The Toronto Carnival Run returns for its ninth year, combining physical activity with the vibrant spirit of Caribbean culture. Founded by fitness coach and community advocate Dione Mason, the event celebrates health, heritage, and unity along Toronto’s waterfront.
When Dione Mason launched the Toronto Carnival Run in 2016, her vision stretched far beyond a typical race. As a longtime fitness and lifestyle coach, Mason had grown increasingly concerned about the lack of diversity in wellness spaces. Often the only Black person in the room while teaching group fitness classes, she saw a deep need to create a space where members of the African diaspora could feel welcome, represented, and empowered to embrace healthier lifestyles.
Now entering its ninth year, the Toronto Carnival Run is a joyful and inclusive celebration of movement, culture, and community. Taking place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, the event invites participants of all ages and fitness levels to run, walk, or dance along Toronto’s scenic Martin Goodman Trail. Set against the backdrop of the Toronto waterfront, the race is a lead-up to the city’s world-famous Toronto Caribbean Carnival and infuses every kilometre with music, colour, and cultural pride.
From passion to purpose: The origins of the Carnival Run
Mason founded the Toronto Carnival Run with a simple but powerful mission: to uplift the Black community through health and wellness. Recognizing that physical and mental health are deeply intertwined, she wanted to provide an accessible entry point for individuals who may have felt excluded from traditional fitness environments.
“There are so many layers to the challenges we face as a community,” Mason reflects. “But if I could use my skills to help improve mental and physical health, I believed that would ripple out into stronger individuals, families, and communities.”
That vision has proven true. What began as a grassroots effort with just over 100 participants has grown into a much-anticipated annual event attracting close to 1,000 people—including international guests from Germany, Hong Kong, and the U.S.
More than a run: A carnival of culture and inclusion
The Toronto Carnival Run is not just about pace or finish lines. It’s about honouring freedom, resilience, and heritage. Drawing on the history of Carnival as a celebration following emancipation, Mason has infused the race with rich cultural meaning.
Participants are encouraged to wear flags representing their countries of origin, dance to Caribbean rhythms, and enjoy post-race festivities featuring island-inspired breakfast, live music, and costumed performers. This year's T-shirt design also makes a powerful statement on inclusion, featuring runners of all ages and abilities—including individuals with prosthetics—to highlight that fitness is for everyone.
“Whether you have all your limbs or not, whether you’re fast or slow, you belong here,” Mason affirms.
A moving tribute to unity and empowerment
This year’s event once again begins at Sir Casimir Gzowski Park, just west of Exhibition Place, and follows a scenic route along the Martin Goodman Trail. The 5K and 10K distances offer a satisfying challenge for runners and walkers alike, while the 1K Kids’ Run creates a family-friendly atmosphere.
But beyond its celebratory vibe, the run also supports a deeper cause. A portion of proceeds go toward the Simunye Foundation, also founded by Mason. Meaning “we are one” in Zulu, Simunye is dedicated to building a permanent Black Canadian cultural centre that honours the rich history and future of the African diaspora in Canada.
“We have such a powerful story to tell,” says Mason. “And we need a space that reflects that—not only our past struggles but also our creativity, excellence, and vision for the future.”
From couch to carnival: A gateway to wellness
Over the years, Mason has witnessed countless transformative stories: from first-time runners who go on to complete half marathons, to families who return each summer, growing together through the event. The Carnival Run has become a catalyst for lasting lifestyle changes, helping participants build confidence, stamina, and a stronger sense of self.
“People often think fitness has to be complicated,” Mason says. “But it can start with something as simple as walking to the end of your block. What matters is that you move.”
This welcoming approach is a key reason why the run feels more like a community cookout than a competition. It’s an invitation to embrace wellness without judgment, and to find joy in every step.
Looking ahead: A vision for growth and legacy
Despite its success, Mason continues to face challenges—particularly when it comes to funding. She has personally invested in the event year after year and is calling for greater support from Black-owned businesses, community stakeholders, and sponsors to help sustain and expand the run’s impact.
“This is a multi-billion dollar industry,” she says. “I’m Canada’s only Black race director, and I’d love to see more people from our community stepping up—not just to participate, but to invest and help build generational wealth through events like this.”
Her dream is to see the Toronto Carnival Run continue to grow while remaining rooted in its founding values: representation, community, and empowerment. She also hopes to realize the vision of a permanent cultural centre through the Simunye Foundation.
How to join the movement
There are many ways to get involved in the Toronto Carnival Run:
- Register to run or walk: Choose from the 10K, 5K, or Kids’ 1K events.
- Volunteer: Help keep the course safe, support hydration stations, or assist with event logistics.
- Sponsor or partner: Businesses looking to connect with a vibrant, engaged community can support the event through sponsorships, in-kind donations, or vendor booths.
Visit www.torontocarnivalrun.com to register, volunteer, or learn more.
Registration deadline is Tuesday, July 22. Act now!
