YOUR GUIDE TO THE HOTTEST & COOLEST SUMMER EVENTS FESTIVALS SUMMER 2009 V.1 & Special Events A GUIDE TO SUMMER FESTIVALS AND EVENTS in and the GTA *Free with the price of admission. Rides, games and food not included in the price of CNE admission. Visit TheEx.com for details! Summer 2009 V.1 On Line Edition

Proud Member of From the editor

Publisher and Managing Editor Joey Cee WE HAVE THE HOTTEST Contributors Annette Stallmach, Enzo Iammatteo & COOLEST FESTIVALS Lina Dhingra THIS SUMMER Interns Nilofer Kassam - Editorial Carly Barker - Editorial Sarah Witzel - Editorial Joey Cee, Publisher & Editor Trevor Harris - Graphics

Photographers As we continue the celebration of our 15th Anniversary, HOToronto Magazine, in its commitment Aline Sandler, Tom Sandler, Joey Cee, Jody Glaser, Enzo Iammatteo to keeping you informed and enlightened, continues to present you with a host of new on-line download magazine titles. This addition of HOT & COOL FESTIVALS to the roster is the first Website Design DesignSource.com edition.

Broadcast Media Division Producer Joey Cee The information compiled in this issue is derived from many sources, solicited and unsolicited. Our

HOToronto Magazines team of writers and photographers have been covering festivals for more than a dozen years, and and each year there are more and more festivals popping up all over the city and throughout the GTA. What’s On Where Magazines are published on-line by JCO Communications Inc., Although this information is being transmitted to you via free subscription or as a download, it will 1235 Bay Street, 4th Floor, Toronto, . M5R 3K4. only be available in this format seasonally, updated according as the urgency of the information Tel: (416) 923-HOTO (4686) requires us to offer a new version. You will note the updated version of HOT & COOOL Fax: 905-820-9512 E-mail: [email protected] FESTIVALS by the version code at the top of this page or by the new cover. At all times you can www.HOToronto.com simply go to www.HOToronto.com and click on the Festivals link to acquire updates and additions as they become available. The information on establishments and special venues listed or mentioned in this publication is compiled from all available, and considered to be If you have a Festival you wish to be listed, please send the details of your event to us at hotoronto@ reliable sources. The publisher does not assume re- sponsibility for omissions, errors or changes printed. rogers.com. We will do our best to get it posted and get the word out. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information provided at time of printing. Due to the nature of the venues, information may change after date of publication. Don’t forget to check out our other new line of publications which are also available as free This publication does not endorse or recommend downloads. the establishments listed or advertised. However, most establishments are listed on proven merit and therefore recommended for publication. You may no- tify the publisher in writing, by fax or by e-mail, of any We are here to keep you informed. changes or additions found in this publication.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, duplicated or electronically stored in part or whole without the written permission of the publisher.

© Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved. My World, My Music, My Rights

Music adds an ingredient essential to the success of your business. By supporting music creators, you also do what's right for your business. Obtain the licence required by dialing 1.866.944.6210 or at www.socan.ca TORONTO FESTIVALS GUIDE 2009

June 5 – 14 June 19 - 28 June 26 - July 5 LUMINATO FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS TORONTO PRIDE FESTIVAL TORONTO DOWNTOWN AND CREATIVITY Church & Wellesley Corridor JAZZ FESTIVAL Dundas Square, Harbourfront & Various Parade on Yonge Street Nathan Phillips Square & Locations Toronto Pride Week is an annual event that Various Locations For 10 extraordinary days in June, the vibrant takes place in downtown Toronto during the For ten days in June a number of jazz types city of Toronto’s stages, streets and public last week of June. The event is one of the take over Toronto’s downtown venues to spaces are illuminated with arts and creativ- largest of its kind in the world and celebrates enjoy the music of Toronto’s Downtown Jazz ity. Luminato is an annual multidisciplinary diverse sexual and gender identities, histories, Festival. Internationally acclaimed musicians celebration of theatre, dance, classical and cultures, creativities, families, friends and lives. delight the large crowds that flock to one of contemporary music, film, literature, visual The week long festival included a three-day ’s largest jazz music events arts, design and more. arts fest, a weekend street fair (including a www.torontojazz.com www.luminato.com community fair and market place), a Dyke March and a Pride Parade. June 26 - September 4 June 17 - 21 www.pridetoronto.com GLOBAL GROOVES MUSIC AND Yonge - Dundas Square FILM FESTIVAL June 20 Various Club Locations June 27 - July 4 Known as The NXNE, this festival showcases Downsview Park FESTIVAL OF FIRE emerging artists from Canada, the United Ontario Place States and other countries. Musical genres June 20 - 21 The Canada Dry Festival of Fire returns for performed have included folk, punk and funk. TORONTO INTERNATIONAL DRAGON three nights. June 27th amazing pyrotechnics The event, usually held in June, takes place in BOAT FESTIVAL with a Portuguese theme will light the skies, clubs, outdoor stages and special venues in the Toronto Centre Island followed by Canada Day celebrations on July downtown area. A conference unites the movers The Dragon Boat Festival is an annual event 1st and a stunning Grand Finale on July 4th. and shakers of the industry with many budding held in over 40 countries. In addition to the Choreographing the 2009 Canada Dry Festival performers. The relatively new film portion of actual boat race, the event brings a number of Fire are skilled pyro-technicians from David the festival offers special screenings of new of multi-cultural events, international cuisine Whysall International Fireworks Inc. For over films. and large crowds. Over 200 teams on average 40 years Whysall and his crews have been http://nxne.com compete in this two-day festival. entertaining audiences with their explosive www.torontodragonboat.com displays. Their show this year on June 27th June 16 - 21 brings the day--long 2nd Annual Portuguese WORLDWIDE SHORT FILM FESTIVAL June 26 - July 1 Cultural Festival to Ontario Place, which will Some of the most outstanding short films from TORONTO RIBFEST end with a bang as fireworks choreographed Canada and around the world hit the screen Centennial Park to the music of Portugal light up the skies. at this festival. Competitions (both Canadian Toronto Ribfest, the largest Canada Day cel- The Festival features performances by Toronto and International), special programs and gala ebration, is held over the long weekend at Cen- and Portuguese musicians and dance groups screenings are just part of the event. Promotion tennial Park in Etobicoke. Now in its 9th year, including the amazing Fernando Pereira, and launching of films, as well as networking this popular event put on by the Rotary Club called the “Singer of Voices.” Visitors will for filmmakers, is the goal at the Festival Sym- of Etobicoke attracts well over 100,000 visi- also be able to peruse stations with traditional posium and Marketplace. tors who come to enjoy live music, succulent Portuguese food and check out vendors, sports, www.worldwideshortfilmfest.com ribs and the beer tents. Children are delighted games and contests! with candy floss, carnival rides, the climbing The Canada Dry Festival of Fire is an impor- June 19 - 21 wall and pony rides. On Canada Day, a lively tant part of Canada Day celebrations in Toron- TASTE OF LITTLE ITALY fireworks display celebrates Canada’s birthday to. Along with fireworks, July 1st at Ontario College Street (West of Bathurst) at dusk. This year the Vendor area has been ex- Place also features exciting Canada-inspired panded to include an arts and crafts show that entertainment. The West Coast Lumberjack June 19 - 21 will become a major feature over the next few Show brings lumberjacks to compete daily in WATERFRONT NAUTICAL FESTIVAL years. All proceeds from this fundraising event the spirit of friendly competition. HTO Park East are returned back to the community through The Toronto Maple Leafs OFF-ICE Hockey 339 Queens Quay West charitable organizations who receive donations Tour lets you take your best shot in their And all along Toronto’s waterfront from the Rotary Club of Etobicoke. Over the inflatable slap shot machine and features the Discover a weekend of adventures as Redpath past fifteen years, the Club has donated more Toronto Maple Leaf Mobile Fan Zone. And Sugar presents the 2nd Annual Waterfront than $1 million to local charities, including the this is just some of the day’s entertainment! Nautical Festival from Friday June 19th until Trillium Health Centre, CNIB, the Easter Seals On July 4th, there’s more great entertainment Sunday June 21st. Learn to build a wooden Society, the Salvation Army, Women’s Habitat, during the day before the evening’s fireworks. boat, try the basics of Tall Ship sail-training, tie the Dorothy Ley Hospice and LAMP, to name The West Coast Lumberjack Show continues a sailor’s knot, and participate in the Waterfront a few. but for one day only you can also catch the Hunt for a chance to win prizes! 