Idalia Obregon, Mayte Morelos & Natalia Lopez Sosa Montes De Oca, of the Consulate General of Mexico in Toronto
Mayte Morelos, President, Mexican Canadian Cultural Council with Cónsul General Juan Mauricio Toussaint Ribot
Sergio Lasky (center), with Sandra DaSilva and Carlos Flores of Cafe Con Leche Espresso Bar
Fresh tacos!
Toronto is fast becoming a buzzing hub for festivals and cultural events, but there's always room for more. Cinquo de Mayo was the launch party date for MexFest, a 10 day summer festival which will celebrate all things Mexican, including contemporary and traditional art, music, culture and cuisine.
2014 marks the 1st year of the fest and came about through the initiative of the Mexican Canadian Cultural Council and local business owners of the Mexican community in Toronto. “We’re Mexican, we love our culture and we want people see who we are”, said Idalia Obregon, President, Exito Trade Consulting Inc. and one of the festival organizers. We’re not all about resorts and cerveza, we’re also business people and want to show Canadians that Mexicans have a lot to offer.”
From the vibe of the party it was obvious to see that the Mexican community is amicable, inclusive and highly supportive. "We want to help each other do well and I find that it's very rewarding when you give back," said Sergio Lasky, Director/Partner, UNIKRON, who volunteered the use of his video production studio to host the launch party.
Fresh tacos, churros and margaritas were prepared on the spot this evening, and were eaten up as quickly as they were served. The flavours were delicious and represented but a small sample of what will be available in full scale during the festival.
In addition to promoting Mexico in Canada, organizers want to promote Mexico as a travel and cultural destination, and have garnered sponsorship from the Mexico Tourism Board and the Consulate General of Mexico in Toronto. “We’re very proud of this idea on the part of the organizers”, said Cónsul General Juan Mauricio Toussaint Ribot. "The event is important to foster knowledge of Mexico to Canadians and will show the friendship, warmth and spirit of Mexicans."
MexFest will include 3 main events:
MexFest Gala, August 7
An evening of music, cuisine and art, including the screening of the film Flight of the Butterflies, directed by Mike Slee.
Mexilicious, August 8-16
3 course ‘Prix Fixe’ menus at participating restaurants throughout the city offering Mexican cuisine.
MexFest Ultimo, August 17
Taking place at Yonge-Dundas Square, this closing celebration event will include Mariachi, artists, and a Mexican market.
Everyone is invited to go to the festival and connect online for further details.
www.mexfest.ca | @MexFestTO | info@mexfest.ca | facebook.com/Mexfestto
