Get inspired this weekend to bring that book collection of yours back to life. That’s right, we mean good, old-fashioned books – complete with paper pages (but an assortment of digital options too).
Presented by the Association for Art and Social Change, INSPIRE! Toronto International Book Fair makes its debut this November 13th-16th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
But when we say “book fair,” think beyond your local community centre undertaking.
This is no small production; the fair’s expected to draw around 50,000 attendees over the weekend, in addition to 400 artists from around the world. This means names like Margaret Atwood, Sylvia Day, Jeff Kinney, Dav Pilkey, Kathy Reichs and Anne Rice, among other local and world-famous authors. More than 175 Canadian publishers will present their books in various exhibitor locations on the Fair floor.
It’s set to be the new cultural landmark for all things literature.
If for some reason you’re still not sold, here are six reasons you should check it out…
1. It Simplifies Your Weekend
If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, the fair offers a good option no matter your company – from your significant other to your mom or niece and nephew – thanks to a wide range of authors and genres for all ages. The Children’s Activity Zone will feature 40 pieces of original art as part of a travelling art exhibition of illustrations from Canadian children’s literature.
2. It Makes Holiday Season Super Simple
You could thank yourself for attending the fair come December. Let’s not forget that holiday season is finally upon us, and books make a no-fail option for those annoying people who have everything. Holiday shopping is made even better when there are professional wrappers on site.
3. You Can Tap Into Your Inner Writer
If you’re looking to delve deeper into your creative side, writing workshops like Where to Begin Your Story and How to Write a Romance Novel can offer some basic how-tos.
4. You Can Become More of a Techi
In the Digital Zone, you can take classes in 3D design and 3D printer certification and view fun innovations like the green screen, 3D scanning technology, and the Asquith book-printing machine.
5. You Can Bring Your Foodie Friend
Did we mention that there will be food? A major draw on the INSPIRE! Fair Floor is the Piller’s Culinary Zone and the adjacent Next Issue Cafe. Here, you’ll be able to engage with famous chefs, watch authors’ cooking demonstrations, buy their books and get them signed, and recharge in the Cafe.
6. It Involves a Party
As expected, an event of such scope wouldn’t be complete without a party. The fair launches with a Lift-Off Opening Night Party on Thursday (November 13th) from 7pm-11pm. The $25 ticket price includes a welcome drink, entertainment, and food sampling.
You get to meet your favourite authors (so don’t forget to bring that book you want signed), discover new books, and tap into your inner talent as a writer. Sounds like a no-brainer to us.
The fair takes place all weekend long:
Friday, November 14: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Saturday, November 15: 10: 00 am – 8:00 pm
Sunday, November 16: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
#NOTABLE
Cover image from: istock.com/Artpilot
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