2nd Annual Salsa at Ontario Place and add some Latin heat to your Fourth of July with live music, theatre, dance lessons and competi- tions from morning until night. July 1 July 1 - 12 July 10 CANADA DAY COUNTRY JAM TORONTO OUTDOOR Woodbine Park Various Theatre Locations ART EXHIBITION The is all day event presented by New Country In a country that hosts the most Fringe festi- Nathan Philips Square 95.3 takes place from noon to 9 pm. vals in the world, the Toronto Fringe shines. As the largest outdoor art exhibition in This year’s headliners include Emerson Drive, First run in 1989 with 4 venues and 40 produc- Canada, the TOAE offers a fresh-air alterna- Amanda Wilkinson, Jason Blaine, Tara Oram tions, the Toronto Fringe now has over ten tive to conventional art shows and galleries. and One More Girl. venues, including KidsVenue, and more than Approximately 500 artists participate and www.counry 953.com 120 theatre companies participating from the over 100,000 visitors attend the exhibition province and around the world. Held annually every year. Side by side, established artists, July 1, 4 & 5 in July. undiscovered talents and innovative students CHIN INTERNATIONAL PICNIC www.fringetoronto.com sell their work directly to the public and make Exhibition Place lasting connections with art dealers and col- One of Toronto’s most popular and diverse July 1 - 30 lectors. We welcome applications from artists events, the CHIN International Picnic has KIDS SUMMER working in a wide range of traditional and been a staple of the city for over 40 years. Various Locations experimental art forms. The CHIN Picnic embraces and celebrates the The Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition is a different cultures of Toronto with the world’s July 3 - 5 charitable non-profit organization supported largest free picnic and music festival attracting TASTE OF LAWRENCE FESTIVAL by a group of volunteers active in the art more than 250,000 people. The Picnic opens Lawrence Avenue East between Warden and corporate communities. The exhibition at noon on Canada Day, with the Folklore Avenue to Pharmacy is financed through registration fees, and by and Polish Entertainment beginning at 12:30 Take in the sights of this unique festival. Enjoy government, corporate and individual spon- followed at 2:30 by the ceremonial singing of three exciting days of great food, entertain- sors, enabling the TOAE to charge one of the the National Anthem, performed in four-part ment and guaranteed fun for the whole family. lowest registration fees in North America. No harmony by eight cast members of JERSEY The event will feature live-stage performances percentage of the artists’ sales is taken by the BOYS, and the raising of the flag. Then, see with a multi-cultural twist, local vendors and organizers. Hong Kong singer/actor Steven Ma, who will artisans. Kid’s activities include face-painting, join local personalities Anson Wong, Simon craft tables, inflatables, amusement rides and July 10 - 12 Lau and Leslie Yip for an afternoon of song, much more. Tempt your palate with the many HONDA INDY dance and games at the CHIN Bandshell Stage. mouth-watering tastes offered up by local food Exhibition Place Later, South Asian singer Anup Jalota will vendors or simply relax in the beer garden. When the engines start to roar this July in the delight audiences with a performance as part of Come out and have fun. streets of downtown Toronto, the field will in- the South Asian Festival. www.tasteoflawrence.com clude four Indianapolis 500 winners. Expected Finally, Canada Day picnickers can enjoy the to start in Toronto are Helio Castroneves Ontario Place ‘Festival of Fire’ fireworks dis- July 3 - 19 (2001, 2002), Dan Wheldon (2005), Dario play from the CNE grounds beginning at 10:30 SUMMERLICIOUS Franchitti (2007) and Scott Dixon (2008). The pm. The fun continues on the weekend when Various Toronto Restaurants last time a former Indianapolis 500 winner the new Miss CHIN Bikini receives her crown ran at Toronto was in 2002. Kenny Brack, the on Saturday July 4th, and the new Mr. CHIN July 4 - 5 1999 Indianapolis 500 winner was in the triumphs over the competition on July 5th. 12TH ANNUAL starting line-up for that race and finished The CHIN Bandshell Stage continues to host TORONTO FIESTA second. Castroneves was the last driver to win international stars over the weekend. The St. Clair Ave. W. (west of Dufferin) the Indianapolis 500 and also run at Toronto Portuguese community is well represented on The Corso Italia Toronto Street Festival is a in the same year. That was in 2001 and he July 4th with award-winning singer Clemente, wonderful opportunity for the whole family to finished 19th after starting second. Only one and the platinum-selling group The Fevers. experience the food and culture of Toronto’s Indianapolis 500 winner has ever gone on to Each evening concludes with Italian sensations own Corso Italia. Over 30 bands will perform win at Toronto. Bobby Rahal won both the Simone Cristicchi and Marco Calliari joined live on street corners, patios and balconies. Indianapolis 500 and the very first race at by Italian crooner Riccardo Fogli taking the Featured is a variety of music from classical to Toronto in 1986. New Faces of Open Wheel stage on both July 4 and 5. For families looking salsa. In addition, food and beverage retailers Racing Ready to Greet Fans in Toronto for an affordable getaway, the Picnic offers will offer a mouth-watering selection of tastes Several new faces of open wheel racing will three full days of thrilling activities. The entire and flavours, with promotions and samples be running for the First time in Toronto at this family can take in the CHIN Picnic Midway of their cuisine. Since we offer such a diverse year’s Honda Indy Toronto. With the unifica- and play some games, visit the petting zoo, musical line-up, this has also become one of tion of open wheel racing in North America marvel at the Jungle Cat World and the K-9 Toronto’s leading multicultural events. successfully accomplished more than a year Dog Challenge, and enjoy the aerial artistry of www.torontofiesta.com ago, drivers like Danica Patrick and Marco the Zero Gravity Circus. All three days of the Andretti will join familiar names like CHIN Picnic offer free admission and more July 5 Graham Rahal and Justin Wilson on the uni- entertainment and attractions than ever before. HOT SPOT FESTIVAL fied grid at Toronto. Race fans can look for Folklore entertainment from Italy, Portugal, Harbourfront drivers such as Tony Kanaan, Dario Franchitti China, South Asia, Eastern Europe and South www.harbourfrontcentre.com and Scott Dixon to be back in Toronto after a America; sporting events such as cycling races, long absence. Did you know that all IndyCar boxing bouts, wrestling matches, Tae Kwon Juy 5 Series cars run on normally-aspirated Honda Do presentations and Martial Arts demonstra- VENEZUALA’S FESTIVAL engines, Dallara chassis, Firestone Firehawks tions; foods of the world; and the huge 100,000 Mel Lastman Square racing tires and 100 percent fuel-grade etha- square foot bazaar showcase the diversity of www.toronto.ca nol? Now you know. Toronto’s international communities. www.hondaindytoronto.com July 11 - 12 Jazz continues to be one of the few remaining July 14 - August 2 SALSA ON ST. CLAIR free jazz festivals and the leading festival for TORONTO INTERNATIONAL St. Clair Ave. W. promoting Canadian musical talent. CARNIVAL CARIBANA Between Winona Drive and Christie Ave. Building on the overwhelming success of last This two week street festival is over 35 years Salsa on St. Clair is back for its fifth year to fill year’s inaugural concerts, Beaches Jazz will old and is the largest Caribbean festival in the streets with pure Latin energy. This family again kick off the Festival with the Woodbine North America. The festival runs for two street party celebrating Toronto’s Latin cultures Park Concerts, Friday July 17 to Sunday July weeks in summer and features a parade, turn midtown Toronto into a showcase of Latin 19 at Woodbine Park (Coxwell Avenue and outdoor concerts, king and queen of the bands life: pulsating music, passionate dancing, fiery Lakeshore Boulevard East). The concerts will competition and much more. foods, a Latin market, a children’s area and be filled with the musical talents of both estab- www.caribanafestival.com much more. lished and up-and-coming artists performing Celebrate the city’s best Latino music, culture on the TD Canada Trust Music Main Stage, the July 15 - 19 and entertainment at this free fun-filled Latin New Generation Stage and the Youth Stage. JUST FOR LAUGHS FESTIVAL 2009 extravaganza. St. Clair Avenue West will be Continuing the Festival’s tradition of support- Various Club and Theatre Locations closed to vehicular traffic transforming the ing and encouraging new performers, the New www.hahaha.com street into a dance floor and stage with activi- Generation and Youth Stages will again focus ties for the whole family. on promoting and introducing young artists July 18 Hillcrest Village Salsa on St. Clair will feature who are beginning to make an impact on the MUBUHAY PHILLIPPINES TORONTO activities for the whole family including live Canadian music scene. SUMMER FEST entertainment, dance lessons, children’s areas, On Monday July 20, Tuesday July 21 and Metro Toronto Convention Centre food and exhibition booths and much more. Wednesday July 22, the TD Canada Trust Jazz The Mabuhay Philippines Toronto Summer Join in the conga line as Salsa Fever takes over Workshop and Lecture Series take place. All Festival is the largest celebration of Philippine the entire city at the Salsa in Toronto Festival! workshops are held at the Mennonite New Life heritage and culture in Canada. The annual Centre (1774 East);artists and event has become the highlight of the com- July 11 - 12 classes to be announced. munity’s social calendar, featuring almost 200 AFROFEST Crowd favourite Beaches Jazz StreetFest re- vendors, singers, dancers, Philippine cuisine Queens Park turns this year with 