, 3533 Av. Kent, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Petit Carimas is a free, family-friendly Junior Carnival event celebrating the next generation of masqueraders, with kids' activities, food vendors, and performances by participating carnival bands. Free entry for all — come support the kids!

Pre-Carimas Fête

Date: June 27, 2026
Location: The Hive Café, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Time: 10:00 PM – 3:00 AM

Presented by Carimas de Montréal in collaboration with the Concordia Caribbean Student Union, the Pre-Carimas Fête is a high-energy indoor party at Loyola Campus featuring top DJs including Energy Squad, Nightfire, Team Greenz, DJ Nicolas, YKTV, and DJ MES. Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door, with cash bar and on-site parking available.

Carimas Carnival Day

Date: July 4, 2026
Location: Jeanne-Mance & René-Lévesque to Place du Canada, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (approximately)

The main event of Carimas de Montréal, Carnival Day brings masqueraders and spectators together for an approximately two-hour street parade through downtown Montreal. The procession starts at Jeanne-Mance & René-Lévesque and ends at Place du Canada, with bands bringing Caribbean energy, color, and culture to the streets of Montreal.

Sizzle Party

Date: July 4, 2026
Location: Place du Canada, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (approximately)

Sizzle is the official after-party of Carimas Carnival Day, held at Place du Canada — the parade's endpoint — where revelers gather at the park to keep the Caribbean energy alive with soca music and festivities to close out the celebration.

Note: Changes to the schedule are beyond our control, so please check for updates before finalizing travel plans. 

How to Get to Montreal for Carimas?

Montreal is easy to reach whether you’re coming from elsewhere in Canada, the United States, or internationally.

Ready to lock in your flights? Use the search tool above to compare fares and find the best deal for your Carnival trip.

Where Should You Stay During Montreal Carimas?

The best areas to stay for Montreal Carimas are downtown Montreal and the Old Port (Vieux-Montréal) — the parade runs through downtown streets ending at Place du Canada, so staying in either of these zones puts you steps from the action, the Sizzle after-party, and the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Here are three solid picks, all putting you close to the action:

Use the above map to find and book stays near the Carnival parade route!

How to Get Around Montreal During Carimas?

Getting around Montreal during Carnival is easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transport network and walkable neighborhoods.

What Else Can You Do in Montreal During Carimas?

Explore the historic streets of Old Montreal for European charm and waterfront views, or stroll along the Old Port for city vibez and river air. Dive into culture at Mount Royal Park for skyline views, then head to Plateau Mont-Royal for murals, cafés, and nightlife. Food lovers can’t miss bagels in Mile End or late-night eats downtown, where the energy keeps going strong.

Here’s how to keep the Carnival vibez flowing in Montreal:

Looking for More Carnival Travel Advice?

We’ve gathered some of our most useful Carnival travel blogs to help you plan for Montreal Carnival and other Global festivals: