toronto carnival run

Canada's 1st and only Caribbean-inspired running event that promotes health, wellness, and community. Held in Toronto, this vibrant race offers 5K, 10K, and Kids’ Run options, bringing together participants of all fitness levels to celebrate fitness and culture.

Saturday July 25, 2026 

Register

The Toronto Carnival Run is proud to be an officially sanctioned event recognized by Athletics Ontario.

our partners

Special thank you to our community partners for helping to make the Toronto Carnival Run a success.
Sutherland-Chan School of Massage Therapy
Kardia Athletica

about us

Founded in 2016, the Toronto Carnival Run is a one-of-a-kind, Caribbean-inspired running event that promotes health, wellness, and cultural celebration. Taking place in Toronto, this annual race is designed to encourage people of all fitness levels to get active while embracing the vibrant energy of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting your fitness journey, the Toronto Carnival Run offers an unforgettable race day experience with:

  • 🏃‍♂️ Race Options for Everyone

    Choose from a 5K, 10K, or Kids' Run, perfect for runners, joggers, and walkers of all levels.

  • 🏅 Finisher Medals & Race Swag

    Celebrate your achievement with a uniquely designed medal, T-shirt, and race kit.

  • 🎶 Carnival Vibes & Music

    Feel the energy of Caribbean rhythms and entertainment along the course.

  • 🌊 Scenic Lakeside Route

    Enjoy a breathtaking run along Toronto’s waterfront.

  • 🎉 Community & Celebration

    Be part of an inclusive event that blends fitness, fun, and cultural pride.

    Whether you're aiming for a personal best, running for fun, or embracing the spirit of Carnival, the Toronto Carnival Run is the perfect way to move, celebrate, and connect.

    Join us and experience the rhythm, energy, and excitement of Toronto’s most vibrant running event!


Dancers at the Toronto Carnival Run

Event details


Included with Entry

  • Race Bib (Chip Timed)

  • Race Swag (optional, can opt-out during registration process. No price discount for opting out)

  • Finisher’s medal

  • Post-Race Caribbean Inspired Breakfast

  • Complimentary baggage drop off

*Virtual race registration includes race swag, bib (not chip timed) and finisher’s medal only.

Start/Finish

The Toronto Carnival Run is an out and back route that begins at Sir Casimir Gzowski Park and heads East along the Martin Goodman Trail.

Address: 2001 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M8V 4E9 

(at Gzowski monument - 2nd parking lot West of Colborne Lodge Dr/Sunnyside Pool)

Schedule

6:00 a.m. - Baggage Check/Onsite Race Kit Pickup

7:45 a.m. - Opening Ceremonies

8:00 a.m. - 1K kids Start

8:15 a.m. - 10K Start

8:25 a.m. - 5K Start

9:15 a.m. - Post Race Celebration

11:00 a.m. - Course Closes

Getting There

🚗 By Car/Rideshare: Conveniently located along Lake Shore Blvd W, with nearby street parking and public lots available. Rideshare services can drop you off near Sir Casimir Gzowski Park.  

🚌 By TTC: Take the 501 Queen Streetcar to Windermere Ave or hop on the 66A Prince Edward Bus from Old Mill Station (Line 2) to Lake Shore Blvd W at Ellis Ave. The 80 Queensway Bus from Keele Station also stops nearby. 

Plan your trip with TTC Trip Planner for real-time updates. 🚏🚆

Parking

If you're driving, there are several parking options nearby. Parking fees apply and rates vary.

🅿️ Sir Casimir Gzowski Park Lot (2001 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6K 1L4)

🅿️ Humber Bridge Parking (1998 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6S)

🅿️ Budapest Park Lot (1681 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6R 2T5)

Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot, as parking fills up quickly on event day! 🚗

Race Kit Pick Up

Soul Fuel Fitness, 1605 Bloor St. W. Toronto, ON M6P 1A6

Thursday July 24 - 10:00AM-7:00PM
Friday July 25 - 8:00AM-8:00PM

Race Kit Pick up Instructions:

1.      Bring a valid photo ID (i.e., Driver’s License, Health Card, etc)

2.     Race Order Confirmation (If picking up on behalf of someone else, have their email order confirmation)

*Out of town participants (i.e. outside of the Greater Toronto Area) may pick up their kits on race day.

volunteers needed

Volunteers are key to making our event a success. Join our team of high energy dedicated volunteers to help make this Toronto’s most spirited run. Have fun while making a positive contribution to your community.

