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Our picks for Black-Led Events happening in September
Check out our monthly digest of Black-Led Events happening in September.
Enjoy!
Art Exhibition/Shows
Ottawa
July 27th to September 10th – We do not dream of labour & Le labeur ne fait pas partie du rêve
Through explorations of motherhood, nature, music, and bare emotional and physical truths, this exhibition shows diverse ways that Black, Caribbean, and African artists (within the Ottawa-Gatineau region) express rest while altering the art landscape. Their voices provide dialogue on the seven types of rest (sensory, emotional, social, spiritual, physical, creative, and mental) through various media, including paintings, sculptures, and poetry. The opening party for this exhibition takes place on August 10th (6:30 pm – 8:30 pm)
Where: Ottawa Art Gallery, 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, Ottawa, ON K1N 0C5
When: Open to the public from July 27th – September 10th. The opening party takes place on August 10th (6:30 pm -8:30 pm)
Admission: Free. Open to the public.
Sept 8th – ULPC Poetry Slam #1 ft. Ebony Stewart by Urban Legends Poetry Collective
Urban Legends Poetry Collective hosts a poetry slam and open mic in the Arts Court Studio Theatre, featuring internationally acclaimed spoken word artist and Women of the World Poetry Slam Champion Ebony Stewart.
Ebony Stewart is an award-winning international touring poet, author, writer, and performance artist who combines activism and art, making her an artivist.
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Avenue Ottawa, ON K1N 6E2
When: September 8th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Free. You can donate to the event here.
September 9th – Mandala Spotlight | Unveiling Mandala on Stage by Ottawa Arts Council
Presented by the Ottawa Arts Council, Mandala Spotlight showcases the diversity and creativity within Ottawa’s BIPOC community while celebrating their rich contributions to Ottawa’s performing arts and music scene. This electric event will feature jazz, folk, classical music, spoken word poetry, and more!
Where: Ottawa Art Gallery, 10 Daly Ave Ottawa, ON K1N 6E2
When: September 9th, 4:00 pm
Admission: Free. You can donate to the event here.
Toronto
August 17th to September 23rd – Essence by Moses Salihou
Curated by Mariah Coulibaly, Essence questions the nature of things and the elements that make them up. The choice of colors, the outlines of form, and the suggestion of facial features reveal the essence of the painter’s subjects. This exhibition features the work of Toronto-based painter Moses Salihou. Moses’s work is present in private collections around the world (Africa, Europe, Asia, and America).
Moses is a self-taught artist; he works with various media(oil, watercolor, acrylic, pigments, paper, canvas, and panel wood). He describes his work as “Between abstraction and figuration.” Inspired by his surroundings and everyday life, his paintings blend vibrant colors and movement to encourage dialogue about belonging and existence.
Where: Black Artist’s Network & Dialog (BAND) Gallery Pop-up, 401 Richmond Street West Toronto, ON, M5V 3A8
When: August 17th to September 23rd, Gallery Hours
Admission: Free
September 9th – Drop the Ball World Premiere at TIFF
“Drop the Ball World” is a gripping, thrilling, and thought-provoking movie
that will keep you on the edge of your seat while providing insights into the entrepreneurial world of decisions and investments
Follow the captivating journey of Tefari Bailey, the astute CEO of Hutsy, in this suspenseful New Year’s Eve tale. Tefari’s life seems perfect as he prepares to sell his company for an impressive profit. However, an unforeseen twist shatters his world. You can view the thriller here.
Where: TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 3X5
When: September 9th, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $17. Grab your tickets here
September 22nd – “IMPERFECT LOVE” – A PLAY
“Imperfect Love” is a romantic comedy play fueled by relatable characters. The two central characters have an arduous ongoing relationship, which they decide to fix. With new challenges arising,. Can true love conquer all?
Where: York Woods Library Theatre, 1785 Finch Avenue West Toronto, ON M3N 1M6
When: September 22nd, 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Regular tickets go for $50. Grab your tickets here
Comedy Shows
Sept 2nd – 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: September 2nd, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $28. Reserve your spot here
Community Events/Galas
Kirkfield
September 22nd to 24th -BGOW Escape to CabinScape – Weekend Getaway
Brown Girl Outdoor World presents its 2nd annual escape where community, relaxation, fun, and nature are the weekend’s order. This escape provides the opportunity to experience nature in the comfort of the community, play in a pristine spring-fed lake, hang out by the communal dock, hike, paddleboard, and so much more! You can find more information on the escape’s accommodation here.
