Vancouver’s biggest celebration of all things Latin American is returning to the city this July.
Carnaval del Sol will feature workshops, films, live music, dance performances, delicious cuisines, and more to create a festive atmosphere that showcases the rich diversity of the region.
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Carnaval del Sol 2024
The popular festival is a vibrant celebration of Latin American culture held in Vancouver every year. The family-friendly celebrations include a number of events that will take place over a month, with the 3 day Carnaval being the highlight.
This year’s Carnaval theme is ‘Year of Harmony’ and will take place July 6- 7 at Jonathan Rogers Park. Festivities will begin with an Opening Concert Night on Friday, July 5
Carnaval del Sol – Opening Night Party
The Carnaval kicks off on Friday night with their opening concert at 5:30 pm.
Guests are invited to join for an unforgettable night filled with the infectious rhythms and energy. Dance to the beats of 3 DJs, while immersing yourselves in a neon-lit celebration, and being entertained by captivating Drag Show impersonators. There will also be refreshing brews, fun games, and delicious Mexican bites.
When & Where: Friday, July 5 from 5:30 pm at Jonathan Rogers Park, 110 W 7th Ave, Vancouver
Cost: Tickets are currently on sale. $25 for early birds, $30 for regular and $37.17 at the door.
Carnaval del Sol – Festival Weekend
This popular weekend event attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Festivities Includes:
- Mucho Burrito Main Stage: Features local performers on the main stage throughout the weekend. It will showcase various genres and styles of music to bring the Latin community back into Vancouver.
- Travel Plaza: This is the second largest plaza at the event, featuring music, activities and theatre shows.
- Beer Plaza: This is the place to be if all you’re looking to do is dance, relax and enjoy a crisp, cold drink. Guests can enjoy food, drinks and live music all in one convenient location.
- VIP Plaza: Those with a VIP pass, will be able to access this area with shaded seating, free samples of sangria, full view of the stage, exclusive bathrooms and more.
- Cocktail Plaza: Relax in a space surrounded by greenery and vibrant colours and sip on a handcrafted cocktail made with real fruit juices and premium tequila.
- Indigenous Plaza: Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities. There will be traditional performances, educational workshops, and storytelling sessions, crafts and discussions that highlight Indigenous history and artistry.
- Chiquitzin Kids Plaza: There will be lots of activities for kids to enjoy, including drums workshop, face painting, games, and more.
- Experience Plaza: Here guests can engage with food exhibits, Comedy shows, captivating performances, and hands-on workshops
- Pet Plaza: This is the ultimate playground for pets. It offers interactive play areas, pet-centric events, and a holistic approach to pet wellness.
- Seniors Plaza: This space will be dedicated to seniors with fitness routines, creative workshops, learning and more.
- Artisans Plaza: Local vendors will be showcasing a variety of art and crafts showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Latin America.
- Food Plaza: There will be 20+ food trucks and carts on-site, serving up delicious dishes representing a diverse range of Latin American countries. Vendors this year includes: Mucho Burrito, La Taqueria Pinche Taco Shop, Union Latinos Food, Delicias Colombianas, Boteco Brasil Food Services, Saborcito de Cecilia, Abuela Pupuseria, Salsadog Latinamerican Food, Viva Chile, Morgan’s Harbour, Paella Guys and many more.
When & Where: July 6-7 from 11am to 11 pm at Jonathan Rogers Park, 110 W 7th Ave, Vancouver
Cost: Tickets to attend are $20 for 1 day general admission. Note that children under 12 and seniors above 65 can enter for free. Discounted multi-ticket packs are also available.
Other Festival Events
In addition to the festival, there will also be a number of Latin American experiences taking place during the month of July.
Flamenco, Tango, and Wine
The Pipe Shop in North Vancouver will transform into a captivating space for lovers of music and dance for this exciting event.
Experience a magical evening with the Qairo Band bringing the best of Flamenco and Mediterranean rhythms all the way from France, alongside the mesmerizing Tango in Fusion. Enjoy the evening with fine wines, enchanting music, vibrant dances, and delicious bites of locally crafted Spanish paella.
When & Where: July 11 from 7 pm at The Pipe Shop, 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: General Admission is $85. General Admission with Dinner is $125
Soccer Tournament Carnaval del Sol
Soccer is a vital thread in the fabric of Latin American culture, uniting communities through the joy of the game and shared experiences.
On July 12, Carnaval del Sol will be hosting their annual soccer tournament. Friends and family can form teams to represent their country and play against other teams for up to $1,000 in prize money. This event captures the essence of friendly competition and fosters a spirit of camaraderie and unity.
When & Where: July 12 at 3 pm and July 13 at 9 pm at Empire Fields, 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver
Cost: Registration is $300-$350 for a team of 10 players.
Brazilian Festa
Experience an evening of vibrant “New Orleans Jazz of Brazil” with lively performances by Tio Chorinho, Flavia Nascimento, and Amarelas. Expect a blend of energetic, nostalgic, and intimate music and dance that will captivate and excite.
When & Where: July 19 from 7pm at the Fox Cabaret, 2321 Main St, Vancouver
Cost: General admission is $25. Student tickets are $20
Chiquitzin Kids Fiesta
Get ready for a day of excitement and creativity at the Chiquitzin Kids Fiesta, an event designed to bring joy and cultural discovery to families of all ages!
This family-friendly fiesta is packed with a wide range of engaging activities that will captivate children and adults alike. Enjoy activities like art making, storytelling, talent shows, and making new friends while exploring the vibrant culture of Latin America.
When & Where: July 20 from 11am – 8pm at Brentwood Plaza in the Amazing Brentwood Mall, 4501 Lougheed Hwy., Burnaby
Cost: Free
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