Toronto 
Embark on a whirlwind culinary, cultural, and artistic voyage without leaving Toronto, as the Festival of South Asia is back in town!
Credit: Festival of Asia
On July 19 & 20, the city’s vibrant “Little India” metamorphoses into a vibrant bazaar of delights, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the rich and varied tapestry that is South Asia from noon to 11 pm.
This year, the lively stage will resonate with everything from entrancing Bollywood dance sequences to profound classical music, creating a captivating atmosphere that’s guaranteed to sweep you off your feet.
On Saturday, performances at the Main Stage include traditional and classical dances by Team Lasya, Abhinaya R, Dipannita Talukder, and NarthakiLaya Creative Space. Musical acts feature Tanya Hariharan, DJ Niam, The Untold Genre, Dhamanjeet Singh Live, and Sol Band.
On Sunday, the event features performances by Amit on dhol, and live music from The Jukebox, Poojan Kohli, Dee Devan & Friends, FM Band, and Akash Band. Dance presentations include classical and group styles by artists such as Smriti Sadhasivam, Shivani Pandya, Riyaaz Kathak, Yamini, Sharanya, Sukriti Kathakaar, Dance Raaga, and Nidhi Patel. Groups like Masakali Girls, Nritya Padakhep, and D Code also perform. DJ sets and a cultural parade are scheduled throughout the day.
Debuting at the 2025 Festival of South Asia, the Bangladesh Pavilion on Rhodes Avenue showcases the country’s culture through folklore, music, dance, and traditional cuisine. Curated by Bangla Events GTA with YCP Foundation and IM Creative Lab, it features Baul music, Alpana art, handcrafted goods, and iconic photo spots, offering an immersive experience of Bangladeshi heritage and community spirit.
Beyond the entrancing stage performances, the TD Festival of South Asia boasts an engaging array of activities.
If you have an appetite for shopping, the festival offers an exceptional marketplace for treasure hunters. Find your next favourite piece amongst South Asian crafts, fashion, and artwork. The festival streets are lined with stalls featuring unique clothing, intricate jewelry, and fascinating cultural artifacts that promise to be more than just a purchase but a memento of the experience.
The festival doesn’t forget the foodies either! Nearly 30 member restaurants are set to serve mouth-watering traditional South Asian dishes that will satiate the most adventurous of palates. It’s an authentic taste of South Asia right in the heart of Toronto.
According to the organizers, taking over Gerrard St. E. from Glenside Ave to Coxwell Ave, the TD Festival of South Asia is the biggest South Asian street party in North America.
So get ready to savour, shop, and sway at Toronto’s very own slice of South Asia!
Trip Planning: TD Festival of South Asia
Gerrard India Bazaar
An immersive, sensory-rich experience awaits you in this free-to-attend, two-day extravaganza. Come down to Gerrard India Bazaar to enjoy the food, drinks, entertainment, and celebration!
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 12:00 PM– 11:00 PM
Where:
Gerrard India Bazaar – 1426A Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1Z6 Canada
Little India on Gerrard Street E, from Glenside Ave. to Coxwell Ave.
Take the 506 Carlton streetcar, which travels along Gerrard Street East. The closest stop is Gerrard St East at Greenwood Ave., bringing you directly to the heart of the festival.
How much: Free Admission
