Free three-day food festival returns to Toronto this weekend

It's almost time to put on your stretch pants and head over to Taste of North York, as the three-day celebration of food, culture, and community returns to Toronto this weekend. 

The festival, now in its fourth year, is run by community development non-profit NeighbourLink North York and raises funds for food banks and local programs. 

Needless to say, food will be a major attraction at Taste of North York, with vendors expected to serve cuisines from around the world.

Bring your appetite and get ready to savour Korean, Chinese, Latin American, Italian, Japanese, Indian and Filipino food, and then some. According to organizers, this year's roster of food vendors includes a handful of new businesses, meaning visitors will be able to enjoy something they likely haven't tried before.

There's more beyond the food, though.

The festival will feature over 100 live entertainers performing across two stages, including an opening performance by local steelband Impulse Steel Orchestra. Other highlights include an appearance by local Latin singer-songwriter Ian Marc and a Persian-themed celebration featuring DJ Allen spinning Persian beats.

You can view the full schedule on the event's official website. 

Taste of North York is also bringing back its signature Meet & Eat this year, a networking space where businesses and guests can mingle and get to know one another over — what else? — delish eats.

Various businesses will have tables and activities set up to engage attendees who are interested in learning more about their neighbourhood.

And new this year is a nine-hole mini-putt course built by local residents. 

Taste of North York takes place Friday, June 5, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, June 6, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, June 7, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission is free, and the festival will be held at Mel Lastman Square, located at 5100 Yonge St.