This is the time of year when the Mas Camps are buzzing with activity, as thousands of costumes are carefully prepared. In just a few weeks, we will get a taste of the incredible beauty and artistry woven into every piece of fabric.

In just over four months, over 10,000 masqueraders will dance and wave down the 5.0 km Toronto Carnival parade route in vibrant and elaborate costumes. This exciting journey begins with the Band Launch season, where Toronto’s Mas Bands will showcase their costumes at various events from March 31 to May 15, 2023.

Each band launch is a celebration of the months of work by costume designers to create thousands of colorful and carefully woven art pieces that are not only intricate in detail but also durable enough to go down the road. A band launch is part fete, part fashion show, and all extravagance. Models will take to the catwalk to showcase all the costumes available for purchase at the Mas Camps.

To participate in the Toronto Carnival parade, you must purchase a costume from a participating Mas Band. We highly recommend getting your costumes early to avoid disappointment.

For more information on Mas Bands’ launches click here