For the few years that Nuit Blanche has been playing, I’ve yet to actually attend one of these. The above video shows just one of the highlights of the show with a blinking Toronto City Hall on display on the wee hours of the night. It’s certainly one of the many different attractions at the event, enough for you to plan that all-nighter. Remember those nights when you snuck out of your parent’s house to hang out with your friends? Do it again at Nuit Blanche 2009!

Address: All across downtown Toronto, see website for details!
Email: scotiabanknuitblanche@toronto.ca
Website: http://www.scotiabanknuitblanche.ca/independent.shtml
Parking: street and on-site parking available. Expect to walk during this trip
What’s nearby: Just about everything is since you’re walking all over the place.
Why you should go: An outside walk-around, feel like you’re sneaking away for the weekend, lots of contemporary art. it’s almost like a haloween party without the free candy for adults

Corn Roast by: Laurel Fan

This weekend on the 12th, celebrate the Fall harvest at the Riverdale farm and their Festival Barn Dance and Corn Roast.  Seeing as how I live in the city and don’t have any friends out in the country, I don’t know what to expect other than there’ll be a dance, some corn and a gool ol time, y’all.  I’m thinking about breaking out my cowboy hat that I got while at the Calgary Stampede this year, so I won’t stick out like a sore thumb.  Yeehaw!

PS:  The farm is free to get in, but you might have to buy the corn separately.

Check out the Riverdale farm’s website and official events page for more details.

TIFF Blog

Are you as excited about the upcoming Toronto International Film Festival as I am?  This will be my first year going and I’ve been looking forward to watching what I hope are some provocative films.  The stuff you see today on the mainstream just doesn’t cut it.  The films here are creative, independent and filled with new up and comings attracting some of the biggest names in Hollywood and the world.  I’m pretty excited about our first screening (still to be planned) with my bebe and a big bag of popcorn with extra butter.

Check it out all over Toronto from September 10-19th and be sure to check out the TIFF Blog and official website for more details!

Remember how cool those Segways were when they just came out years ago?  Now that personal transportation devices are becoming more popular and eco-friendly, the Distillery district and Segway of Ontario is taking full advantage with their Segway tours!  Complete a 30 minute spin around the block or a full hours worth of Segwaying on a Police equipped device and you’ll know what all the hype was about!  If you’ve never been on one of these before, it’s actually a very stable ride and very easy to maneuver.  On the tour, you’ll learn lots about the historic Distillery district as well as laugh out loud with some other unsuspecting travelers that are new to the device.

Address:  37 Mill Street. Building 37, Unit 106. Toronto ON
Phone:    416-642-0008
Email:    sales@segwayofontario.com
Website:  http://www.segwayofontario.com/distillerytours.htm
Parking:  street and on-site parking available
What’s nearby:  restaurants within the distillery district, small boutique shops
Why you should go:  An outside tour using Segways, very unique and can work up an appetite just before dinner.  Fun first date idea.

Agrandir le plan

Image credit: Cirque Du Soleil - OVO

Even with all the hype, I’ve not yet seen a live Cirque Du Soleil performance.  So for my birthday (last month) past, my girlfriend thoughtfully purchased us some tickets for late September performance!  I’m excited about check this out as I’ve heard awesome reviews for years now.  The closest that i’ve been to a “cirque” performance was at the Cirque Du Niagara, which I think was trying to cash in on the “Cirque” theme.  Still though, the Niagara performance was pretty good and surprised both of us while there. 

Check out their official website for more details about the OVO performance of Cirque Du Soleil.

Toronto Bicycling Network

With the last month of summer upon us, why not enjoy this last month with some bicycling with your partner? A great website to check out is the Toronto Bicycling Network, which features Toronto Area Maps, Programs, and social events all in for biking.

Click here for the link:  Read more

Welcome to Oktoberfest.

This two-week-plus festival is held each year in Germany, with over six million people attending. Similar events happen with Germans celebrating just the same. After living for four years in Kitchener-Waterloo, I definitely got a taste of their traditions! (And beer. And food.)

If you’re keen on that new brunette in your philosophy class, or that cool dude that works at the café on the corner, why not have a get together that’ll sneakily allow you to slide your way in?

Make the menu easy with these three basic recipes, then ask your buddies to bring a little something to contribute.

So strap on your lederhosen, and slap on your favourite ‘Oktoberfest in Germany’ album. It’s time to win some hearts through some traditional German cuisine.

