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Our picks for Black-Led Events happening in October
Check out our monthly digest of Black-Led Events happening in September.
Art Shows/Exhibitions
Toronto
October 5th to November 4th – Our Hair Holds Memories | Ehiko Odeh
Curated by Joséphine Denis, ‘Our Hair Holds Memories’ illustrates black hairstyles, hair products, and tools while exploring themes of intimacy, vulnerability, and trust from hair braiding and styling.
Odeh‘s work is inspired by the hand-painted advertisements commonly seen outside hair salons across Africa and the Caribbean, designed to showcase the stylist’s capabilities and attract potential clients. Her fluid brushwork and choice of colors evoke the aging and weathering of these wall ads, capturing the passage of time on the facades of hair salons.
This exhibition is in partnership with RBC Emerging Artists.
Where: Black Artist’s Network & Dialog (BAND) Gallery Pop-up, 401 Richmond Street West Toronto, ON, M5V 3A8
When: October 5th to November 4th, Gallery Hours
Admission: Free
Beauty/ Fashion Shows
Guelph
October 24th – Ms. Meri Mak Fashion Show
The Meri Mak Spring/Summer 2024 women’s capsule collection by Denise Mansur presents a sequence of realities – reflections, refractions, and observations. For this runway show, Meri Mak invites attendees to reconsider the viewpoint that women must conform to succeed in a corporate environment and conceive an experience around the collection.
Where: Art Gallery of Guelph, 358 Gordon Street Guelph, ON N1G 1Y1
When: October 24th, 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free. Tickets are available on a Pay-What-You-Can basis, with a suggested offering of $15/person. You can donate here.
Toronto
October 15th – The Fashion Brunch iii by Sunde Social
Sunde Social and Fraternity Brand collaborate to present a fashion brunch featuring designers, live music, painters, and vendors. This event provides a perfect atmosphere to network, make good connections, and have a good time.
Where: The Henry, 142 George Street, Toronto ON M5A 2M7
When: October 15th, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $28. Grab your tickets here
October 27th – African Fashion Exhibit Toronto “Many Threads – One Cloth”
This event is a three-day, multi-faceted exhibit on Africa and the African Diaspora through the lens of fashion. The program includes 20+ expert speakers, storytellers, musicians, curated exhibitions, and a Gala Opening Night Fashion Show and Reception featuring a buffet of West African foods. Guests include Poet Laureate Dr. George Elliott Clarke, Juno award-winning musician Adam Solomon, and many more. You can view event times and schedules here.
Where: 65 Church Street, Toronto, ON M5C 2E9
When: October 27th, 6:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $25(General) $15(Student) + eventbrite fee. here
Comedy Shows
Toronto
October 7th – Colored Only Comedy Show
Come out for a night filled with laughter and fun. Hosted by Bougie B, this event will feature an all-star cast of comics of color who have appeared on some of North America’s most prominent comedy stages.
Where: 254 Lansdowne Avenue Toronto, ON M6H 3X9
When: October 7th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $28. Reserve your spot here
October 27th – No Boys Allowed Comedy Show
No Boys Allowed and Comedylicious team up to bring you a night filled with comedy delight and tasty bites.
Come thru to the ClubHouse for a fantastic night of comedy featuring the funniest women in Toronto, the unapologetic vixen Al Val and Enoje Ozjam, Hapreet Sehmbi, and Sashka DC Hosted by the sensational Bougie B.
Everyone is welcome to attend for a full night of laughter. There will also be tasty treats and beverages.
Where: Toast On Bloor, 3317 Bloor Street West Toronto, ON M8X 1E7
When: October 27th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $28. Grab your tickets here
October 29th – Comedylicious: Belly Buss Brunch
Comedy + Good Food + Good Vibes = Comedylicious: Belly Buss Brunch
Produced by Bish Funny, Comedylicious is a series of shows featuring a tasty selection of comedians for a full serving of fun! Come for the food, stay for the vibes.
At the Belly Buss Brunch, you can eat your full belly with good food and chill with good vibes and laughter.
Where: Laz Authentic Cuisine Inc, 48 Main Street Markham North Markham, ON L3P 1X5
When: October 29th, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $33. Grab your tickets here
Community Events
Hamilton
October 11th – You Go, Girl! Awards – Presented by Sisters in Sync
Sisters in Sync, an organization that advocates for spaces where Black girls and women share experiences, hosts their 3rd annual You Go, Girl! Awards recognizing achievements of Black women in Arts and Culture, Leadership, Youth Empowerment, Girls in STEM, and Youth Entrepreneurship.
Where: Liuna Station, 360 James Street, North Hamilton, ON L8L 1H5
When: October 11th, 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $33. Grab your tickets here
Mississauga
October 7th – Fall Clothing Drive
Amani Upendo Wellness hosts a fall clothing drive focusing on community-building and fundraising in Mississauga. Donations of non-perishable goods and gently-used clothing will be accepted.
Where: 495 Camden Cir, Mississauga, ON L4Z 2V6
When: October 7th, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Toronto
October 14th – Storytime and Steel Pans
Join Yolanda T. Marshall and Suzette Vidale for an afternoon of interactive storytelling through children’s picture books and music! Children and parents are invited to enjoy a literary soca party. Yolanda will read her books about Canada’s Caribbean carnival, and Suzette will play the beautiful sounds of the festivity on her steel pans. Come prepared to dance, sing, and learn about books, soca, and calypso music. Immerse yourself in the joy of Caribbean culture during the 2023 Black and Caribbean Book Affair.
Where: Blackhurst Cultural Centre, 777 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5S 1Z5
When: October 14th, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Admission: Free
October 14th – Sip & Paint: Cozy Edition by Gyallivant
Gyallivant and Take Khair Beauty partner to present an exhilarating and unforgettable girls’ night out experience – one you won’t want to miss! Groove to the beats of their ultimate girls’ night mix, setting the perfect ambiance for an evening of creativity and bonding. Ladies will start their evening with an exclusive VIP shopping experience and delectable cocktails in the opulent surroundings of Take Khair Beauty Studio.
Then, Gyallivant will guide attendees through an exciting painting session where attendees can let their artistic talents and expressions shine and emerge freely. Gyallivant will capture those picture-perfect moments and sneak in some dance breaks for added fun. Grab a paintbrush, your favorite drink, and a delicious bite to eat as you savor every moment of this incredible night. There will also be giveaways, fun activities, and more!
Where: 574 Saint Clair Avenue West, Toronto, ON M6C 1A6
When: October 14th, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $60. Grab your tickets here
October 14th – Unite for Endometriosis
Endometriosis Events hosts a charity event and rally to raise awareness for Endometriosis at Queen’s Park in Toronto. Endometriosis is a debilitating disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, forming nodules, cysts, and lesions.
This event will feature guest speakers, including medical professionals in Endometriosis and patients with Endometriosis, discussing their experiences with the disease. You can find more details about the event here.
Where: Queen’s Park (Legislative Assembly – SOUTH Grounds), 111 Wellesley Street West Toronto, ON M7A 1A2
When: October 14th, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Admission: Free.
October 15th – Activation # 2: Vinyl Painting at Sunset
Come paint some types of vinyl, listen to music, and vibe with community members. :)
This sip-and-paint style event will be hosted in “The Gift Shop” at Stackt Market. Your ticket includes full-size vinyl, paint, and brushes.
You can view additional information about the event here.
Where: The Gift Shop (Unit 5-101) at Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto
When: October 15th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $15. Grab your tickets here.
October 15th – “Kultcha Live Yah” Showcase by Kevin A. Ormsby & KasheDance
KasheDance, an Afro-Contemporary dance company with roots in Toronto, invites you to experience and participate in the ‘Kultcha Live Yah’ Showcase at Citadel + Compagnie, featuring the Pan-Africanist movement, various performers, and digital art. Attendees will be able to interact, participate, and engage with different aspects of community and art.
This program is a part of the Creatives In Residence series by Ontario Culture Days.