50 bands performing from providers, art exhibits, raffles and more. Music Africa presents Toronto’s 21st AF- Thursday July 23 to Saturday July 25 from 7 The Festival is a unique event in the Filipino- ROFEST, a celebration of African music and pm to 11 pm on street corners on Queen Street Canadian community. It is the only gather- culture. FREE on Saturday July 11th and East between Woodbine and Beech Avenue. ing that involves various Filipino-Canadian Sunday July 12th; at Queen’s Park from noon The melodies of calypso, new age, jazz, fusion, associations and groups that represent different to 10:30 pm. Afrofest is a multi-focus event Latin, blues and Cajun will delight throngs regions, educational institutions and cultural of song, dance, theatre, food, a marketplace, of fans throughout StreetFest. As well, artists aspects of the Philippines. It provides a plat- and activities for youth and children. Featuring will showcase their talents at the Balmy Beach form for Filipinos to showcase their individual traditional and contemporary styles of music by Club, an exclusive member’s only venue at and collective talents in order to inform and top international touring acts and dozens of Af- the foot of Beech Avenue. Once again, street raise awareness of the culture and for Filipino rican performing groups from across Canada. closure on Queen Street East between Wood- businesses to increase awareness of their mar- The festival has grown every year. In 2009, bine and Beech Avenue will be in effect for the ketability through a trade show.Rhian Ramos three different outdoor stages will come to life duration of StreetFest. and Richard Guiterrez, the leading actors in the with music and dance. On Saturday July 25 and Sunday July 26 from GMA TV series Zorro, are going to be present Discover Africa in the heart of Toronto! 11:30 am to 6:30 pm, Master of Ceremonies at the festival this year. The festival’s opening Afrofest kicks off its launch party on Friday and Musical Director Bill King will welcome act is by Juan De La Cruz Band. July 10th with a ticketed concert by Malian a diverse and entertaining line-up of local www.livewithculture.com rising superstar Vieux Farka Touré. The son and international artists to the Alex Christie of an African musical legend, Vieux’s guitar Bandshell at Kew Gardens (Queen Street East July 20 - August 16 virtuosity has been compared to Eric Clapton’s. and Lee Avenue). In addition, a variety of local TORONTO SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL With opening act Toronto’s highlife kings, Af- performances will be featured at the Leuty Edward Johnson Building (Faculty of rafranto. At the Phoenix Concert Theatre, 410 Lifeguard Station, located on the boardwalk at Music) at the University of Toronto. Sherbourne Street. Afrofest at Queen’s Park the foot of Lee Avenue. The Toronto Summer Music Festival features is a showcase of the richness and diversity of Arts and craft exhibitors will fill Kew Gardens, over sixty Canadian and international artists in African culture. The 21st anniversary celebra- displaying and selling their wares to loyal and a series of 11 chamber music concerts includ- tion is shaping up to be the best ever. new fans of the Beaches International Jazz ing an opening night concert at the Carlu with www.musicafrica.com Festival. violinist James Ehnes and pianist Jon Kimura Continuing its strong support of the Beach Parker and an Opera Xtravaganza featuring top July 17 - 26 community, the festival will hold its annual international singers. The theme of the 2009 21ST ANNUAL Beaches Jazz Fun Run & Walk at the foot of Festival is Eternal Stars, a celebratory com- BEACHES INTERNATIONAL Kew Gardens, on Sunday July 26 from 8:30 memoration marking the anniversaries of star JAZZ FESTIVAL & STREETFEST am. Proceeds raised from this event will help composers such as Purcell, Händel, Haydn, The Beaches International Jazz Festival the Toronto Beach Rotary Club support groups Mendelssohn and Martinu. celebrates its 21st birthday with a 10-day and projects important to the Beach neighbour- www.torontosummermusic.com musical bash. What started in 1989 as a small hood. Once they have completed their run, two-day community affair has now evolved participants can relax and enjoy the fabulous July 24 - 29 into an all-encompassing festival for the entire music provided by the performers on the main MASALA MEHNDI MASTI city of Toronto and beyond. Beaches Jazz is stage at Kew Gardens. Exhibiton Place one of Toronto’s most successful events of www.beachesjazz.com The largest multi-disciplinary South Asian the summer, attracting Canadian, American Arts festival outside of South Asia, Masala! and international tourists to the city. Beaches Mehndi! Masti! has celebrated annually for Toronto, Irie Fest 2009 offers programming at nights of cinematic mayhem at the 4th annual 7 years presenting South Asian culture and two great downtown locations Toronto After Dark Film Festival! The com- South Asian inspired culture in a professional, www.Iriemusicfestival.Com plete lineup, schedule and single tickets will be fun and mainstream environment, downtown available July 29 (new date). Toronto (originally at Harbourfront Centre and August 7 - 9 www.TorontoAfterDark.com now at the CNE grounds). This spectacular multi-generational presenta- Danforth Ave. East of Don Valley Parkway tion connects today’s world with the wonders Greektown Taste of the Danforth sponsored by of 5000 years of civilization, its ancient tradi- Pilaros is one of Toronto’s signature events, tions and modern influences. Our vision is showcasing the best of Hellenic food, culture, not only to make South Asians proud of their and music our multicultural city has to offer heritage but to make them proud partners in - from souvlaki to mezes, authentic Greek Canadian culture. It provides an opportunity to music to interactive children’s games! Enjoy established and emerging artists in traditional the culture that makes the Danforth a year and contemporary spheres of music, dance, round destination.This festival is a must for August 21 - September 7 film, theatre, literature and poetry, natural food-lovers as samples of a variety of the ethnic CANADIAN NATIONAL EXHIBITION health practices, social issues, cuisine, arts & dishes available at Greek Town restaurants are (CNE) crafts and much more. We open doors to cross available for tasting. The event also includes Exhibition Place cultural collaborations and diverse thinking. two stages for bands, a Healthy Eating, Healthy Since opening day in 1879, the Canadian www.masalamehndimasti.com Lifestyle Village, a midway, a sports area, a National Exhibition has been a real bargain for Beer Garden, a Martini Lounge and the Greek families looking for great entertainment, educa- July 25 - 26 Wines Garden. tion and a whole bunch of excitement….and LIVE GREEN TORONTO FESTIVAL www.tasteofthedanforth.com it’s no different in 2009! Yonge & Dundas Square Tickets to the 2009 fair are now available at Saturday July 25th will include a street-closure August 6 - 9 theex.com and will also be sold through the of Yonge street (from Dundas to Queen) with FESTIVAL OF BEER CNE’s exclusive retail partner Shoppers Drug over 100 exhibitors, local food, live music, Historic Fort York Mart, as well as through GO Transit Lakeshore and more. Sunday July 26th is family day Beer is the acclaimed beverage at this gather- line and Union stations. Visit www.theex.com with events on Yonge-Dundas Square with kid ing, which features over 200 products. Lagers, for updates on tick- friendly activities and hands-on fun for the stouts, wheat beers and pale ales can all be ets, attractions and special events. All events whole family. sampled. Live entertainment can be heard are free with admission to the CNE. At Toronto’s annual celebration of all things on all of the three days, and tempting food is green, you can: available. So come out and toast the brewers of NEW ATTRACTIONS FOR 2009 include: Check out hundreds of green products and Canada. services to help you live green at home, work www.beerfestival.ca Surf Wave - Daily on Princes’ Blvd. and on the road. Everything from bees, worms This summer, the CNE will install a large Flow and bikes, to green fashions, renewable energy, August 14 - 15 Rider Mobile Wave machine on Princes’ Bou- local foods and more.... YORK-EGLINTON INTERNATIONAL levard where professional surfers will demon- Catch some of Toronto’s top musical acts on STREET FESTIVAL strate how to really ride the waves. the main stage at Yonge-Dundas Square. The second annual York-Eglinton International www.toronto.ca Street Festival offers everyone a weekend of “E”, A NightTime Light Show - Displayed hot music and fun activities. On Friday, the Nightly on the South Entrance of the Direct July 30 street gets hopping with DJs and a sidewalk Energy Centre CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL & SUMMER sale from 3 pm to 9 pm. On Saturday, see live Each night of the CNE, the exterior of the BBQ musical performances by R&B, Reggae, Soul south east entrance of the Direct Energy Centre Hart House U of T and Ska artists including Steele, Comfort, will be transformed into a large canvas on to Set in the magnificent courtyard at Hart House, Mountainedge Crew, Jay Davis, and Frankie which a kaleidoscope of spectacular images this event will feature a diverse selection of the Foo & the YoYo Smugglers. Street magician will be projected. Escape into the magical finest beers that Ontario Craft Brewers have to Ray Chance will also perform, along with a world of E, the CNE’s new nighttime light offer. Niagara Specialty Meats will be on hand number of multicultural dance troupes. There’ll show. to provide guests with savory barbeque morsels be exciting giveaways, kids’ activities, and to snack on while they mingle in