Where: CABINSCAPE, 188 Talbot River Road Kirkfield, ON K0M 2B0
When: September 22nd to 24th, View event times and schedule here
Admission: Tickets range from $550 – $670. Various packages are available. Grab your tickets here.
Ottawa
September 9th – Black Girls Do Bike NCR (Ottawa-Gatineau) Bike Ride #5 by Black Girls Do Bike – Ottawa/Gatineau Chapter
Black Girls Do Bike NCR, a global community organization that empowers and inspires Black women to take up cycling, hosts a community bike ride for beginner cyclists. Participants meet at 10:45 a.m. at Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway. We will meet in Parking Lot 26 (Corner of Bearbrook and Montreal Road).
Participants should bring their bike, helmet, and supplies (water)
Where: Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier Parkway Ottawa, ON K1K 4Y5
When: September 9th, 10:45 am – 12:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Toronto
July 25th to September 12th – From Me, to You Community Printmaking Services by NIA CENTRE
Led by expert printmaker and artist Khadijah Morely, Nia Centre of Arts provides a free 7-week printmaking program to celebrate the Little Jamaica/Oakwood Village neighborhoods. This program offers the opportunity to meet new people and work alongside friends while gaining hands-on knowledge on printmaking, including the history of screen-printing and linocut and their historical uses for community building, storytelling, and activism. The workshops are free and run from July 25th to September 12th.
You can sign up for the workshops here
Where: Nia Centre, 524 Oakwood Avenue
When: Every Tuesday, from July 25th – September 12th , 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free
Sept 8th – BLK Friday – Trade Show & Networking Event
All Blk Market hosts their 2nd Trade Show. This event provides the perfect opportunity to meet Black entrepreneurs and business owners from various industries, including beauty, fashion, technology, and more!
Connect, network, mix, and mingle, and discover new opportunities!
Where: Centennial Event Centre, 937 Progress Avenue Toronto, ON M1G 3T8
When: September 8th, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $30. Grab your tickets here
September 10th – THE RED HOT MIXER presented by CTMG
Presented by the CaribbeanTales Media Group, Join them on the second floor of the TIFF Bell Lightbox for a fun morning of socializing and networking in this mixer event. At this event, you will get the opportunity to meet top filmmakers, film enthusiasts, and industry leaders from the Caribbean and Canada.
Where: TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 3X5
When: September 10th, 11:00 am
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Sept 18th – 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: September 18th, 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $5. Grab your tickets here
September 23rd – FBC and SFL Impact Gala
In conjunction with Skills for Life, the Federation of Black Canadians, a non-profit organization that advances the social, economic, political, and cultural interests of Canadians of African descent, hosts its Inaugural Gala celebrating Black Excellence. This event will feature special guests, captivating live performances, a silent auction, games, and a lively cocktail reception. This event provides the opportunity to network and connect with other community members.
Where: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 1J4
When: September 23rd, 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Admission: Individual tickets go for $150. Other price packages are available. Grab your tickets here.
Sept 24th – The Legacy Awards by B.LA.C.K Canada
The Legacy Awards returns for its second edition, honoring established and emerging Black Canadian talent. The show features performances, award presentations, and tributes celebrating BLACK excellence and culture.
Where: HISTORY/ CBC / CBC GEM
When: September 24th, 8:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $146. Grab your tickets here
September 29th – “Roots” by Bloomers Collective
Bloomers Collective presents “Roots” – a concert performance by four seasoned Toronto artists at the contemporary Celebration Square Amphitheatre. This event will also feature giveaways, a grand prize with Bloomers Collective merch and goodies from the event sponsors, and vendors selling their unique finds and products. You can view more information about the artist line-up and event here.
Interested in being a vendor? Apply here
Where: Mississauga Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1
When: September 29th, 7:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $12. Grab your tickets here
Sept 30th – UP2SUM Open Studio Session
The Loud Army hosts an open studio session granting members FREE studio time. This event provides artists opportunities to meet like-minded producers and artists and record their sounds on the spot.
Where: Toronto. Sign Up for the location here
When: September 30th,
Admission: Free. Sign-up Required
Waterloo
September 24th – 2023 Awards of Excellence
The Congress of Black Women of Canada (CBW) and the Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR) partner to host the 2023 Annual Awards of Excellence, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of many of the community’s bright, talented African, Caribbean, and Black students who received scholarship awards from 2023. This event will feature keynote speaker – Dr. Christopher Taylor, PhD, an Associate Vice-President of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and anti-racism (EDI-R) at the University of Waterloo.
