Experience the Spirit of Africa at the Afro Market – Christmas Edition

Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 11 AM to 7 PM

Location: Thorncliffe Community Hall, 5600 Center Street N, Calgary.

A Market Like No Other

Imagine walking into a space alive with color, rhythm, and warmth. Stalls burst with handmade jewelry, clothing, art, and holiday gifts. The sound of drums and Afrobeat rhythms flows through the air. The aroma of sizzling food—spiced just right—draws you closer. Conversations, laughter, and friendly bargaining echo all around.

This is not just shopping. This is the Afro Market – Christmas Edition, where Calgary gathers to experience the soul of Africa right here at home.

The Unique Cultures of African Markets

1. Community Spirit

In African markets, buying and selling is more than a transaction—it’s a way of building connection. Vendors and visitors share stories, laughter, and a sense of belonging. This is where you find the latest gossip and stories of events and who is who in the community. At Afro Market, you’ll feel that same spirit of community—neighbors meeting neighbors, cultures blending, and friendships being made.

2. The Joy of Bargaining

Bargaining is part of the fun in African markets. It’s playful, interactive, and brings people closer together. You may see some people being dramatic about it; it is part of the fun. Come ready to smile, laugh, and maybe test your bargaining charm—you might walk away with a treasure and a story.

Buyers bargaining a product at an African market

3. A Feast for the Senses

African markets overflow with bright fabrics, vibrant crafts, spices, and music. While we acknowledge that most local African markets can be rowdy, dirty, and stinky, at Afro Market, we prioritize cleanliness and upscale packaging. Every corner is alive with color, sound, and flavor. Your eyes will feast on bold patterns, your ears on music and laughter, and your taste buds will jump with excitement at the authentic African dishes made fresh by licensed food vendors.

4. Handmade Heritage

Every craft tells a story—beaded jewelry passed down through generations, woven fabrics full of meaning, and wood carvings shaped with care. You may also come across locally made snacks discovered and handed down from generations. Afro Market brings you these one-of-a-kind creations that could serve as perfect gifts for Christmas, carrying tradition, culture, and soul.

5. Music & Celebration

In African markets, music and dance are part of everyday life. At Afro Market, performances, drumming, and dance will make shopping feel like a celebration. Bring your energy and be ready to join in! There will be live performances, Christmas carols, and gospel artists to ring in the Christmas spirit and cheerful season.

6. Children and Young Ones

In African markets, you'll find mothers carrying toddlers on their backs, wrapped in colorful clothing material called 'wrapper.' Children can also be seen playing or running errands. A similar culture will be seen at the Afro Market - Christmas Edition, where children will be able to play in bouncy castles and enjoy other fun activities available at Thorncliffe Greenview Community Center.

7. Additional Vibes

Have you ever heard of or seen the Black Father Christmas, as it is called in Africa? Yes, we do have our own version of Santa Claus. Bring your kids and family to come experience the fun. How about online selling? This is a new feature we are introducing to help vendors sell out. Come prepared and invite everyone that might be interested in this one-of-a-kind experience!

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Event

• One-of-a-kind gifts: Perfect for the holiday season.

• Authentic food: A chance to taste Africa without leaving Calgary.

• Live entertainment: Music, dance, and performances that will move your spirit.

• Family-friendly fun: A cultural festival for all ages.

• Limited opportunity: Over 130 vendor tables, but only for one day.

  
  

This isn’t just another holiday market—it’s a once-a-year cultural experience that blends African festivity with Canadian Christmas cheer.

Mark Your Calendar!

✨ Afro Market – Christmas Edition

📅 Saturday, December 20, 2025

📍 Thorncliffe Community Hall, Calgary. Add to Calendar

Bring your family, friends, and festive spirit. Come hungry, come curious and open-minded, come ready to celebrate with us.

Because on December 20, Calgary and its environs won’t just be shopping—it will be dancing, connecting, and celebrating Africa together at the Afro Market - Christmas Edition.