​​​Two July events invite residents and visitors to experience Somali and Swahili culture, food, music and storytelling

BRAMPTON, ON (June 29, 2026) – Brampton’s summer event season continues this July with two community celebrations honouring Somali Heritage Month and Swahili Heritage Month. Residents and visitors are invited to experience the cultures, traditions, food, music and stories of Somali and Swahili communities at Brampton City Hall.

Through community flag raisings, live cultural performances, poetry, storytelling and cuisine, the events offer meaningful ways to learn, connect and celebrate the communities helping shape Brampton’s cultural identity.

​Somali Heritage Month

Somali Heritage Month Community Flag Raising & Reception

Date: Sunday, July 5, 2026

Time: 1 to 3 p.m.

Location: Brampton City Hall

Somali Heritage Month honours the culture, traditions and community contributions of the Somali community. Credit: City of Brampton

The celebration begins with a community flag raising at Ken Whillans Square, followed by an afternoon reception in the West Tower Lunchroom featuring cultural performances, poetry, networking and traditional Somali cuisine.

Brampton is home to one of the largest Somali communities in Ontario, with contributions strengthening the city’s social, cultural and economic fabric. This event is held in partnership with Amani Gardens Community Network (AGCN). 

Learn more at brampton.ca/somaliheritagemonth​.

Swahili Heritage Month

​Swahili Heritage Month Community Flag Raising & Reception

​Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026

Time: 2 to 4:30 p.m.

Location: Brampton City Hall ​

 Swahili Heritage Month celebrates Swahili language, culture and storytelling. Credit: City of Brampton

The Swahili Heritage Month celebration will begin with a community flag raising at Ken Whillans Square, followed by traditional music, dance, storytelling, poetry and authentic East African cuisine in City Hall Atrium.

Swahili Heritage Month celebrates Swahili culture, people and language. This month also aligns with World Kiswahili Language Day, recognized annually on July 7 by UNESCO, highlighting the significance of the Swahili language and its role in fostering cultural diversity, awareness and peace.

This event is held in partnership with Swahili Heritage Brampton. 

Learn more at brampton.ca/swahiliheritagemonth .

Residents and visitors are encouraged to take part in these celebrations and experience the cultural heritage, artistic expression and community stories adding to Brampton’s summer event season.​

Quotes

“Brampton is a beautiful mosaic of cultures, traditions and communities, and our heritage month celebrations provide opportunities to learn from one another and celebrate the rich contributions that make our city so vibrant. I encourage residents to join us in recognizing Somali Heritage Month and Swahili Heritage Month and to experience the traditions, stories and community spirit these celebrations have to offer.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton​