Toronto police have ramped up security and deployed aerial drones for the 59th annual Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade, set for Saturday, August 1, 2026.
The move follows recent violence at a local street festival.
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Organizers expect more than one million visitors to attend the three-day festival, which culminates with the main parade around Exhibition Place and Lake Shore Boulevard West.
It is North America's largest Caribbean cultural celebration.
The heightened security protocol comes after a July 11 shooting at the Salsa on St. Clair festival that left two people dead.
In response, officials reviewed operational strategies to ensure public safety throughout the downtown core and waterfront areas.
Chief Supt.
Andy Singh of the Toronto Police Service said, "This year, I know public safety, especially safety at festivals and events, will be top of mind for many people."
Authorities noted that Caribbean Carnival remains a core part of the city's cultural identity while reassuring attendees that officers are prepared for crowd management and emergency response.
"Street festivals and annual events like Caribbean Carnival are a vital part of Toronto’s identity, and we will continue to do everything we can to ensure safety and security of attendees," Singh added.
Law enforcement officials revised their event operations following the deadly incident, opting to implement focused surveillance technology along the primary parade route.
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"We’ll have a strong, visible police presence at Carnival events throughout the downtown core and waterfront this weekend.