the shade of more. Free. Friday, August 14th from 3 pm to National Sand Sculpting Competition - the building’s historic stone walls. Bonjay’s 9 pm and Saturday, August 15th from noon to Opening Weekend; Heritage Court Alanna Stuart will take to the stage as the head- 9 pm. Presented by the York-Eglinton BIA. At Direct Energy Centre liner in a set of live performances that will also 1607 Eglinton Ave. W., Green P Parking Lot, For the first three days of the CNE, six sculp- include band Everything All The Time and DJ and along Eglinton Ave. W. from Marlee Ave. tors from across Canada will transform mounds Grahm Zilla from Thunderheist. to Dufferin St. of sand into works of art in the CNE’s first-ever www.events.utoronto.ca www.internationalstreetfest.com Sand Sculpting Competition. Each competitor will be working with 10 tonnes of sand to cre- July 30 - August 3 August 14 - 21 ate their own individually inspired sculpture. IRIE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2009 TORONTO AFTER DARK The six finished sculptures will be on display Nathan Phillips Square adn Queens Park FILM FESTIVAL in Heritage Court. CNE visitors will have the The 8th annual Irie Music Festival, also known Bloor Cinema opportunity to vote for the “Fan Favourite” as Irie Fest, is one of canada’s most excit- If you want to be the first to see some amazing throughout the fair. ing annual celebrations of music and the arts. new horror, sci-fi, action and cult movies from Conveniently located in the heart of downtown around the world, we invite you to join us for 8 Celebrity Designers, Chefs & Home Improve- ment Experts At Home Pavilion, Direct Energy Centre events for everyone to enjoy including musi- shows between 300 and 400 films at approxi- New to the CNE this year is an exciting cal acts, shows, boat cruise, art, fashion, dance mately 23 screens in downtown Toronto each series of celebrity designers, chefs and home parties and dinning events. year. First formed in 1976, the TIFF features improvement experts, who will deliver “how www.girlplaytoronto.com blockbuster Hollywood hits, as well as inde- to” demonstrations in the At Home Pavilion pendent works from Canada and around the each day. Speakers include: Canada’s Handy- September 4 - 7 world. www.tiff09.ca man: Shawn Monteith (daily); Food Stylist HOT & SPICY FOOD FESTIVAL Christine Cushing (Friday, August 21);Chef Harbourfront Centre David Adjey (Saturday, August 22); Barbeque www.harbourfrontcentre.com COMING THIS FALL King Ted Reader (Sun Aug 23, Fri. Sept 4 & September 27 Sat. Sept. 5); Designer Mary Dobson (Thurs- September 4 -7 THE WORD ON THE STREET day, August 27); Handyman Christian Pavey HISPANIC FIESTA Queen’s Park (Friday, August 28);Designers Colin & Justin Mel Lastman Square Celebrate reading, writing, and literacy at (Saturday, August 29); Chef Corbin Tomasz- Hispanic Fiesta 2009 is ready to fill Mel Last- Canada’s largest book and magazine festival: eski (Thursday, September 3) and Food Expert man Square with the splendid sounds, tempting The Word on the Street. Visit any of the 250 Laura Calder (Sunday, September 6) treats and colorful culture that the Hispanic book, magazine, and literacy exhibitor booths www.theex.com heritage is famous for. Hispanic Fiesta will to discover new writers, new publications, and feature the best known local & International new talent. Take in readings, ask questions, and August 22 - September 2 Hispanic performers covering 20 different get your books signed by almost 200 authors, ASHKENAZ FESTIVAL countries, that speak Spanish. performers, and storytellers. Enjoy great pro- Harbourfront Centre www.hispanicfiesta.com gramming all day at any one of 18 performance Celebrating the city’s Yiddish culture, this venues, which include a Bestsellers Stage, week long event held at the Harbourfront September 9 - 13 Children’s Activity Tent, and the Wordshop: Centre is Toronto’s most important Jewish THE JUNCTION ARTS FESTIVAL The Place for Writers. celebration. The 10-acre site comes alive with The Junction Arts Festival proudly promotes www.thewordonthestreet.ca festival productions and works of art cre- the arts while offering something for everyone. ated by world-famous artists. With more than One of the largest art meets street festivals October 18 - 25 175 artisans from 10 different countries, the in North America, the Junction Arts Festival ChocolateFest ’09 festival adds an international flavor to a com- provides the opportunity to stroll through lively The Toronto Chocolate Festival 2009 munal experience. Musicians, poets, painters, street venues featuring engaging art exhibits, Various Locations in Toronto and GTA sculptors, actors and dancers come together live musical performers at the open-air stages, www.ChocolateFestivalWeek.com the last week of August through the first week strolling performers, and children’s activities. www.TheChocolateBall.com of September to celebrate before the sun sets www.junctionartsfest.com on another summer. Most events are free of November 27 - 29 charge. September 10 - 19 CANADIAN ABORIGINAL FESTIVAL TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM Rogers Centre August 27 - 30 FESTIVAL Everyone is welcome to attend the Canadian BUSKERFEST One of North America’s premier film events. Aboriginal Festival, offering the opportunity St. Lawrence Market The Toronto International Film Festival attracts to learn about North America’s Aboriginal Every summer, for 4 days and nights, the worldwide attention and many of the ‘movers peoples. Attractions and activities include food, streets of the St. Lawrence Market Neighbour- and shakers’ in the movie industry. The festival music, arts, shopping, traditional dancing and hood come to life with laughter, cheering, ap- is held at a variety of venues throughout the more. plause and flames when some of the best street city. Internationally renowned, this film festival www.canab.com performers from around the world gather for the Toronto International BuskerFest. Contor- tionists, comedians, clowns, magicians, musi- FOR cians, acrobats, aerialist artists, daredevils and so many more, all strut their stuff to the delight LISTING UPDATES of crowds of all ages. Admission is by dona- VISIT tion to Epilepsy Toronto. Playing in the street has never been so much fun! www.HOToronto.com www.torontobuskerfest.com click on

September 3 - 7 GIRL PLAY FESTIVAL Location TBA Girl Play Toronto presents the Girl Play To- ronto Festival, which will be the largest, and only National Women’s Week in Canada with something for everyone! The first year cel- ebration brings together great dance parties, cultural events and much more, all held in a variety of stellar locations in one of the most multi-cultural and exciting locations in the world, Toronto Canada. The festival line-up will offer a diverse set of cultural and social

GTA & SOUTHERN ONTARIO

June 19 - 21 ances from the over 120 performing weekend MISSISSAUGA MOSAIC 2008 SOUTH ASIAN acts. Boasting yet another festival highlight, The HERITAGE FESTIVAL Southside Shuffle is proud to once again present June 5 - 7 Central Library Square the Sick Kids Southstage. Free to the public, BREAD & HONEY FESTIVAL The Telus Mosaic 2008 is a multi-disciplinary arts the Southside ShuffleÆs Sick Kids Southstage Streetsville festival that features the South Asian Film Festival, showcases numerous Rhythm and Blues acts as Streetsville’s 36th Bread and Honey Festival is held unforgettable stage performances, internationally re- well as Blues and Jazz musicians of the future. in Streetsville Memorial Park, a natural amphitheatre nowned artists, Rock the Coliseum, delicious South The Junior Jam provides aspiring musicians under site of 30 acres on the Credit River. This year the fes- Asian cuisine and much more! 18 with an opportunity to play with professionals. tival will take place from June 6 - 8, and as usual, ex- [email protected] LaVilla Fine Foods Harmonica Workshop is a fun pect the tongue-tantalizing sensations of the locally and interactive workshop offered to kids between made bread from the local flourmills in Streetsville, July 8 - 12 8 û 12 years of age. the Reid Milling and ADM Milling flourmills. Of THE MISSISSAUGA INDEPENDENT www.southsideshuffle.com course, to go with the local bread, local honey is also FILM FESTIVAL used. Various forms of music will be featured on the Cine Starz Cinema September 19 - 20 main stage Saturday and Sunday from 60’s to rock From the star-studed red-carpet Gala on Thursday FALL FESTIVAL and Jazz, Pop and Country. There will be events and night to the award presentation on Sunday, the Bradley Museum, 1620 Orr Rd. features for children like the petting zoo located on festival itself will be packed with short films and The Museums of Mississauga in partnership with the fairgrounds, including a rubber duck race through features, drama, comedy and documentaries, and the the City of Mississauga Recreation & Parks De- the Credit River, food concession stands and various nightly after-parties will be jammed with MIFF’s partment – Environmental Section invite everyone rides. The Bread and Honey Festival begins with the Live Indie Music Series. to join us for the 2009 Fall Festival – ‘Get back to Lions Carnival on Friday with the Mammoth Parade www.miff.ca simple living’. This fun, family event will be held taking place at 10 am sharp on Saturday June 6th. on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September The festival, a non-profit, volunteer-run event, ends July 17 - 19 20, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Bradley at 6 pm on Sunday. AMACON MISSISSAUGA ROTARY RIBFEST Museum. Enjoy the lovely rustic setting of historic www.breadandhoney.com Civic Centre Square gardens and buildings, including Bradley House Get ready for some finger licking fun. The Amacon (1830s), and the Log