Carnaval del Sol, the biggest Latin American festival in the Pacific Northwest, returns to Vancouver next month! This year, the three-day celebration embraces a brand-new location: Yaletown’s picturesque David Lam Park.
It’s the 15th anniversary of the renowned event, which is organized by Latincouver, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Latin American culture in British Columbia.
Here are some of the highlights:
Friday, July 7
Carnaval del Sol Opening Night Concert // David Lam Park (Beer Plaza)
Festivities kick off with a spectacular opening night concert, exclusively for adults aged 19 and above. This neon-themed party will feature five DJs, a drag show featuring performances inspired by famous Latin American pop stars, delicious snacks from La Taqueria, and refreshing alcoholic beverages from Topo Chico and Granville Island Brewing (including a limited-edition Carnaval del Sol anniversary cerveza!). 10% of ticket sales from this event will be donated to Latinos y Amigos, an organization dedicated to supporting the Vancouver Latin LGBTQ2+ community.
Saturday, July 8 + Sunday, July 9
Carnaval del Sol // David Lam Park
Visitors of all ages are invited to partake in a variety of culinary, musical and artisanal experiences for the entire family to enjoy. This year’s focus is on Colombian culture, with a myriad of themed workshops, performances and culinary delights that pay homage to the rich traditions of this Latin American country.
Throughout the weekend, more than 400 performers will take to the stage, showcasing Latin rock, salsa, merengue and other performances. The festival also boasts nine plazas, each offering opportunities to engage with the culture, and with other members and friends of the community.
In the Food Plaza, indulge in mouthwatering delights from 22 food vendors representing 11 different countries, serving up more than 30 distinct Latin American dishes, including empanadas, tacos, arepas, tequeños, paella, and much more.
In the Market Plaza, browse through an array of products, including traditional spices and delicacies alongside clothing, handcrafted jewelry, and artwork.
In addition to the three-day festival, Latincouver offers two exciting special events that bookend the main festivities:
July 6
Latin Circus Orchestra // Vancouver Playhouse
Celebrate Latincouver’s 15th anniversary with a dazzling performance by Gypsy Kumbia on July 6. The group, visiting from Montréal, takes the stage at the Vancouver Playhouse for a spellbinding performance that blends circus, music and dance, with Colombian rhythms. Tickets go from $85 – $100.
July 13
Tango & Flamenco Experience // Lonsdale Quay
Experience an evening of tango and flamenco dancing, food and cocktails at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay. Tango Rumba from Montréal and the award-winning Flamenco Rosario will ignite the stage with dance performances that transport attendees to the heart of Argentinian and Spanish culture. Enjoy authentic Spanish paella prepared by local caterer Paella Guys, alongside Argentinian sangria. Tickets go from $90 – $100.
One and two-day passes range from $15 – $30, with FREE admission for kids under 12 and seniors 65+. A two-day VIP Experience Pass for $60 includes access to the Culinary Experience Plaza (with live chef demos), fast-track access to the Beer Plaza, an invitation to the VIP Plaza (where cocktail tastings, private washrooms and optimal main stage views are available) plus other perks.
When | July 7 – 9, 2023
Where | David Lam Park, 1300 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver
Website | Instagram
