​​BRAMPTON, ON (July 21, 2026) – The City of Brampton is inviting residents to celebrate Emancipation Day at the JAMBANA One World Festival on Monday, August 3, at the Brampton Sports Park. Presented in partnership with JAMBANA and Jones & Jones Productions, the free festival brings together live music, cultural performances, food, vendors and family-friendly activities in celebration of Black history, culture and community.

​Exco Levi and High Priest perform at JAMBANA in Brampton 2025. Credit: City of Brampton​

Save the Date | JAMBANA One World Festival

Date: Monday, August 3, 2026

Time: 1 to 8:30 p.m.

Location: Brampton Sports Park, 7575 Kennedy Road

This year's event features a headline performance by reggae artist Glen Washington, alongside an exciting lineup of live entertainment and experiences that showcase the richness and diversity of Black culture.​

Emancipation Day

Observed annually on August 1, Emancipation Day commemorates the abolition of slavery of people of African descent across the British Empire, including Canada. It marks the day the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect in 1834, paving the way to freedom for more than 800,000 enslaved Africans and their descendants. Officially recognized by the House of Commons in 2021, Emancipation Day encourages Canadians to reflect on this history, recognize the resilience and contributions of Black communities and continue advancing equity and inclusion.

Flag raising

In addition to the festival, the City will recognize Emancipation Day through a community-led flag raising and an official proclamation.

Date: August 3, 2026

Time: 10 a.m.

Location: Ken Whillans Square, 41 Main St S, Brampton, ON

Learn more at brampton.ca/events.

Brampton's Black Economic, Social, Cultural, Youth & Civic Development Unit (Black Empowerment Unit)

The City's Black Economic, Social, Cultural, Youth & Civic​ Development Unit works to advance the social, cultural, economic, civic and youth development of Brampton's Black community by dismantling systemic anti-Black racism through ongoing engagement, collaboration and action. 

Learn more at brampton.ca/beu​.​

Quotes

“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.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton​

“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.” - Gwyneth Chapman, Supervisor, Black Economic, Social, Cultural, Youth & Civic Development Unit (Black Empowerment Unit)

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About Experience Brampton

Experience Brampton brings to life the city’s Sport Tourism, Arts & Culture, Special Events and Culinary offerings. In 2025, the City supported 25 sport tourism events and 13 festivals through the Tourism Sponsorship Program. From vibrant festivals and public art to hidden gems and family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone to discover. Plan your next adventure at experiencebrampton.ca and follow Experience Brampton on X, Facebook and Instagram.