Canadian Black Literary Festival

The Canadian Black Literary Festival 2026 is a one-day exposition of Black literary artistry, creativity, and performance hosted in partnership at two of Ajax’s most important public facilities: the McLean Community Centre and the St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts, & Culture. The theme of the festival is Voices of Freedom.

Festival Schedule for Ticketed Events

10:30 a.m. - McLean C.C. Community Room #3

Opening Ceremonies & Showcase: Emceed by Kevin Carrington, ft. Spoken Soul Collective (Randell Adjei, Paulina O'Kieffe-Anthony, and Dwayne Morgan)

12:30-4:45 p.m. - McLean C.C. Community Room #3

Literary Workshops led by Ramon Carty (12:30-1:45 p.m.), Kesha Christie (2:00-3:15 p.m.), and Lalaa Comrie (3:30-4:45 p.m.).

7:00-10:00 p.m. - St. Francis Centre

Main Event Showcase & Closing Ceremonies: Hosted by Antonio Michael Downing, ft. Afua Cooper, Testament & d'bi.young anitafrika