BY LAURA SILVA / TORONTO /
The weekend of September 28 and 29, 2024, celebrated the diversity and unity of Latin culture in Toronto through the Latin Parade and Fall Fiesta. These events showcased the pride in our culture and roots, marking the start of Hispanic/Latin American Heritage Month 2024.
Downtown Toronto was infused with Latin soul that weekend, as the clear sky and lively streets became the perfect backdrop for an explosion of colours, music, and culture. The Latin Parade and Fall Fiesta 2024 inaugurated October as Hispanic/Latin American Heritage Month and stood as a manifestation of Latin heart and pride, echoing through every corner of the city and touching thousands.
This celebration not only reconnected generations of immigrants with their roots but also underscored the vibrancy of the Latin legacy in Canada, uniting hearts through shared joy. Organized by the Hispanic Canadian Heritage Council (HCHC), this event, which has grown exponentially since its inception in 2019, brought together all Latin American nations to proudly celebrate cultural wealth and honour traditions. As Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed in her moving speech at Dundas Square, this event also highlights the valuable contributions of Latin Americans in Canada.
On Saturday, September 28, Toronto’s main streets transformed into a carnival of harmony. Throughout the morning, participants, including consulates, arts groups, businesses, and community organizations, gathered at the intersection of St. George and Bloor Streets, where Starbucks welcomed them with delicious hot coffee. At 11 a.m., an impressive display of culture and tradition began. Flags waved, traditional costumes dazzled, and vibrant decorations, including the iconic Mexican balloons known as “marmotas,” filled the view of spectators.
The diversity of Latin music, always contagious, guided participants’ steps as they danced and sang, making their way through the main streets to Dundas Square. Every corner of Toronto was filled with curious passersby who, drawn by the parade’s energy, joined in the celebration—a testament to the affirmation of Latino identity and pride.
At Dundas Square, the festivities continued with the Fall Fiesta, a lively event that pulsated for two days. Representatives from the countries participating in the parade delighted the public with dances and cultural performances. The square transformed into a showcase of Latin culinary diversity, offering everything from Mexican tacos and Argentine choripán to Colombian empanadas and Salvadoran pupusas, all accompanied by live music that kept everyone moving. As Consul General Gustavo Infante mentioned in his speech, “When it comes to culture, we do not recognize borders; this is why we celebrate it today.”
One of the day’s most emotional moments was the presentation of the Pioneers Award 2024 to Loly Rico, director of the FCJ Refugee Centre. This prestigious award, represented by an Inukshuk—an Inuit symbol of guidance and survival—recognized her tireless work defending refugee rights and her impact on the Latin community in Canada. The tribute highlighted the value of Latin contributions to the social fabric of this country.
The Fall Fiesta catered to all tastes and ages, featuring traditional games, various activities for kids, and dance competitions that created a family-friendly atmosphere, culminating in an unforgettable weekend. This occasion not only celebrated Latin heritage but also emphasized the importance of passing these traditions on to new generations.
The Latin Parade and Fall Fiesta 2024 was not just a well-organized and well-attended event; it was a reaffirmation of the impact of the Latin American community in Toronto and across Canada. The presence of prominent figures such as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland, who highlighted the community’s significance, and sponsors like the Bank of Montreal (BMO) and LIUNA Local 183, made this celebration monumental. Finally, it is worth mentioning the passionate team of volunteers who, proud of their roots, played a significant role in making this festival a success.
If you want to feel the warmth, spirit, and rhythm of our Latin community, as Mayor Chow encouraged, join this experience and be part of the celebration of our rich culture this year! Visit the HCHC website (HispanicHeritage.ca) and follow them on social media. The Latin Parade and Fall Fiesta 2025 awaits you, so we can continue building this great tradition together!
