HABIBI CULTURE II

A community arts and culture showcase celebrating SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) expression and creativity. 

HABIBI CULTURE II brings together families, artists, and community for an interactive, multi-sensory experience rooted in culture and connection.

Expect a vibrant mix of art, movement, music, and hands-on activities — designed to be welcoming, participatory, and engaging for all ages and backgrounds.  The culturally rich event decor and aesthetics will provide plenty of photo opportunities!

PART ONE: DAYTIME CELEBRATION (4:00–7:00 PM) — FREE, ALL AGES

A family-friendly community celebration — children, youth, families and the elderly are encouraged to attend. 

• Visual arts exhibit featuring local creatives and a dedicated children's showcase of 'little artists' from Durham Region.
• Kids zone: Creative play, art station, musical activities and free face painting.
• HABIBI CULTURE community art project that attendees can co-create.
• Drum Circle Workshop (Derbekkeh) - 5:30PM (free, family friendly)
• Belly Dancing Workshop - 5:45PM (free, family friendly)
• Live DJ, and henna artist
• Funded by the City of Oshawa,  Sponsored by BOND|ST Event Centre and Invest Durham

PART TWO: AFTERPARTY (8:00–11:00 PM) — TICKETED (19+)

A high-energy, live music showcase, mixer and dance party. TICKETS WILL BE $30 AT THE DOOR. (Get your tickets in advance!)

• Live performances begin at 8:30pm SHARP
  • Elbët Kibreet (Translation: “Matchbox”):  Arabic Taraband shaped by contemporary fusion and alternative sound
  • Sam-R:  Hip-Hop and Blues Artist performing with The Greatest Band in the Land ("Loup V" on bass, Andrew Noseworthy on Guitar and "Z" on keys)
  • Thaja - Bellydancer
• Dance Party: 10:00PM - 11:00PM
• MUSIC: DJ Moski is spinning Arabic, Hip-Hop, R&B, Afrobeats, Amapiano, Reggaeton... (GLOBAL SOUNDS - suitable for all!) 
• Art remains on display as the space transforms into an immersive, late-night cultural experience
• Sponsors: BOND|ST Event Centre, The Souk (Whitby) and Al Deewan Bakery (Oshawa) 

About the Organizer: Al Markaz

Al Markaz is a grassroots arts, culture, and impact platform rooted in community. We create spaces that bring people together through storytelling, creativity, and cultural experiences — with a focus on SWANA voices.