2026 Rise of the Phoenix Head Piece

In May 2026, we welcomed 50 participants to ICA for our annual Mas Making Workshop, continuing our Rise of the Phoenix theme.

The workshop began with a look at the history of Mas and Carnival, exploring their cultural roots, the meaning behind taking to the streets, and the connections to freedom, resistance and celebration. Guided by members of our community, participants then created vibrant orange, red and yellow Mas headpieces to be worn proudly in the 2026 i-Land Fest Parade.

A huge thank you to ICA for sponsoring the venue and to the Government of British Columbia for once again supporting this initiative, following their support of our 2025 Mas Making Workshop.

More than making a costume, this workshop is about learning the culture, understanding the tradition and then bringing it to the road.

Photo Credit: Karissa Chandrakate