A multicultural festival celebrating African-Caribbean cultures is taking place in Brampton, Saturday, Aug. 20.

The AkomaFest will run at Chinguacousy Park located at 9050 Bramalea Rd. from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and feature dance and cooking demonstrations, face painting, henna, merchandise vendors and more.

“Akoma means ‘heart’ in West African dialect and symbolizes patience and tolerance,” explained Chantelle Selkridge, organizer of AkomaFest. “We chose the name because we want people, whether they are dancing or eating, to do so from their heart and not be focused on the limitations.”

The cooking demonstration will include recipes that are quick and easy to make, some raw vegan foods, Caribbean-fusion dishes and more.

Volunteers will be on hand to teach anyone that’s interested, some catchy African or Bollywood dance moves as well, said Selkridge who runs a dance company in Brampton and teaches recreational African and Caribbean dances as well as modern ones for children and adults.

“This is the first year we’re hosting this and the plan is to make it a yearly one,” Selkridge said. “I wanted to highlight the dance community here in Brampton as I find there aren't many spaces for us to celebrate and display our talent. I added food because who doesn't love food? Food is the fuel that keeps our bodies moving.”

While the festival celebrates African and Caribbean cultures, everyone is welcome, organizers said.

For more information email: akomafest@gmail.com or visit www.akomaafrodance.ca.