Latincouver Celebrates 15-Year Anniversary and Carnaval del Sol this July
Latincouver, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Latin American culture in British Columbia, is thrilled to celebrate its 15th anniversary this July. Latincouver honours this important milestone with a series of sensational Latin American experiences and the popular Carnaval del Sol festival, set to make its highly anticipated return in a brand-new location.
“We are extremely proud of this significant 15-year anniversary,” says Paola Murillo, founder and executive director of Latincouver. “Throughout this journey, we’ve helped create a strong voice for the Latin American community in Vancouver and beyond. I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish in the next 15 years!”
Highlights of Latincouver’s vibrant July event lineup include:
Latin Circus Orchestra Featuring Gypsy Kumbia, July 6
On Thursday, July 6, a spectacular show awaits at the Vancouver Playhouse as Gypsy Kumbia takes the stage with a dazzling circus performance that blends Colombian rhythms with musical styles from around the world. Discover Latincouver’s colourful 15-year journey while embracing the rich heritage of Latin America through circus, music and dance with these talented performers visiting from Montréal. A suggested dress code of tropical gala-inspired attire makes the evening all the more vibrant.
Carnaval del Sol, July 7 – 9
Carnaval del Sol 2023 makes a splashy return with an opening night concert on Friday, July 7 – and a surprise guest DJ. Hosted in the Beer Plaza at David Lam Park, this adults-only (19+) neon party sets the stage for a weekend of fun with electronic sounds, drums, gaita and refreshments from Granville Island Brewing and Topo Chico.
Throughout the weekend, Carnaval del Sol’s all-ages festival invites visitors into a hub of Latin American culture at David Lam Park. This year’s event highlights Colombian culture with themed workshops, performances and culinary experiences that honour Latin American traditions.
A main stage and nine plazas will feature an array of culinary, musical and artisanal experiences for the whole family to enjoy, allowing visitors to:
– Sample cuisine from more than 11 countries
– Browse colourful artisan-crafted goods
– Play traditional Latin games including rana, chezz and parques
– Take zumba and capoeira dance classes
– Catch live acts by more than 300 performers showcasing traditional folklore, salsa, merengue, and more!
Carnaval del Sol will take place at David Lam Park (1300 Pacific Blvd) in Vancouver. One- and two-day passes range from $15 – $30, with free admission for kids under 12 and seniors 65+.
Those who wish to elevate their experience of the festivities can opt for a two-day VIP Experience Pass ($60), which includes access to the Culinary Experience Plaza, fast-track access to the Beer Plaza, an invitation to the VIP Plaza (where cocktail tastings, private washrooms and optimal main stage views are available), and other perks.
Tango & Flamenco Experience, July 13
On Thursday, July 13, Latincouver will keep the festive spirit alive with an evening of tango and flamenco dancing, delectable gastronomy and handcrafted cocktails at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay. Tango Rumba from Montréal and the multiple award-winning Flamenco Rosario will ignite the stage with dance performances that will transport attendees to the heart of the captivating cultures of Argentina and Spain. Completing the sensory experience is a feast of authentic Spanish paella prepared by local caterer Paella Guys, alongside handcrafted Argentinian sangria. The fun begins at 7 pm.
