We may be approaching the darkest day of the year when it comes to daylight, but luckily, there’s a massive festival taking over the streets of Toronto to brighten things up.
On the eve of December 21, Kensington Market’s 34th annual Winter Solstice Festival will bring a parade, live music, roaming performances, theatre, and fine art to the neighbourhood in celebration of the “return of light”.
Typically drawing up to 10,000 visitors each year, attendees can wander through the pedestrian night market, take in the festivities, shop local vendors, and warm up at one of the four new warming stations.
You’ll also be able to purchase a handmade solstice-themed lantern for $25 as a souvenir.
Put on by the non-profit organization Red Pepper Spectacle Arts, the festival originated in 1988 and was initiated by the artistic director of the Kensington Carnival Arts Society, Ida Carnivali. Inspired by how the winter’s cold and darkness was observed over time, the event seeks to recognize the cultural significance of the day.
The free event begins at 6 p.m. at the corner of Augusta Ave. and Oxford Street, and street affected by the parade route will be closed for the evening between 5 – 10 p.m.
When: December 21, 2023
6 – 9:30 p.m.
Where: Augusta Ave and Oxford Street, Kensington Market