If you’re ready to dive into the vibrant world of Latin America this summer, you’re in for a treat. Carnaval del Sol is back and better than ever from Friday, July 5 to Sunday, July 7. This epic celebration, the biggest Latin American festival in the Pacific Northwest, is taking over its new home at Mount Pleasant’s Jonathan Rogers Park. Get ready for a weekend filled with mouth-watering food, incredible music, and fun for the whole family. Organized by Latincouver, this festival is a must-do in July.

Kickoff Event: Carnaval del Sol Opening Night Party

Date: Friday, July 5
Location: Granville Island Beer Plaza at Jonathan Rogers Park

The Carnaval del Sol Opening Night Party is the perfect way to kick off the festivities for those 19 and over. Dance the night away with DJ Gambeat y la Grooving Familia from France, mixing up reggae, salsa, dub, and cumbia. And the party doesn’t stop there – DJ Hera and DJ La Zonida are also on the lineup. The Vancouver Pride Society will light up the night with dazzling drag shows by Mya, Malandro, and Visa from Drag Race España. Plus, you can snack on empanadas and churros while sipping on a special Carnaval del Sol cerveza from Granville Island Brewing. Tickets start at $25 and you can snag them online.

Main Festival: Carnaval del Sol

Dates: Saturday, July 6, and Sunday, July 7
Location: Jonathan Rogers Park

Clear your weekend because you won’t want to miss the main event at Jonathan Rogers Park. With over 50 activities and 11 themed plazas, there’s something for everyone.

• Mucho Burrito Plaza del Sol (Main Plaza): Catch live performances from awesome artists like Ivonne Ley, a Selena tribute artist, La Linea with their salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggaeton vibes, and Chesca from Puerto Rico.
• Food Plaza: Get ready to feast on more than 30 authentic dishes from 20 Latin American countries. Think empanadas, tacos, arepas, tequeños, paella, and so much more.
• Ascenda Indigenous Plaza: New this year, this plaza dives into the roots of salsa, cumbia, and other traditional dances with fascinating discussions and performances.
• Cabrón Cocktail Plaza: Need a break? Head to this new spot for some tasty tequila-based canned cocktails from Cabrón.

Tickets range from $17–$40, and the best part? Kids under 12 and seniors 65+ get in free! For the ultimate experience, grab a two-day VIP Pass for $70. It comes with access to the Culinary Experience Plaza, fast-track entry to the Beer Plaza, VIP Plaza perks, and more. Check out the full lineup and get your tickets at carnavaldelsol.ca.

More July Fun from Latincouver

Flamenco, Tango, and Wine
Date: Thursday, July 11
Location: North Vancouver’s Pipe Shop

Love Southern Spain and Argentina? You’ll adore this evening with flamenco from France’s Quairo ensemble and tango from Montréal’s Tango in Fusion. Enjoy some delicious Spanish paella and wine. Tickets are $130–$150, available online.

Mini World Cup Soccer Tournament
Dates: Friday, July 12, and Saturday, July 13
Location: Vancouver’s Empire Field in Hastings Park

Show off your soccer skills and national pride at this fun two-day tournament. Team registration costs $300–$350, with more details here.

Brazilian Fiesta at Fox Cabaret
Date: Friday, July 19

Wrap up the month with a bang at this Brazilian fiesta featuring Flavia Nascimento, Tio Chorinho, and Vancouver’s own Brazilian cover group, AmarElas. Tickets are $20–$25, available here.

Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable summer at Carnaval del Sol and beyond!