A Gombey troupe will showcase Bermudian culture at one of North America’s largest Caribbean cultural celebrations next month.

Gombey Warriors hope to raise funds for 20 dancers and drummers to participate in the Toronto Caribbean Carnival during a sip-and-paint fundraising event on Saturday at Young Men’s Social Club on Angle Street.

Millions flock to the city every year to watch and participate in the annual carnival, which celebrates Caribbean culture and music.

Shirwin Jones, a vice-captain with the Gombey Warriors, said the group and about 20 supporters will be in Toronto from July 24 to August 4.

He explained: “This is our third trip overseas. In 2018, we went to Jacksonville, Florida, and in 2024 we went to St Kitts & Nevis for their carnival.”

Mr Jones added: “St Kitts have a very similar style to our Gombeys. We kept in touch with some of those guys; they were very appreciative of learning our dance moves.

“It’s a lot to take in culturally and a great experience for the kids. As adults, there’s a lot more that we’re learning about ourselves and the group by just getting off the island to showcase our culture.”

Mr Jones said: “In the past few years when we went away, we’ve raised funds through bake sales and car washes, but we’re looking to try and involve Gombeys in the actual fundraising, so there’s going to be a brief history lesson to provide the meaning of the mask and teach them how to make a mask.”

Gombeys heading to Canada range from 5 to 40 years old and will perform during the Grand Parade on August 1 and at other events.

Mr Jones said on Monday that Gombey Warriors, a temporary charity, need to raise an additional $18,000 to fully cover participants’ and supporters’ accommodations in Toronto.

• The fundraiser will take place at the Blue Diamond Lounge on Angle Street from 7pm to midnight. Tickets are $100 and attendees, who must be at least 18 years old, can decorate and take home their own Gombey masks and will receive complimentary Swizzles. MessageGombey Warriors on Instagramor contact 704-5600 to RSVP for the Saturday fundraiser. Donations can be made to Butterfield Bank account #0601636520028