by Stephen Weir

Destra is coming back to perform in Toronto one more time this summer. Isn’t it about time Mayor Chow presented her with the keys to the city?

Earlier this week, the Canadian National Exhibition, which opens today and runs until the end of summer, announced that The Queen of Bacchanal—Trinidad’s soca great Destra Garcia—will be performing for free at the Ex on Thursday August 29, headlining Soca Night at the 1,400-seat outdoor Bell Bandshell.

This will be the 46-year-old soca singer’s third performance in Toronto this summer. In July, she appeared at the Afrowave Festival. Earlier this month, she performed at the Harbourfront lakeside 2,000-seat theatre as a headliner for its Island Soul Festival.

An internationally known Caribbean singer and songwriter, Destra is considered one of the most popular soca singers in the world. Born in Trinidad, she has been performing almost non-stop since her 1999 debut. She shows no sign of slowing down, challenging herself every year and taking her music to new levels. Some of her popular songs include “Lucy,” “Jack Hammer,” and “Married Man.” Destra is celebrated for her energetic stage presence and has gained a strong following both in the Caribbean and internationally.

When she steps on stage, it will be the last Thursday of the summer, but Destra promises it will be a hot show “an unforgettable night of music.” While there is no charge to see Destra, there is an entrance fee to get into the Ex.

In fact, it will be a free evening of Caribbean music, billed as Soca Night. Destra and her band will have company. Soca singer Farmer Nappy and Toronto’s DrJay will also be performing.

Farmer Nappy is a popular Trinidadian soca musician known for his energetic and catchy tunes. His real name is Winston “Farmer Nappy” Henry, and he’s well-known in the Caribbean music scene for his contributions to soca and calypso music. Some of his hits include “Big People Party,” “Buy Back the Block,” and “Cool and Deadly.” His music often features lively rhythms and is a staple at Caribbean festivals and parties.

Reggae fans also have something to look forward to at the Ex. They have just added an evening of Bob Marley music to their entertainment lineup. On Thursday, August 22, there will be a Tribute to Bob Marley at the Bandshell. Classic Albums Live will perform Marley’s celebrated album Legend. Longtime Canadian reggae performer Jay Douglas will also appear before the Legend show.

Classic Albums Live is a concert series based in Toronto, Ontario, in which musicians perform a classic rock album in its entirety. 

The 145th edition of the CNE will take place August 16–September 2, 2024. Both Thursday shows are considered family-friendly.