By Khaula Siddique

One of the best things about living in Canada is being out and about in summer and there are plenty of local events to enjoy!

Festival of South Asia by Gerrard India Bazaar BIA

This past weekend was the Gerrard India Bazaar Festival of South Asia organized by the BIA (on Gerrard Street, Toronto). This annual two-day festival is an absolutely amazing showcase of South Asian culture, food and arts. I got to see some of the behind-the-scenes work on the day when I was asked to paint their sign, the highlight of many selfies over the two-day event!! The amount of dedication and effort that goes into the event is amazing, it is a must-visit event every year and pulls in a huge crowd with its fantastic performers both local and international! There is an incredible array of South Asian food to try and lots to see and do. Mark your calendars for next year, it usually takes place towards the end of July. Event details here.

With Tasneem Bandukwalla of the BIA in front of the sign they asked me to paint for them, I fixed it with fairy lights so it lit up at night!!

Bollywood Monster MashUp

This is another annual festival I love to attend, it takes place at Celebration Square, Mississauga and is also an event showcasing South Asian culture, art and food. It takes place on August 5th and 6th this year, you can see event details to attend here. I will be there this year instructing some drop-in paint sessions on August 5th, 5-7:45 pm so come paint with me!

Urdu ki Baat

Do you have a love for the beauty of language? This event by Joy of Urdu in Toronto is happening July 27th, 7-8 pm. The event details are here.

Heritage Sounds

Do you enjoy Sufi and folk music? Try it and fall in love! Sanam Marvi (Coke Studio fame) will be live in concert on August 21st, at Bramptons Rose Theatre and you can book your tickets here.

Forest Bathing

Yes, that is a thing! A therapeutic experience for body and soul, this event is on August 11th at Riverwood Conservancy, Mississauga details to join here.

Take a break and reconnect with yourself and nature!

MuslimFest 2022

This much-awaited for annual event attracts thousands of visitors from all over Canada every year. Showcasing Muslim traditions, culture, art and food from all over the world, one of the best events for the whole family with lots of activities and performances from local and international talent. Mark your calendars for September 2nd, 3rd and 4th at Celebration Square Mississauga. Details here.

Let us know which festivals or events you look forward to attending and tag us on your social media pics!

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