Where: DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener, 30 Fairway Road South Kitchener, ON N2A 2N2
When: September 24th, 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission: Priced. General tickets go for $60. Other price packages are available. Grab your tickets here.
Educational Workshops and Wellness Events
Hamilton
September 6th – 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: September 6th, 10:00 am -2:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Online
September 6th and 20th – 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: September 6th and 20th, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Admission: Free
September 9th- Ujima: Group Therapy for Black Men 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 for Black men to discuss mental health and healing strategies.
Where: Online
When: September 9th, 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Admission: Free
September 16th – 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: September 16th, 11:30 am – 6:30 pm
Admission: Free
September 23rd to November 4th – INTERSECTING BODIES: Healing Arts Project by Youth Alliance for Intersectional Justice
Youth Alliance for Intersectional Justice hosts a 6-week series of Visual and performance art classes with 2 professional art instructors for Black or Racialized autistic youth between the ages of 15-29. Participants will receive a $200 honorarium for attending all sessions.
Interested in participating in the program. Register here
Where: Toronto Public Library – Barbara Frum Branch, 20 Covington Rd, Toronto, ON M6A 3C1
When: September 23rd to November 4th, 9:00 pm – 11:00 am
Admission: Free
Port Dover
September 29th to October 1st – TEAO Collective Pause Retreat
In partnership with Somerset Recovery Retreat, TEAO Canada hosts their 3rd Collective Pause Retreat. This event allows participants to explore self-healing and self-care practices in a spacious, serene space. Participants can explore, relax, and engage with like-minded community members through a series of activities.
You can view the full schedule of the retreat here.
Where: Port Dover.
When: September 29th to October 1st. View event times and schedule here
Admission: General tickets go for $122. Grab your tickets here
Toronto
September 1st -IRON SHAPENS IRON
Actor and Filmmaker Troy Crossfield hosts a free mental health workshop for Black Men. This workshop will feature engaging, meaningful, and insightful conversations about mental health in the Black community.
Where: 932 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1L9
When: September 1st, 9:00 pm – 11:00 am
Admission: Free
September 3rd – Refining Her Workshop by House of Golde
House of Golde offers a 3-hour women’s transformative workshop of self-discovery and empowerment. This show will delve into topics on nervous system regulation, success, and transformative goal planning to enhance the feminine lifestyle.
Where: TBA
When: September 3rd, 11: 00 am
Admission: Priced. TBA
Sept 5th – Hatha Yoga for All Black Women by Red Maat
Red Ma’at Collective presents free, accessible yoga classes for beginners and experienced practitioners. This space centers on All BLACK women, femmes, and non-binary folks negatively impacted by patriarchy, sexism, and misogyny.
Where: OnePeopleTO, 14 Irwin Ave #301, Toronto, ON M4Y 1K9
When: September 5th, 7:10 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
September 6th – Peace & Power: Group Therapy for Black Women with Anxiety
Facilitated by Holistic Career Coach and Career Consultant Priscilla Jabouin, This Group Therapy session provides a supportive space for Black Women who experience symptoms of various anxiety disorders.
Where: Online
When: September 6th, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Sept 13th – Throw That A$$ In A Healing Circle – Hula Hoop & Movement Meditation Class
Rashida Ahmed, a Sexual Wellness Educator and Intimacy Coach offers a Hula Hoop and Movement Meditation Class for participants interested in playing inner child fun, healing some traumatic energy in the body, precisely the womb space. This class offers meditation, laughter, dances, good vibes, and fun!
Where: Marie Curtis Park East Beach, 2 Forty Second Street Toronto, ON M8W3P2
When: September 13th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Tickets go for $39. Grab your tickets here
September 15th – Book Launch – THE ANTIRACIST KITCHEN: 21 Stories (and Recipes)
Join award-winning author Nadia Hohn to celebrate the publication of her children’s book – The Antiracist Kitchen. Attendees will also get the opportunity to meet and network other children’s authors who contributed stories to the anthology. There will also be tasty recipes to try! You can pre-order or purchase the book here.
Where: Centre for Social Innovation – Annex, 720 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5S 2R4
When: September 15th, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Sept 16th – Returning & Rebuilding Our Wealth: Self, Soul & Community by The Healing Sisters Circle
The Healing Sisters Circle, an organization committed to building safer spaces for Black women to heal themselves, lean into their vulnerability, and authentically cultivate nurturing connections, hosts their 2nd Annual Healing Retreat. This year’s theme is “Returning and Rebuilding.” This event will feature therapeutic and healing exercises led by certified Black women therapists, catered lunch, meditation and yoga, games, panel discussions, networking, and more!
