About Us

Montréal, Québec.– February, 2025

Dear CCFA Members and Supporters,

We are thrilled to announce that Ledon "Anthony G" John has been appointed as the new President of the Caribbean Cultural Festivities Association (CCFA). Ledon has been a dedicated member of CCFA since 2011 and has played various pivotal roles that have greatly contributed to our growth and success.

Background and Contributions: Ledon first joined us as an Assistant Event Coordinator and soon took on more substantial roles, including Marketing Director. His leadership helped bring vibrant creativity and organization to our Carifiesta events from 2011 to 2017. Prior to his new role, Ledon served as the Interim Vice-President, demonstrating his unwavering commitment and leadership skills which are essential for guiding our association forward.

Beyond CCFA: Beyond his role with us, Ledon is a distinguished figure in the local and Caribbean communities, having impacted our culture as a business owner, event promoter, DJ, and radio host on CJLO 1690 AM's "More Fyah Radio Show." His extensive experience and strong community connections uniquely qualify him to lead our organization.

Looking Forward: Ledon aims to enhance Montreal's Caribbean cultural events, not only through traditional showcases but by crafting memorable experiences. We are thrilled about the potential his fresh ideas bring to propel CCFA forward.

Please warmly welcome Ledon "Anthony G" John as our new President. Under his leadership, we anticipate a new era of growth, community engagement, and vibrant cultural celebrations.

The Caribbean Cultural Festivities Association (CCFA) celebrates and preserves Caribbean heritage in Montreal through vibrant festivals, cultural programs, and community engagement. We unite diverse communities, empower artists, and promote cultural awareness while ensuring the legacy of Caribbean traditions for future generations. At the heart of our work is Carifiesta, a signature festival that brings the spirit, rhythm, and energy of the Caribbean to the streets of Montreal.

The Caribbean consists of many islands  known to tourists as a getaway from their stressful routine or lifestyle. It is a place to escape, enjoy great music, enjoy great weather, and especially the great food. Although there are over 7 000 Caribbean islands, every island provides an appeal of escape no matter where you're from. Carifiesta is the embodiment of this same philosophy. We want to display many islands as one nation. No matter where you're from, come out and enjoy this small get away from your day to day. Carifiesta is not only a parade! It is street theater at its finest, displaying beautiful cultural presentations of what freedom or emancipation means.  Carifiesta also provides an open venue where you can enjoy food from various Caribbean islands, purchase art and cultural merchandise from the Caribbean and support a community while sharing a relaxed vibe as Canada’s reputable artist and best DJ’s take you on a Montreal tropical escape.

A Brief History of Carnival:

Carnival originated in ancient Egypt, then eventually was celebrated by Greeks and Romans when the festival was adopted by the Roman Catholic church under the title of Carne Vale. Meaning, farewell to flesh, it is a feast celebrated on the Sunday (Dimanche Gras), Monday (Lundi Gras) and Tuesday (Mardi Gras) before Ash Wednesday and marks the beginning of Lent and Fasting.

Fast forward to the Age of Discovery of the Americas, African slaves in the Caribbean were excluded from these European celebrations and lavish masquerade balls by the settlers. Once emancipated, the slaves transformed this European festival forever into a celebration of the end of slavery.