Cabin at Bradley Museum. June 19 - 21 Mississauga Rotary Ribfest is known for its famous Featuring three stages of non-stop Folk Music. MISSISSAUGA WATERFRONT FESTIVAL BBQ ribs, cold beer, live music, and children’s rides, Displays and activities from over twenty different Port Credit Memorial Park Mississauga spectacular performances and fun the whole family environmental organizations will give you new This annual festival is known for “Celebrating The can enjoy! ideas for “living green”. Horse and wagon rides Mississauga Waterfront Festival is a non-profit July 17: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. through the park, historic demonstrations, and organization dedicated to celebrating the importance July 18: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. great food round off the day! Enjoy our feature of families in our community. Since its premiere July 19: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. exhibit, “Streetsville Village: 150 Years of His- in 1997 the festival’s “Sponsor a Child” program tory” while you’re here. Admission free with the has subsidized approximately 30,000 children and September 11 -13 donation of non-perishable food for Compass individuals, who have attended as guests. SOUTHSIDE SHUFFLE, PORT CREDIT’S Food Bank, or a suggested $2 donation. www. The festival attracts new visitors every year and BLUES AND JAZZ FESTIVAL museumsofmississauga.com welcomes back it’s loyal attendee base. Last year’s Memorial Park, Lakeshore Road, along the attendance reached 65,000! This is regarded as Credit River, Mississauga September 19 Mississauga’s signature event. Tim Hortons Mississauga presents Port Credit’s ANNUAL STREET FEST ON QUEEN Blues and Jazz Festival, The Southside Shuffle. STREET MWF FridayFest: North America’s premiere Blues and Jazz festival (Streetville) This year’s Main Stage will feature headlining commemorates 11 years. Throughout the weekend The BIA is planning once again to party on Canadian and/or International Acts with a special and the village of Port Credit, over 120 Canadian Queen Street. Details of all activities will be Friday Night Concert Pass. This will also include and International acts will perform on a variety listed here as they are confirmed. all main stage performers Saturday night, Sunday of stages and venues. Offering fans that little afternoon headliners PLUS family attractions and something for everyone. September 8 - 20 events throughout the park ALL weekend long. It is Commemorating the life of Canada’s legendary November 9 - 22 anticipated that Friday night’s concert attendance will Blues and Jazz guitarist, The Southside Shuffle pays December 7 - 13 be the largest on record. tribute to Jeff Healey and closes with a performance KIDBITS EDUCATIONAL BOOK FAIR www.mississaugawaterfrontfestival.com from Canada’s premiere Blues Band, Downchild. 2009 From 3 to7 p.m., Saturday afternoon, over 30 bands Central Library Atrium, June 14 and thousands of music lovers flood Lakeshore Road 301 Burnhamthorpe Rd. W. KALAYAAN PHILIPPINE for the heartbeat of the Southside Shuffle, the Fram Unique and interesting books and other CULTURAL FESTIVAL Slokker Street Shuffle. Let’s not forget the Shuffle’s items for children and adults. Something for Location: Central Library Square community spirit with the more than $100,000 everyone! Make great birthday and special The Kalayaan Filipino Cultural Organization present generated for Sick Kids Hospital at the Sick Kids occasion gifts at very reasonable prices. a cultural festival showcasing the best in Philippine Jam Stage. Held annually at the Port Credit Royal www.mississauga.ca/portal/residents/central- culture, featuring folk dances, music, food and art. Canadian Legion and hosted by Juno nominee, The library www.kalayaan.ca Johnny Max Band, this Friday and Saturday night Phone: 905-615-3500 venue features a variety of special guest appear- [email protected] R o s e T h e a TR e B R a m p T o n p R e s e n T s August 1 - 2 BRAMPTON WOODBRIDGE ITALIAN FESTIVAL Ontario Soccer Centre, Martin Grove Rd. July 10 - 12 Summer The Woodbridge Italian Festival is a celebra- CARABRAM 2009 tion of community and culture, and is made Various Pavilions in Brampton 09 possible through the generosity and dedication Carabram Brampton’s Multicultural Festival is of various organizations throughout the com- celebrating 26 years in 2008. On the weekend LIVe aT GaRDen sQUaRe munity. The Festival is a two-day spectacular of July 11, 12, and 13 you can ‘travel’ the filled with entertainment, sports, fashion, world, without leaving Brampton. music, carnival rides and games, an indoor Carabram provides an opportunity for families exhibition and the participation of thousands to “Tour the World” and experience the rich Enjoy FREE live musical of spectators of all ages. Each year, the Wood- culture, food, crafts, drink and entertainment performances this summer bridge Italian Festival looks to promote new of different ethnic groups in Brampton and the at Garden Square located artists within the community and bring the best surrounding community attracting thousands just steps from the front in entertainment to the stage. to this event. Drive to the pavilions located entrance of the Rose (905) 856- 2823 in cultural centres, schools and recreation Theatre, in the heart of www.lospecchio.com/woodbridgeitalianfesti- centres around Brampton or you can hop on downtown Brampton. val/ a Brampton Transit shuttle bus, for free, and travel to Bulgaria, Canada, Caribbean, Croatia, Germany, Hawaii, India, Italy, Macedonia, OAKVILLE Myanmar, Philippines, Poland, Portugal and Schedule of Summer Programming for July & auguSt 09 Ukraine. June 26 - 28 Passports can be purchased for only $8.00 per OAKVILLE WATERFRONT FESTIVAL adult from Scotia Bank, the information booths thursday lunchtime concerts Hosted by Brampton Folk Club The Oakville Waterfront Festival is three days at Shoppers World Brampton, Bramalea City 12 noon - 2pm of spectacular summertime entertainment Centre, Canadian Tire, Royal Bank, and some friday evening concerts for the whole family - live outdoor concerts, bus terminals throughout Brampton as well children’s village, craft show, dog show, health as from pavilion volunteers. Children 12 and Hosted by Dean McTaggart and Friends 6pm - 8pm & wellness village, gardening show, fireworks, under are free when accompanied by an adult. and much more, all included in your pay- Plan to visit Carabram, Brampton’s Multi- Saturday morning at the market one-price admission. Join the fun this year as cultural premiere Festival and enjoy the rich Featuring different local performers each week! the Festival brings you the best in Canadian diversity of our great City, Brampton! entertainment, plus the grandest magic & il- (416) 452-4917 [email protected] 9am - 11am *Visit us online for a detailed listing of performers. lusion extravaganza ever to hit the stage, and discover why Festivals and Events Ontario July - August calls it one of the Top 50 Festivals in Ontario. FLOWER CITY THEATRE FESTIVAL Festival Times: Friday 5 pm – 11 pm; Saturday Rose Theatre 9 am – 11 pm; Sunday 9 am - 5 pm. Tickets in Founded in 2001 the Flower City Theatre Fes- advance just $13 each or $11 each when you tival has been known by a few different names purchase 5 or more. All tickets $15 each at the over the years. As the program developed and gate. Purchase on-line at: found its voice, the festival changed from Heri- www.rosetheatre.ca www.oakvillefestival.com. tage Theatre Presents, to Brampton Theatre For more information: 905-847-7975 or infor- Presents to A.C.T. Productions. The A.C.T. is [email protected] short for Arts Culture and Theatre, which is the VAUGHAN department of the City of Brampton respon- August 7 - 9 sible for all of the theatre operations. June 4 DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE www.rosetheatre.ca ILAN RAMON STREET FESTIVAL JAZZ FESTIVAL Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Jewish Community Experience a Taste of Bourbon Street…in July - August Campus, Ilan Ramon Blvd Downtown Oakville! Celebrating 17 years of FLOWER CITY MUSIC FESTIVAL The second annual Ilan Ramon Street Festival, great Jazz, incredible shopping and fantastic Rose Theatre which will bring together over 4,000 people summer dining, be sure to make a visit to Enjoy FREE live musical performances this from one of Canada’s fastest growing neighbor- Downtown Oakville on this epic weekend. summer at Garden Square located just steps hoods, will take place at the Joseph and Wolf From grassroots beginnings, thousands of from the front entrance of the Rose Theatre, in Lebovic Jewish Community Campus on Ilan people now flock to Oakville to enjoy live out- the heart of downtown Brampton. Ramon Blvd (corner of Bathurst and Lebovic door jazz performances from the finest North Catch all the action from the comfort of the Campus Drive, north of Rutherford) in Vaughan American talent. Enjoy cool jazz in the hot sun brand new Rose Theatre Patio! on Sunday June 8, noon - 4 pm. The theme of at the Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival. Thursday Lunchtime Concerts this year’s Ilan Ramon Street Festival is “Cel- www.oakvillejazz.com Hosted by Brampton Folk Club ebrate Shavout, Israeli Style”. 