CREDIT: MAURICIO PRADO
The four-day event showcased 21 Canadian and 19 international performers and almost 200 food and craft vendors.

From July 6 to 9, London’s biggest music festival occurred at Victoria Park. TD Sunfest is Canada’s premiere celebration of world music and culture. The four-day event showcased 21 Canadian and 19 international performers and almost 200 food and craft vendors.

“Sunfest brings people together in a free environment through music, art and international cuisine,” said Sunfest’s founder Alfredo Caxaj. “We believe that art should be accessible to everyone.”

He stated nothing is more beautiful for him than seeing families and people from different backgrounds unite and celebrate, leaving aside their differences and daily concerns. He added that Canada’s cultural diversity has helped bring people worldwide to the event.


“Every year, I reunite with my parents who live in Mexico and my sister who lives in Toronto to go to this festival,” said attendee Rodrigo Aquino.

Sunfest’s Chair of the Board of Directors, Paula Jesty said that this Sunfest had the most extensive artist lineup, crafters and food vendors the festival has ever had.

“This is the 29th year of the festival, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We are expecting over 225,000 visits this year,” Jetsy said.

Jetsy added that the community’s involvement has been much more significant this year than in previous years.

Caxaj said that every year the popularity of Sunfest grows because of the several economic impacts the event has had on the city. He said the reachability has been “above and beyond” expectations this year.

“Last year, we experienced about 110,000 unique visits, which means people who only come once; this year, we expect to double that number,” Caxaj said.

Latin Antojitos founder Sonia Landaverde said that these events benefit them because they bring profit to businesses and new customers.

“When I was in my country El Salvador, I used to have a business and participate in celebrations and festivals just like this. Being here in this celebration brings back good memories,” Landaverde said.

Landaverde said that beyond making profits, through this type of event, she gets the satisfaction of sharing her country’s food and culture.

“The Sunfest has generated millions of dollars over the years. It is a win-win for artists, vendors and customers. Next year, we are planning something even bigger as it will be the 30th anniversary of the Sunfest celebration in London, Ontario,” Caxaj said. “Nothing is better than creating community with good music, art and food.”