Articles Tagged ‘Weekender’

WEEKENDER: A play about politics, an evening of classical music, and everybody cuts “Footloose” — plus four more fun events for your weekend

OTTAWA NUJAZZ FESTIVAL 2012
Since 2008, the Toronto NuJazz Festival has brought together some of today’s most innovative and talented performers from around the world. For the first time ever, World Famous Music, Mercury Lounge, and House of PainT are presenting the Ottawa edition over a three-day period. The goal is to celebrate the spirit of jazz in a contemporary musical and presentation context, featuring bands that cover an incredibly diverse range of styles and DJs who fill their sets with a variety of anthems. This year’s lineup includes three progressive groups that break down musical barriers: Hypnotic Brass Ensemble (USA), Soul Motivators (Toronto), and Jazz Amnesty Sound System (Montreal). Thursday, November 22, to Sunday, November 24, 10 p.m. Ticket prices vary, 3-day pass for $30. See website for venue details. www.mercurylounge.com.

THE BAOBAB COMMUNITY PRESENTS: GAHU, EH!
Indulge in the genuine Ghanaian song and dance experience with the Carleton University Music Department’s West African Rhythm Ensemble and the Baobab Youth Performers. Combining music, dance, and drum elements, this program will include the talented Nani Agbeli of Ghana. He was trained at a young age to be a master of percussion and dance by his late father Godwin Agbeli, and currently teaches at Berklee College of Music and Tufts University in Boston. Agbeli will lead over 50 drummers and dancers in the performance of two main pieces called Tokwoe and Gahu, both of which are visually and sonically powerful. Friday, November 23, 8 p.m. $20 adults, $10 students and seniors. Kailash Mitel Theatre, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr., www.baobabtree.org.

Actors rehearse for their roles in Footloose, which hits the stage this Friday.

ORPHEUS MUSIC THEATRE PRESENTS: FOOTLOOSE
In this memorable story made famous by Kevin Bacon’s dance moves, music and dance take centre stage. With a Tony-nominated score, not to mention a Top 40 soundtrack that reached #1 on the Billboard charts (you’ve got the theme song stuck in your head now, don’t you?), this modern stage adaptation by Dean Pitchford is sure to get your toes tapping. What began as a story about a boy moving to a small town and finding a ban on dancing has emerged as one of the most recognized movie musicals of our time. The struggle between youth in rebellion and traditional ways of thinking is a central theme, as Footloose celebrates the wisdom of young people in a world set in its ways. Friday, November 23, to Sunday, December 2, 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. $37-$40, seniors $31-$37, children $20-$25. Centrepoint Theatre, 101 Centrepoint Dr., www.centrepointetheatre.ca.

Read the rest of this entry »

  |  November 21, 2012 at 2:32 pm

WEEKENDER: Bluesfest kicks off, Aziz Ansari comes to Ottawa, Osgoode gets medieval, and six other awesome events

RBC ROYAL BANK OTTAWA BLUESFEST
Ottawa’s most hyped annual music festival is finally here. For 12 days, 180 performers will rock six stages at LeBreton Flats, plus two offsite locations. Notable acts include Snoop Dogg, Norah Jones, John Mellencamp, The Sheepdogs, Lauryn Hill, Alice Cooper, Beirut, A$AP Rocky, LMFAO, and The Weeknd. You can also enjoy comedy presented by Just for Laughs. Wednesday, July 4, to Sunday, July 15. Day passes from $40, full festival pass $375, youth $199. LeBreton Flats, Vimy Place Pr., www.ottawabluesfest.ca.

MUSIC AND BEYOND
This classical music festival aims to showcase the cream of Ottawa’s musical crop, alongside other Canadian and international performers. The diversity and drama of classical music is at the forefront, with 80 different concerts over 12 days. Don’t miss Ben Heppner, one of the world’s finest drama tenors, who closes the fest on Sunday evening. Wednesday, July 4, to Sunday, July 15. Full pass $100, students $60. Single performances $10 — $40. National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St., Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank St., and six other locations, www.musicandbeyond.ca.

The NAC Orchestra performs the score from Lord of the Rings.