Partnership

Calling All Businesses! Partner with Toronto Carnival Run!
Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to showcase your brand while supporting health, fitness, and culture? Toronto Carnival Run is seeking business partners to join us in making this year’s event bigger and better!
  • Gain brand visibility
  • Connect with an engaged community
  • Support an exciting cultural fitness event
Interested? Let’s chat! Email us at info@torontocarnivalrun.com to explore partnership opportunities.
Let’s make an impact together!

FAQ

Please browse our frequently asked questions. If your inquiry is not addressed here, please feel free to contact us.

Is the Race Chip Timed?

Yes, the Toronto Carnival Run is a fully Sanctioned and Chip-Timed race. Your bib is embedded with a chip to calculate your net time for accurate race results.  Your results will be available as soon as your cross the finish line at the Finish Line and online at http://www.enfieldtiming.com/results/.

Is the Course Certified?

While the Toronto Carnival Run is not a professionally certified course, it is a sanctioned event by Athletics Ontario, which means we adhere to official guidelines for safety, course management, and race operations.

As a grassroots event focused on promoting fitness and health, we operate on a limited budget, so full course certification isn't feasible at this time. However, our sanctioning ensures that the event is fully insured and held to standards set by both Athletics Ontario and Athletics Canada — offering participants a safe, fun, and well-organized experience.

Are Washroom Facilities Available?


Yes, washroom facilities are available at the following locations:

- Start/Finish Area – Portable toilets will be provided on-site
- Sunnyside Gus Ryder Outdoor Pool (Parkside area) – Public washroom
- Budapest Park – 1675 Lake Shore Blvd W (west of Budapest Lane) – Public washroom
- Argonaut Rowing Club (next to tennis courts) – 1225 Lake Shore Blvd W – Portable toilets (payment required)
- Coronation Park – 711 Lake Shore Blvd W – Public washroom

Will There Be Water Stations Along the Route?


Yes, water stations will be available approximately every 2.5 km and at the finish line to keep participants hydrated throughout the course.

Can I Run With My Child in the Kids Race?

We recognize that for safety, age, or other requirements, an adult may want to run with their child and we leave this to the parent/guardian’s discretion. If there are no special requirements, we encourage adults to cheer for all youth run participants from the sidelines. Please note:  Parents who accompany their children on the run DO NOT REGISTER AS A RUNNER, nor receive a T-shirt and/or finisher’s medal. Only the child will receive an event bib to be worn while on the course and a finisher's medal along with post-race refreshments.

Can Children Run in the 5k/10k Race?

Yes! The Toronto Carnival Run welcomes participants of all ages in the 5K and 10K races. Children are encouraged to take part, provided they can complete the distance safely. Please note that the 1K Kids Race is reserved for children under 12 years old.

Can Someone Else Pick Up My Packet For Me?

Absolutely! Make sure they have a copy of your Race Entry email confirmation. They must also bring along with them ID so we can note who picked up your kit.

Who qualifies to pick up their Race Kit on race day as an "out of town" participant?

Participants who reside more than 100 kilometers from the designated Race Kit Pick-Up location (i.e. outside of the Greater Toronto Area) qualify as “out of town” and may pick up their kits on race day.

Can I Get A Refund?

Entry fees are non-refundable and non-deferrable. Once online registration is complete, a refund will not be issued for any reason and you will not be able to defer your entry for another year. Toronto Carnival Run, in accordance with management executives, city officials and local law enforcement has the authority to cancel any of the events for emergency purposes such as, but not limited to, extreme weather conditions or threat of terrorism. If such emergency conditions force cancellation, refunds cannot be provided since funds will have been spent in preparation for Race Day.

Can I Transfer My Registration?

