The largest Latin American festival in the Pacific Northwest returns to Vancouver this summer.
The 17th annual Carnaval del Sol takes place in Jonathan Rogers Park from Friday, July 11, through Sunday, July 13, featuring a celebration of Latin culture and cuisine.
Hosted by Latincouver, the festival features over 280 live performers, multiple food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can also explore multiple themed venues.
Latin American events will be held throughout July as part of a larger cultural experience, culminating in the three-day event.
This year's event will have a significant focus on fútbol (known widely as soccer in Canada), since it is at the "heartbeat of Latin American culture" and brings unity among cultures.
Carnaval del Sol is also partnering with Filipino BC to honour cultural connections and community resilience. The collaboration features Filipino food, vendors, artists, and a meaningful 50/50 draw to support the victims and survivors of the tragic April Lapu Lapu tragedy.
Main Stage
The main stage, also known as the Plaza del Sol, will feature over 160 performers, including Boogát, an award-winning hip-hop artist from Quebec City; Meni Axe Band with "Carnaval-style axé music and samba beats"; Venezuelan singer-songwriter Lussilia who fuses Latin pop with folksy roots; and reggae artist Caleb Hart from Tobago.
Other crowd pleasers include, "Tren al Sur, Vancouver’s only rock en Español band and the comedy fiesta of the theatrical musical group, Entangados."
Sport Plaza
A 360-degree Soccer Experience is described as a "full-sensory celebration" of the game, with street-style soccer tournaments and skill challenges, immersive fan zones, live match screenings and national cultural showcases.
She Latina Plaza
The She Latina Plaza hosts women entrepreneurs, creatives and community leaders. Latinas connect and collaborate through networking events, pop-up markets, storytelling sessions, wellness activities and cultural workshops.
Seniors, Family and Kids Plazas
An all-ages plaza creates a warm, social space for seniors, where they can enjoy Latin games, yoga, Zumba, arts workshops, and form connections. Families can enjoy folk dance, music, mariachi, and youth performances, including access to hands-on educational and cultural activities. The Chiquitzin Kids Plaza is a playful educational zone with Latin American music, dance, costumes, and crafts.
Food Plaza
In the food plaza, attendees can browse 20 curated Latin American vendors representing over a dozen countries, ranging from street eats to traditional dishes. Dishes include everything from "sizzling tacos and savoury pupusas to fresh Peruvian ceviche and Cuban-style rotisserie pig."
Beer Plaza
The beer plaza will offer cold brews and music by DJ 2 Monkeys, DJ Vibras, and DJ Mujeres.
Carnaval del Sol
When: July 11-13
Where: Jonathan Rogers Park - 110 W 7th Ave.
Cost: $12 for an adult, one-day general admission to $70 for a VIP pass. Kids and seniors are free. Get tickets online.