THE LORD OF THE RINGS
Experience Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring like never before. The NAC Orchestra and a 130-voice chorus will be performing the award-winning score live while the film is shown on a big screen. Come in costume (finally a use for those elf ears!), grab a drink at the “Middle Earth tavern” set up in the lobby and take in this epic story. Thursday, July 5, to Saturday, July 7, at 7 p.m. $26-$115. Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St., www.nac-cna.ca.

Mosaika lights up Parliament Hill. Photo credit NCC/CCN.

MOSAIKA (FREE!)
The historic façade of the Parliament Buildings is the backdrop to a spectacular 30-minute visual and sound experience that highlights Canada’s physical, historical, and cultural landscapes. The current show is called “Mosaika: Canada through the eyes of its people.” Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair, and see what Canadians from across the country have to say about our culture and heritage. Every night beginning Friday, July 6, until Monday, Sept. 3 (start time varies by month). Parliament Hill, www.mosaika-sl.ca.

Read the rest of this entry »

  |  July 4, 2012 at 12:00 pm

WEEKENDER: Extremely short plays, a cool craft fair, the Tulip Fest kick off, and six more events for the first weekend of May

Sarah's Card Company is just one of the artisans at Handmade Harvest.

HANDMADE HARVEST
It’s time to get your craft on in Almonte this weekend. This nifty event showcases the local independent craft community and offers a place for emerging crafters of all ages to strut their stuff. Wares on offer include cuddly toys for tots, cool home décor, handmade cards, pretty jewellery pieces, and tons more. And please note, Mother’s Day is coming up, so if you want to secure your status as the golden child, why not get mom something unique a whole week in advance? No more street corner flower bouquets for you! $2, kids under 12 free. Saturday, May 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Almonte Agricultural Hall, 195 Water Street, Almonte, www.handmadeharvest.com.

DAN HILL
Check out Grammy and JUNO award-winning songwriter Dan Hill in an intimate solo gig at the National Arts Centre. The multi-talented Canadian has written songs recorded by a huge number of artists, including Britney Spears and Rod Stewart. $40. Thursday, May 3, and Friday, May 4. Doors open at 7 p.m. National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St., www.nac-cna.ca.

Read the rest of this entry »

  |  May 2, 2012 at 11:02 am

WEEKENDER: Vintage dresses, a new theatre night, and five more fun events for the last weekend of April

Lady-like dresses abound at Victoire's Spring Fling Vintage Dress Sale.

SPRING FLING VINTAGE DRESS SALE
Vintage clothing enthusiasts take note! This shopping event, which takes place only twice a year, will feature pretty frocks from different eras. Channel fashions from Mad Men or your favourite iconic stars from the past, which are sure to please Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly fans. The event partners with Hamilton shop (and vintage clothing aficionado) White Elephant. Dresses start at $79. Saturday, April 28. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Victoire, 246 Dalhousie St., www.notrevictoire.com.

OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL WRITERS FESTIVAL
The bi-annual fest that celebrates the written word begins this Thursday and will continue through the weekend. The event features world-renowned, award winning writers and straddles genres that include journalism, fiction, poetry, history, science, and more, all while discussing the craft and drawing from the writers’ personal experiences. Noteworthy names for this edition include Vincent Lam, Linden MacIntyre, Joshua Foer, and Nora Young. Thursday, April 26, to Monday, April 30. Costs vary for individual events, free for members. Event times and locations vary, www.writersfestival.org.

Read the rest of this entry »

  |  April 25, 2012 at 11:40 am

WEEKENDER: A beer birthday bash, a 24-hour film screening, an ice cream workshop, and four more events this spring weekend

ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL
As environmental questions become more prevalent with Earth Day just around the corner (April 22, for those who don’t know), the Canadian Museum of Nature is once again hosting The Best of Planet in Focus Film Festival. Eight beautiful award-winning documentaries in both French and English will cover important environmental issues such as farming, oil production, climate change, and polar exploration. After the screenings, take part in scintillating conversation with guest speakers who will expand on topics from the films. Wednesday, April 18, to Saturday, April 21. $15, students seniors and members $12. Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St., www.nature.ca/filmfest.

Christian Marclay's "The Clock." Photo credit: © the artist, photo by Ben Westoby. Courtesy White Cube.

