By Joshua Errett

Celebrate the longest, darkest, and possibly coldest night of the year in Kensington Market tonight with the annual Festival of Lights. Along with choir singing, various forms of international percussion and hot soup, organizers hope Kensington can celebrate the holidays and kiss off the “old year.”

Red Pepper Spectacle Arts, the Samba Squad and many collaborators reunite to ignite…their legendary lantern-lit celestial carnival in the narrow, culturally rich streets of historic Kensington Market. Join in Toronto’s soulful, handmade alternative holiday celebration. Accompany a cavalcade of musicians, giant puppets, stiltwalkers, firebreathers and revelers to beckon the return of the sun, honoring pan-cultural solstice traditions.

The free parade processes at around 6-7 p.m., and the party don’t stop till 10ish. Don’t forget your booties cause it’s cold outside. On Augusta just south of College. (photo stolen from toronto.com)