The Federation of Chinese Canadians in Markham celebrated the annual 15th TD Taste of Asia Festival which took place on Kennedy Rd. between Steeles Ave. and Clayton Drive. It was three great days of multicultural foods and performances on June 23, 24 and 25.
There was amazing weather and the festival welcomed over 180,000 visitors and nearly 180 vendors. In cooperation with Asianwave, the festival featured a dazzling evening concert by famous Hong Kong singer and actress, Elanne Kong 江若琳. Elanne also held a special meet and greet for her fans on Friday June 23 of the festival, where she chatted with Taste of Asia’s MC, Jesse Kalan Parker, signed autographs and took pictures with fans. The prelude for her concert on Saturday was an all day adventure, including cultural performances, live music, amazing food and fun filled entertainment. Performances included local Canadian talent, Icess, FCCM Children and Adult Chinese Dance, Kung Fu Demonstration by Master Kan and his students, and Muay Thai Performance by Siam’s No. 1 Muay Thai Academy.
New attractions this year included a “Hong Kong City” supported by Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Toronto (HKETO) and Canada 150 Festivities, sponsored by the Government of Canada, as well as an international and Michelin chefs cooking demonstration during the opening ceremony.
This year’s theme country is the Kingdom of Cambodia, which was especially highlighted during the blessing dance performed by Khmer Buddhist Temple of Niagara Dance Group at the opening ceremony to bring good luck and prosperity.
Elanne Kong gained fame through her versatility in both acting and singing. She became widely recognized for her roles in critically acclaimed films like “The Pye-Dog” and “The Moss,” as well as popular TV dramas such as “When Lanes Merge” and “Relic of an Emissary.” Her musical talent further cemented her status, with albums like “Shining” (2007), “Innocent” (2008), “Show You” (2010), and “Love Elanne” (2013), alongside singles such as “You Are My Happiness” and “Dear My Friend.” Her distinctive voice and engaging performances have made her a beloved figure in Hong Kong’s entertainment industry.
This year’s festival would not have been possible without the presenting sponsor, TD Bank Group, Telecommunications Sponsor, Telus, Honorary Sponsors, The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Toronto and the Royal Thai Embassy, Funding from the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario, Diamond Sponsors, Consulate of the Kingdom of Cambodia in Toronto, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Toronto (HKETO) and Yelp, Platinum Sponsor, Councillor Alan Ho from the City of Markham, China Southern Airlines and China Focus, Silver Sponsors, Flato Developments and Buick, Corporate Sponsor, Ballantry Homes, as well as other entertainment, food and beverage sponsors and community partners.