CHRISTIAN MARCLAY: THE CLOCK
Using scenes of people looking at clocks, which he cut together from thousands of different movies, Christian Marclay has created a 24-hour-long film. The National Gallery of Canada will play this fascinating (and we admit, completely absorbing) film on Thursdays for special 24-hour screenings over the next few weeks. If you have somewhere else to be (or can’t stay for the full 24 hours) you won’t need to worry about being late, as every clock on screen reflects the accurate time in the real world. Thursday, April 19, until Monday, May 3 (regular screenings on until May 21). $9 gallery admission during regular hours, free between 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. National Gallery of Canada, 380 Sussex Dr., www.gallery.ca.

Read the rest of this entry »

  |  April 18, 2012 at 3:19 pm

WEEKENDER: California drinking, lots of song and singing, and two great plays

TARA LUZ DANSE – LES BILES
Step into the fantastical world of Tara Luz Danse – Les Billes, a creation of choreographer Anik Bouvrette. Here, dancers incorporate objects into their movements: giant marbles, lit hoops, and Chinese lanterns that resemble planets. This lush performance of contemporary dance will sweep the audience up. Saturday, March 31, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. $17.50. Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd. www.shenkmanarts.ca

CALIFORNIA WINE FAIR
Taste the best wines California has to offer. The California Wine Fair is bringing outstanding wine from all of California’s growing regions to Ottawa this weekend. With almost 90 wineries participating, it is part of the largest tour of California wines in Canada. Friday, March 30, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. $70, $65 for wine club members. The Westin, 11 Colonel By Dr., www.calwine.ca

CLASSICAL JUNOS IN CONCERT (FREE!)
Celebrate Canada’s diverse musical talent at the Classical JUNOs in Concert. JUNO nominated performers, such as Susan Hoeppner and Christina Petrowska Quilico, break out an array of instruments to perform modern classical pieces by several nominated composers. Friday, March 30, 3:30 p.m.  National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St., www.junoawards.ca

Read the rest of this entry »

  |  March 29, 2012 at 8:42 am

THE WEEKENDER: Fine food, busy fingers, harmonizing folkies, and some fierce predators

OTTAWA FOODIE CHALLENGE
Spend your Sunday racing around the city to prove your foodie smarts (stopping now and again to taste a morsel or two). The Ottawa Foodie Challenge raises money for the Food Bank through a fun competition that has you racing against other foodies to prove your food smarts in a scavenger hunt. See how many points you can accrue, gain bragging rights, and help the Food Bank. The scavenger hunt list is released online and at the opening party on Sunday, Nov. 13 at 9 a.m. at urban element. You and your team have until 6 p.m. to see how many items you can check off. The cost is $50 per team.

Work and photo Susie Osler.

260 FINGERS (FREE!)
Although the group is one member short this year, you won’t want to miss 260 Fingers. This annual display features 25 outstanding ceramic and clay artists from Eastern Ontario and West Quebec. While mugs and vases are definitely part of the show, you might be surprised at the more eclectic offerings: the curious figures of Diane Black provide a healthy dose of irony; Tim Storey‘s work ranges from historical to hysterical. Nov. 11. 6 p.m, Nov. 12 and 13 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Glebe Community Centre, 690 Lyon St. www.260fingers.ca

SHIRLEY BEAR AND MARK TRUSCOTT IN THE A B SERIES
Sit back, relax, and listen to the spoken word and poetry of Shirley Bear and Mark Truscott. The two Canadian writers and published authors perform this weekend as part of the ongoing A B Series. Shirley Bear expresses herself through not only her writing and poetry, but also through visual arts and multimedia; the First Nations activist, who was recently named to the Order of Canada, has contributed to a number of anthologies and is the the author of Virgin Bones. Mark Truscott’s work in poetry explores boundaries and the limits of language; the Torontonian is the author of Nature and Said Like Reeds or Things. Saturday Nov. 12. 7:30 p.m. $7, $5 for students. Gallery 101, 301 ½ Bank st. www.abseries.org

A 1996 staff photo from the Ottawa Folklore Centre. With OFC owner Arthur McGregor (at front, with harp) are some of the teachers, many of whom still teach there.