Yes. A transfer is to be used if you can no longer run and you wish to transfer your entry to another person or if you wish to change your distance.  Transfers can be completed up until July 22, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. A transfer can be completed by going to your confirmation email and clicking on the link at the bottom. Transfer fees applicable.

Can I Change My Distance?

You may upgrade from 5K to 10K or downgrade from 10K to 5K. If upgrading, the cost difference at time of transfer (not initial registration) will be applied.  If downgrading, no refund will be issued for the difference.  A transfer can be completed by going to your confirmation email and clicking on the link at the bottom. Transfer fees applicable.

Can I Run With A Stroller?

Yes. We ask that those running with strollers start at the back of the race corral to allow faster runners to clear. We also ask that you stay to the right of the trail as not to block passing runners.

Can I Bring My Dog/Pet?

As much as we think your dog would be adorable, this may cause issues for those who have phobia issues, allergies and may pose as a safety hazard with other runners.  For those reasons, this is a pet free run.

Are Headphones Permitted While Running/Walking?

Yes. However, please keep the volume at a level that you can hear instructions from Race Marshalls.

Are Group Discounts Available?

A group discount of 10% per person is applied to online orders of 5 or more people.  Discount is applied to a single transaction.  Not applicable on multiple transactions of under 5 people.  Select "Add Participant" to add additional people to your order.  Discount will automatically be applied at checkout when you add a minimum of 5 people to your order.

What Is a Virtual Race?

A virtual race is a race that can be completed from any location you choose. You have complete control to go at your own pace indoors or outdoors. Completion of your virtual race can be done on or before Race Day up until 30 days afterward.

How Do I Complete A Virtual Race?

1.      You can run/walk at any location, at your pace, outside or on a treadmill, alone or with a group of friends.

2.     Use a running or performance app to track your results.

3.     Submit your results here

4.    Post your race pictures on your preferred social channels using #VirtualTOCarnivalRun and tag us @TOCarnivalRun.

How Do I Receive my Virtual Race Kit?

If you registered for the virtual race, your race kit will be mailed to you after race day. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. Shipping costs apply.

Do Top Finishers Get Additional Prizing?

The Toronto Carnival Run is a not-for-profit fundraising event to promote health and wellness.  Additional prizing is an add-on benefit depending on sponsorships from community partners and not a guaranteed feature of participating in the Toronto Carnival Run.

Is This Event in Support of a Charity/Not For Profit? 

Proceeds from the Toronto Carnival Run support the Simunye Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of the African Canadian diaspora. Their goal is to build a museum and cultural centre that showcases the contributions, stories, and heritage of the community. Your participation and donations help bring this vision to life, creating a space for education, empowerment, and cultural preservation for future generations. Thank you for making a difference!

Due to financial constraints, can I run for free?


We truly commend your interest in participating and being part of the Toronto Carnival Run community — that spirit is what keeps this event going strong! 💛

As a grassroots, not-for-profit event, we rely heavily on registration fees to cover essential costs such as permits, insurance, race materials, and more. Unfortunately, we’re not able to offer free entries at this time.

However, there are several ways to make participation more affordable:

Register early to take advantage of our discounted early bird rates

Seek a sponsor, such as a friend, family member, or local organization who may be willing to support your wellness journey

Join our Promoter Program to earn cash back by referring others — more info here: Promoter Program

Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on special contests or discount codes that may be released

We appreciate your understanding and hope to see you at the start line!

What To Bring On Race Day?

  • Wear comfortable athletic clothing

  • Get in the Carnival Spirit! Wear all or part of a carnival costume! Decorate your face and body with carnival glitter! Bring your rags and flags! Have fun!

  • Anti-Chafe Stick or Vaseline

  • Tissue

  • Bandages

  • Hair accessories (i.e. Headband, Elastic)

  • Race Bib and Safety Pins

  • Race Gear Accessories (i.e. sunglasses, arm warmers, compression socks, hat, etc)

  • ID, Keys, Phone, Small Amount of Cash

  • Flip Flops or other slip on shoes to wear after the race

  • Antibacterial wipes, deodorant, towel

  • Clean, dry change of clothes

  • A SMILE and great attitude!

Contact us


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