ELORA – The Centre Wellington Family FunDay Festival is returning to Bissell Park in Elora on Labour Day weekend.
Aug. 31 is the day; Bissell Park the location and 11am to 6pm the hours of operation.
This free, family-friendly celebration is hosted by the Centre Wellington Black Committee (CWBC) and promises a full day of music, fashion, games, and community connection.
Music
Headlining the festival is reggae Jay Douglas, whose soulful voice and timeless stage presence will bring classic Caribbean vibes to the heart of Elora.
In celebration of Bob Marley’s 80th birthday year, the festival proudly presents the I-Threes Tribute – a powerful homage to Marley’s iconic backing vocalists: Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt, and Marcia Griffiths.
This tribute features Toronto’s Kristin Lasonta, Diane James, and Mel C.
The musical lineup also includes a one-hour soca dance party by Caribana Ignite Kitchener, a performance by local superstar Paul Whitaker, and two rising Afrobeat stars.
Davy Sage is a Nigerian-Canadian artist based in Toronto, known for his infectious rhythms and smooth vocals.
Buggati Bonsu is a Ghanaian-Canadian performer whose fusion of hip hop, soul, and Afro-Caribbean sounds brings fresh energy to the stage.
Fashion
The fashion show returns for its fourth year, bringing bold style and powerful storytelling to the runway.
Featured this year:
– Karger Gallery Elora – showcasing local artistry and innovation;
– Ms Meri Mak of Guelph – known for expressive designs that celebrate individuality; and
– Anya Upadhyay, a 12-year-old student of JD Hogarth, whose “WEAR FOR CHANGE” collection empowers youth through sustainable fashion.
“Her work brings incredible depth and meaning to this year’s showcase, amplifying a message of creativity, responsibility, and empowerment,” said officials.
Fun and Games
Beyond the music and fashion, festival goers can enjoy a full slate of interactive fun.
Activities include:
– Creative kids zone – crafts, face painting, and interactive art stations;
– vendor village;
– food truck fiesta;
– second annual domino tournament;
– tug of war competition – featuring a crowd-favorite showdown: CW firefighters vs festival attendees;
– egg and spoon race;
– seniors: toss and win game and needle and thread race; and
– slacklines for children.
“This year’s festival is a celebration of legacy, rhythm, and togetherness,” says festival founder and chair Millicent Gordon.
Admission is free, although donations are accepted by e-transfer at cwblackcommittee.ca or in cash on-site. Bring your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and festival spirit.
Parking is available on-site, with shuttle service from Fergus and Elora.
For full event details, volunteer and vendor registration, visit cwblackcommittee.ca.
About CWBC
The CWBC is a vibrant grassroots organization committed to celebrating Black heritage, amplifying underrepresented voices, and fostering inclusive community connections.
Through initiatives such as the CW Family FunDay Festival and the Awakened Voices Narratives series, CWBC creates platforms for storytelling, education, and cultural expression – highlighting the lived experiences and contributions of Black Canadians past and present.
The committee draws inspiration from historical figures including Richard Pierpoint, a formerly enslaved Black Loyalist who settled in the region and fought for justice and dignity in the face of adversity.
His legacy of resilience and leadership continues to guide CWBC’s mission to uplift, empower, and unite.
