Monday, June 23, 2025

On June 30 and July 1, 2025, the Aga Khan Museum and Aga Khan Park will transform into a vibrant celebration of music, creativity, and culture as the much-anticipated festival returns. This free, two-day summer event promises a rich tapestry of artistic experiences, reflecting the mosaic of voices and traditions that define Canada. From world-class musical performances to hands-on workshops and family-friendly activities, the festival offers an inclusive, engaging space where communities can come together to share stories, express heritage, and embrace creativity.

This year’s programming has been meticulously curated to highlight the cultural plurality that defines Toronto and Canada as a whole. The festival showcases a spectrum of traditional and contemporary voices, bringing together artists from across the globe—representing countries such as Pakistan, Ghana, Cuba, and Iran—alongside Indigenous Canadian performers and local talent.

Visitors will experience a dynamic mix of genres and cultures, from Persian maqam traditions to Afrobeats-infused pop. The performances are co-curated in partnership with respected organizations including the Tawoos Initiative, Lula Music & Arts, Batuki Music Society, and Small World Music, ensuring authenticity and collaboration are at the heart of every act.

“Rhythms of Canada has become a cherished annual tradition at the Aga Khan Museum. It is one that truly embodies our pluralistic mandate,” says , Director of Collections and Public Programs. “Year after year, this vibrant festival brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to dance, sing, and celebrate. It’s a powerful reminder of the ability of the arts to bring communities together and bridge cultures, which lies at the very heart of what we do as a museum.”

At the center of the festival lies the Main Stage, where an exhilarating lineup of international and Canadian artists will deliver powerful performances.

Alongside the Main Stage, the will feature a variety of local acts, offering intimate performances that reflect the city’s unique energy and creativity. Performers include the , , , and a special collaborative improvisational show titled .

On July 1, Canada Day festivities will take center stage with events that honor the nation’s spirit and inclusivity. At 12:30 p.m., will deliver a stirring performance filled with patriotic pride. This will be followed by a , hosted in collaboration with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. Here, new Canadians will officially take their oath, welcomed by the community in a heartfelt celebration of unity and belonging.

Rhythms of Canada goes far beyond music, creating an immersive festival environment brimming with opportunities for engagement:

Visitors will enjoy , which houses a stunning array of Islamic art and cultural artifacts. Additionally, tickets to the special exhibition As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award will be available at a reduced rate of $10.

The festival experience is elevated by culinary offerings from local food trucks and the Museum’s , where global flavors meet refined presentation. Whether it’s savoring a Cuban sandwich, enjoying Persian sweets, or sipping tropical mocktails, food will be as diverse and dynamic as the performances themselves.

Rhythms of Canada is more than just a music festival—it’s a living celebration of Canada’s evolving identity. It reflects the stories, struggles, and successes of communities that have helped shape the country’s cultural fabric. With its bold mix of global artistry, community engagement, and inclusive programming, this festival continues to grow into one of Toronto’s most important cultural gatherings.

From the beats of Lahore and Havana to the traditions of First Nations and the vibrancy of Toronto’s neighborhoods, the festival brings it all together in a shared rhythm that celebrates unity in diversity.

Whether you’re dancing by the stage, joining a drum circle, or watching your child paint a clay tile, Rhythms of Canada 2025 offers something unforgettable for everyone.