It’s Thursday, and the weekend is fast approaching. Need stuff to see or do? We’ve got you covered. In this edition: a celebration of yoga, a festival of garlic, an autumn beer bash and more.
Manifesto Festival of Community and Culture
When: Sept. 19-22
Where: Various locations
Details: This festival features musicians, visual artists and performers, all of them working to educate and empower young people through arts and culture. Concerts, a breakdancing battle, a producer showcase and an art exhibition are just some of the activities taking place around Toronto this weekend.
Steam Whistle’s Annual Oktoberfest
When: Sept. 21
Where: Steam Whistle Brewing
Details: Sausages, pretzels, sauerkraut and beer — that’s right folks, it’s time for one of the most well-known (and did we mention fun?) traditional festivals of the year. Steam Whistle Brewing is hosting its third annual Oktoberfest this Saturday. For $25, celebrants receive a one-litre stein of Steam Whistle pilsner. Also enjoy traditional Oktoberfest eats and entertainment.
Yogapalooza
When: Sept. 21-22
Where: Harbourfront Centre
Details: Whether you’re an experienced yogi or someone who can barely touch their toes, this free festival of music, movement and meditation has something for everyone. There will be classes for beginners and experts, as well as a drumming circle, performances, yoga for kids and a marketplace.
The Word On The Street National Book & Magazine Festival
When: Sept. 22
Where: Queen’s Park Circle
Details: Attention literature junkies: Canada’s largest annual book-and-magazine festival takes place this Sunday at Queen’s Park. Catch some of the most notable faces in Canadian literature (this year, expect to see the likes of Joseph Boyden and Austin Clarke), or try your hand at a writing workshop led by faculty from the Humber School for Writers. There will also be presentations by writers from the Toronto Star.
Toronto Garlic Festival
When: Sept. 22
Where: Evergreen Brick Works
Details: For those who thought they knew garlic, prepare to experience it in ways you never thought possible. This Saturday, the Evergreen Brick Works will become Toronto’s garlic headquarters. Ontario farmers will sell different varieties of garlic, and local chefs (including Jamie Kennedy and Brad Long) will have garlic-inspired dishes on offer. Wash it all down with a pint of craft beer, and don’t forget the roast garlic and chocolate ice cream for dessert. Activity-wise, there’s a garlic braiding workshop and even a garlic breath contest.