Where: HUE HOUR STUDIOS, 350 Ryding Avenue Toronto, ON M6N 1H5
When: September 16th, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Priced. General tickets go for $80. Other price packages are available. Grab your tickets here.
September 17th – Wealth and Wisdom
Ladies Legacy and Finance For The Culture partner to host a women’s Finance Brunch to assist participants in learning about finance and money management, tools to reduce debt, and increase knowledge of real estate purchases and investments. This event will also feature finance trivia and provide opportunities to meet other female professionals.
Brunch & Mimosas will be served and there will be giveaways and prizes.
Where: Limelight Studio & Loft, 501 Passmore Avenue #Unit 27 Toronto, ON M1V 5G4
When: September 17th, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $35. Grab your tickets here
September 23rd – An Embodied Exploration of Energy Boundaries by ONEPeopleTO
OnePeopleTO, a cultural & traditional wellness sanctuary that fosters space for deep rest, mental relaxation, overall well-being & self-mastery while centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) communities, hosts a wellness workshop that emphasizes developing self-confidence through mindful connection with self, accompanied by visualization exercises that release self-doubt.
Participants will learn to relate to their energy bodies by experimenting with fun, playful, grounded energy exercises in a safer space.
Where: 14 Irwin Avenue, Suite 301, Toronto, ON M4Y 1K9
When: September 23rd, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $25. Grab your tickets here
September 30th – Sharing Circles – In Person by Project Agape
Project Agape partners with the Ottawa Rape Crisis Centre to present Sharing Circles, a series of discussion groups facilitated by a Black woman, to discuss support-seeking experiences and foster connection among the Black community in Ottawa. The Sharing Circles will create a safe space for Black women and gender-diverse people who have experienced trauma and oppression to convene and be in a supportive area and community. You can view additional information on the event here.
Where: Ottawa
When: September 30th, 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
Entrepreneurship/Tech Events
Kitchener
September 29th – Igniting Success for Black Entrepreneurs – A LiftOff Launch & Pitch Event
Join the LiftOff Team for an exciting evening of inspiration and empowerment as they celebrate the achievements of Black entrepreneurs! This event will showcase innovation within the Black community while providing a platform for networking, learning, and collaboration.
Where: SDG Idea Factory, 2 King Street West Kitchener, ON N2G 1A3
When: September 29th, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $25. Grab your tickets here
Toronto
September 10th – The Big Pitch at TIFF presented by CTMG
Join CaribbeanTales Media Group for a fun-filled morning, watching mid-career BIPOC filmmakers pitch their projects to an industry audience at TIFF. Now in its 14th year and funded by Telefilm in partnership with the Toronto International Film Festival, this competitive event draws from CaribbeanTales Media Group’s various incubator programs. Twelve talented filmmakers will pitch to a jury composed of Canada’s top broadcasters at the TIFF Bell Lightbox on September 10, 2023. Caribbean breakfast included.
Where: TIFF Bell Lightbox, Luma Restaurant 350 King Street West Toronto, ON M5V 3X5
When: September 10th, 8:00 am
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $53. Grab your tickets here
Sept 16th – BHPN: Healthcare Connections: Directory Launch & Building Businesses
Join the Black Health Professional Network (BHPN) to celebrate their directory launch event of an innovative directory to bridge the gap in Canadian healthcare.
Where: Chestnut Residence, 89 Chestnut Street, Toronto, ON M5G 1R1
When: September 16th, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Priced. Tickets go for $23. Grab your tickets here
Sept 20th – Amplifying Black Women in Tech
Join DMZ and Black Women in Tech for an exciting event dedicated to championing Black women in tech. This event provides a fun evening of networking, meaningful discussions, and learning from a highly anticipated lineup of speakers.
Where: DMZ, 10 Dundas St. E – 6th floor, Toronto
When: September 20th, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Admission: Free. RSVP here
Sept 27th and 28th – Black Leadership in Social Impact Summit by Foundation for Black Communities
FFBC and the Future of Good host their 3rd annual digital-first conference to celebrate Black leadership in social change and guide senior leaders and teams interested in equity and inclusion to become more impactful in their anti-racism work.
Where: Online
When: September 27th and 28th, 11:00 am
Admission: Free. Register here
Farmers Markets
Toronto
Afro-Caribbean Farmers Market
Founded in 2017 as one of Canada’s first cultural-specific farmers’ markets, Afro-Caribbean Farmers Market provides a platform for local black farmers, black food entrepreneurs, and black craft artisans to showcase their produce, products, and unique finds to community members and customers within Ontario.
