⸺ August 20–23, 2026 · Windsor, ON

Event Line-Up

Four days of culture, music, dance and carnival across the city, from boardroom to riverfront to parade route. Here’s everything happening, and where to be.

The Schedule

Six events. One unforgettable weekend.

01 Thu, Aug 20

Business Symposium

Kick off WIDA Fest 2026 by connecting with business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and community stakeholders at the WIDA Fest Business Symposium. This dynamic forum explores opportunities in international trade, entrepreneurship, innovation, tourism, and economic development while fostering meaningful partnerships between African, Caribbean, and Canadian businesses. Through panel discussions, networking sessions, and keynote presentations, participants will gain valuable insights and build lasting connections that strengthen economic collaboration across the African Diaspora.

02 Fri, Aug 21

Drum Festival

Experience the heartbeat of the African Diaspora at the WIDA Fest Drum Festival. This captivating celebration showcases the rich traditions of African and Caribbean drumming through live performances, cultural demonstrations, and interactive experiences. Audiences will witness the powerful rhythms, dances, and storytelling that have united communities for generations, celebrating the enduring cultural heritage that continues to inspire people around the world.

03 Fri, Aug 21

Fête En Blanc (All White Party)

Dress in your finest white attire and join one of WIDA Fest’s signature social events — Fête En Blanc. This elegant evening brings together music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and festival patrons for an unforgettable night of live entertainment, Caribbean and international music, dancing, and celebration. Set in a sophisticated atmosphere, Fête En Blanc offers guests an opportunity to network, celebrate, and experience the vibrant energy of the African and Caribbean Diaspora in style.

04 Sat, Aug 22

J'Ouvert After Dark

As midnight arrives, the spirit of Carnival comes alive with J’Ouvert After Dark at Dieppe Park. Rooted in the history of emancipation and freedom, J’Ouvert is one of the most authentic expressions of Caribbean Carnival culture. Participants celebrate through music, dance, paint, powder, and joyous revelry as they welcome the dawn together — officially launching Carnival Day with excitement and tradition along Windsor’s beautiful riverfront.

05 Sat, Aug 22

WIDA Fest Parade

The WIDA Fest Parade is the festival’s premier event, transforming the streets of Windsor into a spectacular display of colour, music, creativity, and cultural pride. Featuring vibrant masquerade bands, elaborate costumes, steelpan music, live performers, dancers, cultural groups, and international participants, the parade celebrates the diversity and heritage of the African and Caribbean Diaspora — the excitement, pageantry, and community spirit that make WIDA Fest one of Canada’s fastest-growing multicultural festivals.

06 Sun, Aug 23

WIDA Fest Wrap-Up Celebration

Conclude an unforgettable weekend at the WIDA Fest Wrap-Up Celebration in Lanspeary Park. This family-friendly event brings together festival participants, performers, volunteers, sponsors, and the community to celebrate the success of WIDA Fest 2026. Enjoy live entertainment, cultural performances, delicious international cuisine, marketplace vendors, and opportunities to reflect on the festival’s achievements while strengthening the friendships and connections built throughout the weekend.