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS AT THE OTTAWA FOLKLORE CENTRE
Folkies can satisfy their ears with the sweet sounds of Jesse Greene, Doug McArthur, and harmonica sensation Marc Seguin, along with a heap of other musicians on the line-up at this concert, which celebrates the legacy of the Ottawa Folklore Centre. For 35 years, the OFC has been a meeting point, classroom, and lots more for the grassroots community. Part of the proceeds will go towards the Hospice at Maycourt. Sunday, Nov. 13. 7 p.m. $20 in advance (available online or at the OFC, 1111 Bank St.) or $25 at the door. Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank St. www.ottawafolklore.com

GREGORIAN CHANT AND CHORAL MUSIC CLASSES (FREE!)
If you’ve always dreamed of being the next Canadian idol, Lawrence Harris, the director of a local Gregorian choir, might be able to help you out. An ancient form of Christian chanting, this class in Gregorian chanting is aimed at bringing participants out of their shells, boosting vocal  confidence, and, of course, making music. While it may seem a far reach from today’s pop music, Gregorian chanting has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years: a group of monks recently recorded with Universal Music, and a chant forms the soundtrack to the Xbox game Halo. Sunday Nov. 13, 3 p.m. Dominican University College, 96 Empress Ave.

PETS WITH PERSONALITIES FUNDRAISER (FREE!)
Local photographer Sean Sisk captured local personalities with their pets for this calendar, which supports the Ottawa Humane Society. Pick up a copy of the 18-month Pets with Personalities calendar ($25) for a striking collection of images, featuring such local icons as JW Jones, Eugene Haslam, and Kelly Prescott. Check out the Facebook page for more event details. Music line-up includes Prescott, John Allaire, The Bush Pilots, and Down in Ashes. Sunday, Nov. 13. 1 – 5 p.m. D’Arcy McGee’s, 44 Sparks St., 613-230-4433.

SEA MONSTERS 3D
Here’s one for the young (but not too young) set. The Museum of Nature has recently launched Sea Monsters 3D, a 20-minute film that journeys back in time to the late Cretaceous period when a vast inland sea divided North America in two, and giant turtles, enormous predatory fish, and fierce sharks roamed the deeps. The movie is playing four to seven times per day from Thursday through Sunday for the next four months. Cost is $4 over and above the price of admission to the museum. Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St., 613-566-4700.

  |  November 9, 2011 at 12:00 pm

THE WEEKENDER: A cup of tea, a film or three, and maybe a night on the town

Local photographer Becca Wallace specializes in colourful works that appeal to kids (and nostalgic adults).

NEPEAN CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE
Now I know what you’re thinking: Halloween was only a few days ago and I’ll be damned if I go Christmas shopping the first week of November. But think how happy you’ll be to beat the Christmas rush! And, with 140 artists and artisans (including Ottawa Magazine contributor Becca Wallace, whose work is shown here and as the feature image) showing their stuff, you could be done in one easy trip. The sale begins on Wednesday, Nov. 2 and continues to Sunday, Nov. 6. Hours: Wednesday to Friday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adults $7, seniors $3.50, children free. Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave.

INDIE FILMMAKER SERIES (FREE!)
Looking to catch some quick flicks this weekend? Mercury Lounge has something for you! The Independent Filmmakers Cooperative of Ottawa presents the Indie Filmmaker Series, featuring Montreal based filmmaker Mike Rollo, whose films have been shown across the globe. Head to the Byward Market on Friday, Nov. 4 to see six of Rollo’s experimental short films. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the screening begins at 7:30. Located in the basement of the Mercury Lounge, 56 Byward Market. http://www.ifco.ca/indi.html

HEY OCEAN! POSTPONED – due to vocalist suffering throat injury on Thursday night.
If you’re on the hunt for some new beats, Hey Ocean! just might be the find of the week. The up-and-coming Vancouver trio perform their pop ballads across Canada while simultaneously recording their first album, to be released by the end of the year. Opening act: Whale Tooth. Saturday, Nov. 5. Tickets are $13, and are available online or at Vertigo Records (193 Rideau St.) and The Record Shaap (209 Gilmour St.). Licensed 19+. Ritual Nightclub, 137 Besserer St.