Where: Citadel + Compagnie, 304 Parliament Street, Toronto, ON M5A 3A4
When: October 15th, 1:00 am – 6:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 16th – RISE OPEN MIC MONDAYS by CEE Toronto.
CEE Centre For Young Black Professionals invites performing artists, art lovers, and spoken word artists for an open mic session, providing an opportunity to hone their craft in front of a live audience.
Where: CEE Centre For Young Black Professionals, 75 Thermos Road Toronto, ON M1L 0E6
When: October 16th, 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $5. Grab your tickets here
October 21st BLK Book Fair: Chapter II
BLK Book Fair—Chapter II returns for its second year!
BLK Book Fair—Chapter II: “We’re In This Together” is an interactive literary showcase and celebration of literature and literary products by Afro-Canadians. This event allows attendees to meet Afro-Canadian authors in person, participate in the captivating book fair, network, and have fun!
This event also supports “The Olive Branch of Hope.”, an organization founded by cancer survivors that provides support, resources, and programs to increase awareness about cancer and its impact within the community. The illustrious Troy Crossfield hosts this event.
Where: The Collective Workspace, 114 Leswyn Rd, North York, ON M6A 1K2
When: October 21st, 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $23. Grab your tickets here
October 20th – Harvesting Woo’s: A BIPOC Youth Community Social by The Therapeutic Guide
The Therapeutic Guide invites you to join them for a vibrant and inclusive gathering of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) youth at Carlington Booch Brewery & Tasting Room in Ottawa for a fun community social. This event features various engaging activities, including music, art, and interactive workshops, while providing an opportunity to share experiences, build connections, and celebrate culture.
Where: Carlington Booch Brewery & Tasting Room, 81 Auriga Drive #4 Ottawa, ON K2E 7Y5
When: October 20th, 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $12. Grab your tickets here
October 25th – BlackLit Durham: A Season of Thanksgiving by Ajax Public Library
BlackLit Durham showcases and celebrates Black Canadian literary voices of all genres. This event will also feature amazing performances. Light refreshments will be provided.
Where: St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts and Culture, 78 Church Street South Ajax, ON L1S 6B3
When: October 25th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve a spot here.
Educational Shows/Workshops
Durham
October 7th – Kings & Queens Chess Club by Durham Family & Cultural Centre
Durham Family & Cultural Centre hosts their first BIPOC Chess club at the office for kids ages 10-15. There is a $10 donation per student!
Where: Durham Family and Cultural Centre, 487 Westney Road South #9 Ajax, ON L1S 6W8
When: October 7th, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Admission: $10 Donations for a player. Reserve a spot here.
Hamilton
October 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th – Afroliteracy Library Drop-In for Kids by Rafiki
Rafiki, an organization focusing on supporting members of the African Francophone community in Hamilton and other members of the Black community in Canada with their personal and professional development and integration into Canadian society, hosts an Afroliteracy Library Drop-In for Kids. This event allows kids to discover new books, make friends, and have fun!
Where: 100 James Street South Hamilton, ON L8P 2Z2
When: October 4th,11th, 18th and 25th, 10:00 am -2:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Ottawa
October 2nd – The Right to Read: An Open Book on Intellectual Freedom by Ottawa Public Library
To kick off library month, Ottawa Public Library hosts an in-person panel discussion about Intellectual Freedom with Farzana Doctor, winner of the 2023 Freedom to Read Award, David A. Robertson, winner of the 2021 Freedom to Read Award, and Canadian journalist, activist, author, and broadcaster Desmond Cole, moderated by Adrian Harewood. This 90-minute discussion will focus on the term “Intellectual Freedom” to help attendees understand what it is and why it is critical to us all.
This event will also be streamed live on OPL’s YouTube page.
Where: SAW centre, 67 Nicholas Street Ottawa, ON K1N 7B9
When: October 2nd, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve a spot here.
