Emancipation Day
Remembering the abolition of slavery across the British Empire and celebrating the resilience and vibrancy of the Black community. Everyone is welcome to this free community celebration at Fieldcote.
Celebrating Emancipation Day at Fieldcote
Join us on August 1, 2026 at Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum to honour Emancipation Day, marking the abolition of slavery across the British Empire, and celebrate the resilience and vibrancy of the Black community.
Come together on Fieldcote's beautiful seven-acre grounds as we recognize this important day and celebrate the life and legacy of Enerals Griffin, of Griffin House National Historic Site.
Event Highlights
Discover Local History
Engage with history presentations that bring the story of local Black heritage to life.
Enjoy Live Music
Bring a blanket or lawn chair to hear performances presented by the Tune In Foundation.
Taste Local Flavours
Browse a great selection of food vendors on-site offering delicious treats and bites.
Fun for the Whole Family
Enjoy games, outdoor activities, and plenty of space to spend the afternoon at the historic property.
Explore the Exhibit
Step inside the museum to check out the latest exhibition, Meet Me at the Bandshell, highlighting Ancaster's music history.
Soundtrack of the City: Reggae Royalty
A Bob Marley & Marcia Griffiths tribute, featuring D.M. and Tesharah. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for an evening of reggae on Fieldcote's grounds.
Presented by the Tune In Foundation.
Vendors & Activities
Tune In Foundation
Soundtrack of the City concert: Reggae Royalty, a Bob Marley & Marcia Griffiths tribute featuring D.M. and Tesharah.
Safe Haven
Earth Drawing art activity: pick flowers from the garden to make pigments to paint with.
Hamilton Civic Museums
Crafts, games and activities.
Galaxy Burger
Burger and ice cream truck.
Caribb Pop
Caribbean-flavoured pops.
Ellis Kitchen
Tropical-inspired ice creams.
Hamilton Youth Engagers
Outreach and information.
Hamilton Street Railway
Black History Month bus.
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
Griffin gravesite cemetery tours.
Exhibit: Meet Me at the Bandshell
Tapping into the spirit of live music and the power of community, this exhibit celebrates the shared joy of gathering for music. From intimate performances to energetic festivals, Meet Me at the Bandshell explores the role of the community in bringing these events to life. The exhibit highlights some of the grassroots festivals that have sprouted from Fieldcote Museum, and Hamilton, touching on key moments in their history and their prevalence today.
Questions?
Have questions about this event? Email our team at [email protected]
or call us at 905-546-2424 ext. 3168
Discover Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum
Plan a visit year-round. Explore the gardens and galleries, and discover the stories of Ancaster and Griffin House National Historic Site.
Visit Fieldcote All Museum Events