This weekend marked the return of the Carnaval del Sol, the largest Latin American festival in the Pacific Northwest. Also fondly referred to as the “Latin Festival”. This outdoor event showcases the rich cultures, traditions, and cuisines of Latin America with over 250 artists and performers and 120 plus hours of music. It take 300 plus volunteers to operate, with over 60 vendors and exhibitors to discover. The wide range of Latin artists performing their songs and dancing are the main draw, but there are also soccer matches and soccer themed activities.
The two day, ticketed affair was held at Jonathan Rogers Park in East Vancouver on this, its 17th year. Despite the heat, the city came out to celebrate. The arena was divided into plazas, each one meant to celebrate Latin culture with its own schedule of events and activities. There was so much going on. You could spend the whole day here and still miss seeing things, like we did.
But first getting there. With only one directional sign, we went in circles trying to find the entrance to check in and gain our bracelets. We joined the line that slowly got security checked.
Right at the entry way is the Artisans Plaza. Two row of stalls to shop that includes handmade jewelry, traditional clothing and accessories, and a collection of colourful collectables and toys for sale.
The Food Plaza held a variety of Latin American foods to try. Brazilian cheese balls, Peruvian ceviche, El Salvadorian pupusas, and plenty of Mexican drinks and desserts with chamoy.
Stand outs were the Chilango Mango, a whole mango on a stick, cut into a flower and dusted with tajin for a travel-ready snack.
Cuba Barbecue was a spectacle with ribs and chicken legs on a grill, plus two whole pigs roasting over a fire.
The Seniors Plaza had salsa dancing sessions that mimicked aerobics and several couches in the shade to rest on.
The Kids Plaza had plenty of activities to keep the littlest of guests busy. Toys and a make shift obstacle courses for children to run through. They seemed to especially enjoy dancing on the small stage.
Behind it was the She Plaza dedicated to celebrating women entrepreneurs, creatives, and community leaders. They hosted brands related to women, wellness, beauty, and nutrition. Focused on Canadian-based companies that are passionate about community, inclusion, and empowerment.
The Sports Plaza centred around Latin America’s most beloved sport: soccer. Guests were invited to enjoy mini-tournaments, skills demonstrations, community team showdowns, and fan activities. This plaza promoted healthy living, sportsmanship, and community through the lens of soccer and physical activity.
The Beer Plaza was where the alcoholic drinks were, and where people had to stay should they want one.
We had VIP entry so that gave us access to the VIP lounge, right by the main stage with seating and shade. There were platters for grazing, one complimentary drink wine or pop each, and our own luxury porto-potty.
We had fun sitting on plastic furniture soccer balls and inflatable animal pool floaties in place of traditional seats.
In short this was a great way to spend a sunny afternoon with plenty to do for the whole family. Be sure to check them out next year for their 18th anniversary.
carnavaldelsol.ca
