70+ vendors, 45 cultural performances; the 34th AFROFEST solidifies their title as the largest African Festival in the diaspora

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

As I moved slowly through the crowd, all I could think to myself was “Please do not drop these.”

I was carrying two hollowed out watermelons that were filled with slushy, sweet, fresh watermelon juice. It was a warm day, not too hot, just perfect, and I knew that this was exactly what I needed.

It was Saturday, July 7^th, 2022, and my sister and I had made our way down to AFROFEST! It was earlier in the day, and when we got there the park had already started to fill up. Once we stepped into Woodbine Park, I became lost in the sights, sounds, and wonders of everything that is Africa. The team at AFROFEST did an incredible job of putting together a three-day festival that showcased the diverse and beautiful nature of cultures throughout Africa.

They were celebrating their 34^th year, so they went all out. This year they had 70+ vendors, 45 cultural performances, and in their marketing they said 120,000 visitors, but to be honest, I think they surpassed that number. They had everything there: high-end African fashion, African and West Indian cuisine, and a cornucopia of accessories, skin care products, and jewellery.

As we made our way through the oasis of vendors, we came to the Children’s Creative Village. This area was reserved for toddlers who were introduced to elements of African. They had: face painting happening, as well as storytelling.

I heard the drums before I saw them; you could feel the vibration of the drums through the ground and in your soul. Drumming is an integral part of African culture, and they hold a very special place in African history and culture. In the Western world, drums are usually seen as forms of entertainment, but in Africa, drums hold various symbolic meanings that have played an important part in the history of the people who call the continent their home.

From the drumming we headed to the main stage. We were greeted by the sound of Afrobeats. I noticed a familiar face on stage, Trixx, Canada’s very own comedic star, and as per usual, he had people chuckling, and fighting back their laughter. As we maneuvered through the growing crowd, we noticed that there was another stage. I came to learn that the planners had strategically organized two stages: one of the stages hosted experienced local and International artists, and the other stage (Baobab Stage) was reserved for emerging artists and talent.

As the day slowly crept into the night, visitors to AFROFEST were treated to: a DJ exhibition showcasing some of the best African DJs in Toronto, and a fashion show. They had an interactive element added this year with a daily cash prize of $350.00 that was awarded to the best male and female individuals who were dressed in African or African inspired attire. They even had “Fashion Police” on site, which I thought was pretty entertaining.

After a two-year hiatus, AFROFEST came full force and produced an event that has set the tone for what is to be expected when you come to visit Toronto. Great work team! The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper team congratulates you for continuing to highlight the best of African culture.