One of the most magnificent festivals of the year, Carassauga, is returning to celebrate its 39th year in Mississauga from May 24 – May 26. Packed with incredible performances and captivating cultural pavilions, you won’t want to miss this year’s festival.
To help you plan your worldwide trip right here in Mississauga, we’ve got the Carassauga highlights you need to know before you go.
Opening Ceremony
Carassauga kicks off with a spectacular ceremony on Friday, May 24 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre. This free event includes an incredible Parade of Nations showcasing the cultures participating in the festival decked out in traditional finery.
Capping off the celebration, RBCxMusic artist J. Hutton will perform. Seats are first come, first serve, so be sure to arrive early! Doors open at at 6:30 p.m.
Unique Entertainment Across 13 Stages
Beyond the cultural displays spread across more than two dozen pavilions, this year’s festival will once again feature an exciting line-up of live shows representing the culture of the participating countries. Guests will have the chance to see traditional dances and music, modern arts, educational presentations and some plain, old fun.
Here are some of the many performances to look forward to.
May 25 Highlights
- Kick off the festival with the special opening performances by Canada, Poland, Serbia, Egypt and more.
- Take a video tour of the beautiful landscapes of Armenia and test your knowledge at Armenia trivia.
- Watch an incredible show of traditional costumes by the Portuguese Cultural Centre of Mississauga.
- Experience a captivating lion dancing and lion awakens eye dotting ceremony from China.
- Dance along to the incredible live international music performed by Tradicao d’Ouro.
- See a breathtaking show featuring limbo, drumming and reggae from Fire Eater Chris.
May 26 Highlights
- Groove to Portuguese hits by DJ Gil on the open dance floor
- See Bollywood and Marathi folk dance performances from India
- Enjoy International music artists, dance groups and children’s games from the Philippines
- Learn about Ethiopian culinary traditions during a coffee ceremony and cooking demonstration
- Experience traditional dances from Hawaii, Indonesia, Ireland, Egypt, Peru, Vietnam and more cultures
For a full itinerary of performances, check out the entertainment schedules.
Incredible Cultural Pavillions
Beyond the live shows, each of the cultural pavilions will also be offering plenty of unique entertainment. Through storytelling and educational presentations, hosts will help visitors truly explore each culture’s history, modern life and traditions.
From fashion displays to dance and live paintings, visitors can experience art as created by the host countries. At most pavilions, you can try a taste of traditional cuisines and even watch cooking demonstrations. Plus, have some fun with contests, trivia, games and kids’ activities.
To plan your visit, explore the cultures.
Just For Kids
Beyond the cultural entertainment, kids 12 and under can enjoy the Kids Zone. This special area featuring crafts, games, a fire truck, police meet-and-greets, and face painting, is free for kids when accompanied by an adult. Midway rides will also be on-site at an additional cost.
For a festival sneak peek, head to Toronto’s Union Station for the preview event, including exciting entertainment and giveaways, on Thursday, May 18 at 4:30 p.m. Can’t make it? Relive last year’s festival, now streaming on Facebook and YouTube.
For more ways to experience culture in Mississauga, follow Visit Mississauga on Facebook and Instagram.