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Organized by UJA Federation’s Schwartz/ Reis- Friday Evening Concerts man Centre, the family festival will feature in- Hosted by Dean McTaggart BURLINGTON flatable rides, children’s entertainment, cultural 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm performances, folk dancing, tractor and wagon Saturday Morning at the Market June 18 - 21 rides in addition to a barbeque with Israeli food. Featuring different local performers each week BURLINGTON SOUND OF MUSIC For more information call 9:00 am - 11:00 am FESTIVAL 416 635-2883 ext. 316 www.rosetheatre.ca 30 years of Burlington’s Sound of Music blacksmithing. Food, games, horse and wagon participate in activities for children, view many Festival! Be a part of this momentous occasion rides and a new Children’s Encampment. authentic demonstrations and performances, for one of Canada’s largest free outdoor music Musical entertainment will be provided by The sample Turkish cuisine, and do much, much festivals and “Burlington’s premier summer Playford Players, Ian Bell and Stephen Fuller. more at the Festival. event”. Wander through the original 200 year old Gage www.hamiltonturkishfestival.com www.soundofmusic.on.ca homestead. www.battlefieldhouse.ca July 1 HAMILTON CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS June 12-14 709 Simcoe Street West by Bay Street ANTIQUE FAIR Head out for an evening of entertainment. May - August Hamilton Gardens Tune into Oldies 1150, 102.9 K-Lite FM or BROTT SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL 820 CHAM for your musical fireworks! Music Various Locatons Quality Antique fair presented by The Antique fair charitable trust TACT (All profit to be begins at 7 pm. Free. The National Academy Orchestra was founded donated to the Walkato Hospice. All items in 1989 by conductor Boris Brott and is primar- for sale including, furniture, china, crystal & July 1 - 5 ily based in Hamilton, Ontario. It is recognized silver, clocks, militaria, books, jewelry, linen , IT’S YOUR FESTIVAL as a Canadian National School for its effective postcards, and much more. Gage Park apprenticeship program and pairing of young More information: [email protected] An annual event that celebrates Canada’s birth- graduate musicians with seasoned mentor mu- day with arts and crafts, international foods, a sicians from Canada’s finest orchestras. Each June 12 - 14 midway and musical performances. winter, over 300 potential apprentices audition HAMILTON WATERFRONT WINGFEST Free admission. from across Canada for a spot in the orchestra. Pier 8, 47 Discovery Dr. www.itsyourfestival.ca Since its inception, the NAO has been the Visitors are invited to put their taste buds to the orchestra-in-residence for the acclaimed Brott test at Hamilton’s Waterfront Wingfest! Attrac- July 4 Music Festival, Ontario’s premier orchestral tions include chicken wing vendors, live enter- HAMILTON WATERFEST music festival DRAGONBOAT RACE More information: 905-525-7664 tainment, beer gardens, a carnival, an original art show and sale and much more! Admission Bayfront Park Come see more than 30 dragonboat teams May 7 - 10 is free! Bring a lawn chair. Friday, June 12th, race across the bay for fun, for glory, and to THE ROGER’S SPRING 4:00 pm til 12 midnight, Saturday, June 13th, raise funds in support of Bay Area Restoration MUSIC FESTIVAL 12: pm til 12 midnight, Sunday, June 14th, 12 Council & Lively Dragon (BARC)’s programs. Various venues in Hamilton pm til 6:00 pm www.hamiltonwaterfrontwingfest.com More info: 905-407-2174 The Rogers Spring Music Festival is a celebra- tion of music that showcases between 50 and June 13 - 14 July 5 - August 30 (Sundays & Holidays) 100 of the hottest ‘buzz acts’ from Canada and CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL BUSTLES AND BISCUITS FESTIVAL the US. In the tradition of the Trews, the Tea MILITARY TATTTOO Westfield Heritage Village (Rockton) Party, Junkhouse and more, the Rogers Spring Copps Coliseum Leisurely afternoon enjoying tea & homemade Music Festival would like to welcome Never- Formally the as the Hamilton International tea biscuits at the Gillen House. Enjoy period ending White Lights to Hamilton. fashions in a mini-fashion show at 2pm. Tour www.springmusicfestival.com/2009 Tattoo, this annual event celebrates Canada’s cultural heritage with a variety of performanc- through some of Ontario’s oldest buildings including the pioneer home, artisan workshop, May 23 - 31 es, including pipe and drum playing, dancing, church, school, train station and store dating ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS’ LILAC marching and more. Performers come from from 1790 to 1925. FESTIVAL around the globe for this exciting event. More info: 1-800-883-0104 Royal Botanical Gardens www.canadianmilitarytatttoo.ca The festival features some 800 varieties of the July 16 - 26 fragrant shrubs in a multitude of colors. The June 13 - 21 THE HA MILTON FRINGE FESTIVAL Royal Botanical Gardens’ three other outdoor HAMILTON PRIDE FESTIVAL Downtown Hamilton display gardens and the RBG Centre include Various locations A 10-day un-juried theatre festival that happens a restaurant and gift shop. Come enjoy the This week long festival celebrates gays, every summer in downtown Hamilton. Fringe world’s largest collection of lilacs. Entertain- lesbians and other sexual orientations. Events Festivals have become one of the most popular ment, food and more. include Mr. & Miss Hamilton Pride Pageant, and most successful theatre events in the world www.rbg.ca All You Can Eat Pasta Fundraiser , The Dating since the first one was launched in Edinburgh Game: Gay Edition fundraiser , Gala Recep- Scotland in 1947. June 6 - 7 tion & Pride Awards. Pride Parade. Presenting live theatre in an informal, acces- THE RE-ENACTMENT OF THE BATTLE www.hamiltonpride.com sible and inexpensive environment, the Fringe OF STONEY CREEK strives to break down traditional boundaries Battlefield House Museum and Park June 14 between audience and artist, encouraging open 77 King Street West, Stoney Creek HAMILTON TURKISH FESTIVAL dialogue between theatre-goers and theatre- Bring the whole family and re-live firsthand the Gage Park creators. Audiences are invited to experience thrill and pageantry of the battle that was the Free live performances will take place. The the work turning point of the War of 1812. Festival will display Turkish art, folk dance, www.hamiltonfringe.ca Visit the encampment and mingle with early music and gourmet food, where visitors will 19th century settlers and soldiers as they go get an opportunity to celebrate, learn, and sa- August 1 about their daily life. Shop among one-of-a- vour Turkish hospitality, culture, heritage and VALENS BEACH PARTY kind merchants. Enjoy historical demonstra- cuisine. Visitors will be able to browse and buy Valens Conservation Area tions of sheep shearing, cooking, dancing and Turkish products, souvenirs and handicrafts, Games, sand sclupture contest, prizes & more. August 1 September 4 - 6 Y108 ROCK N’ ROLL PICNIC HAMILTON ANNUAL NIAGARA REGION Gage Park MUSTARD FESTIVAL This free-admission event features a lineup of Ferguson Station April 1 - November 1 homegrown talent, including founding member Clowns, balloons, carnival games, horse and SHAW FESTIVAL of Canadian rock legends Triumph, Rik Em- wagon rides, face painting, candy floss, pop- Shaw Festival Theatre mett, ‘80s alternative rock group from British corn, apple cider, petting zoo, live entertain- 10 Queen’s Parade Columbia, 54-40, The Ending featuring former ment, MusTots Village. Niagara on the Lake Platinum Blonde guitarist Sergio Galli, Quebec Friday from 4 p.m. to midnight The 2009 Shaw Festival season begins April artists The Respectables, Hamiltonians Dean Saturday and Sunday 2 p.m. to midnight 1st with “Sunday in the Park with George” Lickyer, and Toronto-based band, Punishment. Admission is free. based on the book by James Lapine, Music Making their debut at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Picnic www.hamiltoninternationalvillage.ca and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. will be the winner of Y108’s local independent For more information: 1-800-511-SHAW competition, Get Hammered Indie Showcase September 10 - 28 (8429) Band Slam. Seeking Hamilton’s rising stars, FESTITALIA this talent search gives one band a shot in the Various Locations June 13 - 31 opening slot at this year’s picnic with a full 30- A month of different events to showcase Italian WELLAND ROSE FESTIVAL minute set. The winner will be announced July love of life translated into food, wine, music, The Rose Festival is the city’s longest-running 23. Interested musicians can log onto y108.ca culture, the arts and faith. Film night, fashion festival, commemorating Welland’s proud for entry information. In addition to the great shows and soccer. heritage as “The Rose City”. This year marks Canadian performances, this family-friendly www.festitalia.on.ca its 48th anniversary and features a range of event will feature the Family Fun Zone - a community activities and the Grand Parade. children’s amusement area complete with September 12 The theme of this year’s parade is the 150th inflatables, bouncers, kid’s games and rides, LOCKE STREET FESTIVAL Anniversary of the City of Welland. plus treats for grown-ups such as a beverage Locke Street South www.wellandrosefestival.on.ca garden, vendor village and much more. Hamilton’s 9th annual street festival with fun www.y108.ca for the whole family. Walk the Locke between June 19 - 21 at 11:00 am - midnight. Hunter and Herkimer Streets and enjoy one NIAGARA FALLS ROTARY RIBFEST Aug 2 - 3 of Hamilton’s best kept secrets. With over Optimist Park, 4751 Dorchester Rd, 5TH ANNUAL ICE CREAM FESTIVAL 60 merchants and services the street offers a Niagara Westfield Heritage Village (Rockton) selection of antiques, collectibles, style, decor Free Admission Experience the fun and nostalgia of ice cream and delicious food from our cafes, bars and Come feast on mouth watering, finger-lick- from pioneer and Victorian times to the Rock tea room. Over 75 outside vendors showing an ing good ribs and of course fresh picked corn, & Roll era. Live music, horse and wagon rides, eclectic assortment of wares. Enjoy free local french fries and other tasty treats. antique cars, magic show, period dancing, musical