Brampton, July 21: The City of Brampton, in partnership with JAMBANA and Jones & Jones Productions, will celebrate Emancipation Day with the return of the JAMBANA One World Festival on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Brampton Sports Park.
The free community festival will run from 1:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., offering an exciting day of live music, cultural performances, international cuisine, local vendors and family-friendly activities that celebrate the rich heritage, culture and contributions of Black communities.
This year’s festival will feature acclaimed reggae artist Glen Washington as the headline performer, along with a diverse lineup of entertainers showcasing the vibrancy, creativity and traditions of Black culture.
Emancipation Day, observed annually on August 1, commemorates the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire following the implementation of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, which came into effect in 1834. The historic legislation paved the way to freedom for more than 800,000 enslaved Africans and their descendants, including those living in what is now Canada.
Recognized officially by the House of Commons of Canada in 2021, Emancipation Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on Canada’s history, honour the resilience of Black communities and reaffirm the ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
As part of the celebrations, the City of Brampton will also host a community-led flag-raising ceremony and official proclamation on Monday, August 3, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Ken Whillans Square, located at 41 Main Street South.
The event is supported by the City’s Black Economic, Social, Cultural, Youth & Civic Development Unit (Black Empowerment Unit), which works to advance opportunities for Brampton’s Black community through engagement, collaboration and initiatives aimed at addressing systemic anti-Black racism while promoting social, cultural, economic and civic development.
Mayor Patrick Brown encouraged residents from all backgrounds to take part in the celebrations.
“Emancipation Day is an opportunity to recognize an important chapter in our shared history while celebrating the lasting contributions of Black communities to Brampton and across Canada. JAMBANA One World Festival brings residents together through culture, music and community, and I encourage everyone to join us for this meaningful celebration,” he said.
Gwyneth Chapman, Supervisor of Brampton’s Black Economic, Social, Cultural, Youth & Civic Development Unit, said the festival reflects the strength and diversity of the community.
“JAMBANA One World Festival is a celebration of culture, resilience and community. As we commemorate Emancipation Day, we also recognize the achievements and ongoing contributions of Black residents who continue to help shape Brampton. We look forward to welcoming the community for a day of reflection, learning and celebration,” Chapman said.
The annual celebration continues to be one of Brampton’s premier multicultural events, bringing together residents of all backgrounds to honour history, celebrate diversity and strengthen community connections through music, culture and shared experiences.