From amazing vendors to incredible performances, Afraspektion 2026 was a blast! This was its fifth year, and a huge thank you to everyone who continued to show up and support!
Oddside Arts and the Riverside BIA would like to thank all of you who attended this year’s festival to celebrate the Afrodiaspora’s contributions to culture and to commemorate Emancipation Month with the Riverside community.
We would also like to recognize the funding support that helped make this possible: thanks to the City of Toronto’s Cultural Festival Funding Program, Hullmark, Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council and the Government of Canada Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative and the Riverside BIA.
In case you missed it, here’s a recap of some of the increadible programming of Afraspektion 2026. See you all again next year!
Oddside Arts’s Nico Taylor and Queen Kukoyi kicked off Afraspektion with opening remarks
Rev. Kemba Byam blessed the space with a special libation
Drag meets science in Dr. Rawbyn Diamonds’ special interactive performance for the festival
Cool prizes were up for grabs in a game of Superhero Pictionary with cosplayers WonderWoman905, TrinidadianSuga and CeeeMarie
Visitors were invited to join in on a live drumming session with Babarinde “Baba” Williams
DJ Ace Dillinger brought the beats to Afraspektion
Several local businesses showcased their products at Afraspektion, including Hook and Peel Crochet
Chef Lee gave us a peek of the magic that happens in his kitchen with a live cooking demo
Guests witnessed ballroom excellence and took part in fun activities, courtesy of The House of Monroe
The Moko Jumbie Stiltwalkers looked whimsical during their performance
Kids got to enjoy many fun free activities such as face painting and community doodle
Follow @riverside_bia on Instagram and check the Riverside Blog regularly for updates on exciting programming and community events happening in the neighbourhood!