More Than Just Jollof
Jollof Fest isn’t just about food – it’s a cultural experience that unites people through flavor, music, art, and community. From sizzling plates of the best Jollof rice to vibrant performances and a marketplace full of unique finds, Jollof Fest is where traditions and modern vibes collide.
Call for Volunteers
Are you passionate about culture, food, and community celebration? Jollof Fest is powered by the energy and dedication of volunteers just like you! Join a vibrant team that helps bring this unforgettable experience to life.
What Went Down in 2025
The 2025 edition of Jollof Fest was nothing short of spectacular. Thousands of people came together to eat, dance, and celebrate. With delicious plates served, unforgettable performances, and a true celebration of African identity, Jollof Fest 2025 proved that the culture is alive and thriving.
Vending Agreement Terms
Please review the following terms before completing your registration
Vending fees vary by business type.
- Food & Beverage Vendors: $1,200 per day or $2,000 for both days, with an early-bird rate of $1,500 per day for applications received by March 01, 2026.
- Food Trucks: $1,500 per day or $2,500 for both days, with an early-bird rate of $1,000/day ($2000 both days) for applications received by March 01, 2026
- Small Bites, Desserts, Ice Cream & Slushie Vendor: $750 per day or $1,400 for both days, with an early-bird rate of $800/ both days for applications received by March 01, 2026
- Merchandise & Craft Vendors: $500 per day with an early-bird rate of $800/ both days for applications received by March 01, 2026
- Service-Based Businesses & Professional Services Vendors: $1000 per day or $1500 both days, with an early-bird rate of $1,000 for both days for applications received by March 01, 2026
The above cost includes the provision of a tent (10×10), a table (1), a chair (1), basic electrical (15 A) and waste disposal. More amperage (30 A, 60 A) will incur extra fees ($100 per day)
Note: All payments are final. No refunds will be issued. Vending fees will increase for late signups.
As a Jollof Fest vendor, you agree to:
- Set up your booth within your assigned space and on time.
- Staff your booth during all festival hours with professionalism.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and attractive booth.
- Follow all municipal, provincial, and federal health and safety regulations.
- Respect festival guidelines for waste disposal and recycling.
- Operate in a culturally respectful manner that reflects the spirit of Jollof Fest.
To participate, vendors must:
- Submit a complete application and payment by the stated deadline.
- Food vendors:comply with local health standards, including food safety, temperature control, and allergen labelling.
- Possess all necessary licenses, permits, and certifications to operate legally.
- Provide sufficient supplies and staff for expected attendance.
- Stay within the approved product category unless prior approval is granted.
- Use eco-friendly service materials where possible.
- All booth fees are final and non-refundable.
- Late applications (within 30 days of the event) may incur higher fees.
- If the festival is cancelled by organizers, vendors will be offered a full refund or credit toward a future event.
- No refunds will be issued for voluntary withdrawal, failure to appear, or non-compliance with festival rules.
- All fees must be paid by the deadlines communicated in your acceptance notice or invoice.
Vendor Pricing
Food & Beverage Vendors (booths)
- Standard 10′×10′ booth – $1,200 per day or$2,000 for both days, with anearly-bird rate of $1,500 for both days for applications received by March 31, 2026.This covers basic electrical (15 A) and waste disposal. More amperage (30 A, 60 A) will incur extra fees ($100 per day).
Food Trucks
- $1,500 per day or$2,500 for both days, with an early-bird rate of ~$1,000/day ($2,000 both days) for applications received by March 31, 2026.This covers basic electrical (15 A) and waste disposal. More amperage (30 A, 60 A) will incur extra fees ($100 per day).
Merchandise & Craft Vendors
- Tables selling crafts, apparel, art, etc. – $500 per day for a standard 10×10 space, with anearly-bird rate of $500 for both days for applications received by March 31, 2026.This covers a tent, table, chair, basic electrical (15 A) and waste disposal. More amperage (30 A, 60 A) will incur extra fees ($100 per day).
Service-Based Businesses & Professional Services Vendors
- Firms, Mortgage Brokers, Financial Advisors, Insurance, Immigration Consultants, Education & Training Services, etc) $1,000 per day or $1000 both days, with anearly-bird rate of ~$500 for both days for applications received by March 31, 2026for a standard 10×10 space.This covers a tent, table, chair, basic electrical (15 A) and waste disposal. More amperage (30 A, 60 A) will incur extra fees ($100 per day).
Small Bites, Desserts, Ice Cream & Slushie Vendor Vendors
- Standard 10′×10′ booth – $500 per day or $1,000 for both days, with an
early-bird rate of $500 for both days for applications received by March 31, 2026This covers a tent, table, chair, basic electrical (15 A) and waste disposal. More amperage (30 A, 60 A) will incur extra fees ($100 per day).
JOLLOF WARS COOKING COMPETITION
Who Makes the Best Jollof? It’s Time to Settle the Debate.
Think your Jollof rice recipe is the best in the city or even the country? Step up and prove it at the Jollof War 2026 Cooking Competition, where flavour meets fire, and bragging rights are on the line.
Represent your country, your family recipe, or your personal twist in the ultimate Jollof Showdown. Whether you’re team Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Senegal or your own unique style—we welcome you to bring your A-game.
Competition Details
- Saturday July 11
- 2:00 PM EST
- Apply through the link below. Spaces are limited.
