About Toronto Chinatown Festival

On August 20 & 21, 2022, the Toronto Chinatown Business Improvement Area (CBIA) will host the 22nd Toronto Chinatown Festival (TCF) under the theme of the “Eight Immortals” (八仙), taking after the popular Chinese mythology. In Chinese mythology, the Eight Immortals are believed to know the secrets of nature. They represent separately male, female, the old, the young, the rich, the noble, the poor, and the humble. 

 

The Eight Immortals are:
  • Lü Dongbin (呂洞賓) – a scholar and poet considered to be the leader of the Eight Immortals.
  • He Xiangu (何仙姑) – in the modern context generally seen as the only female of the group, often depicted holding a lotus flower.
  • Cao Guojiu (曹國舅) – related to a Song dynasty emperor before he became an immortal.
  • Li Tieguai (李鐵拐) – associated with medicine and easing the suffering of the sick and needy, identified by his iron crutch and Calabash bottle.
  • Lan Caihe (藍采和) – originally pictured as female later developed an ambiguous or more accurately, a “transformative” gender and is considered the patron of florists and gardeners.
  • Han Xiangzi (韓湘子) – a flute artist.
  • Zhang Guolao (張果老) – a Taoist symbol of longevity.
  • Zhongli Quan (鍾離權) – associated with death and the power to create silver and gold, often depicted holding a fan.

 

After a turbulent whirlwind of events in the last two years, the CBIA is pleased to bring back the iconic annual festival bringing over 250,000 visitors every year during the two-day event. Visitors may expect an enchanted two-day program filled with cultural performances, traditional street eats, family activities on Huron St., a parade from the 8 Immortals, Dragon and Lion Dance performances and many more!

 

If you want to know more about the Eight Immortals, please see the short interview segment below:

Dates and Times:

August 20: 12:00pm – 11:00pm

August 21: 11:00am – 8:00pm

Location:

West side of Spadina Avenue

(between St Andrew St & Sullivan St)

Click on the link below for


2022 TCF Performance Schedule

 

*Event program subject to change

Features & Attractions

Dragon Dance & Lion Dance

Lion dance brings good fortune and prosperity to the community. The Toronto Chinatown Festival will feature lion dance as part of the Opening Ceremony.

The Eight Immortals

A parade and a string of performances based on the popular Chinese mythology. In Chinese mythology, the Eight Immortals are believed to know the secrets of nature. They represent separately male, female, the old, the young, the rich, the noble, the poor, and the humble. 

Kung Fu Performances

Traditional Kung Fu (Martial Art) headlined by Northern Legs Southern Fist of Toronto will be showcasing their skills and expertise alongside their students on a second stage. Mastering such arts require significant levels of discipline and dedication – their hard work will most definitely show through.

Multi-Cultural Street Food

There will be multicultural street food vendors selling treats from all over Asia. These authentic street snacks are a taste into all the different cultures that the Toronto Chinatown Festival has to offer.

Cultural Performances

A mix of traditional and modern Asian dance groups, bands, musicians, and other artists are invited to perform during the festival. Not only will the performances be a feast to the eye, but they will also prove to be culturally educational.

Art & Culture Booths on Huron Square

Expect lots of fun and interactive family activities on Huron Square! TCF provide a chance for the local artist to showcase different angle of Asian culture and the extension of Chinatown spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Toronto Chinatown Festival about?

Toronto Chinatown Festival is an annual festivity started back in 2000. This year, the Toronto Chinatown community will be celebrating its 22nd anniversary under the theme of the “Eight Immortals” (八仙), taking after the popular Chinese mythology. 

What is the theme for this year’s festival?

The theme for this year’s Chinatown Festival is the “Eight Immortals” (八仙). In Chinese mythology, the Eight Immortals are believed to know the secrets of nature. They represent separately male, female, the old, the young, the rich, the noble, the poor, and the humble. 

Do you have to register for the Chinatown Festival?

The Toronto Chinatown Festival is a FREE festival for everyone to attend, therefore no registration is needed.

Where is the festival being held? Is the venue generally accessible?

The venue is accessible by foot only. The festival will be held on the west side of Spadina Avenue, between St. Andrew Street and Sullivan Street.

Does the subway system serve this area?

The nearest subway stations are Spadina Station and St. Patrick Station. If you are coming from Spadina station, take the street car (#510) south and get off at Dundas Street (either North or South side: 6 stops). If you are coming from St. Patrick Station, take the #505 bus (4 stops) or walk west to Spadina Avenue for about 12 minutes.

Will washrooms be available, especially disabled spots?

Yes.

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