Lulaworld 2025: Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival Opening Night
Lulaworld Festival moves into its second weekend with the electrifying launch of the 4th Annual International Samba Reggae Festival, a high-voltage celebration of Afro-Brazilian rhythm, resistance, and community. Headlining the night is Marcia Castro, the genre-blending singer from Bahia whose new project, Roda de Samba Reggae, is both a tribute to the pioneers of the genre and a bold reimagining of its future. Known for her dynamic voice and fearless musical curiosity, Castro brings the spirit of Salvador’s bloco culture to the Lula Lounge stage, weaving together past and present with irresistible energy.
Joining her are two powerhouse blocos: Batucada Abrace and Bateria Batuki. Both collectives channel the deep roots of Afro-Brazilian percussion into performances that uplift and empower. Batucada Abrace brings an activist spirit forged in the immigrant and feminist communities of British Columbia, while Batuki ignites the stage with a fusion of samba reggae, hip hop, and funk, all shaped by their work as cultural educators and community organizers. Toronto’s own TDot Batu and visiting masters Mestre Jair Rezende, Mestre Pato, and Lenynha Oliveira complete the powerful lineup, making this a night where music becomes movement—literally and figuratively. Advance tickets are recommended for this exciting launch of the 2025 Toronto International Samba Reggae Festival. Full festival lineup at lulaworld.ca.
$15 Advance Tickets - General Admission (Seating not guaranteed)
Additional time info:
8:30 PM - Doors open for dinner and drinks (Dinner reservations available at lula.ca/reservations.)
9:30 PM - Concert begins
This show follows the 7:30pm concert by Passarim. Tickets to the earlier show include this presentation.