Afro-Carib Fest Returns to Scarborough This August
Afro-Carib Fest returns to Scarborough on August 22 and 23, 2026, for its 15th annual festival. The free two-day event brings African and Caribbean music, food, dance, art, vendors, and family activities to Thomson Memorial Park.
More than 120 artists are expected to take part in this year’s programming. Guests can also check out dance competitions, workshops, a cultural parade, a DJ sound clash, kids’ activities, and food from local vendors.
Admission is free, and the festival is open to all ages.
Note: Performers, schedules, vendors, activities, and other event details may change. Check the official Afro-Carib Fest website before heading out.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT AFRO-CARIB FEST 2026
Afro-Carib Fest 2026 Details
| Date: | August 22 and 23 |
| Time: | 12 p.m to 9 p.m. |
| Address: | Thomson Memorial Park, 1005 Brimley Road, Scarborough |
| Admission: | Free |
| Ages: | All ages |
| Organizer: | Heritage Skills Development Centre |
What Is Afro-Carib Fest?
Afro-Carib Fest is an annual festival that brings African and Caribbean music, food, art, dance, and community programming together in Scarborough.
The festival returns for its 15th year in 2026, with two days of programming planned at Thomson Memorial Park. More than 120 artists are expected to take part across the weekend.
Along with performances, the festival includes food vendors, a marketplace, workshops, competitions, and activities for different age groups.
Live Music and Performances
Music and live performances make up a large part of the Afro-Carib Fest weekend.
More than 120 artists are expected to take part in the 2026 festival. Programming will cover African and Caribbean music, dance, and other live performances across both days.
A DJ sound clash is also part of the festival programming, adding another music-focused event to the weekend.
Visitor tip: Check the official festival schedule before choosing an arrival time if there is a particular performance or activity you want to see.
Food at Afro-Carib Fest
Food is another major part of Afro-Carib Fest, with vendors serving dishes connected to African and Caribbean cuisines throughout the weekend.
The festival is also introducing Taste of Afro-Carib Fest, a food competition that puts participating vendors and their dishes in the spotlight.
Guests can visit the food vendors between performances and other activities throughout both days.
Visitor tip: Food and vendor purchases are separate from festival admission, so plan accordingly if you want to try different dishes.
Activities, Workshops, and Competitions
Beyond the stage performances, Afro-Carib Fest has several activities planned throughout the weekend.
The program includes dance competitions, drum and dance workshops, a cultural parade, a DJ sound clash, raffle draws, and family activities.
Guests can also browse the vendor marketplace, where businesses and vendors will be set up during the festival.
With programming spread across both days, checking the schedule beforehand can help visitors decide which activities they want to catch.
Is Afro-Carib Fest Family-Friendly?
Yes. Afro-Carib Fest is an all-ages event with programming for adults and children.
Kids and family activities are included alongside the performances, workshops, food vendors, and marketplace.
Families planning to spend several hours at Thomson Memorial Park may want to bring water, sunscreen, and clothing suited to the weather.
Where Is Afro-Carib Fest?
Afro-Carib Fest takes place at Thomson Memorial Park, 1005 Brimley Road in Scarborough.
The park is located near Brimley Road and Lawrence Avenue East and provides an outdoor setting for the festival’s stages, vendors, food, and activities.
Guests taking public transit should check current TTC routes and weekend service updates before travelling to the park.
What to Know Before You Go
Afro-Carib Fest runs from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on August 22 and 23, giving visitors two days to check out the festival.
Admission is free, and the event is open to all ages. However, guests should plan separately for food, drinks, and purchases from vendors.
Since the event takes place outdoors, checking Toronto’s weather forecast before leaving can help with planning for the day.
Anyone hoping to catch a specific performance, competition, workshop, or parade should also review the official schedule before arriving.
What are you checking out first at Afro-Carib Fest: the food, live music, dance performances, or marketplace? Let us know what is on your list.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Afro-Carib Fest takes place on Saturday, August 22 and Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Thomson Memorial Park in Scarborough.
Yes. Admission to Afro-Carib Fest is free, and the festival is open to all ages.
Food, drinks, and items sold by individual vendors may have separate costs.
Yes. Afro-Carib Fest is an all-ages event and includes activities for kids and families.
Families can also check out the live performances, food vendors, workshops, marketplace, and other programming taking place throughout the weekend.
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