JAPAN FILM FESTIVAL
If the last film you saw that was set in Japan was Lost in Translation, maybe it’s time to get up to speed on true Japanese culture via the Japan Film Festival. Presented by the Canadian Film Institute and the Embassy of Japan, the featured Japanese flicks are Sunset on Third Street 2 at 7 p.m., and Shindo at 9 p.m. Film screenings will be held on Saturday, Nov. 5 at the auditorium of Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington St.

AUTHOR SERIES: IAN HAMILTON (FREE!)
Ian Hamilton, author of the Ava Lee mystery novels reads from his three most recent books, The Water Rat of Wanchai, The Disciple of Las Vegas, and The Wild Beasts of Wuhan. Hamilton started off as a journalist, and has written for numerous magazines and newspapers across Canada and the U.S, including Macleans and the Calgary Herald. He has worked internationally as a diplomat and businessman, and wrote his first non-fiction book, The Children’s Crusade, in 1968. Don’t miss your chance to hear the author behind the words. Saturday, Nov. 5. 2 p.m. Registration required. www.biblioottawalibrary.ca

OTTAWA TEA FESTIVAL
Everyone loves a hot cup of tea, especially as the weather gets nastier. So good timing on the city’s First Annual Tea Festival, whether you want to simply try a new blend, or learn more about the language of tea and tea ceremonies. Proceeds raised go towards orphaned children of the tsunami and earthquake. Saturday Nov. 5, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m at Ottawa City Hall (110 Laurier Ave. W.). Tickets: $15 at the door, or available at Singing Pebbles Bookstore (220-a Main St.).

  |  November 2, 2011 at 1:00 pm

THE WEEKENDER: Loads of freebies, tons of music, and a pint or two of beer

Maggie Knaus showcases her version of the American roadtrip at Exposure Gallery

KEEP THE CAR RUNNING: ROAD TRIP POLAROIDS (Free!)
Art always looks even better when accompanied by a lemon square and a good coffee. That’s why Exposure Gallery above the Thyme & Again coffeeshop-bakery-food haven is such a brilliant idea. This weekend, photographer Maggie Knaus launches Keep the Car Running, a solo exhibition of images she shot during roadtrips across the United States. Knaus intentionally took back roads, seeking out places and architecture from another era. To get the antique-postcard look, Knaus transferred her images onto paper, hand-coloured them, and scanned and enlarged them to a size of 3-by-3.5 feet. Vernissage on Thursday, Sept. 29, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Exhibition ends Nov. 29. Exposure Gallery (second floor of Thyme & Again), 1255 Wellington St. W., 613-722-0093 ext. 225, www.exposuregallery.info.

UP & UP MUSIC LABEL OFFICIAL LAUNCH PARTY
Self described as a “new label and concert series that works with and hosts the flyest artists in the 613,” this energetic newbie on the local music scene looks like a force to be reckoned with. Check out their launch party to meet general manager Phillipe Lafreniere and hear member artists Claude & The Storm Outside, Amelia Leclair,  The Mackenzie Rhythm Section, and Phil Motion & The Easy LO-Fi. Thursday, Sept. 29. 10 p.m. $10. Mercury Lounge, 56 Byward Market, www.upandupmusic.ca.

Motel. Louisiana. By Rémi Thériault

SHAKEN BUT NOT STIRRED: A PHOTO EXHIBITION (Free!)
There are tons of events going on this weekend as part of the cross-Canada Culture Days celebration so  check out the website to see what turns your crank. One of the events we’ll definitely be hitting up is a photo show at the groovy Enriched Bread Artists studio space. Curated by Joyce Westrop, the show features 20 fine art photographers, including Ottawa Magazine contributors Erin Molly Fitzpatrick, Adrienne Herron, Rémi Thériault, and Justin Wonnacott. Bonus: Beau’s Brewery will be at the vernissage! Vernissage: Friday, Sept. 30, 6 p.m to 9 p.m. Continues Saturday, Oct. 1 and Sunday, Oct. 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. EBA is located at 951 Gladstone Ave., 613-729-7632.

