On July 6 and 7, 2013, Toronto hosted Afrofest, which was back for its 25th year. The festival took place at Woodbine Park. Afrofest celebrates African culture, heritage, and music.
Torontonians of all ages made their way out to Woodbine Park to witness and experience the amazing performances and festivities that surrounded them.
President of Music Africa, Michael Stohr says, “It’s the right festival in the right place at the right time.” Stohr ad’s, “We are coming together with a love for Africa, it’s an African event, but it’s a multicultural event. It’s an event that celebrates multiculturalism and diversity.” Stohr also said that Woodbine Park is a great venue for Afrofest, and that “It takes a lot of energy to put this on.”
Throughout the entire day and night, vendors stood outside and served thousands of people. Vendor/Concession Coordinator, Velda Vuo said, “We have a variety of vendors selling arts and crafts, national foods, local foods, all sorts of things. There is something for everybody.”
The vendors smiled and greeted each and every individual looking to get a snack, a drink, or buy a souvenir. There were also activities for children including making crafts, and face-painting.
Artistic Director, Peter Toh also shared his thoughts on the festival. “My favourite part about the festival is the festival itself, you come in here – you see the music, you see the vendors, each of them selling some part of Africa, you see the arts and crafts people selling some part of Africa, you see the main stage with established acts, and the smaller stage with up-and-coming artists. There is something for everybody.”
As the day moved forward, the rain began pouring; however, that didn’t stop people from having fun. In front of the stage, people were dancing to the music, laughing, singing, and even jumping around in the mud, Whether the sky was blue with blazing heat, or the sky was dark with pouring rain, it didn’t stop people from celebrating the 25th year of Afrofest. It was, as Stohr had said, “It’s the right festival in the right place at the right time.”
Referenced: East Yorker Friday July 12, 2013 – Issue 008 – info@eastyorker.ca
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