Toronto
October 1st – TIFA Kids: Join the Party with Yolanda T. Marshall
Young readers, you’re invited to a fun and festive party! Dance along with Anne and her friends during the reading of My Soca Birthday Party: with Jollof Rice and Steel Pans. The party continues at Jackson’s house in Hot Cross Buns For Everyone. This party is about to get very big because the parents will join in to sing and play! In this story, Liam is bringing his favorite Scottish hot cross buns. Dimitri’s hot cross buns have a special spice, and there is a Jamaican bun and cheese recipe! Join author Yolanda T. Marshall for a high-energy story time. The question is, what will you bring to the party? There will be some time to color and decorate your special hot cross buns! Suitable for ages 3+.
Where: Harbourfront: Market Tent A/Word Lab, 235 Queens Quay W. Toronto
When: October 1st, 3:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets range from $80 – $105. Grab your tickets here
October 4th – City of Toronto Career Fair for Black & Indigenous City-Builders
The City of Toronto hosts a career fair for Black and Indigenous professionals and post-graduate students to explore career opportunities in the city’s Infrastructure Services area!
Join the City of Toronto’s Career Fair for Black and Indigenous City-Builders to learn about the opportunities available within divisions such as Transportation Services, Municipal Licensing & Standards, Fleet Services, and more.
Where: Metro Hall, Ground Floor Rotunda, 55 John Street Toronto, ON M5V 0C4
When: October 4th, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve a spot here.
October 5th – Workshop #1: Digital Marketing For Artists
This workshop will teach artists how to utilize digital marketing tools best strategically. The artists will learn about the importance of knowing their target audience, strengthening their brand identity, influencer, and brand collaborations, and how to best capitalize on the strengths and audiences of each social media platform. This event is facilitated by Gerda Boateng.
You can view additional information about the event and facilitator here.
Where: The Gift Shop (Unit 5-101) at Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto
When: October 5th, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve a spot here.
October 6th – History of Toronto Hip Hop Dance for Educators by Just BGRAPHIC Inc.
Join Just B Graphic for a day of immersive learning as they explore the dynamic world of Toronto Hip Hop Dance. Educators can attend one or both parts of this exciting workshop series, each offering a unique perspective on the history and evolution of this vibrant dance culture. The ultimate experience is participating in both sessions, a full day of discovery and enrichment.
Where: Westview CSS, 755 Oakdale Rd Toronto, ON M3N 1W7
When: October 6th, 10:00 am
Admission: Priced. Various Price Packages Available. Grab your tickets here.
October 7th – “Stimulus” A Fundraising Gala in support of mental health
Essence of Mind Outreach Program returns with their annual fundraising gala, “Stimulus,” to support mental health.
Notable attendees for this event include
Chris Hayles from G98.7FM,
Exceptional Guest performer and songbird sensation Divine Brown
Keynote speaker Patricia Jaggernauth, formerly of CP24.
Enjoy a variety-style dinner raffle, and dance the night away with music from NicoFlames.
Where: Lions Banquet Hall, 45 Avondale Blvd Brampton, ON L6T 1H1
When: October 7th, 6:00 pm – 1:00 am
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $100. Grab your tickets here
October 11th – Workshop #3: Art of the Sale (A Guide To Art Dealing)
This workshop will teach artists to identify their target collectors and close a sale through relationship building. It will also provide them with numerous insights into how they can become excellent at art dealing. This event is facilitated by Kristofer Sakamoto-Marshall.
You can view additional information about the event and facilitator here.
Where: The Gift Shop (Unit 5-101) at Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto
When: October 11th, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 14th – Activation #1: Notes In Colour
‘Notes in Colour’ (in collaboration with ‘The Gift Shop’) is a free two-part panelist discussion with leading industry professionals in Art and Music, closing with a live performance by Sarah Itamah.
Distinguished panelists will share insights, experiences, and advice on breaking into and leaving a lasting impact in their respective industries. Each discussion will consist of 3 professionals plus the facilitator. The facilitator will ask questions regarding their creative process, how that has affected their position in their industry today, and the nuances of reaching the level of artistry deemed “acceptable.”
Attendees can engage with the panelists during the last 20 minutes of the conversation through a Q&A session, gaining valuable knowledge and inspiration.
You can view additional information about the event here.
