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This Friday, August 1st, the Distillery Historic District will host a powerful and celebratory public gathering to mark the 191st anniversary of Emancipation Day in Canada. Presented by Emancipation Arts, FreeUp! is a free, family-friendly event featuring live music, performances, and conversations that honor the strength and resilience of Black communities in Canada.
Hosted by acclaimed artist and cultural leader Ngozi Paul and friends, this free, family-friendly afternoon brings Toronto together through music, dance, art, and community joy.
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One of the highlights of the event will be the presentation of the Rosemary Sadlier Freedom Award to legendary playwright and visionary artist Djanet Sears for her immeasurable impact on Canadian arts and Black storytelling.
Other features and performances include
- The Recipee Band – A crowd favourite blending R&B, Gospel, Motown, Reggae & Soul with irresistible charisma.
- Charmie Deller – A Haitian-Canadian musical gem whose voice fuses Pop, Soul, and R&B with emotional power.
- ZahraMoves – A traditional West African dance and song experience from Ghana.
- Michael Mortley – High-energy Soca dance session to lift your body and spirit.
There will also be sounds from DJ MelBoogie, a high-energy trivia event celebrating Hip Hop and R&B culture from RAP SHEETS x DJ Nana & North English, and a live painting installation from renowned muralist and artist, Adrian Hayles. Also, there will be free massages (first come, first served), face painting, and painting for kids courtesy of Wellness Features.
About FREEUP!
Produced by Emancipation Arts, FREEUP! is an annual event marking Emancipation Day through art, performance, and inspiration and education. It uplifts the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Black communities past and present.
About Emancipation Arts
Emancipation Arts is a Black-led organization, founded by Ngozi Paul, committed to amplifying stories of liberation through performance, public engagement, and creative leadership.
As always, you can keep up with all the fun happenings in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area on efosa.
FREEUP! Emancipation Day 2025
When: August 1st, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: The Distillery Historic District, Toronto
Admission: Free