Afro-Caribbean Farmers Market also offers food subsidies for low-income eaters through its farmers’ market currency, “Callaloo Cash.” Show your support for local black farmers, food entrepreneurs, and craft artisans at this jolly farmers’ market.
Vendor Application: Open. Apply here
Location: 1531 Eglinton Ave West Toronto, ON, M6E 2G7
Season Dates
July 2nd
July 16th
July 30th
August 13th
August 27th
September 10th
September 24th
Market Time: 11:00 am – 3: 00 pm
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
Festivals
Ottawa
Sept 8th and 9th – Afrofestival Ottawa
Afrofestival Ottawa is a free music and art festival showcasing the best African culture and entertainment in the Nation’s Capital.
The festival features authentic food from local vendors, music, fashion, activities for children, arts and crafts, live performances from local and international talent, a marketplace, and much more! Celebrate all things African and experience the rich, diverse heritage of African Canadians in Ottawa.
Where: Mooney’s Bay Park and Beach 2960 Riverside Drive Ottawa, ON K1V 8N4
When: September 8th and 9th, 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Free
Toronto
September 3rd – Taste The Caribbean Food Festival.
Taste the Caribbean Food Festival celebrates Caribbean culture, history, arts & food at the historic St Lawrence Market. Enjoy the best culinary delights of the Caribbean brought to you by local chefs, restaurants, and vendors. This event features food and drink vendors, local artisans, live music and performances, crafts and kid zones, and more!
Where: St Lawrence Market, 125 The Esplanade Toronto, ON M6E 0A1
When: September 2nd and 3rd, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: Free. Donations are welcome
Sept 3rd – Afro Arts & Cultural Festival
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of African heritage and traditions. This festival provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the beauty and diversity of African culture in Toronto.
Where: Taj Banquet Halls, 4611 Steeles Avenue West Toronto, ON M9L 1X2
When: September 3rd, 1:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Admission: Free. VIP Tickets go for $65. Grab your tickets here
Sept 6th to 22nd – CaribbeanTales International Film Festival
CaribbeanTales International Film Festival returns for its 18th year, celebrating the talents of established and emerging filmmakers of Caribbean and African heritage across the Caribbean Diaspora worldwide. This year’s Eco-Survivors theme will explore climate change narratives from Caribbean and African perspectives.
Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay W Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
When: September 6th to 22nd, View event times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Full Festival Passes go for $55. Grab your tickets here. Single Ticket Passes are also available here.
Sept 17th to 24th – Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival
The Seventh Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF 2023) takes place from September 17th to September 24th, featuring festival hybrid programs (In-person and Online)
This year, TINFF will present its film summit, and the Canada Black Diversity Film Summit 2023 (CBDFM Summit 2023) – will take place online.
TINFF will host hundreds of filmmakers from diverse backgrounds from the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, the United States, Nigeria-Nollywood, Africa, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, India, and other parts of the world to showcase their work, network, and celebrate the beauty of diversity.
The Nigerian International Film Summit (NIFS), Gravel Road Distribution Group, Blue Pictures Entertainment, FilmOne Entertainment, African Movie Channel, Bell Canada’s Fibe TV, speakers and panelists from the University of Limpopo in South Africa, and representatives from the City of Brampton’s Economic Development Department will be in attendance.
The opening film for TINFF 2023 is MIRAGE from Zimbabwe on September 21, while the closing film is the Canadian classic film “Chateau Laurier” on September 24, right before the closing Awards Ceremony.
The Mayor of Brampton will attend the TINFF Opening Gala on Saturday, September 23. Mr. Patrick Brown (Mayor) will deliver the Lifetime Achievement Awards to Nollywood star and actor Mr. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD).
The TINFF Closing Awards Presentation Ceremony will take place on September 24.
Where: Various
When: September 17th to 24th, View events times and schedule here
Admission: Priced. Grab your tickets here
Small Business Pop-up Events
Toronto
Sept 9th -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: September 9th, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Type of Event: Indoor Event
Admission: Free.
Application: Open. Apply here
Waterloo
Sept 9th – Black Entrepreneur Vendor Market
Celebrate the talents and creativity of local Black entrepreneurs and artisans. Find everything from unique products and professional services to flavorful cuisine in one place. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to celebrate diversity, support Black entrepreneurship, and discover amazing products and services!
Where: Waterloo Public Library – Main Library – Upper Parking Lot, 35 Albert Street Waterloo, ON N2L 5E2
When: September 9th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Admission: Free. Reserve your spot here.
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