And beer.

Having a party can cost you a few bucks, but you want to have fun without ending up with empty pockets.

For a main dish, try an easy Fried Bratwurst dish, with a sauté of German delights.
(serves 10)

You’ll need:
1 large red cabbage, sliced in thin pieces
2 tbsp. butter or margarine
2 white onions, chopped
8 granny smith apples, cored and cut in slices
1 ¼ c. water
2 tbsp. white vinegar
3 tbsp. brown sugar or Sucanat
15 -20 sausages (Bratwurst)
dash or salt and pepper

In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter or margarine, but reserve about ½ tbsp. Add onion and sauté until near translucent. Add cabbage and apples and stir together.
In a small bowl, mix together vinegar, water, sugar. Pour over apples and cabbage, bring to a boil. Cover, then reduce heat. Simmer for about 35 minutes.
Heat the remaining butter in a frying pan, and brown sausages on medium until cooked through.
Serve atop cabbage and apple mixture.

Note: Cabbage sauté can be made the day (or a few days) before, to save you time the day of your gathering.

Serve with a traditional German Potato Salad (for 10)

You’ll need:
10 c. white potatoes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
5 c. vegetable or chicken broth
1 c. onions, finely chopped
10 slices of bacon, chopped
3 tbsp. sugar
5 tbsp. lemon juice
2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
chives and fresh parsley
salt and fresh ground pepper

Bring potatoes and broth to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender. Reserve about ½ c. stock, and drain the potatoes. Set aside.
Meanwhile, fry bacon in a skillet until nearly browned. Add onions, continuing to sauté until onions are cooked through and bacon is browned. Reserve fat, and set bacon aside.
Whisk together lemon juice, sugar, mustard, and about ¼ c. bacon fat (if you don’t have enough, add enough oil to have ¼ c. fat in total).
Toss with potatoes, bacon and onion. Add reserved broth until moistened and a good consistency. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in parsley and chives.
Wait at least an hour before you serve it, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Because that gassy cabbage might overpower the party, make sure you look extra gorgeous in that lederhosen and enjoy your German feast… And hopefully win a heart or two.
*in German, it means ‘person with a bad rep’. Check out other Oktoberfest lingo with this. (http://www.oktoberfest.de/en/14/)

Have you ever imagined what a night’s possibilities could entail if there was no predetermined close to it? Have you ever wished that just once the city would cease from fading into the shadows after last call and instead open itself up into a city that refused to sleep? If so, then brace yourself because tonight your desires will not only be heard, but unleashed into a cabaret of art, sight, senses and choices, all in which will be stretched way past the city’s usual bedtime. Yes, you are reading correctly. Tonight, the City doesn’t sleep.

Scotia Bank Nuit Blanche (White Night) has already become one of Toronto’s most exquisite capers turning the City into an Art Mecca ALL NIGHT LONG. In a nutshell you can prowl the City beginning officially tonight at 7:03pm (dusk), celebrating and feasting your eyes on contemporary art exhibits and performances in three main zones all the way until 7:14am (dawn) tomorrow morning. Within these zones there will be individual exhibits, performances, venues plus Scotia Bank Food & Beverage Hubs, information tents as well as actual docents (a.k.a. art loving vampires) who can explain and inform on all the exhibits. (Not to worry however their thirst is only for art) Add to that any bars, restaurants, stores, etc. also participating. Add to that the fact that TTC and buses will run the entire time. And add to that the fact that this entire event is FREE. Think now for a moment. Are you realizing the possibilities here? Whether you are single, dating, married or just plain rambunctious and a lover of art and night, this isn’t just an Art Mecca, this is an Opportunity Mecca. And short of red-eye jet setting to Europe what better reason to pull an all nighter? And don’t even try to be playing I know some of you reading this probably have not done that since grade 11, so all the more reason to turn NB-2007 into your own personal night of creative allure and indulgence. Trust me, for one night only I know you all can handle this business and make me proud.

A true night owl at heart, this has honestly been the vein of my pleas many, many a night when feeling like I’ve only just come alive at 1am and how insanely excited am I to learn I’m no longer alone. While it’s perhaps not for everyone, Nuit Blanche has already garnered enough of a following to have it declared one of Toronto’s Annual Event’s. Sometimes Art gets restless too after all and what better City to seize for one entire night? Personally I don’t know what strings were pulled in order to make this all happen but tonight there will be no sleep for me until well after tomorrow’s brunch and something tells me, I won’t be alone. So Art Piper, string puller, whoever you are, I solemnly thank you. And as for you, it couldn’t be easier. All you have to do now is take my advice.

