SATURDAY, AUGUST 30 | 2 PM - 11 PM

Intersection is an innovative and immersive annual experimental music festival that brings together a diverse array of local performers and international artists representing a wide spectrum of musical styles and genres. The festival takes place across several unique and accessible venues in Toronto, creating an engaging and participatory experience for attendees. The festival’s free flagship event transforms the square into an all-day celebration of genre-fluid experimental music from 2-10 pm, with a curated lineup of artists that reflect the depth and nuance of unique musical artistries.

For more information, please visit: intersectionfestival.org

MOONSHINE
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 9 PM - 11 PM

Celebrating a memorable day at Sankofa Square on August 23rd, join us for an unforgettable evening and free closing party with MOONSHINE, a post-border, multidisciplinary collective renowned for lunar-aligned events and music centered on African and Afrodiasporic culture. 

Moonshine has evolved into a global movement, bringing its signature energy to cities from New York to Lisbon, Paris to London. Known for attracting a passionate and inclusive audience, the collective features resident DJs like Founder and Polaris Music Prize Winner Pierre Kwenders, Vanyfox, San Farafina, and AKAntu.

Join us from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM for a closing party that seamlessly blends music, art, and fashion into a unique experience. Celebrate with us under the stars as we honor Toronto’s rich history and cultural diversity in this revitalized space.

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SPECIAL DJ PERFORMANCE BY KARDINALL OFFISHALL AS PART OF THE iDREAM AWARDS
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | BETWEEN 7 PM - 9 PM

Get ready to experience a special highlight of Sankofa Day with a powerful FREE DJ performance by the legendary Kardinal Offishall, as part of the iDREAM Awards!

Kardinal Offishall stands as one of Canada’s most iconic multi-award-winning hip hop exports. Known for seamlessly blending Hip-Hop with Jamaican Reggae and Dancehall influences, his unique sound has landed him in the Top 5 on Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart with hits like “Dangerous” featuring Akon. With collaborations alongside superstars such as Rihanna, Drake, and Lady Gaga, Kardinal continues to influence the music world. Beyond music, his leadership role as Global A&R at Def Jam Records and commitment to social justice highlight his significant cultural impact.

The iDREAM Awards, a signature part of Sankofa Day, celebrates and supports individuals and organizations driving equity in Canada. The awards spotlight emerging voices and offer a transformative $1 million media campaign to recipients. Proceeds from the awards segment at the iDREAM Lounge support iDREAM’s mission.

Don’t miss this incredible performance and celebrate the movers and shakers shaping culture and breaking barriers!

Ticket access to the all-inclusive iDREAM Lounge are available for purchase.

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SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY NATASHA FISHER AS PART OF THE iDREAM AWARDS
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | BETWEEN 7 PM - 9 PM

Experience the enchanting performance by the talented Natasha Fisher at the iDREAM Awards, happening at Sankofa Square on August 23rd, between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Join us for this special highlight of Sankofa Day as Natasha takes the stage with her unique blend of pop and alternative music. 

Hailing from Northwestern Ontario, Natasha Fisher is a gifted vocalist and songwriter whose songs blend traditional pop and alternative genres. With edgy melodies and heartfelt storytelling, her music captures the journey of heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery. Adding depth and authenticity, Natasha incorporates Indigenous (Anishinaabe) elements into her work, reflecting her deep connection to her culture and community.

Through her music career, Natasha has dedicated herself to touring First Nations communities, addressing crucial issues like addictions and mental health through her performances. Her music invites listeners into a journey of independence, recovery, and resilience, resonating with a raw, emotional energy that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

The iDREAM Awards, a signature part of Sankofa Day, celebrate and support individuals and organizations driving equity in Canada. Shining a spotlight on emerging voices, the awards offer recipients a transformative $1 million media campaign. Proceeds from the awards segment at the iDREAM Lounge support iDREAM’s mission.

Don’t miss this captivating performance and celebrate the voices shaping culture and breaking barriers!
Ticket access to the all-inclusive iDREAM Lounge are available for purchase.

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iDREAM AWARDS
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 7 PM - 9 PM

iDREAM is committed to leveraging its platforms to support Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, and underrepresented communities across art, entrepreneurship, film, music, and sport. The awards spotlight emerging voices who are shaping culture and breaking barriers, offering recipients a transformative $1 million media campaign to amplify their impact. The iDREAM Lounge in Sankofa Square will host the Awards.

Want to attend the iDREAM Awards?
Tickets with access to the iDREAM Lounge are available for purchase.

Proceeds for the awards segment in support iDREAM's mission.

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AFRIQUE LIKE ME — AFRICAN ELECTRONIC DJ SET
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 4 PM - 7 PM

Groove to the vibrant sounds of Afrique Like Me, the Toronto-based collective comprising Razaq El Toro, Martin Ses, and Sonic Griot for an African Electronic DJ Set.

Afrique Like Me curates dynamic musical experiences that celebrate art, electronic dance, underground, and alternative music from Africa and the diaspora. Pioneers of Eko Electronic—a fusion of alternative electronic music, funk, underground elements, West African music, and Afrobeats the collective has become a staple on Toronto’s social calendar.

Since its beginnings as an intimate after-hours party in the city's west end, Afrique Like Me has evolved into hosting events in unconventional spaces and performing at major festivals like Electric Island, Pride Toronto, Bloom, and Lumaterra. Having shared the stage with renowned acts such as Francis Mercier and Shimza, their music transcends boundaries and connects audiences worldwide.

Join us for this exhilarating set and immerse yourself in the rich, diverse cultural tapestry that Toronto celebrates. Let’s dance together and honour the uniqueness of African diasporic sound.

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JERK X JOLLOF — FREE DAY EVENT

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 1 PM - 4 PM

Celebrate Afro-Caribbean culture at Sankofa Square with Jerk X Jollof’s free day event on August 23rd! From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, join us for a vibrant celebration that brings together art, music, community, and delicious food inspired by the African and Caribbean diaspora. This event is a special opportunity to experience and support African and Caribbean talent and influence, right in the heart of Toronto.

Founded in Ann Arbor and established in Detroit in 2016, Jerk X Jollof is dedicated to nourishing the connection between African and Caribbean culture and expanding its influence beyond the U.S. Through curated events and collaborations at Art Basel, BET, festivals, and conferences, Jerk X Jollof has become a platform for showcasing legendary artists like Seun Kuti, DJ Lag, Sister Nancy, and Chronixx. Their mission is simple: to create a space for everyone to celebrate Afro-Caribbean culture and community.

Enjoy an afternoon filled with art, music, and delicious food inspired by the rich flavors of the African and Caribbean diaspora, as Jerk X Jollof continues to build bridges between cultures and inspire new generations.

This event is free and open to all. Come experience the vibrancy, spirit, and unity of Afro-Caribbean culture in Toronto!

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HOOPQUEENS BASKETBALL EXPERIENCE
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 1 PM - 7 PM

Get ready for an empowering community sports event at Sankofa Square on August 23rd! From 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, join us for a free community basketball experience and celebration of diversity in sports with HOOPQUEENS, proudly sponsored by the Toronto Raptors. Plus a grand prize and giveaways of Toronto Tempo merchandise.

HOOPQUEENS is revolutionizing the game—building a bold, innovative pipeline for women’s basketball on and off the court. From grassroots to elite competition, they’re shifting how the sport is viewed, celebrated, and supported. As the home of The League, Canada’s first professional women’s basketball league, HOOPQUEENS champions visibility, compensation, and high-level play for women athletes at every stage.

Programming throughout the day to include:

• 12pm -7pm: Bracelet Bar and merch table

• 1pm - 2pm: Toronto Basketball Trivia

• 2pm - 3pm: Coaching Clinic Group A (Ages 4–6 & 7–10)

• 3pm - 4pm: Coaching Clinic Group B (Ages 11–14)

• 4pm - 5pm: Fan Competition (3-point content, skills relay and more)

• 5pm - 7pm: HOOPQUEENS Skills competition

Sankofa Day is a powerful celebration of legacy, identity, and community. Keesa Koomalsingh, Founder and CEO of HOOPQUEENS, shares:

“This isn’t just about basketball but about showing up boldly, owning your story, and inspiring the next generation to do the same. We believe in creating space where women athletes, especially Black women, can be seen, valued, and empowered.”

Bring your energy, cheer on local talent, and connect through sport in this vibrant space that honors Toronto’s rich diversity and cultural heritage.

Let us know you're joining us! Get your free ticket today!

REGISTER AND LEARN MORE

Important note: This registration is to help us plan for attendance. Participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the event. Early arrival is encouraged.

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TORONTO RAPTORS BASKETBALL CLINIC
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 12 PM - 1 PM | CHECK-IN BEGINS 11:15 AM

Kick off Sankofa Day with an exciting community basketball clinic led by the Toronto Raptors, generously supported by Canada Basketball! Join us on August 23rd from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM for a fun-filled session open to youth and the community. Plus, don’t miss the limited basketball drop in partnership with renowned designer Nicole Nomsa Moyo!

The Raptors will lead the activation, starting with an introduction and cheer at noon, followed by dynamic activities designed to build skills and foster team spirit:

➡️ 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM– Check in

➡️ 12:00 PM – Welcome + Raptors Cheer

➡️ 12:05 PM – 12:15 PM – Warm-up + Team Building Game

➡️ 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM – Skill Stations (shooting, passing, dribbling, defense)

➡️ 12:45 PM – 1:00 PM – Shooting Game + Closing Remarks

This is a fantastic opportunity for participants of all ages to learn, improve their basketball skills, and have fun outside their comfort zone. It’s about community, movement, and developing fundamental skills that last a lifetime.

Limited Raptors Clinic spots available! Book your free spot today!

Limit of two (2) tickets per order. Tickets are on first-come, first-served basis. Check-in at the court on Sankofa Square required by 11:45am or your spot may be released to the rush line.

REGISTER AND LEARN MORE

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CARIBBEAN FILM FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 11:30AM - 1 PM

Dive into the captivating world of Caribbean cinema with free short-film screenings presented by the Caribbean Film Festival at Sankofa Square on August 23rd! Join us from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM for an inspiring showcase of films celebrating diverse stories and voices.

The Caribbean Film Festival, a world-class destination for Caribbean cinema, serves as the central hub uniting islands under a shared love for storytelling. Dedicated to reviving the Caribbean film industry, its mission is to showcase the region’s top talent on screen and behind the scenes — all in support of representation, reclaiming narratives, and creating opportunities for new voices. The festival was founded by renowned filmmaker Asha Lovelace and continues to energize the industry with compelling stories from across the Caribbean.

Featured screenings include films from talented filmmakers like Ghanaian-British director Curtis Essel, Trinidadian cinematographer Walt Lovelace, Toronto-based Muslim Indo-Caribbean filmmaker Yazmeen Kanji, Haitian director Samuel Frantz Suffren, and many more! Each film embodies vision, persistence, and the shared goal to energize and ignite new waves in the region’s film and multimedia industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience unique and powerful storytelling celebrating the richness of Caribbean culture.

Limited seating available—register now to secure your spot!

Let us know you're joining us!
Important note: This registration is to help us plan for attendance. Participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the event. Early arrival is encouraged.

LINEUP

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EVERYONE VS RACISM GRAFFITI PROJECT, 2025
PRESENTED BY SPEEDY TRANSPORT

Artists: Jessey Pacho (Art of Phade) + Kedre Browne (Bubz)
Organizers: SZTG + iDREAM + StreetARToronto

This project transforms a 53-foot transport truck trailer into a moving mural, using art to challenge racism and promote unity. Each year, a new group of artists creates a powerful visual message that travels across North America.

THE STORY BEHIND THE ART
Inspired by the events of 2020, this initiative is presented by Speedy Transport. The company's president, Jared Martin, believes in using their platform for a positive social message, stating that if they lose business over the project, it's "the right business to lose."

For six years, artists have come together for one day to create these visually impactful installations. The finished trailers serve as a celebration of culture and a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in eradicating racism.

SUPPORTED BY: Speedy Transport + iDREAM + StreetARToronto + Motive Media + MANAC

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ALICIA “ACE” WEST, SANKOFA DAY HOST
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 10 AM - 11 PM

The dynamic Alicia "ACE" West is our host for Sankofa Day, with exciting travel giveaways from Intrepid Travel.

Alicia “Ace” West is an on-air personality, podcaster, and sports host from Toronto. She is the host of “Ace and Marlon in the Morning,” the newest morning radio show on Flow 98.7. Alicia hosts a parenting podcast called “Wait…I’m a Mom?!” where she chats with notable mothers about their journey to and through motherhood. Formerly a co-host on the wildly popular podcast Extra Gravy Show, you can catch Ace making history on the field side of the pitch as the stadium host for the Northern Super League’s AFC Toronto, the first professional women’s soccer league in Canada.

A true trailblazer, Alicia was the sole female PA announcer for Canada’s CEBL Scarborough Shooting Stars, in-stadium host for Toronto Argos and founded "Just Ace It" — empowering youth and women of colour to achieve their goals through initiatives like the Love Yourz Project and an annual Back-To-School drive. Her impressive career across Detroit, New York, and D.C. includes collaborations with industry giants like Russell Simmons and Will Smith.

Named among 2019's Top 100 Black Women in Canada and a BumbleBizz Top 25 Trailblazing Women in Toronto, Alicia "ACE" West is the perfect host for our vibrant celebration.

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SANKOFA DAY: OPENING CEREMONY
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 10 AM - 11 PM

Hosted by Alicia “ACE” West, the Opening Ceremony sets the tone for the day with a series of acknowledgements and messages, including:

Indigenous Welcome
The ceremony begins with an Indigenous ceremonial welcome by Knowledge Keeper & Elder Daniel Secord from the Mississauga Nation (Nishinaabek), of the Three Fires Confederacy People, followed by an Indigenous cultural performance.

African Ancestral Acknowledgements
The Ghanaian-Canadian Association of Ontario (GCAO) delivers the African Ancestral Acknowledgements, featuring welcome messages from Emmanuel Duodu, President of GCAO, followed by a Ghanaian cultural performance.

Community & City Remarks
The ceremony will also feature remarks from key partners, city officials, and other dignitaries, including:

• Vice Chair Simon Wong and Treasurer Samantha Summers, Sankofa Square Board of Management

• Kemba Byam, Manager, City of Toronto’s Confronting Anti-Black Racism Unit

Ashley McKenzie-Barnes, Creative Director and Founder, D.PE Agency, who will provide an overview of the new Sankofa Square brand.

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SANKOFA DAY FREE MORNING RUN
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 | 8 AM - 10 AM

The Sankofa Day Run: Let's Run. Chip. Walk. Together.

Start your day with movement and community at the official launch of Sankofa Square on August 23rd! Join Hill Run Club, alongside friends like Ultra Black, for a free morning run from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with pre-run warm-up and post-run cool down led by Unchained Athletics.

Founded by Allison Hill, Hill Run Club aims to deepen community connections through fitness and mindfulness. As a body positive, size inclusive, and culturally sensitive mindful running club, it provides a safe space for self-identifying Black Women runners of all levels.

Our friends at Ultra Black are committed to connecting the Black community to wellness resources and supporting holistic well-being. Together, we invite individuals of all backgrounds and fitness levels to walk, jog, or run. It’s not just about movement, but about community and reclaiming space together.

The word “Sankofa” comes from the Akan language of Ghana and means “to go back and get it,” reminding us that building forward includes remembering, restoring, and moving as one.

Join us for this empowering run and celebrate the vibrancy and cultural diversity of Toronto. Let’s embrace resilience, discipline, and coming together as a community.

MORE INFO & REGISTRATION

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 16 | 12 PM - 7 PM

King’s Plate Garden Party will take over Sankofa Square, engaging passersby and building excitement for the King’s Plate race. Attendees will be able to enjoy live race streaming, interactive games, food offerings, and a beer garden. The event will bring the thrill of the King’s Plate to the heart of Toronto in a fun, immersive experience.

For more information, please visit: woodbine.com

FRIDAY, AUGUST 15 | 3 PM - 9 PM

Let’s keep the summer vibes alive, Toronto! Melanin Market is back at Sankofa Square, and this time, we’re turning up the heat for Emancipation Month with a celebration of freedom, culture, and community.

Shop, eat, and connect with some of the GTA’s best Black and POC-owned vendors, enjoy delicious food, and experience a music lineup that’s pure fire:

🎤 LOTI: Afro R&B sensation blending soulful vocals with Afrobeat heat.
🎤 Deelo Avery: Smooth Afro-fusion soul with bold beats.
🎤 Brandyn Leo: High-energy performer bringing undeniable stage presence.
🎧 DJ IntroSPKT: Serving the perfect soundtrack for the day.
🎧 DJ CookieDOH: Turning up the tempo with Afrobeats and Dancehall bangers.
🔥 BuckJutsu: Toronto-based krumping crew. Feel every stomp, hit, and chest pop as they channel pure emotion into movement and bring battle spirit to the downtown core.

For more information, please visit: melaninmarket.ca

SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 | 12 PM - 11 PM

Welcome to the Toronto Diversity Festival! 

Join us for the TDF2025 filled with celebration, culture, and community. This in-person Toronto Diversity Festival showcases the rich tapestry of diversity that makes Toronto so special. 

Experience a variety of performances, delicious food from around the world, interactive workshops, and more. Connect with people from different backgrounds and celebrate what makes us unique. 

Let's come together to embrace inclusivity, learn from one another, and have a great time. Join in the fun to celebrate the spirit of oneness and “Unity in Diversity." 

For more information, please visit: mokshacanada.com/events

SATURDAY, JULY 26 | 12 PM - 8 PM

The Indonesian Food Festival (IFF) is a flagship cultural event that celebrates the richness of Indonesia’s culinary delights, arts, tourism, and heritage. Hosted every summer by the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Toronto, the festival thrives thanks to the enthusiastic support of the Indonesian community and diaspora across the Greater Toronto Area.

This year, IFF returns to the heart of Toronto at Sankofa Square, formerly Yonge-Dundas Square, on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. During the festival hours, a constant live performance will be held on stage to showcase Indonesian arts and culture, through traditional and contemporary music and dance, as well as martial arts demonstration. IFF 2025 offers a truly immersive experience of Wonderful Indonesia, inviting visitors to explore its diverse heritage through arts, culture, and - most notably- its flavorful and authentic Indonesian cuisine.

For more information please visit: www.kemlu.go.id/toronto

THURSDAY, JULY 24 | 10 AM - 1 PM

Celebrate Intrepid Day with Us! Join us for an immersive travel-inspired experience packed with prizes, stories, and adventure. Complete your Virtual Passport on-site to unlock: A spin of the prize wheel for exclusive Intrepid swag Promotional Content Brief Commercial 🎟 Entry into our hourly raffle to win a Golden Ticket—$500 toward your next Intrepid trip Come curious. Leave inspired. #BeIntrepid #IntrepidDay #TravelForGood

For more information please visit: intrepidtravel.com/ca

THURSDAY, JUNE 26 | 4 PM - 9 PM

Event details coming soon.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25 | 2 PM - 9 PM

This summer, Sankofa Square proudly presents Melanin Market — a vibrant, community-rooted marketplace dedicated to celebrating Black and People of Colour entrepreneurs, artists, and performers. More than just a shopping experience, Melanin Market is a cultural celebration that brings together local creators, families, and visitors for unforgettable afternoons of music, food, art, and connection.

FEATURING

Artisan Market: Explore a diverse range of Black women-owned vendors specializing in health, wellness and style.

Music Vibes: Groove to the sounds of DJ CookieDoh (@iamcookiedoh) and DJ INTROSPKT (@introspkt), TASH (@tashtoonuff), Sewa (@askaboutsewa), and more!

7:00 PM: Sunset TrapSoul Yoga class presented by The Villij
Free and open to everyone. TrapSoul Yoga is a soulful Hatha practice designed to help you tune into your body, quiet your mind, and reconnect — all while vibing to smooth, soulful beats. Good for all levels, especially those new to yoga. Bring your own mat. Arrive by 6:30 PM to claim your spot, class starts at 7:00 PM sharp. Register in advance or show up on the day.

For more information, please visit: melaninmarket.ca