Where: The Gift Shop (Unit 5-101) at Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto
When: October 14th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve a spot here.
October 14th – Creative Arts Workshop: Back 2 School & Pack New Tools
Shanna-Kay Stephens & Chika Oh host an interactive and creative arts workshop where parenting meets arts. This workshop will provide a fun bonding activity for parents and children to find, create, and connect via art. Kids will have the opportunity to develop their unique backpack designs.
Where: 10 Henderson Avenue Brampton, ON L6Y 2A4
When: October 14th, 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $54.58. Grab your tickets here
October 18th – Workshop #4: Intellectual Property and Artist Legal Rights
This workshop will explore how artists can protect their legal rights and work from a place of informed self-advocacy. At this workshop, participants will go through various legal terms, bill of sale agreements, exhibition agreements, and private commission contracts.
This event is facilitated by Daniel Pink.
You can view additional information about the event and the facilitator here.
Where: The Gift Shop (Unit 5-101) at Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst Street, Toronto
When: October 18th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 28th – Blackboyscode Ottawa – Exposure to Python Programming Continued
Blackboyscode hosts a virtual Exposure to Python Programming Workshop in Ottawa for boys ages 9-17.
The Exposure to Python curriculum is thoroughly designed to accommodate all levels of learners, from beginners taking their first steps into the world of programming, intermediate learners looking to deepen their understanding, to advanced learners seeking to consolidate and expand their knowledge in Python programming.
Kids will be able to engage with a range of topics that include:
Basics of Python – Advanced Data Types Part 1 & Advanced Data Types Part 2
Basics of Loops Part 3 & Basics of Loops Part 4
Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming Part 3 and more!!
Where: 150 Louis-Pasteur Private Ottawa, ON K1N 9A7
When: October 28th, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 28th – Blackboyscode Toronto – Exposure to Python Programming Continued
Blackboyscode hosts a virtual Exposure to Python Programming Workshop in Ottawa for boys ages 9-17.
The Exposure to Python curriculum is thoroughly designed to accommodate all levels of learners, from beginners taking their first steps into the world of programming, intermediate learners looking to deepen their understanding, to advanced learners seeking to consolidate and expand their knowledge in Python programming.
Kids will be able to engage with a range of topics that include:
Basics of Python – Advanced Data Types Part 1 & Advanced Data Types Part 2
Basics of Loops Part 3 & Basics of Loops Part 4
Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming Part 3 and more!!
Where: Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3
When: October 28th, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 29th – The Blueprint: Crafting Your Dream Look at the Vision Board Experience by Big Girl Interrupted
Big Girl Interrupted presents a self-care experience where you’ll immerse yourself in a day of pampering and personal growth. This hands-on event begins with a soothing facial workshop to rejuvenate your skin and an engaging makeup workshop to enhance your beauty. Then, our vision board coach will guide you through a vision board workshop to ignite your inner vision and manifest your dreams. Take advantage of this opportunity to nurture your well-being and create a vision for your roadmap to your success!
Where: 967 College Street Toronto, ON M6H 1A6
When: October 29th, 10:30 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets range from $80 – $105. Grab your tickets here
Entrepreneurship/Tech Events
October 6th and 7th – Black Business Roundtable by Casa Foundation
Casa Foundation hosts the annual Friends of Africa (FOA2023) Economic Summit. FOA summit promotes economic development opportunities in emerging markets and connects startup businesses in the Diaspora.
Keynote address
Panel discussions
Fireside chat
Pitch presentation*
Workshops
Business Showcase: Marketplace & Products
Where: The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, 1 Harbour Square Toronto, ON M5J 1A6
When: October 6th and 7th, View event times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Various price packages are available. Grab your tickets here.
October 10th to 12th – Africa Accelerating 2023 – All Three Days by Canada-Africa Chamber of Business
One of Africa’s biggest business events in North America takes place in Toronto, featuring informational presentations, panel discussions, and high-level networking. Discussion Topics include raising investment capital, trade opportunities, new business partnerships, infrastructure, and responsible resource development.
