A BIG THANK YOU to everyone who celebrated the 163rd Emancipation Picnic & Festival - the longest and most continuous festival in North America - with us! We look forward to seeing you again. Be sure to join our mailing list to keep up-to-date on other activities and announcements throughout the year!

The Emancipation Festival originally called the Emancipation Day Picnic commemorates the British Commonwealth Emancipation Act of August 1, 1834. Since 1862, descendants of those who escaped slavery and found freedom and peace in Canada, have gathered in Owen Sound`s beautiful Harrison Park and other places such as the Grey Roots Museum and Archives and the BME Church of Owen Sound over the Civic holiday weekend. This is a time for fellowship and reflection with family and community, to share memories, and to keep the picnic and other traditions alive for future generations.

With sincere gratitude

The Emancipation Festival, a not-for-profit organization, is grateful for the support from government, community organizations, businesses, individuals and volunteers. We couldn’t have done this without you!