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While there are no shortage of fun summer festivals (and festivals in general) in Brampton, it's always exciting to see a tried and true event set itself apart by offering something a little more unique.

This year, CeleBRAMPTON—an event that's been recognized as a Top 100 Festival in Ontario—is adding a brand new food element to its repertoire. For the first time, the festival will highlight global flavours and local cuisine by featuring some acclaimed Brampton culinary talent and providing space for 15 to 20 booths representing the best of the city's full-service restaurants.

The festival will feature cooking demonstrations from such local celebrity chefs as Jason Rosso (the man behind trendy hotspot J. Red and Co.) and Ranveer Brar (the owner of the newly opened Mayura).

The food booth vendors will serve their dishes—including their authentic cultural creations—tapas-style. A community picnic area will also be set-up so visitors can eat together while enjoying the event.

Also, an extended Rose Theatre Patio area will feature exclusive craft beer, cider and wine for sale (who can say no to craft alcohol?).

This year's festival will take place on June 10 and, along with a strong food component, will also offer a lot in the way heritage activities (the city is working with PAMA and the Brampton Heritage Board to organize walks, tours and crafts), community outreach (not-for-profit groups will set up booths at the event), arts and culture and more.

According to the city, booths and fleet vehicles from various city departments will be on site promoting the services they provide

There will also be a dedicated family zone with free interactive activities, crafts, games and giveaways. Some activities include a lumberjack show, forestry tree-climbing demonstrations, educational "Learn to Plant" programming and Bike Fest (which will feature more than 10 bike oriented organizations).

As far as arts and culture go, the city will collaborate with Brampton Market Artisans to create dedicated area intended to showcase unique art, one-of-a-kind crafts and interactive demos. There will also be a dedicated Carabram Stage to promote Brampton's Multicultural Festival with a showcase of traditional dance, music and entertainment.

In terms of entertainment, the main stage will the feature a performance from Latin band Casava, children's headliners, tassa and steel drums and a local dance group showcases.

In the evening, attendees can check out Brampton's own Unbuttoned and The Jerry Cans.

Since food will be highlighted at this year's event, the city is seeking applications from potential vendors with a unique signature dish they're willing to show off.

If you're interested in applying, click here.

The deadline to apply is April 28.



We'll keep you posted on more festival details as they become available.