Cambridge’s Emancipation Day Celebration Expected to Draw 500 Attendees

Cambridge is set to host its third annual Emancipation Day celebration on July 26, 2025, with organizers expecting attendance to reach between 400 and 500 people. The event, organized by Rhythm and Blues Cambridge, aims to honor Black culture and history within the city.

Founded by Marjorie Knight, the celebration has grown significantly since its inception. Knight reported a substantial increase in attendees, noting that approximately 100 people participated in the inaugural event in 2023, followed by around 200 in 2024. “We choose a venue with that in mind,” Knight explained. “People come and go, they bring their picnic blankets and sit on the grass, on the chairs and tables. It’s a big space, and it’s really a community event.”

Community Spirit and Cultural Heritage

This year’s festivities will take place in Soper Park, a venue that provides ample space for families to gather under shady trees while enjoying music, food, and various activities for children. The first Emancipation Day celebration was held on a closed street in front of city hall, but the move to Soper Park reflects the event’s growth and community focus.

Knight’s motivation to establish this celebration stemmed from a lack of cultural events for the sizeable Black and racialized population in Cambridge. “Every time something was happening, it was in Toronto,” she noted. “Why was it not happening here? We need to celebrate together.”

This year, over 30 volunteers, including local students and members from various organizations, will assist in making the event a success. Knight highlighted support from groups like KW Multicultural and House of Friendship, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that has emerged. “Sometimes, people from different offices or organizations will come just for a part of the day to help set up or pack things away,” she said. “It’s really neat how it has evolved.”

A Diverse Celebration for All

The 2025 Emancipation Day celebration promises a vibrant program featuring live bands, dancers, a BIPOC vendor market, and a dedicated children’s area. One of the event’s highlights will be the performance of a John Canoe band for the first time. Additionally, the “history corner” will showcase Indigenous and Afro-Indigenous culture, offering attendees a chance to learn and engage with their heritage.

“It turned into this whole bunch of people talking about the rich and vibrant history of our community,” Knight said, reflecting on last year’s popular “wisdom bench,” where elders shared stories with younger generations. This interactive element will be included again in this year’s history corner.

Knight hopes that visitors will leave with a sense of unity and community. “We are all here. We can all celebrate together. This is for all of us,” she stated. She added with a smile, “There’s going to be some amazing food. Don’t miss it.”

As the event approaches, the anticipation for a day filled with cultural celebration, community spirit, and togetherness continues to grow in Cambridge.