entertainment, BBQ’s, children’s play www.niagarafallsribfest.com crafts, games and living history. areas, performers and special events. www.westfieldheritage.ca June 13 October 23- November 2 WELLAND’S DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL August 7 - 9 CHRYSAN THEMUM SHOW International Flatwater Centre, FESTIVAL OF FRIENDS Gage Park North Course, Welland Gage Park The Chrysanthemum Show is an amazing floral The Dragon Boat Festival has become one With four stages of musical concerts and display created by some of Hamilton’s finest of Welland’s most exciting city-wide events, workshops, the annual Festival of Friends is a Horticulture Staff. The display will be breath- drawing thousands of competitors and specta- “Celebration of the Arts”. taking featuring over 100 varieties of Chrysan- tors from around the area. From Noon to 11 pm. themums and over 75,000 blooms! The show www.wellanddragonboatfestival.com More info: 905-777-9777 features trade show booths for the gardening enthusiast as well as an educational house and June 27 - July 5 August 13 - 16 a delightful tea room. 23ND ANNUAL BINATIONAL DUNDAS CACTUS FESTIVAL 905-546-2424 ext. 4179 “FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL” King St & Market St, Dundas Various Locations Dundas is internationally recognized for the November 27 - 29 An international celebration of the culture Cacti produced by the local Ben Veldhuis CANADIAN ABORIGINAL FESTIVAL and heritage shared by Canada and the USA. Cactus Greenhouses, and the 3 day “Cactus Copps Coliseum Events held in Fort Erie, ON and Buffalo, NY Festival”. Includes a parade, a town-wide On its 16th Anniversary, the Festival offers include free concerts and a spectacular fire- sidewalk sale, and entertainment. something for everyone from shopping, food, works display on July 1st highlighting the two www.dundascactusfest.ca spectacular dancing, lacrosse, contemporary national holidays. Crafts, children’s entertain- music,and many other items. The organizers of ment, heritage and cultural displays and an August 16 the Canadian Aboriginal Festival would like to excellent midway. CONFEDERATION CUP XXX make it very clear that everyone is welcome, More Info: 1 888-333-1987 or 905 871-6454 Flamboro Downs all races and creeds. By being a part of our www.friendshipfestival.com The Confederation Cup, running for over 30 Canadian showcases for Aboriginal people, you years is the finest day in Canadian harness rac- would be honoring us with your presence. June 27 ing has to offer. www.canab.com POULTRYFEST NIAGARA June 27th marks the 10th annual PoultryFest celebration ... and it’s going to be buckets of fun! Admission is free so join in for a jam packed day of food and frolic in Smithville, Ontario - Canada’s Poultry Capital! July 4 Sample Icewines served from behind a huge Help recognize Niagara’s 100 million-dollar- ST. MARK’S CHERRY FESTIVAL bar carved from ice. Food and other refresh- a-year poultry industry and the spirit of our St. Mark’s Anglican Church ments, entertainment, and ice sculpting dem- community volunteers. 41 Byron Street onstrations are also available for your enjoy- You’ll be entertained all day with shows, com- Niagara-on-the-Lake ment.When visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake, stop petitions, historical and educational displays, Celebrate the cherry harvest on the historical by the many shops along Queen St. and area kid’s activities and lots to eat!! grounds of St. Mark’s Anglican Church. The for quality wines, wonderful artwork, superb church will be providing tours of the grounds restaurants and other unique items. June 28 and live entertainment will be offered all day, CRYSTAL BEACH 2009 ART FESTIVAL along with everything cherry. Waterfront Park, Crystal Beach For more information: 905-468-3123 From 11am to 5pm followed by a Friends of MARKHAM / Crystal Beach Concert at 7 pm. July TBA www.focb.net 46TH ST. DAVIDS LIONS UNIONVILLE FAMILY CARNIVAL June 5 - 7 July 15 - 19 St. Davids Lions Park UNIONVILLE VILLAGE FESTIVAL SUMMERFEST 1462 York Rd., St. Davids Unionville Village (previously Niagara Equestrian Festival) Thursday and Friday 5 pm -11 pm Saturday 11 The Unionville Village Festival is the largest Fort George Commons, Niagara-on-the-Lake am - 11 pm annual event in Unionville. Now in its 40th Niagara Equestrian Festival, a hunter/jumper Celebrate the 46th annual St Davids Lions year, this exciting event supports itself through show, is held on approximately 35 acres within Carnival. Catch up with old friends and make the generous contributions of companies that the even more expansive Commons area of His- new ones. Rides, games, special draws, raffles may be in the community or whose employees torical Fort George, located in the very beauti- and entertainment hghlight this years carni- and customers enjoy the weekend of family ful and charming historic Niagara-on-the-Lake val. People come for great food selections, activities. (NOTL), Ontario. The specific site is known as especially our famous “Back Bacon on a Bun” 416 208 0685 the Polo Grounds.Spectators are welcome and The main prize this year is a cool $10,000.00. www.unionvillefestival.com there is no admission fee. The St. Davids Volunteer Fire Department will www.niagaraequestrianfestival.com again man the Dunk Tank. June 19 - 20 For more information: 905-262-4844 MARKHAM VILLAGE July 20 - August 15 MUSIC FESTIVAL NIAGARA INTERNATIONAL CHAMBER July TBA Markham VIllage MUSIC FESTIVAL NIAGARA EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL Now in its 30th year, the Markham Kinsmen Various Locations Polo Grounds, Fort George Commons started the Markham Village Music Festival This summer’s season is among the most Niagara Parkway in 1978. Back then; it was simply called the diverse we have presented. It commemorates Niagara-on-the-Lake Markham Village Festival. Since music is such three important musical anniversaries: Franz Jo- A quality horse show in Niagara-on-the-Lake a strong component of the Festival, the name seph Haydn who died in 1809, Felix Mendels- and Niagara held on the Polo Grounds, Fort was changed to the Markham Village Music sohn who was born that same year and Benny George Commons. Festival in 2001. The Festival has always Goodman who was born in 1909. There will be For more information: 416-727-9548 taken place on the third weekend of June opera and Nova Scotia Celtic music, opera and www.niagaraequestrianfestival.com in Markham Village. Main Street Markham cabaret, along with our more traditional clas- (a.k.a. Markham Road or Highway 48) is sical repertoire. Favourite series such as Shaw August 15 closed to traffic from Highway 7 north to Park- and Music, Great Pianists, Showcase of Young A PEACH OF A CELEBRATION way/Bullock for this annual event. Queen Street Virtuosos and Music and Wine will continue, 905-472-2022 Niagara-on-the-Lake and there will lots more jazz. This is to cel- www.markham-festival.org ebrate Niagara-on-the-Lake’s recent designation 9:00 am - 4:30 pm as the home of the Canadian Jazz Hall of Fame. The 19th annual Peach Celebration will take August 14 - 16 www.musicniagara.org/festivalprogramme.jsp place Saturday August 15th, 2009 on Queen MARKHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake. Fife and Drum Main Street July 1 Parade, classic cars, entertainment and lots of The 11th Anniversary of the Markham Jazz CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS peaches. Also, don’t miss the 21st annual St. Festival brings Jazz to Main Street Markham! Simcoe Park & Fort George Vincent de Paul Peach Festival on Sunday Jazz at the Farmers’ Market on Saturday morn- 26 Queen St. August 16th from noon to 5:00pm. The church ing, Jazz in the pubs and restaurants of Main Niagara-on-the-Lake is located at 73 Picton St. in Niagara-on-the- Street, and Jazz on Main Street Markham all 8:00 am - 11:00 pm Lake. Queen St. turns into Picton near Simcoe day August 17! Celebrations in Simcoe Park during the day Park. Main street Markham will be closed and jazz include Kid’s Activities, music, food, car show, www.niagaraonthelake.com will be heard at two stages preented by the heritage displays with the festivities continuing Markham Jazz Festival and at the 6 Jazz Hot- at Fort George in the evening with a spectacular January 2010 Spots on Main Street Markham. NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE fireworks show. www.markhamjazzfestival.com Featuring the Fort George Fife & Drum Corps, ICEWINE BAR Queen Street dixieland music and fun for all ages. October 1 - 4 905 468-6614 or 905 468-6621 Niagara on the Lake MARKHAM FAIR 11:30 am - 5 pm Markham Fair Grounds, North East corner The second weekend of the Niagara Icewine of McCowan Road and Elgin Mills Road. Festival celebrations will see the Icewine bar Markham Fair is Canada’s largest 4-day fall moving to Queen St. in Niagara-on-the-Lake. fair with many entertaining and educational A smorgasbord of environmental delights! perform more than 50 different formations and events for all ages. It is always held on the Guided hikes, bird & wetland tours, fossil manoeuvres, including thrilling solo passes, weekend before Thanksgiving. Bring your fam- hunts, paddling, workshops & more! Break- graceful nine-plane formations and exciting ily and friends and enjoy our “rural heritage.” fasts, box lunches & dinners available. rolls and loops. Located in Markham, Ontario, Canada. www.cardenguide.com More info: 705-325-4903 www.markhamfair.ca June 6 - 7 July 1 - 5 STREETS ALIVE! OUTDOOR 33RD PROMENADE DAYS ART CELEBRATION Downtown , Waterfront Parks RICHMOND HILL / Downtown Orillia Fun, excitement and entertainment are what Celebrate the 2009 Festival of Banners! Live Promenade Days are all about! This is Barrie’s NEWMARKET music, crafters, plant & flower vendors, ac- largest street festival. Enjoy Downtown