Nothing quite matches the essence of summer like a weekend bursting with flavorful and diverse food, refreshing drinks, authentic music, and great vibes. BrazilFest embodies all these elements and more, and the wait is finally over. The largest Brazilian festival in Canada will take place at Earlscourt Park this Saturday (20th) and Sunday (21st), running from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is free, making it a must-attend celebration in the heart of the city.

Vendors, exhibitors, and sponsors are setting up across 50 booths, including 30 dedicated to food, to ensure everyone can immerse themselves in Brazilian culture and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

“The festival is notably large, with many distinctive products. We’ll have everything from jar cakes and açai to barbecue made in various Brazilian regional styles, and native juices from our country. It’s a very rich event,” says Arilda de Oliveira, president of Itabras Entertainment Productions Inc., the company responsible for the festival. Attendees can also enjoy the Bar Garden, which offers the famous caipirinha and other tropical beverages.

The musical lineup includes fantastic local artists who will showcase various styles of Brazilian music, such as Forró to Samba, Chorinho, Bossa Nova, and Brazilian Country Music.

“The performers come from various points across Canada, not just Toronto. They are committed to impressing the audience, each with their unique talent,” points out Arilda. To complete the festivities, a Capoeira group will perform the traditional Brazilian martial art. Kids are more than welcome at the festival and can hang out anywhere. They will also have an exclusive area to play around and bond with new friends.

Created in 2003, the festival has been steadily expanding each year in sync with the thriving growth of the Brazilian community in Canada. Since its humble debut as a modest one-day event at the traditional Sunnyside Pavilion, accommodating a few hundred enthusiasts, BrazilFest has expanded significantly.

Through valuable partnerships and with the support of City Hall, sponsors, and volunteers, the festival now reaches tens of thousands of people and proudly holds the title of ‘Best Outdoor Brazilian Event in the City‘, according to the Top Choice Award Association. “We always listen to feedback from our community to ensure we incorporate everything they ask for in our agenda,” comments Arilda.

Check out the full schedule of the event: