Afro Festival Ottawa expands to three days with international headliners for its biggest celebration

The festival expands to three days with international headliners, cultural experiences, and free admission at Mooney’s Bay

OTTAWA, Ontario — Afro Festival Ottawa is entering a new chapter in its growth. For the first time since its inception, the festival will take place over three days, from September 11 to 13, 2026, at Mooney's Bay Park and Beach in Ottawa. Following a record-breaking 2025 edition that welcomed more than 20,000 festivalgoers, the expanded format reflects the continued growth of one of Canada's fastest-growing celebrations of African cultures.

This year's festival will feature an outstanding lineup of internationally acclaimed artists, including Rotimi, Mr P-Square, Kidum, Nonso Amadi, Nqobile, JEA, and DJ Bullet.

Beyond the live performances, attendees can enjoy a diverse cultural program featuring dance performances, fashion showcases, interactive workshops, family activities, authentic African cuisine, and a vibrant marketplace highlighting local entrepreneurs, artisans, and community organizations.

The festival will be hosted by MC Innoce and journalist and broadcaster Femi Lawson.

"Over the past seven years, Afro Festival Ottawa has become a landmark cultural event in Canada's capital. Expanding to three days allows us to showcase more artists, offer even more activities for families, and create new opportunities for people to discover the richness and diversity of African cultures. We are proud to welcome internationally recognized performers this year while continuing to provide a free, inclusive, and community-driven festival," said MC Innoce, host of Afro Festival Ottawa 2026.

Among this year's new additions are the Afro Fest Nights, two official after-parties taking place on September 11 and 12 at The Palace Ottawa, giving festivalgoers the opportunity to celebrate alongside artists and special guests. The festival will also introduce its inaugural Cultural Forum, officially launching the festival on opening day. Members of the media, community leaders, partners, and the public are invited to attend this new discussion series featuring four panelists from the cultural, community, and entrepreneurial sectors. Together, they will explore a timely topic focused on the realities, opportunities, and future of African communities. Additional details, including the panel theme and speakers, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Additional artists and special guests will also be announced in the coming weeks.

Festival programming will run daily from 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Mooney's Bay Park and Beach. Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance as capacity is limited. A separate ticket is required for each festival day.

About Africa live Canada

Africa Live Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting African cultures through inclusive arts and cultural programming that fosters creativity, entrepreneurship, intercultural dialogue, and social inclusion. Its flagship event, Afro Festival Ottawa, is one of Canada's fastest-growing celebrations of African cultures. Held annually at Mooney's Bay Park and Beach, the free festival welcomes thousands of visitors to enjoy live music, food, fashion, arts, family programming, and immersive cultural experiences.