Where: Goodmans LLP, 333 Bay Street #3400 Toronto, ON M5H 2S7
When: October 10th to 12th, View event times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Various price packages are available. Grab your tickets here.
October 20th – Black Founders Network (BFN) – Demo Day & Anniversary
Join BFN for an intriguing event marking their 2nd-anniversary celebration of empowering and uplifting Black entrepreneurship in Canada. This event will also feature pitches from Black Founders competing for $50K in prizes. Attendees will get the opportunity to connect with a vibrant community of Black entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors and select winners of the coveted BFN People’s Choice, Cohort Choice, and Top Venture Awards.
Where: 31 King’s College Circle Toronto, ON M5S 1A1
When: October 20th, 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 21st – Women in Leadership Summit by Black Female Accountants Network
Black Female Accountants Network is back for its 6th Annual Summit in Toronto. This event showcases pioneering Black women in the accounting and business industry. Join them as they celebrate and showcase the incredible achievements of our Black women through inspiring keynote addresses, engaging panel discussions, topical breakout sessions, and fireside chats. This year’s theme is Empowering Each Other: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges.
You can view the event schedule here
Where: KPMG, Bay Adelaide Centre, 333 Bay Street #4600 Toronto, ON M5H 2S5
When: October 21st, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $108. Grab your tickets here
October 26th and 27th – BFUTR Global Tech Summit by BPTN (BLACK PROFESSIONALS IN TECH NETWORK)
One of North America’s most significant black tech events is back this year, bringing together Black professionals and allies in Toronto. Come network, exchange ideas, secure venture capital opportunities for Black tech innovation, and connect with our BPTN Members.
Location: Beanfield Centre, 105 Princes Blvd, Toronto, M6K 3C3
Event Times: View the event schedule and information here
Admission: Paid. Grab your tickets here.
Festivals
Toronto
October 1st – Fall Into Spice: Afrobeat Kitchen by Spice Food & Wine Event Series
Spice Food & Wine Event Series celebrates Nigerian Independence Day and the Igbo culture – New Yam Festival from the chef’s homeland.
This event will comprise a 5-course meal of the chef’s curated Nigerian dishes. The event will show how to pair each course with a delectable wine, showing how well wine styles and flavors complement Nigerian cuisine and vice versa.
Where: Afrobeat Kitchen, 1510 Queen Street West Toronto, ON M6R 1A4
When: October 1st, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $129. Grab your tickets here
October 7th – NaijaFest 2023
Network of Nigerians in Canada, NNC invites you to their celebration of culture, creativity, and connections in Mississauga.
This event features performances, displays, presentations, moments for our kids and youth, and vendor networking.
Where: Renaissance by the Creek, 3045 Southcreek Road Mississauga, ON L4X 2X7
When: October 7th, 4:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Regular Tickets go for $100. Grab your tickets here.
October 28th – The African-Canadian Fusion: A Cross-Cultural Celebration by AWA(African Women Acting)
AWA hosts a cultural celebration of art, music, and poetry. This event showcases cultural diversity and live performances. Food and Wine Tasting are included in the ticket prices.
Where: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas Street East Toronto, ON M5A 2B7
When: October 28th, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $55. Grab your tickets here
October 23rd – Fall Into Spice: Rhum Corner by Spice Food & Wine Event Series.
Spice Food & Wine Event Series resumes its Fall Into Spice dinner series with a showcase of Caribbean-centric dishes.
Attendees will have a 5-course meal curated by the Rhum Corner team at this dinner. Each course will be paired with wine. Three of the five courses will come with a pairing of wine and rum!
Where: Rhum Corner, 926 Dundas Street West Toronto, ON M6J 1W3
When: October 23rd, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $161. Grab your tickets here
Farmers Markets
Toronto
Courtyard Farmers’ Market
The Courtyard Farmers’ Markets launched in 2019 as a Workplace Wellness initiative with GWL Realty Advisors. Their mission is to bring farm-fresh produce and artisanal products to the Greater Toronto Area communities in the spirit of fun, wellness, and safety! Applications from farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs in keeping with the Courtyard Farmers’ Market vision are welcome.
