Caribana 2007, Toronto, marks the 40th anniversary for the celebration of Caribbean culture(http://www.caribana.com/). It runs from July 10th to August 12th. As a world famous festival, it attracts close to one million tourists and spectators to the Greater Toronto Area.

One of the highlights of the event is the parade, which includes thousands of brilliantly costumed masqueraders and dozens of trucks carrying live bands.

On August 4, 2007, the largest Caribana Parade in North America was started at the Canadian National Exhibition Place in Toronto. Tian Guo Marching Band of Canada was the only Chinese group that was invited to attend. They were warmly welcomed and appreciated by the festival organizer, distinguished guests and the spectators.

The Premier of Ontario Dalton McGuinty, Conservative Party Leader in Ontario John Tory, Police Chief in Toronto Bill Blair and City Councillor Adam Giambrone were present at the opening ceremony. All of these dignitaries expressed their appreciation for the contribution of the Falun Gong Band.

The Chair and CEO of the Festival Management Committee Joe Halstead commented, “They (Tian Guo Marching Band) make quite a difference for us. Our festival is stronger because of the Chinese involvement”.

Cutting ribbon, Caribbean Carnival (Caribana) Parade, Toronto, August 4, 2007 (by Baohui)