Still from Flamenco, Flamenco
For 30 years, cineastes have been flocking to this annual fest (Sep. 29 to Oct. 14) for a smorgasbord of films such as Flamenco, Flamenco (pictured) out of Spain, Rolf Harris Paints His Dream (UK), The Co(te)lette Film (Belgium), The Singing City (Germany) and Michel Petrucianni (France). This cinematic feast of more than 350 films from 80 countries has something to suit every taste.—Sheri Radford
Photo courtesy La Loupiote - Udo
To see a once-in-a-lifetime show, chart a course for La Loupiote (Aug. 3 to 7, 10 to 14). French acrobats Delphine and Franck use their sailboat’s deck and rigging as the stage and set for their daring feats. They, along with their two young children, are sailing around the world, sharing their passion with audiences from Spain to Hawaii.—Sheri Radford
Fireworks over English Bay photo courtesy Tourism Vancouver
Summer nights in English Bay heat up with the Celebration of Light (Jul. 30, Aug. 3 and 6). This year’s international fireworks competition features spectacular pyrotechnics synchronized to music from past winners China, Spain and Canada. Bring a blanket to Sunset Beach or Kits Beach for the best views.—Kristina Urquhart
March 28 to April 3
Winery dinners pair sumptuous food with exclusive wines from around the world. Photo by Daniella Ciuffa
More than 25,000 oenophiles swirl, sip and spit their way through the annual Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival. This year’s spotlight is pointed firmly at the wines of Spain and at fortified wines (Sherry, Port, Madeira) from around the globe. Over 60 events—including lunches, brunches, winery dinners, tastings, minglers, seminars, and a gala dinner and auction—with 177 wineries offer something for every wine lover, whether novice or expert or somewhere in-between. Trade days cater to those who work in the the wine, hospitality or restaurant industry. Just make sure to leave room in your luggage for all the new bottles you’re bound to pick up as souvenirs.—Sheri Radford
Embrujo Flamenco's shrimp in chocolate sauce
Few things say summer like a pitcher of sangria and wistful thoughts of Spain, evoked by the authentic small-plates menus at these tapas restaurants.
1 Nose-to-tail charcuterie—from house-made chorizo to artisan cheeses—is the specialty at Cava, but respected chef Chris McDonald’s menu also features an eclectic assortment of nibbles including smoked kingfish ceviche ($13.50) and chipotle-caramel popcorn ($3.50).
2 Authentic tapas and native wines are just two of the attractions at Embrujo Flamenco. The Danforth hot spot is also favoured for its huge paellas ($39 to $59) and live flamenco performances from Wednesday to Sunday.
3 The little bull of Kensington Market, Torito Tapas Bar bustles with patrons enjoying Latin treats at indoor picnic tables or on one of two patios. The restaurant’s subterranean sibling, Pepe’s at Torito, offers a cozier, more romantic space for wining and dining.
Carlos Miguel Prieto
MAY 29 & 30 The Toronto Symphony Orchestra turns up the heat with its performance of España, a concert of folk melodies and infectious rhythms from Spain, Mexico and Argentina. Maestro Carlos Miguel Prieto conducts a programme of music including Copland’s
El Salón México and Falla’s Nights in the Gardens of Spain. Roy Thompson Hall, Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. $27 to $74;
call 416-593-4828 or visit here to buy.
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Stay, Dine, Do
