Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival, Canada 2026
Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival
June 4–7, 2026, in Toronto
Secure your Opening Night ticket now!
2026: A Tribute to Bob Marley
A tribute to Bob Marley. Told through Samba Reggae.
Two Rhythms, One Love
This year, the Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival celebrates the deep connection between Jamaican reggae and the Afro-Brazilian rhythms of Salvador, Bahia. Samba reggae emerged in the 1970s and 80s as a fusion of Brazilian samba de roda with the heavy, rhythmic influence of Jamaican roots reggae, becoming a powerful vehicle for Black pride and social commentary. Artists like Bob Marley were among its greatest inspirations, and in 2026 we honor his legacy through the lens of Bahia.
Expect powerful performances, international artists, and four days of music that reminds us how rhythm crosses borders and connects struggles.
The 2026 edition is made possible with the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council, the Toronto Arts Council, and Canadian Heritage.
Be Part of It
Engage with samba reggae through concerts, workshops, and vibrant street parades in Toronto.
Free Street Parade
Free and open to everyone. Join hundreds of drummers and dancers on Dundas Street West during Do West Fest on Saturday and Sunday. No ticket needed, just show up. Check our agenda on our Instagram.
Opening Night
Five nights of powerful Afro-Brazilian percussion, singing, and dance. International artists from Brazil, the US, France, and Canada take the stage at Lula Lounge for an unforgettable opening night.
Workshops
Intensive sessions led by international guest artists from Brazil (Bahia) and France, designed for experienced Samba Reggae drummers. Bring your own instrument. Interested? Contact us to register.
Free Weekend Program
Concerts, performances, and special showcases happening June 5–7 in Toronto. Full schedule and details will be posted on our Instagram. Follow @torontosambareggaefestival so you don't miss a thing.
Join us and feel the drums of Bahia honoring Bob Marley
Our Story
Rooted in Bahia. Alive in Toronto
The Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival was created by Mestre Pato, founder of TdotBatu Percussive Arts, with one purpose: to bring the full power of samba reggae to Canada. Born in Salvador, Bahia, this Afro-Brazilian genre carries centuries of Black culture, resistance, and joy in every beat.
Since its inaugural edition in 2022, the festival has grown into the only event in Canada dedicated entirely to this tradition, uniting drummers, dancers, and artists from across the globe for four days of music, movement, and community in the heart of Toronto.
None of this happens alone. The Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival is presented by TdotBatu Percussive Arts in partnership with Lula Music and Arts Centre, with the generous support of the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council, the Toronto Arts Council, and Canadian Heritage. Together, we are building something that belongs to Toronto and to the world.
A Festival Built on Collaboration
Get in Touch
Questions or percussion inquiries? Reach out to connect with us directly.
Phone
+1-416-555-7890
contact@raizesvivas.ca
Contact
Questions? Reach out anytime sending a DM over Instagram.
Presented by TdotBatu Percussive Arts in partnership with Lula Music and Arts Centre
Funded by Canada Council for the Arts · Ontario Arts Council · Toronto Arts Council · Canadian Heritage
Community Partner Do West Fest
© 2026 Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival. All rights reserved. Website by INKA Digital Works.