Why You Absolutely Must Experience the Taste of North York Festival This June!
- Ruby Dalvina
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Guest written by an incredible volunteer and NeighbourLink Champion Ruby Dalvina!
Check out her website full HERE includes many insightful reads—from mental health, business marketing, and health, to personal finance and more.
Dear readers,
If your taste buds are feeling a little underappreciated lately—or if your social life could use a cultural jolt, music, food, and laughter—then drop everything and mark your calendars: June 6–8, 2025, Taste of North York is back for its 3rd delicious round, and trust me, you don’t want to miss it.
I’ve had the joy of attending this vibrant community food festival for the past two years, and let me tell you—it’s one of those rare events that not only fills your belly, but fills your heart. And yes, your Instagram feed too.
It’s happening at Mel Lastman Square (5100 Yonge St.)—a perfect spot for the magic that unfolds when families, friends, cultures, cuisines, artists, and music all collide in the best way possible.
What to Expect This Year (And Why You’ll Love It)
NeighbourLink North York—the brilliant community force behind this festival—is hosting its 3rd annual Taste of North York and it’s bigger, brighter, and more belly-rumbling than ever.
From Korean bulgogi to Persian kebabs, Indian samosas to Italian cannoli, Chinese noodles to South American arepas—there will be a global smorgasbord of mouthwatering dishes waiting for you. But food isn’t the only reason you’ll want to come.
There’ll be:
🎶 Live music & dancing
🎨 Art displays & cultural showcases
🤹♀️ Kids’ activities galore—aerial hammocks, LEGO-building, robotics, foosball (life-size!), and even an instrument petting zoo!
💛 NeighbourLink’s Meet & Eat—bringing newcomers and locals together over shared meals and shared stories
🚓 Food drive to cram a police cruiser full of non-perishables for the food bank
“The real flavor of a city isn’t just in its food—it’s in the hands that cook, the hearts that serve, and the souls that gather.”
— Ruby Dalvina
Why This Festival Means So Much to Me
As someone who’s attended the last two years, I can honestly say Taste of North York has become one of my favorite events in the city. It’s not just a festival—it’s an experience.
I’ve watched people from all walks of life laugh over falafel, share dance steps from different cultures, and high-five total strangers after a game of foosball. I’ve seen kids light up when trying a new instrument, parents relax and enjoy the day, and newcomers feel like they’ve finally found a place to belong.
This isn’t staged joy—it’s real. It’s raw. And it’s rare.
And I’ve had the unique privilege of seeing, up close, the NeighbourLink staff and dedicated volunteers working with so much heart behind the scenes. These are people who quietly pour their energy into making this event safe, beautiful, and impactful for everyone.
Oh—and a very special mention to NeighbourLink’s Executive Director, who was recently honored with a Leadership Award for her incredible work in uniting and uplifting the community. Her vision shines through every single detail of this event.
Why You Should Go (And Bring the Whole Crew)
Still on the fence? Let me nudge you gently (and with a plate of samosas in hand):
Support small businesses and local chefs who deserve the spotlight
Celebrate diversity with real people, real music, and real food
Expose your kids to culture, art, and fun that no screen can replicate
Make meaningful connections—this festival is a heart-opener
Give back by bringing a non-perishable food item and helping NeighbourLink’s food bank
Create unforgettable memories (and selfies, if that’s your thing)
“Culture tastes best when it’s shared with kindness, seasoned with stories, and served in community.” — Ruby Dalvina
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