Popular free festival in Ontario expanding to three days this summer

There's no shortage of food festivals across Ontario in the summer, but one highlight has to be #BollywoodMonster Mashup, one of Mississauga's biggest and most anticipated events of the year. 

Canada's largest South Asian festival returns next month, and for the first time ever, it's expanding to three full days.

Now in its 16th year, the free event is adding Sunday programming to an already packed lineup of international food vendors and live entertainment.

Honestly, the food alone is enough to have people flocking to the city. Although the final list hasn't been unveiled just yet, more than 40 vendors are already confirmed to serve momos, pav bhaji, shawarma, mango lassis and more. They're promising to give you a little taste of every corner of South Asia without leaving Ontario.

You can also browse South Asian fashion at vendor stalls throughout the grounds, making it easy to shop while you snack. How could anyone say no to that?

Vikas Kohli, Founding Director of #BollywoodMonster Mashup, says this year's festival will be "bigger than ever." The event attracts up to 80,000 guests each year, and 2026 is expected to be no exception.

Aside from its classic fixings, one of the newest additions (and likely one of the most entertaining) is a series of eating competitions where contestants will race against the clock to devour select dishes for big prizes and bragging rights.

Another major attraction returning this year is SuperDogs, a high-energy canine stunt show packed with impressive tricks which dog lovers won't want to miss it.

Those looking for the perfect photo op can also check out Bollywood-themed selfie stations inspired by iconic movie moments. I mean, would it be complete without an ode to Bollywood? 

Speaking of Bollywood, the festival has welcomed several well-known stars over the years, including actress Sunny Leone and playback singer Jyotica Tangri, who have both entertained crowds at past events.

While this year's special guest lineup has yet to be announced, it remains one of the festival's biggest draws, with organizers already teasing the live entertainment on Instagram.

#BollywoodMonster Mashup will take place July 24-26. Programming runs from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

The festival will be held at Celebration Square, located at 300 City Centre Dr., Mississauga, Ont.