CANADA
TORONTO
Come celebrate the written word and ideas from writers and readers alike at this year’s International Festival of Authors. The 11-day event celebrates contemporary writing and hosts a bevy of talent from around the world, including regulars like Stephen King, Margaret Atwood, and Douglas Coupland. Last year’s festival honored graphic novelists and Irish non-fiction novelists. Throughout the event you’ll find panels, interviews, roundtable discussions, and book signings. This year come meet your favorite authors like Beatiz Hausner, Wayson Choy, and Alissa York from October 19-29. www.ifoa.org
VANCOUVER
It seems as though vodka always gets it’s due and no one ever raves about the cranberry juice, or the cranberries for that matter. The city of Fort Langley however knows just how to honor that magnificent fruit in their annual Cranberry Festival. The fest is held each year on the Saturday of Thanksgiving when cranberries are harvested. People are invited to pick them and learn the history of these beloved red miniatures. There’s also free music and family entertainment all day as well as a pancake breakfast (another great partner to the cranberry). Join the more than 60,000 participants on October 7. www.fortlangley.com
beatfacts | Marc Antony named the month of July in honor of Julius Caesar.