A rich cuisine. An authentic musical scene. A compelling sports heritage. Warm, thoughtful, and lighthearted people. There are a bunch of reasons why everyone crushes on Brazilian culture worldwide — and BrazilFest is committed to laying them out in Toronto on July 20th and 21st. 

 

The festival, celebrating its 21st anniversary, will solidify the green-and-yellow tradition and immerse the community in a vibrant two-day celebration in the best Brazilian style while also providing visibility to passionate entrepreneurs and talented artists.

 

Ontario will pulse with the rhythms of samba, pagode, sertanejo, and MPB, taste the classic caipirinha, indulge in the famous feijoada, and savor Brazilian renditions of international favorites, such as burgers and barbecue.

 

“The diversity of performances, activities, and culinary options will be huge. With such a broad range, BrazilFest becomes inclusive, ensuring that everyone finds something that appeals to them”, says Arilda Oliveira, cultural agent and co-founder of the event.

 

The festival has been steadily expanding each year in sync with the thriving growth of the Brazilian community in Canada, estimated at 48,450 people. The evolution in its history is evident.

 

Since its humble debut in 2003 as a modest one-day event at the traditional Sunnyside Pavilion, accommodating a few hundred enthusiasts, BrazilFest has expanded significantly. It now proudly calls Earlscourt Park its home and hosts a two-day event. Through valuable partnerships and with the support of the City Hall, sponsors, and volunteers, the festival expects to reach tens of thousands of people.

 

“This change in infrastructure has allowed us to expand our capacity, providing better accommodations for both exhibitors and visitors”, comments Arilda. “It’s incredible to realize that we’ve managed to inspire so many people and build a Brazilian reference so far from home”.

 

Although held at the same location as last year, the festival is transforming to ensure a more enjoyable and authentic experience for all attendees.

 

“In 2023, BrazilFest featured 27 performances over two days. This year, our approach is to offer fewer attractions but with more extensive shows and workshops for the entire family,” explains Arilda. ‘We are thrilled about the opportunity to provide an even more enriching experience in the 21st edition, celebrating two decades of Brazilian culture in the heart of Canada”.

 

Do you want to be part of this experience? Click here if you are an exhibitor or here if you are an artist.