8 ways to feel like you're in Latin America in Vancouver

This summer, Carnaval del Sol commemorates its 7th year of celebrating Latin culture in Vancouver. As the festival has grown over the years it has expanded to almost two weeks full of events with the main event happening on July 11 and 12 at Concord Pacific Place.

Latin American Week brings flavours from all over the region to Vancouver. Here are eight ways to make you feel like you’re in Latin America, right here here in our city.

Canada Day: Parade, Samba and Folkloric Costumes

Canada Day is the beginning of the Latin American Week celebration with two events. The Samba Dance at Picnic Pavillon and Parade in Granville Island from noon to 2 p.m., and at 7 p.m. come and cheer Latin communities wearing folkloric costumes and traditional music in the Canada Day Parade at downtown Vancouver.

Meet Latin artists living in Vancouver

From July 2 to 7, the Latin Arts Exhibition will showcase a diverse array of art from various types of artists from countries such as Mexico, Cuba, Ecuador and Argentina. Take a tour through the art of Latin America and support Back Gallery Project, a local establishment with the vision of prospect new talent  Come and meet the artists at the opening night on July 2 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Gooooooal

Futbol (soccer) is a huge part of Latin culture, they live for it! Get into the footy spirit while cheering on the kids during their mini soccer tournament – the Pan Am Youth Games Celebration at David Lam Park on July 4 and 5. There will be activities like Zumba, Capoeira, Baseball/Softball, Yoga and other fun surprises for kids. For more information, check out the Facebook Event Page.

Travel in a Gastronomic Adventure

Treat your palate with fresh fish tacos, homemade Bolivian empanadas, crispy Coxinha, and more at Tastes of Latin America. Travel with gastronomic experts in the city: Off The Eaten Track and experience their special culinary tour of Latin restaurants specially tailored for Latin American Week. As a renowned food city, this is an event you won’t want to miss. The tour includes at least eight samples of authentic Latin cuisine, a glass of wine, a private tour of the Back Gallery Project, private transportation, tour guide and more.

To purchase tickets, click here.

Vancouver Latin American Film Festival specials

The iconic VLAFF has brought two great stories that portray contemporary Latin America.   Latin Film Night will present Lion’s Heart from Argentina, and Gonzalez: The False Prophet from Mexico. Come to eat some popcorn at The Cinematheque on July 7.

To purchase tickets, click here.

Inspirational Latin Awards: Stories of success

The Inspirational Latin Awards Gala Ceremony will present you with pioneers within the Latin Community here in Vancouver on July 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Edgewater Casino. Hear the great stories of Latinos who have come to Canada and have succeeded and made an impact locally and abroad. Along with these inspirational nominees, the event will be filled with dignitaries and influential people within the Latin World. Learn about personal stories and make meaningful connections at this great event.

To purchase tickets, click here.

Shine together at Carnaval del Sol plazas

Our Carnaval is the signature cultural celebration of the Latin American in the Pacific Northwest. Over the last few years, this event has had 100,000 to 150,000 attendees taking over downtown Granville Street. This year, they’re excited to move to Concord Pacific Place – 88 Pacific Avenue (close to Science World).

You’re invited to join the best lineup of outstanding Latin artists like Grammy award Alex Cuba, Gerardo Cantino y Los Habaneros, over 300 artists from live art to street performances. There will be lots of fun summer activities for the little ones like bouncy castle, a dance stage, piñata Workshop  and more surprises. Meet the food vendors and taste the vibrant flavours of dishes from every corner of Latin America. You’ll be sure to add a few new favourites to your list of Vancouver restaurants.

Carnaval del Sol is excited to offer up Sol Beer, Strongbow Cider and Granville Island Brewery brands at the 400-seat beer garden. Enjoy a cold beverage and some delicious foods while you watch the main stage performers. If you’re looking for something fun and active, there will be beach badminton within the Sol Y Playa with 100 tons of beach sand being dropped off to bring a “Latin Urban Beach” setting, right in the heart of Vancouver.

Volunteer with Latin professionals

Latin American Week events and Carnaval del Sol exist thanks to dedicated volunteers who are passionate about Latin America and are developing their professional experience. If you want to make new friends, learn about Latin American culture, strengthen your skills and have fun, you are welcome to the Latincouver family!

Click here, for more information about volunteering.