SANDMAN VIPER COMMAND
They made waves at Edgefest this past summer with their catchy pop-rock tunes. Now the four Burlington buddies that make up Sandman Viper Command are taking their tour around the province in support of their new album. Have heard great things about their live show, so catch them before they’re playing the big stadiums. Friday, Sept. 30. 7 p.m. Café Dekcuf, 221 Rideau St., 613-244-5000.

OKTOBERFEST OTTAWA
The giant Beau’s Oktoberfest may be just about sold out but there’s more than one beerfest on the block. This new event, known as Oktoberfest Ottawa, celebrates beer and pretzels, busty Bavarians, and even the infamous Trailer Park Boys. Yes, Randy and Mr. Lahey from Sunnyvale Trailer Park will be on hand to provide ‘top level security’ — and plenty of laughs — at this inaugural event. Catch music performances from Amos The Transparent, Silver Creek, and Graham Greer, as well as more traditional sounds from Oompah band Schteev und die Lederhosen. Friday, Sept. 30 to Sunday, Oct. 2. See website for times and ticket info. Richmond Fairgrounds, 6095 Perth St., Stittsville. www.oktoberfestottawa.com.

THE CHOPIN SONGS
And for something a little more sedate, Dominion-Chalmers United Church is the setting for “The Chopin Songs,” an exquisite repertoire of 19 songs composed by the Frederic Chopin that will be performed by two internationally renowned soprano Maria Knapik and Maestro Michel Brousseau, who will be on piano. (Chopin is universally known and loved for his piano repertoire, however many people are unaware of the beautifully intimate and lyrical songs he also wrote.) Saturday, Oct. 1. 7:30 pm. Tickets ($25 general; $35 for reserved seating) through Ticketmaster or calling 855-790-1245. They are also available at The Leading Note, Compact Music, and CD Warehouse locations  Concert goers have a choice of general seating at $25, and reserved seating at $35. Dominion-Chalmers United Church is at 355 Cooper St.

URBAN CRAFT (Free!)
Love the look of handmade goods, but lack the artistic talent? Then Urban Craft is just the ticket. This monthly craft sale, which debuted in September, offers new and returning artisans, so there will be an ever-changing selection of goods to choose from, including screen-printed tees, local and organic body products, trendy fascinators, and toys for modern tots. Saturday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre, 1233 Wellington St. W., www.urbancraftmarket.com.

OTTAWA FASHION WEEK
Trendsetters, trendspotters, media, and all other fashionable peeps head to the Convention Centre for Ottawa Fashion Week, which kicks off on Thursday night and runs until Sunday. Don your tuxedo-inspired wear, your ’70s styles, your pleats, your fur, and any other highlights that were deemed “on trend” for fall/winter 2011. The schedule has a great mix of local, national, and international talent and the event closes out with David McCaffrey and EDIT by Jeanne Beker (in support of Dress for Success). Wednesday, Sept. 28 to Sunday, Oct. 2. Day pass $45, week pass $90. Ottawa Convention Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr., www.ottawafashionweek.ca.

REALLY REALLY FREE MARKET (Free!)
It’s free to get in, and everything is free once you get there! It’s a junk collector’s dream, an upcyclers perfect investment opportunity, and a great place to get rid of stuff collecting in your basement. The RRFM welcomes books, toys, clothing, small appliances, decorative items, old computers — everything. Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson and Rideau-Vanier Councillor Mathieu Fleury will be scoping the goods around 10 a.m., and the Ontario Stewardships program will be on hand to accept pre-owned computers and other electronics for recycling. Saturday, Oct. 1. 8:30 to 2 p.m. Corner of Montreal Road and Begin Street. www.rrfm.fullcircles.org.

  |  September 28, 2011 at 10:43 am

THE WEEKENDER: Eating, more eating, still more eating, and maybe a run

TASTE OF WELLINGTON WEST (FREE!)
Taste what’s new on the ever-changing Wellington West streetscape as 35 restaurants and food shops show off their wares and offer up samples. More than 50 other retail businesses will also take part in the grand sidewalk sale and street fair. To complement the browsing, there’s a classic car show, kids’ play area, bike parade, street performers, and live music. The schedule: car show (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.); live music, street performances, sidewalk sale (11 a.m.to 5 p.m.); bike parade, starting at Hintonburg Community Centre (noon); food samples from restaurants and food shops (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.); Bill Jupp Sextet at the Carleton Tavern ( 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.). Saturday, Sept. 17, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

