Little Jamaica Festival launches this weekend in Toronto on July 13th-14th

Featuring live in concert reggae icon Tarrus Riley 

with Dean Fraser and the Black Soil Band 

 

Toronto, ON (July 11th, 2024) -  The Little Jamaica Festival of music, arts, food and culture delivers a historic weekend lineup of events July 13th-14th that celebrates the vibrancy of the neighborhood in Toronto that is affectionately referred to as "Little Jamaica". With its high concentration of Jamaican and Caribbean music shops, restaurants, grocery stores, barbershops, and historic cultural destinations (Reggae Lane), this festival plays a crucial role in celebrating the local culture, while providing a boost to local area businesses that have been adversely affected by the prolonged LRT construction and pressures of gentrification. "The Little Jamaica Festival is unique and special because it celebrates the rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit of the area," says York-Eglinton BIA chair Jason McDonald. "The festival highlights the distinct Jamaican culture through music, dance, food, and art, providing a platform for local artists and businesses to showcase their talents and offerings. It brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate diversity, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in our neighborhood. By celebrating our heritage and supporting our local businesses, we are actively working to preserve the vitality of our incredible neighborhood!" 

Headlined by Tarrus Riley, one of the most exciting reggae vocalists from Jamaica, whose list of massive hit songs ("She's Royal") and collaborations (Major Lazer, Ellie Goulding, Shenseea) is wide and expansive, racking up hundreds of millions of streams on DSP's and views on YouTube. He will be joined by five-time JUNO Award-winner Exco Levi with The High Priest Band, Freedom Mas Band, the first Jamaican Mas Band in the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, JUNO-nominated dancehall phenomenon Eyesus, the Majestic Warriors Band and much more! The festival also features one of the most incredible reggae and dancehall DJ lineups ever seen in Toronto, including Canada's Reggae Ambassador SPEX DA BOSS, Steenie, Tasha Rozez, and DJ Wayne. This family-friendly street festival will also feature dozens of cultural food vendors, a Kids Zone area for children's games, and craft activities.