Vendor Application: Open. Apply here
Where: 1725 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 2A9
When: Every Wednesday from June 14th – October 11th
Market Time: 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Deeply Rooted Farmers Market
Deeply Rooted Farmers Market focuses on exclusively highlighting Black and Indigenous vendors within the country. This market allows health-conscious and socially conscious consumers to purchase locally sourced, locally produced quality food and products from Black and Indigenous vendors.
Vendor Application: Open. Apply here
Where: 455 Cosburn Ave, East York, ON M4J 2N2
When: Every Sunday from May 28th- October 15th
Market Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Apply to be a volunteer here
Scarborough Farmers’ Market
The Scarborough Farmers’ Market evolved from the Malvern Farmers’ Market in 2018. Their mission is to bring nutrient-dense, reasonably priced, culturally appropriate, fresh fruits, vegetables, and lifestyle products to the people of Scarborough.
Vendor Application: Open. Apply here
Where: 1051 Progress Ave, Scarborough, ON M1B 5Z6
When: Every Tuesday from June 13th – October 10th
Market Time: 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Small Business Pop-up Events
Toronto
October 14th, 21st and 28th -Pop-Up Shop by The Community Pop-Up
The community pop-up hosts an indoor market to connect with local small businesses. Vendors will sell all-natural skincare products, hair accessories, organic haircare products, press-on nails, makeup, lashes, lip oils, and more.
Where: 5085 Sheppard Ave East, Scarborough, ON M1S 4N8
When: October 14th, 21st and 28th, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Type of Event: Indoor Event
Admission: Free.
Application: Open. Apply here
Wellness Workshops and Events
October 4th and 18th – Peace & Power: Group Therapy for Black Women with Anxiety
Black Mental Health Canada, a non-profit organization that aims to meet the mental health needs of the diverse Black communities in Canada, hosts an online workshop to provide supportive space for Black women who may experience symptoms of various anxiety disorders. Holistic Career Coach & Career Consultant Priscilla Jabouin facilitates this session.
Where: Online
When: October 4th and 18th, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Admission: Free
October 5th- Understanding Black Clients in Mental Health Care
Black Mental Health Canada, a non-profit organization with the mission to meet the mental health needs of the diverse Black communities in Canada, hosts an online workshop to orient, educate, and train clinicians and Allied Health professionals on servicing clients of African descent by incorporating an Afrocentric perspective in their practice.
Where: Online
When: October 5th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here
October 12th- Understanding Black Clients in Mental Health Care
Black Mental Health Canada, a non-profit organization with the mission to meet the mental health needs of the diverse Black communities in Canada, hosts an online workshop to orient, educate, and train clinicians and Allied Health professionals on servicing clients of African descent by incorporating an Afrocentric perspective in their practice.
Where: Online
When: October 12th, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
October 13th – New Moon Women’s Ceremony by Red Maat
Red Ma’at Collective presents this full-hour wellness journey, allowing participants to practice wellness while creating a sacred space for personal healing and growth.
This session is led by Jasmine Fairbairn, Afro-Indigenous Certified Hypnotherapist and member of the National Guild of Hypnotists, Reiki Practioner, Pranayama breathwork facilitator, meditation teacher & sound healer.
Where: Lululemon experiential store, 318 Queen Street West Toronto, ON M5V 2A5
When: October 13th, 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Free. Conditions apply. Reserve your spot here.
October 21st – TEAO Collective Care Series
TEAO Canada will hold space for participants, led by Nicole Brown Faulknor — as an embodiment coach and psychotherapist. Nicole will also explore somatic practices as a way to support rebuilding a relationship with our bodies through these symptoms and a place to be heard and loved in places of systems and institutions and why your emotional health is our mental health.
These circles will incorporate psycho-education, somatic health, and breathwork to get participants in their somatic bodies to begin to process trauma.
Participants will come together in somatic movement during the group processing circle to process debriefing, trauma care, and systemic care.
Where: Central Neighbourhood House, 349 Ontario Street, Toronto, ON M5A 2V8
When: October 21st, 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $$7. Grab your tickets here
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