- Bring yourself and your secret sauce only to the event. (The organizers will provide rice, cooking oil and ingredients. You are only allowed to bring either your secret sauce or three additional ingredients.)
- Make enough samplesonsite for judges and tasters (minimum 10 tasting portions).
- Bring the heat—in taste and presentation.
- Flavour Balance
- Aroma
- Creativity
- Presentation
- Cultural Authenticity
- Top Chef Title
- Custom aprons andofficial recognition
- Cash prizesand gift packages from our sponsors
- Featured spotlight on Jollof Fest’s website and social media
You don’t need to be a pro—just passionate and ready to represent.
Click the button below to fill out the Jollof Fest Cooking Competition Application Form. Deadline to apply is June 15, 2026. No Fee Required
Jollof Fest 2025 Cooking Competition Rules
- Open to all skill levels – home cooks, professional chefs, culinary students, and restaurant teams are welcome.
- Entrants must be at least 18 years old or have a parent/guardian present if under 18.
- Participants must complete an official registration form and receive confirmation to participate in the competition.
- All dishes must be Jollof rice-based, representing either a traditional or creative fusion style.
- All food must be fully prepared on-site.
- You must provide a minimum of 10 tasting portions for judging and public sampling.
- All ingredients must be clearly labelled, including any allergens (e.g., nuts, shellfish, dairy).
- All participants will be allocated 1hr:30 minutes. This includes cooking and plating
A panel of foodies and cultural ambassadors will judge entries based on the following:
- Flavour & Aroma – Does it taste authentic and delicious?
- Texture – Is the rice cooked properly? Balanced and not mushy?
- Presentation – Is the dish visually appealing and neatly plated?
- Creativity – For fusion entries, how innovative is the recipe?
- Cultural Authenticity – For traditional entries, does it stay true to its roots?
- Audience Reaction – A separate “People’s Choice” vote will be open to the public.
- The competition starts at 2:00 PM.
- Public tasting opens at 4:00 PM.
- Judging begins at 4:30 PM.
- Winners announced at 5:00 PM.
Late arrivals may be disqualified at the discretion of the organizers.
Prizes will be awarded for:
- First Place (Cash prize of $ 2,000 CAD)
- Second Place (Cash prize of $ 750 CAD)
- Second Place (Cash prize of $ 250 CAD)
- People’s Choice Award – Prizes include cash, branded merchandise, and recognition on our platforms.
- All food must be prepared in clean, sanitized environments.
- Gloves and hairnets/caps must be used when handling food on-site.
- Any food that does not meet safety or labeling standards will be disqualified.
- Any misconduct, disrespect, or unsportsmanlike behaviour will result in immediate disqualification.
Contact us at info@paacati.org
Become a Sponsor
Become a valued partner in one of Ontario’s most exciting cultural experiences. Jollof Fest brings together thousands of food lovers, families, and culture enthusiasts to celebrate iconic flavours, music, art, and heritage. Join Jollof Fest and put your brand at the heart of the Greater Toronto Area’s ultimate celebration of African and Caribbean culture! Gain visibility, connect with thousands of festival-goers, and support a vibrant community experience. Let’s create unforgettable moments together.
🍛 Jollof Rice Cook-off – Who Will Take the Crown?
🎶 Bigger Stage, Bigger Performances
🛍 Vibrant Vendor Marketplace
🥳 Cultural Exhibitions & Dance Battles
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Activities
🌍 Global Community, One Culture
Thank You to Our 2025 Sponsors
Jollof Fest wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners. From food brands to lifestyle companies, our sponsors help make the festival a reality.
Jollof Fest isn’t just an event. It’s a movement. A celebration of culture, food, and togetherness. Don’t miss the next chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Jollof Fest is an annual cultural celebration organized by the Pan African Arts, Culture, and Trade Institute (PAACATI) with the support of Pinnick Foods Ltd. It brings together communities to enjoy the rich flavours of Jollof rice and the vibrant rhythms of Afrobeat music, celebrating West African heritage through food, music, and cultural expression.
The 2-day festival is scheduled for Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Erindale Park located at 1695 Dundas St W, Mississauga, ON L5C 1J4
Admission to the festival grounds is free and open to the public. However, registration or RSVP is required at www.jollofefst.ca. Note that certain activities, food tastings, or VIP experiences may require tickets or additional fees.
Yes, a variety of food vendors will be on-site offering different styles of Jollof rice and other West African and Caribbean delicacies.
Many vendors will offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. It’s recommended to inquire directly with each vendor regarding specific dietary needs.
The festival will feature live Afrobeat performances, Dancehall & Reggae, DJ sets, cultural dances, and interactive activities celebrating African & Caribbean culture.
Absolutely! Jollof Fest is designed for attendees of all ages, with activities and entertainment suitable for families and children.
Interested vendors and performers can apply through the official festival website or contact the organizers directly at +1 6472196319 for more information on participation opportunities.
Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, comfortable seating or blankets, and a hearty appetite. Please note that outside food and beverages are not permitted.
For the latest updates, follow Jollof Fest on social media platforms and subscribe to the newsletter via the official website.
Save the Date
Jollof Fest 2026 is designed to be bigger, better, and even more exciting than the last edition. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can look forward to:
Day 1
Day 2
Day 1
- Saturday July 11
Day 2
- Sunday July 12
