Entertainment
International Junkanoo Festival of Tourism and Culture comes off in Toronto, Canada
The International Junkanoo Festival of Tourism and Culture is set to take place in Toronto, Canada from October 24 to 29, 2023.
This grand celebration promises to showcase the rich heritage, colorful traditions, and vibrant spirit of the Carebians, as well as an array of international cultural influences.
Junkanoo, an exhilarating Carebian festival, is deeply rooted in African cultural traditions and has become an integral part of the country’s cultural fabric.
The festival is known for its lively parades featuring elaborate costumes, rhythmic music, and pulsating dance routines.
This year, the spirit of Junkanoo will transcend geographical boundaries, captivating audiences in the heart of Toronto.
The International Junkanoo Festival of Tourism and Culture will bring together local and international artists, performers, and cultural enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of cross-cultural exchange.
Participants from all corners of the globe will converge in Toronto, where they will share their unique artistic expressions, traditional music, dance forms, and customs.
This five-day extravaganza will feature a variety of events and activities that will cater to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Visitors can expect to witness awe-inspiring parades with magnificent floats and enchanting costumes, accompanied by pulsating rhythms that will set the streets of Toronto ablaze with energy and excitement.
In addition, there will be live music performances, art exhibitions, culinary delights, workshops, and interactive sessions where attendees can learn about the cultural heritage of different nations.
The International Junkanoo Festival of Tourism and Culture will not only provide a platform for cultural exchange but also serve as a testament to the power of unity, diversity, peace and security. It will be an opportunity for Canadians and international visitors to come together, celebrate cultural similarities, and appreciate the beauty of our differences.
“The International Junkanoo Festival of Tourism and Culture represents the fusion of cultures, bridging gaps, and promoting mutual understanding,” said Dr. Nathaniel Wilson of Africa Youth Forum International, the festival’s organizing committee member in Ghana.
He further said, Africa Youth Forum International is honored to participate in the upcoming event and the Managers of the Festival are excited to welcome participants from around the world and offer them a unique experience that will leave lasting memories.
According to him, “Toronto is the perfect city to host this event, known for its multiculturalism and vibrant arts scene.”
The festival is expected to draw thousands of attendees, including tourists, cultural enthusiasts, and families looking for a memorable experience. It is an event that cannot be missed, promising to be a feast for the senses and an unforgettable celebration of culture, art, and heritage.
The Christmas festivities were nothing short of fun and excitement, especially for patrons of Dodi World in Akosombo in the Eastern Region.
A major highlight was a memorable voyage aboard the famous MV Dodi Princess II, a 150-capacity pleasure boat, which sailed to the scenic Dodi Island, an 84-hectare natural haven.
Among the patrons was a vibrant social group known as ‘Weekend Day Out’, which brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds and workplaces to interact, share ideas and enjoy memorable leisure experiences.
On December 26, the group joined hundreds of other fun lovers to fill the vessel to capacity for what many described as an experience of a lifetime.
The over five-hour journey from Dodi World through to Dodi Island was electrifying. Patrons enjoyed breath-taking rare views of the island’s rich natural scenery and wildlife before returning onboard for the cruise back to the starting point.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by music from DJs and a live band, complemented by an array of drinks and grilled meals, ensuring both young and old had something to cheer about throughout the voyage.
For members of the Weekend Day Out group, the trip served as a joyful reunion with friends after a year of professional commitments, while also providing an opportunity to plan future adventures in the coming year.
Speaking after the event, one of the patrons, Ms Gloria Yaa Baby, said although she had embarked on the voyage several times, the most recent experience was particularly breathtaking and memorable.
“This one was different, with more people and interactive sessions. It gave me many reasons to return and experience the fun again with the Weekend Day Out group,” she stated.
With another exciting adventure scheduled for March this year, she encouraged Ghanaians to make time out of their busy schedules to relax, unwind and enjoy life.
By Spectator Reporter
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Joshua Kojo Ampah, a member of the Keche group has stated that the attitude of Nigerian audience during the performance of Ghanaian artiste Stonebwoy and Wendy Shay at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) held in Lagos, Nigeria was intentional.
The hiplife artiste shared his sentiments on social media over the cold reception given to the Ghanaian performers.
“They know Stonebwoy’s songs, they know Wendy Shay’s songs, but they will not get up to hail you. They know what they were doing,” he stated.
He added that performances by Stonebwoy and Wendy Shay were top notch but most audience did not want to relate to the song.
“Is there was any rapper in Africa bigger than Sarkodie? Are there any dancehall artistes in Africa bigger than Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy” he quizzed.
He contrasted this with the energetic reception given to Nigerian legend P Square, who performed at the same event.
Joshua blamed this on the Ghanaian attitude towards its own artistes within the Ghanaian music industry itself.
He argued that the lack of respect for local talents in Ghana was responsible for their reception abroad.
“But do you know why we are not respected out there? We do not see ourselves as such. “Until we in Ghana start respecting our own, the people out there will not respect them,” he concluded.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
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