5 must-try eats at the 2026 Carnaval del Sol in Vancouver

While the music, sports and art at Carnaval del Sol have become an iconic part of the Vancouver summer experience, the annual festival is also known for its one-of-a-kind food.

‘Play loud, Celebrate proud — Together We Are Stronger’ is the tagline for the 2026 Vancouver Carnaval del Sol. But anyone who has attended Latincouver’s annual celebration of the city’s vibrant Latin American communities knows there should be on more part to that slogan:

‘Come hungry.’

 Carnaval del Sol often features foods like Cuban style grilled ribs. Credit: Courtesy of Latincouver

From July 10 to 12, the familiar green space at Jonathan Rogers Park will transform into a multicultural summer fiesta with music from across the Caribbean, Central, North and South America, themed plazas presenting immersive cultural experiences and — particularly this World Cup year — lots of excitement over el fútbol.

Over 350 artists and performers will appear at this year’s event, with headlining acts such as reggae crew El Gran Silencio from Mexico, Chile’s Villa Cariño and the Dominican Republic’s Fulanito. From the sports and artisans’ zones to the Chiquitzin Kids Plaza and more, Carnaval del Sol has something for the whole family.

But after a salsa class, a goaltending clinic or an afternoon hanging out in the 19+ beer plaza, most people will be looking for something yummy to keep the good times going. Carnaval del Sol has 15 different food vendors serving street food and delicacies Mexico, Chile, Brazil and many more.

Tickets to this year’s Carnaval del Sol are available from $18 at carnavaldelsol.ca . Opening night concert by El Gran Silencio is a separate purchase, starting at $55. Multi-day options are also offered.

Here are five must-try foods at this year’s “feast-ival.”

 A Chilango Mango artist puts the finishing touches on a mango-on-a-stick treat. Credit: Courtesy of Latincouver

Chilango Mango

Country : Caribbean

Menu : Beautiful and delicious, these fresh mango are carved into fruit flowers for you to enjoy as you walk around. This particular fruit presentation is found almost anywhere mangoes grow. It can also be a tad juicy, so an extra napkin might be a good idea for clean-up.

 A cool, mild, delicious Sablefish ceviche. Graham Hicks/Edmonton Sun

El Saborcito de Cecilia Peruvian Food Inc.

Country : Peru

Menu : Ceviche, the extremely popular Peruvian dish of fish prepared in a mix of citrus, vinegar and vegetables is a gourmet delight. Presently, this dish is dominating menus all over the world as Peruvian cuisine experiences a global awakening. Try it and you’ll know why.

 Taditional Mexican dessert churros with chocolate are a popular dessert in Spanish-speaking countries on both sides of the Atlantic.

Los Guerreros Food Truck

Country : Multiple

Menu : A familiar site around town, this truck serves up Salvadorean corn cakes called pupusas, taco bowls, custom beverages and their ever-popular churros. Note: Cinammon sugar is a great topping.

 Roasted Revolution specializes in a variety of grilled and coated corn on the cob. Credit: Courtesy of Latincouver

Roasted Revolution

Country : Canada

Menu : Inspired by the classic elote (grilled Mexican street corn), this local truck serves up grilled ears of corn covered in everything from truffle and Parmesan to tasty vegan-butter versions.

 A serving of stuffed empanadas. Photo: Peter Hum, Postmedia

Romero’s Artisan Food

Country : Venezuela

Menu : Tasty fried and cheese stuffed tequeños for snacking, or, for something a bit more substantial, a full meal of savoury empanadas filled with meat, cheese and veggies.

sderdeyn@postmedia.com

Related

Source: vancouversun.com

Share