complished artists painting right before your Barrie’s longest standing Canada Day family eyes & brilliant artwork hanging in the streets! weekend. June 5 - 7 www.orilliafestivalofbanners.wordpress. More info: 705-734-1414 BLUE BRIDGE FESTIVAL com/streets-alive St.Paul’s Anglican Church July 3 - 5 On Saturday June 6th, the River flows south to June 6 - 9 MARIPOSA FOLK FESTIVAL Newmarket. The festival Gala, held beside the CELEBRATE BARRIE 2009 Tudhope Park Bridge over the Holland River at Fairy Lake, Centennial Park For almost 50 years, Mariposa has been pre- in the beautiful church of St. Paul’s Anglican, The 10th annual community festival. Fun for senting world class creators and performers of will feature Haydn’s uplifting “Mass in a Time the whole family including local entertainment folk, roots, blues, gospel, acoustic and world of War” or the “Kettledrum Mass” in celebra- on two stages, inflatables and rides, crafts, music traditions in a beautiful, family-friendly tion of his 200th anniversary. The premiere hands-on activities, face painting, petting zoo, setting. Check website for bands attending. Canadian work on this programme is by Maria animal shows, historical re-enactments, all for www.mariposafolk.com Molinari, and is the musical setting of a tall free! Aboriginal tale, performed with storyteller. July 16 - 19 www.ardeleanamusic.com June 11 - 22 8TH ANNUAL DOWNTOWN BARRIE THE BARRIE JAZZ & BLUES RIBFEST & CRAFT BEER SHOW June 13 - 14 FESTIVAL XIV Memorial Square and Downtown Barrie WINDFALL ECOLOGY FESTIVAL Various Locations BBQ competition, beer show & entertainment! Holland River Do Not Miss your chance to see incredible More info: 705-734-1414 The Windfall Ecology Centre is pleased to talent in some great venues. In it’s 14th year offer a weekend series of interactive workshops The Barrie Jazz and Blues festival continues July 17 - 19 and demonstrations. Visit the park for a full to wow audiences with a mountain of accom- 32ND ANNUAL ORILLIA schedule of free presentations that will offer plished jazz and blues performers. Held over SCOTTISH FESTIVAL news and insights from professionals involved eleven days and in 25 different venues this is Couchiching Beach Park in the day-to-day work of “greening of our an event not to be missed. Join the celebrations! Ceilidh at Legion Friday world.” www.barriejazzbluesfest.com & Sunday. Parade Downtown, pipe & drum More info: 905-727-0491 competitions, entertainment & vendors. www.windfallcentre.ca/festival June 12 - 14 More info: 705-325-8442 ORILLIA SPRING BLUES FESTIVAL Various Locations July 21 - 26 BARRIE / ORILLIA Enjoy toe-tapping blues music at a variety of LEACOCK SUMMER FESTIVAL venues throughout Orillia. The yearly spring Leacock Museum May 30 - 31 festival starts with an opening night celebra- Ontarios largest summer literary event! Over 5TH ANNUAL WATERFRONT FESTIVAL tion, and carries on until the Sunday closing 25 award-winning authors & emerging writers Heritage Park finale. featuring fiction, poetry & non-fiction. Read- ings, dinners & special events. The Barrie Waterfront Festival is a FREE www.orilliaspringblues.com www.leacockmuseum.com ADMISSION event presented by B101 fm “Barrie’s Hit Music” and CHAY 93.1 fm. This June 13 - 14 July 25 year’s event features live performances at ABORIGINAL FESTIVAL WEEKEND BARRIE LATIN FESTIVAL our band shell with an adjacent beer garden, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, Midland Centennial Park a Midway with rides and games, merchants, The historic site will present a wide array of The Barrie Latin Festival is a community giveaways and lots of FRESH FOOD! For the exhibits and demonstrations connected to Na- event, sanctioned by the to youngsters and the young at heart, Enbridge tive heritage. promote Latin culture and expose the city of will sponsor our Family Stage with Street Barrie to its ever-growing Latin community. Buskers, Face-Painting, Clowns and treats. The June 23 - 24 This community festival is used to showcase Barrie Waterfront Festival - it’s a super way CANADIAN FORCES SNOWBIRDS AIR Barrie’s infrastructure, developments, and to enjoy a Barrie tradition, and a great way to SHOW & FESTIVAL community services, as well as its embrace of have fun with the whole family! Couchiching Beach Park, Orillia www.barriewaterfront.ca Canada’s famous air demonstration team, are ethnic cultures. coming to Orillia for a special Air Demonstra- www.barrielatinfestival.com June 5 - 7 tion presented by the Community Foundation July 31 - August 3 CARDEN NATURE FESTIVAL of Orillia & Area. During their show, which is 39TH ANNUAL Carden Recreation Centre choreographed to music, the Snowbirds will Barrie’s Waterfront One of North America’s largest outdoor arts PG, 120 minutes)! They will also be making August 4 - 10 and crafts festivals including an antique show, Cullen Body Glitter so you can sparkle like JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL food, and entertainment your favourite vampire! Whether you are Team The Regent Theatre Edward or Team Jacob, this is an event not to Featuring: Heather Bambrick, June Garber, Mi- August 22 be missed! For teens ages 12-19. Free registra- chael Danso, Julie Michels, Christopher Plock, DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL tion at any branch. Terra Hazelton, Sophia Perlman and Stephanie Heritage Park www.oshlib.ca Welton. Jaymz Bee has been called “The Ed Presented each August by the Barrie Public Sullivan Of Canada”, “An expert guide to the Library. The Dragon Boat Festival is a summer June 12 - 21 Toronto jazz scene” and “a cross between Andy event that promotes community spirit, vitality AJAX’S 39TH HOME WEEK Warhol and Ferris Beuler”. Whatever you want and unity. Paddling together in harmony to en- Various Locations to call him, as co-host of Benmergui In The rich the quality of life for the citizens of Barrie. Ajax Home Week features a parade and 10 Morning and host of “Jazz In The City” on Benefits include fund-raising opportunities for days of celebration events as a way to say JAZZ.FM91 and (www.jazz.fm) , Jaymz cer- local charitable and not-for-profit organization, thank you to the wonderful people of Ajax tainly is knee deep in jazz. When not on radio increased exposure for local businesses and a including the business and commercial com- or producing records for his Timely Manor la- fun-filled event the whole family can enjoy. munity. There’s something for everyone. bel, Jaymz can be found promoting events and www.barriedragonboatfestival.com www.ajaxhomeweek.com emceeing charity galas. He has been perform- ing in Oshawa since the eighties with his band September 25 - October 4 June 13 - 14 Look People and has enjoyed working with all BARRIE’S COLOURS OF MUSIC PEONY FESTIVAL the great people of The Oshawa Jazz & Blues Various Churches 155 Arena Street Festival for the past six years. The 7th Colours of Music Festival will present A celebration of Canada’s largest contemporary More info: 905-743-0770 Wonderful Music, Wonderfully Performed. Peony Collection, featuring over 300 peonies. They will expose you to talent from all across Free admission, judged peony show, peony September 11 - 13 Canada and other parts of the world. What a advice, educational displays, fundraising activi- OSHAWA RIBFEST colourful, relaxing way to spend those first few ties and a Peony Garden Cafe. 10:00 a.m. to Lakeview Park lazy days of autumn! As you listen to the music 4:00 p.m. This September, the 89-year-old Rotary Club presented by the performers, you will be mo- More info: 905-436-5636, ext. 2107 of Oshawa will host the 8th annual Oshawa tivated to encourage others to come and enjoy Rotary Ribfest. Featuring 11 of the best U.S what our beautiful City of Barrie can offer. June 21 - 27 and Canadian “ribbers” and a wide variety of www.coloursofmusic.ca FIESTA WEEK 2009 vendors, this weekend event will be held at Various Locations the scenic Lakeview Park on the waterfront in October 16 - 18 Fiesta Week could simply be described as “A Oshawa. Free admission and parking plus a 19TH ANNUAL ORILLIA TASTE OF DURHAM”. It’s an annual week full lineup of entertainment are highlights of JAZZ FESTIVAL long Multicultural Family Festival that gives Ribfest. Along with of course the scrumptious Various Locations the residents of Durham Region the oppor- barbecue pork ribs and other foods for sale The Orillia Jazz festival is a popular weekend tunity to experience European, Asian and from ribbers and a variety of vendors and a event where many venues and restaurants, Caribbean cultures and foods without hav- licensed beer garden. Oshawa Rotary Ribfest showcase various jazz musicians. ing to get on a plane. Fiesta Week starts each offers fun for the whole family with children’s www.orilliajazzfest.ca year on Father’s Day with the Fiesta Parade activities including a midway and much more (starting at 12:30 p.m.), immediately followed throughout the weekend. November 6 - 7 by the Fiesta Concert in Memorial Park. The www.oshawaribfest.com BARRIE FOLK ROOTS rest of the week you can sample the food and MUSIC FESTIVAL entertainment at the various pavilions located around Oshawa. Barrie’s Roots Music Festival will include www.fiestaweek.com Friday evening performances featuring the finalists from the Youth Song Competition (and a special performance). Saturday features FOR afternoon mini-concerts with various musi- LISTING UPDATES cians, as well as Main Stage performances in the evening. 2009 Festival performers include VISIT Tanglefoot, Dala, Sheesham and Lotus, The Good Lovelies, Jory Nash, hawp, Tethera, Jill Jambor and more. www.HOToronto.com www.barriefolk.com click on

OSHAWA / AJAX May 12 TWILIGHT FEST McLaughlin Auditorium When you can live forever what do you live for? Twilight, of course!! Watch the biggest movie of last year – Twilight (2008, rated