TORONTO, Aug. 1, 2013 /CNW/ - The 46^th annual Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival kicks off tonight with the King and Queen competition at 7:00 p.m. at Lamport Stadium. This event offers a first look at the amazing costumes that will be worn by the Kings and Queens in the Grand Parade on Saturday.

Kings and Queens from the 12 different masquerade bands (Mas Camps) will show off their elaborate and creative costumes and dance in front of a panel of judges and spectators as they compete for the top honours. For the third year at the competition, the Ontario Science Centre Innovation Award will recognize innovation in costume design, honouring both the intricate art and scientific merit of the work done by the talented costume designers.

The King and Queen Competition is the first major event of the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival weekend. The celebration continues on Friday evening when Pan Alive, North America's largest steel drum orchestra competition, will be held at Lamport Stadium. The Grand Parade will be held on Saturday along Lakeshore at Exhibition Place.

For more information about the programs and events, please visit the festival's official website at www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com. The Festival Office is located at 19 Waterman Avenue. Contact info: Tel: 416-391-5608; Email: info@torontocaribbeancarnival.com.

About Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival
The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival is an exciting three-week cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, and revelry as well as visual and performing arts. Now in its 46th year, it has become a major international event and the largest cultural festival of its kind in North America. As Carnival is an international cultural phenomenon, the great metropolis of Toronto and its environs will come alive as the city explodes with the pulsating rhythms and melodies of Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Chutney, Steel Pan and Brass Bands. The Festival Management Committee oversees the running of North America's largest outdoor festival.

SOURCE Scotiabank - Sponsorships & Donations; Scotiabank