For further info, details, maps and more including an official NB-2007 event survival guide check out: www.scotiabanknuitblanche.ca

To Do:

Dress to Impress – Even if you’re taking in an afternoon film this is definitely NOT the time to be caught in trax and sneaks. I’m all about individual taste but there is a clear line between personal style and just plain bad fashion. Key base elements to always keep in mind are fresh and simple, both of which can be achieved today with total comfort and in many variations. Ladies, the world is your oyster as you’ve got endless choices, especially with the fall fashion line ups. Guys, we’ve also come a long way and choices are definitely abundant, but when in doubt there are still a few classic’s that never die. A favorite pair of jeans (no holes) with a slick, dressy to up-casual shoe and any type of current T, V or semi-V Neck is a definite. There are tons of solid and print options found pretty much everywhere which apply to jeans and shoes as well. Also make sure you’re sporting the proper jean to fit your individual body type. And depending on the temperature of our frenzied fall weather remember that all of this can be easily re-mixed with a long sleeve fitted sweater, turtle neck, button up shirt or blazer and personalized with your own selection of guy stuff i.e. watches, rings, scent, etc.

Recognize the Creative Date Potential – Even if the film itself turns out to be a not so much, it’s really about the bigger picture here. How often does the festival hit Toronto? Once, so make an experience out of it. Grab lunch with your interested party, a compari or significant other at a local bistro near the venue, try someplace new and close. Walk around together, enjoy the city. I know it all sounds so cliché but there are reasons why cliché’s become so, because they feel good and are amply enjoyed.

Step Outside Your Boundaries – Let’s face it we’re all naturally inclined to repeat what we already know as comfortable. Picture it, Sicily 1912…I’m kidding. I’ve always wanted to coin Sofia Patrillo. Now it’s out of my system so seriously, picture it; you’re in line waiting on possible tickets to ‘Into the Wild’ and in front of you making quick but coy eye contact is a stylish little something. These are the moments we can either stay in our comfortable lounges or push our lazy habitual selves up and out. Do I need to tell you which you should choose? I thought not.

Check Out At Least One Festival Party – There are event parties, theme parties and gala’s happening all over the city. So maybe you won’t be at the one with Jake Gyllenhaal or Reese Witherspoon, but then again…maybe you might. That’s the magic of the film fest, you just never know where our visiting celebs may pop up. At any rate, in the least you’ll have made another date out of it, or caught up with some friends having drinks and being seen. How bad can that be?

Expect the Unexpected – It’s true of Big Brother and its true here. You never know what or who may catch the eye (and vise versa) so be prepared and on top of your game. You’ll already be dressed to impress, so just a few simple things remain.
-Keep your pockets stacked with mint gum, tic tac’s or whatever brand floats your boat. Fresh breath is essential and conversation embers are always a mere direction change away.
-Maybe you’re not a softie, but your date may be. Keep some Kleenex tucked away someplace as well. Consideration is always appreciated and may just be those added extra points scored that really set you apart from the rest.
-The cell phone. While you definitely don’t want it turned on during any screening, remember that CP’s are the new Pencil & Pad. A certain name & number of a certain someone you’ve just chatted up can be quickly stored in under two minutes. And guys for Pete’s sake don’t wait two days to call. I’d like to karate chop the moron who put that adage on the map.

Do Some Research – It’s the Film Fest after all and film buff’s love and live to talk shop. Even if you’re a novice, don’t fret. Just think of those panic nights before your exams when only one word existed…CRAM. You don’t need to know what Alain Corneau had for breakfast, but at least knowing what film he’s debuting would be a sound start. And, if worse comes to worse, you can always scribble a few cheat notes on the palm of your left hand, of course never the one you shake with. PS. Alain Corneau is debuting Le Deuxieme Souffle. That’s a complementary AP Cheat Note.

