The Georgia Straight proudly sponsors Carnaval del Sol

On July 8 and 9, Carnaval del Sol takes over Concord Pacific Place (88 Pacific).

The public can experience the vibrancy of Latin American culture through 250 performances, 27 Latin American food vendors, three stages, an expanded kids' plaza, Latin American music and dance, chef demonstrations, live artists at work, a fashion show, soccer, and roving performers.

The main-stage lineup includes Pirata Del Sol, Songpati, Tren Al Sur, Los Duendes, Zumba, a ceremony, Bloco Energia, Pacifika, Breaking Boundaries, Santa Lucia, Nahualli Folklore, Mazacote, Adonis Puentes, Matices Del Sur, Robin Layne Band, Gabriel Palatchi, Entangados, Flamenco Rosario, Mngwa, Samba Fusion, and Orquesta Tabasco.

Activities at the kids' plaza include stroller fitness, a construction workshop, Mother Goose stories, a paper-hats workshop, Zumba for kids, a puppet show, a cookie baking and decorating workshop, arts and crafts, balloon twisting, and an all-day baby-care area.

The festival is expected to run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on July 8 and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on July 9.

For more information, check out Carnaval del Sol's website.