HARVEST MOON: A NIGHT OF POETRY A-PLENTY
Cube Gallery hosts a poetry-filled evening in support of the League of Canadian Poets. Featured guests include Ian Ferrier, Eric Folsom (poet laureate of Kingston), and Catherine Kidd. There will also be a round robin of readings and performances by local poets, including Susan McMaster, Blaine Marchand, Sandra Ridley, Sergio (Hyfidelik) Gerra, rob mclennan, Ian Keteku, Stephen Brockwell, Ronnie R. Brown, Shane Rhodes, Claudia C. Radmore, Rhonda Douglas, Colin Morton, Rona Shaffran, and Sarah Muse.

 The first ever “immortality auction” will be held to help raise funds for the League, with Ian Keteku and Monty Reid auctioned to the highest bidder for a commissioned poem. If you have a birthday, an anniversary, or any event you want to celebrate, bid on a poet to write a poem for you.

 Saturday, Sept. 17. 6:30 p.m. start for the apple/pumpkin pies and social. $5 cover. Cube Gallery, 1285 Wellington St. W., 613-728-2111.

FESTIVAL OF FLAVOURS (FREE!)
More food! Visit the streets of Vankleek Hill for a celebration of food and culture. From curries to cakes, sausages to spring rolls, there will be over 50 foodies set up offering samples and recipes. Vankleek Hill Vineyard and Beau’s All Natural Brewery will be on-hand with refreshments. And it won’t all be strolling and stuffing your face: a 320-foot-long table will be set up for those opposed to eating on the go. Sunday, Sept. 18. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vankleek Hill Main Street.

ARMY RUN
Cheer them on and watch the action! More than 16,000 people will hit the streets on Sunday morning for this sold-out race that features a 5K and a half marathon. Whether running or cheering on the runners, it’s a fun, competitive event where those in the Canadian Forces, military friends and families, and civilians run side by side (plus participants get dog tag medals at the finish line, how cool is that?). Keep an eye out for three-time Paralympian medal recipient Jason Dunkerley and Lieutenant Ryan McKenzie (who won gold in 2008 and 2009) during this year’s 5K. Fundraising efforts go towards Canadian Forces Personnel Support programs, which include Soldier On and the Military Families Fund. Sunday, Sept. 18 at 8 a.m. for the 5K and 9 a.m. for the half marathon. Route starts will be on Laurier Avenue at the corner of Elgin Street.

HUGLI’S BLUEBERRY RANCH
This is the place to be as the leaves change colours and the air turns crisp. Saturday is the launch of Fall Family Fun Activities, which runs until Oct. 30. This seasonal event boasts a plethora of quirky and exciting entertainment that includes pig races on the Hugli’s speedway (seriously!), a six-acre corn maze, plus pirate ship, hay, and pumpkin mazes, pumpkin cannon shows, a hay jump, and puppet shows, among other activities. In the weeks coming up there are also giant pumpkin weigh offs (Sept. 24), giant pumpkin boat races (Sept. 25), and other Halloween-themed events. Sept. 17 to Oct. 30. Weekends $8-$10, weekdays $4, children under two free. 2139 Greenwood Rd., Pembroke, 613-638-1288. www.blueberryranch.ca

7oTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CANADIAN WOMEN’S ARMY CORPS (FREE!)
The Canadian Women’s Army Corps was a branch of the army that saw women serve as cooks, mechanics, and administrators in Canada and abroad during World War 2. The head office for CWAC was Goodwin House — now the Canadian office for Amnesty International — in Sandy Hill. To mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of CWAC, which was dismantled in 1964, memorobilia collector Douglas Townend will display his collection and offer a chance to mingle with CWAC veterans. Saturday, Sept. 17, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Canadian War Museum, 1 Vimy Pl. 819-776-8600.

  |  September 14, 2011 at 12:05 pm

« Older posts
Food + Wine
Shopping
Homes + Gardens
Society