Huge Toronto summer festival features lineup stacked with international artists
Toronto's summer festival calendar is getting a huge dose of global sounds and rhythm this July with the return of the annual Mixto Festival.
The free two-day celebration of international music, art, and culture along Toronto's waterfront takes place on July 12 and 13 this year, marking the festival's seventh edition. The festival is produced by Toronto-based cultural organization Uma Nota Culture, which is known for its unique programming, block parties, and community panels.
Part of the Ontario Place Trillium Park SummerSeries, the festival includes two packed days of live music and DJs, dancing, art installations, food and craft vendors, and a licensed bar.
True to its name, Mixto (which means "mixed" in both Portuguese and Spanish), the festival is built on diversity, and plays on the idea of a "mix" of cultures, communities, and sounds including Afro-Latin, Carribean, Arab, house, and hip hop, while the "TO" nods affectionately to Toronto.
From its inception, the festival has embraced the global character of Toronto's diverse music scene by spotlighting both local and international acts. This year's lineup includes power queer singer-composer Bia Ferreira, whose Afro-Brazilian sounds blend activism, spirituality, and political commentary, and Colombian cumbia pioneers Frente Cumbiero.
While you're there, make sure to grab an authentic Brazilian caipirinha cocktail and check out Art Spin's wellness-meets-art installation, Public Sweat, which offers free access to custom-designed mobile saunas and cold bucket plunges.
The best part is that the festival is completely free, so whether you're coming to discover new sounds or just enjoy the lakefront views, you won't have to spend a dime.
Mixto Festival takes place on July 12 and 13 (3 p.m. to 11 p.m.) at Trillium Park, located at 955 Lake Shore Blvd W.
Mixto Festival