Not to Do:

Don’t be Offering Yourself up on a Silver Platter to Clinton Kelly or Stacy London – I’m sorry but this is just too important and requires re-iterating on the Not-to-Do list as well. Do not be caught at the film fest looking like you just rolled out of bed on Sunday and are on route to the Gargoyle and the Firkin for brunch. Ok, I think you’ve got it now. I feel better. Let’s move on…

Don’t Double Dip – We all know never to literally double dip especially at a Film Event, so the Double Dip I’m referring to here is rather the ‘Double Attention Drifting Dip’. You know those situations where you’re engaged in conversation and suddenly and often quite blatantly you notice the attention is being split between you and somebody else. Unless you’re a seasoned veteran and are confident you can pull this off without being caught, this is a major faux paux. Be polite, excuse yourself from the conversation and go about your single dipping business.

Check Your Ego at the Door – There’s really nothing quite as off putting as a fake, pretentious person. It’s still unclear how anyone seems to deem this an alluring quality in their mind so let’s set the record straight and just make this a never do. After all one L.A is really plenty enough.

Don’t Get Stage Fright – Losing one’s words in most any scenario can be a parchy, embarrassing mishap. Add to that someone you are interested in and just found opportunity to talk with or even worse a close celebrity encounter. Unfortunately nerves are mostly what pull the strings here and they are a seemingly powerful vice but can be cut before they’ve been tied. The remedy is a simple bit of pre-mental prep. We can often calm our mind and worries by going over potential scenarios in our heads making them feel less shocking should they actually occur. Think of things you’d normally talk about and speak of. In this case the meal is at your fingertips. Mention something about a film you’re interested in, one you’ve already seen or a party you’re thinking of checking out. If there is mutual interest you’ll find the conversation naturally begins to flow and if not simply cut your losses and keep moving. There are after all, plenty of films in the festival sea.

32nd Toronto International Film Festival – September 6-15/2007 www.torontointernationalfilmfestival.ca
Let’s see, what can be said? How about 10 days of cutting edge, brilliant (and sometimes not so brilliant) films, A-list Celebrities (and sometimes some not so A-lister’s, but we Canadians don’t discriminate), red carpets, buzz and parties. Truth be told I’ve never actually done the Festival Circuit. However I’ve decided to change that up this year thanks to two very close compari’s who know all about this scene and have volunteered to personally steer me through the film maze and buzz haze. Singles, couple’s, film lovers, fans, stalkers …there’s something for everyone!
There are also various ticket options including Passes and Packages. (See Official Site for further details)

15th Annual Junction Arts Festival – September 6-9/2007 – Dundas Street West (From Keele to Quebec Avenue)
www.junctionartsfest.com
This one happens to be very personal to me not only as a fellow artist but because it’s literally at my doorstep. Having recently moved into Toronto’s Junction last year I awoke one fall Saturday morning to the realization that my little nook had been magically transformed into an Art Abyss overnight. I spent the entire weekend checking out amazing eclectic live music & dance acts on every second block, indulging in even more of the many culinary flavors on the Junction strip and the multiples of incredible art vendors, exhibits and performing artists. Much like The Junction itself, this is truly one of Toronto’s best kept secrets that just keeps getting better and better with age. And what’s more? This is a FREE event to attend. There is no negotiating here, an absolute fall must see.

The Virgin Festival – September 8-9/2007 – Centre Island
www.virginfestival.ca
A newer player to the Toronto scene, this second annual event may be young but it’s already as hot as a Starbucks Pumpkin latte. Brought to you by Virgin Mobile this festival is a harvested cornucopia of some of the industry’s biggest names new and old including The Smashing Pumpkins, Bjork, Interpol, Arctic Monkeys, K-OS, The Carps, The Killers and oh so much more. Ticket options are simple based on ONE ($82) or TWO ($138) Day Pass (Taxes and Ferry Fee included). Picture it, you’re a-sway on the ferry, sun above, cool fall breeze, music getting louder the closer you get to the Island, pumpkin latte in one hand, date on the other…really need I say more?

SIDE NOTE-For any Starbucks Barista’s reading this please feel free to go right on ahead and send those free latte vouchers to me direct for this double shot Starbucks plug.

And the Best-Supporting Role Awards go to:

Fall Home Show – September 13-16/2007 – Exhibition Place
www.fallhomeshow.com

Fall National Bridal Show – September 7-9/2007 – International Centre
www.internationalcentre.com

Cirque Du Soleil – KOOZA – August 9-September 23/2007 – Grand Chapiteau
www.cirquedusoleil.com

ROMwalk – May 2-September 30/2007 – Royal Ontario Museum
www.rom.on.ca