Organizers say the African Descent Festival 2025 has been cancelled after the Vancouver Park Board refused to issue a permit, citing unresolved issues from past events.

The two-day cultural celebration, which would have marked its 11th year, was scheduled for this weekend at English Bay Beach Park. The festival typically features music, dance, food and cultural performances celebrating people of African descent and draws tens of thousands of attendees.

In a statement Friday morning, the Park Board said the African Descent Society B.C. "did not meet the required planning, safety, and financial obligations in time to support a safe and permitted event at English Bay Beach Park."

It said the society has "outstanding financial obligations" to both the Park Board and the Vancouver Police Dep

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