Celebrate freedom at Oakville’s Emancipation Day Picnic on August 1

The annual Emancipation Day Picnic is returning to the grounds of the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate on August 1, 2022 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Residents and families are invited to mark this significant day in history when slavery was abolished in Canada and throughout the British Empire with a community celebration that recognizes Oakville’s role in the Underground Railroad as a port of entry to Canada.

Attendees are encouraged to pre-order a free, hot Caribbean meal prepared by Chef Romaine Newell to be enjoyed at the event. Up to 200 meals will be prepared so attendees are reminded to pre-order now. Hotdogs, chips, and a juice box will be prepared as an alternative meal for children.

On the day of the event, bring lawn chairs and a blanket to enjoy your pre-ordered meal while listening to a performance by jazz gospel singer John Campbell and the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH) Steelpan Band. Attendees can also visit the museum to take a tour, learn about Oakville’s early Black History, and explore the multimedia exhibit, The Underground Railroad: Next Stop Freedom. 

The Emancipation Day Picnic is hosted by Oakville Museum, in partnership with the CCAH, and dates back to 1850, when African Canadians from across the province would gather at Oakville’s George’s Square to honour their journey to freedom.

Located at 8 Navy Street in downtown Oakville, the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate is easily accessible by foot, bike or public transit. To view the Oakville Transit holiday schedule, visit the Oakville Transit page. For more information on this event or other programs and activities please visit the Oakville Museum page or CCAH page.

Residents are reminded to continue following public health guidance to protect yourself and others, including getting vaccinated for COVID-19 and/or getting your booster shot, staying home if you are sick, and washing or sanitizing your hands frequently. Wearing a well-fitted mask is also recommended when indoors or when physical distancing is not possible.

“Council and I are looking forward to the celebrating Emancipation Day in person with the community. The town played an important role for those who escaped slavery using the Underground Railroad and I am proud of Oakville’s rich heritage and traditions. My late great friend, Veronica Tyrrell of the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton and I worked together to bring back the annual picnic celebrating Emancipation Day back to Oakville. May we continue to come together to support an inclusive, diverse and equitable community.” 

Mayor Rob Burton

“Emancipation is an important day that CCAH has celebrated for many years. During the pandemic, CCAH pivoted to celebrating with a drive-thru BBQ and entertainment broadcast on television and online. We are excited to return to the tradition of welcoming the community in person and observing Emancipation Day, which is now a National Day across Canada.”

Andrew Tyrrell, CCAH President