Happy Canada Day and Happy Fringe!

Photo © Marilyn Campbell

Happy Canada Day everyone! Although the strike (and likely the weather) have put a damper on many of the city's Canada Day traditions, today there are still a number of events planned to help you celebrate this fine country (and the fine people who call it home!).

In a celebration of another kind, today is also the first day of the 2009 Toronto Fringe Festival. Running until July 12th, this theatre festival will bring 150 productions to over two dozen venues around the city, including a series of shows especially for kids. Tickets are $10 or less, or you can buy multi-show passes to bring the cost down even more.

The Fringe Festival is actually what's forefront in my mind this July 1st, because for the first time I took the plunge and signed up for the annual 24-Hour Playwriting Contest. This means I definitely won't be attending any shows until after 7pm on Thursday, when the resulting script is due. You, on the other hand, can get started on your Fringing straight away! Visit www.FringeToronto.com to browse the shows and learn more about buying tickets (which are also always available at the door) or grab a printed program at The Fringe Club (292 Brunswick Ave) or at one of the twelve main venues.

• Read Tips on Attending the Toronto Fringe Festival