Today the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival started for 2012 with a huge kick-off at City Hall. The noon event had colourful ladies glistening in the sun to welcome all to this year’s events.

The Caribbean Carnival takes place for three weeks each summer in Toronto. Thousands of people flock to the annual Mas event, the largest in North America.

The Caribbean Carnival started in 1967 adding a flavor of the Islands to Toronto. It has grown from a three day gift to Toronto to three weeks of celebrations. The event is much like ones that take place in the Caribbean with Mas, music and lots of food to be shared.

Several of the events are geared to families like Saturday’s free Junior Carnival held at Downsview Park.

While there are free events there are also several paid events that will take place. For an overview of events visit the official Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival site.