Annual Festival of South Asia set for Gerrard Street East’s Little India on weekend of July 19 and 20

By JOSHUA McGINNIS

North America’s largest free, two-day South Asian festival will return to the East Toronto area for its 23rd year, celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of South Asian communities in Toronto.

The event will take place this Saturday, July 19, and Sunday, July 20, stretching along Gerrard Street East from Coxwell Avenue to Glenside Avenue in Toronto’s Little India neighbourhood. Festival hours run from noon to 11 p.m. each day.

Zahabia Morbiwala, coordinator for the 2025 TD Festival of South Asia, recently shared her excitement about this weekend’s celebrations.

“This year’s TD Festival of South Asia introduces several exciting new elements designed to elevate the visitor experience. Attendees can enjoy interactive workshops, roaming performers, and even try their hand at playing cricket, a beloved sport across South Asia. A diverse range of food vendors and artisan stalls will offer unique flavours and handcrafted goods.”

The festival will feature more than 200 performers, with live entertainment running on the main stage throughout the weekend.

Attendees can expect a wide range of performances, including Bollywood and Desi fusion, Indian classical dance, and regional folk traditions such as Bhangra and Punjabi music.

Dozens of South Asian restaurants and pop-up vendors will be on-site offering traditional dishes from across the South Asian diaspora. A street bazaar will also feature a variety of vendors selling art, clothing, jewelry and other handcrafted items.

The festival is described as family-friendly, with events and activities geared toward attendees of all ages.

Morbiwala emphasized the importance of the festival in preserving cultural traditions and fostering community connection.

“The TD Festival of South Asia plays a vital role in both celebrating and preserving the rich cultural heritage of South Asian communities while also contributing significantly to the social and cultural fabric of Toronto.”

“The festival is a powerful expression of cultural pride and preservation, offering South Asian Canadians a chance to celebrate and share their heritage through music, food, fashion, dance, language, and traditions. It helps younger generations stay connected to their roots, fostering a deep sense of identity and continuity.”

While the event highlights the traditions of South Asian communities, it is also designed to welcome and engage the broader Toronto community.

“Events like the TD Festival of South Asia highlight and celebrate the city’s diversity, reflecting Toronto’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural exchange. They offer cross-cultural learning, allowing non-South Asians to experience the richness of South Asian culture firsthand, breaking down stereotypes, encouraging mutual respect and nurturing new friendships,” said Morbiwala.

“In essence, the 23rd TD Festival of South Asia is more than just a celebration—it is a meaningful cultural platform that strengthens community bonds, supports local economies, and reflects the inclusive, multicultural spirit that defines Toronto.”

For more information, please go to https://www.festivalofsouthasia.ca/