What is it?

Join the Canada Black Music Archives on an interactive and educational tour of the musically and culturally significant Little Jamaica. Starting at Dufferin St. and heading to Marlee Ave. the tour passes historic landmarks including record shops, a music school, and recording studios. Explore unique shops, restaurants, music and street art with this comprehensive tour. As a digital repository for Black Canadian musicians, the Canada Black Music Archives (CBMA) is able to provide invaluable insight. With the support of the local Business Improvement Area board, the CBMA offers a unique approach, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the community and the music.

Why The Tour?

Stretching along Eglinton West between Marlee Avenue and Keele Street, Little Jamaica became home to many of the Caribbean immigrants arriving in Canada from the 1960’s-80’s. As the population grew, they opened restaurants, record stores, beauty salons, barbershops, and recording studios. Little Jamaica became a beacon for musicians, becoming the second largest producer of Reggae music outside of Jamaica.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, gentrification, and the ongoing LRT construction, the community has faced many struggles. Despite this, they remain one of Toronto’s many ethnic enclaves, and contribute to what makes this multicultural city special. This tour allows you to travel through history, by way of music, and explore the culturally significant hub known as Little Jamaica. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Caribbean of the North.

What’s included?

The tour package will include:

A 1.5- 2-hour walking tour of Eglinton Ave. W. between Dufferin St. and Marlee Ave.
Historical accounts from your local guide on significant landmarks and people
Explore shops, restaurants, and admire the beautiful murals and artworks

how can I sign up?

Registration is here!

Click Sign-Up below to be redirected to Eventbrite where you may register for a tour!

Tour Schedule Dates

*Tour schedule dates and times may be subject to change

*Times listed are in Eastern Standard Time (EST)

Where can I find more info?

More information on the tour will be added to this page and provided in our newsletter, or you may contact us by e-mail at [email protected] or click on the link to our contact form below.

Sign-up for our newsletter: Click here

Contact form: Click here

faq

How long is the tour?

It will be approximately 1.5-2 hours. As the tour will travel along Eglinton Ave W. with a chance for participants to ask questions and enjoy music at the end of the tour, end times may vary.

Will there be food along the way?

Of course! One of the great things about Little Jamaica is the connection between music and food. At the end of the tour, food from a featured restaurant may be purchased with pre-authorization options when signing up. We also encourage attendees to explore the many restaurants and grocers along the strip after the tour.

Can I contribute to the tour?

Absolutely! As a non-profit we are always grateful for additional support. If you’d like to make a donation or if you would like to contribute in a different way, you may apply to join us as a volunteer.

Donations: click here

Volunteer form: click here

Can I book as a group?

Yes. We will be offering group bookings for educational, professional, and leisurely purposes. If you would like to book a private tour, please e-mail us directly at [email protected] to discuss further details.

Are bathrooms available?

Bathrooms will be available at the beginning of the tour with allocated time to grab a coffee or use the facilities before the tour start time.

Will the tour operate if it rains?

Yes. We are operating under a “rain or shine” policy, so please come prepared and dress accordingly.