Cuba makes its debut at Toronto Metropolitan University’s “Always Carnival” event

For the first time, the Cuban Tourism Board in Toronto, in strategic partnership with tour operator Hola Sun Holidays, joined the Caribbean celebration at the second annual “Always Carnival” event, as Gihana Galindo, Cuba’s tourism counsellor in Canada, reported.

Held on the campus of Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), this tourism and cultural promotion event aims to bring the Caribbean’s most iconic destinations closer to the university community, connecting directly with students and professors.

Cuba’s participation marks a milestone in the destination’s promotional strategy within the Canadian academic sector. Along with other nations in the region such as the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, and Antigua and Barbuda, Cuba showcased its advantages as a safe, culturally rich, and accessible destination.

The event featured a performance by the Danza Corpus Canada Dance Theatre, directed by Toronto-based Cuban choreographer José Carret, which added an artistic and cultural touch.

Each participating destination showcased its offerings to capture the interest of young travelers and academics. Cuba also held a raffle for a trip to Varadero, giving one lucky member of the university community the opportunity to experience one of the world’s best beaches.

With this participation, the Cuban Tourism Board reaffirms its commitment to strengthening cultural and tourism ties with Canada, demonstrating that the island is much more than sun and sand: it is a destination for encounters, art, and hospitality.

The event also provided an opportunity to highlight the availability of tour packages through Copa Airlines, which facilitate air travel between Toronto and the island.