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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Writers' Community of York Region
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DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260203T210000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20260112T132347Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T142123Z
UID:5490-1770145200-1770152400@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Hermits & Flash Fiction/Nonfiction
DESCRIPTION:Join Carol Teal as she leads generative workshops for the Amherst Writers and Artists (AWA) event\, “Write Around the World”\, in February. Write with a small group on Zoom to timed prompts\, share our writing\, and receive supportive\, positive feedback about what is strong and working in this fresh-off-the-pen writing. AWA is a wonderful way to generate new ideas and write in a supportive community. These pay-what-you-can events from $14- $40 raise funds to support AWA scholarships for writers. Carol will lead sessions on “Hermits & Flash Fiction/Nonfiction” Feb 3\, 7:00 – 9:00 pm EST. \nPlease visit https://amherstwriters.org/write-around-the-world/#!event/register/2026/2/3/hermits-flash-with-carol-teal to register.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/5490/
LOCATION:Ontario
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Newsletter-Workshop-e1768573268856.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Amherst Writers & Artists":MAILTO:info@amherstwriters.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260201T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260228T235959
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20260119T143508Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T155956Z
UID:5548-1769904000-1772323199@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Write Around the World: Online Writing Workshops for a Cause (February 2026)
DESCRIPTION:This February\, Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) invites writers everywhere to take part in Write Around the World\, a month of online\, donation-based writing workshops led by AWA-certified facilitators from around the globe. \nWrite Around the World welcomes writers of all backgrounds and experience levels. Workshops are grounded in the AWA Method\, which emphasizes respect\, safety\, craft\, and the belief that everyone who writes is a writer. \nProceeds from Write Around the World support AWA’s scholarship program and Power of Story initiatives\, which provide writing workshops to communities facing shared challenges—including caregivers\, bereaved family members\, and people living with chronic illness and invisible disability. \nWhether you’re new to writing or returning to the page\, Write Around the World offers a meaningful way to connect\, create\, and support powerful work through story. Sign up at amherstwriters.org
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/write-around-the-world-online-writing-workshops-for-a-cause-february-2026/
LOCATION:Virtual Event\, Online
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/WAW_IG.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Amherst Writers & Artists":MAILTO:info@amherstwriters.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260121T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260121T210000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250908T160407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T205019Z
UID:4697-1769022000-1769029200@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:A Marketing Cheatsheet to Growing Your Social Media Following
DESCRIPTION:While raising the number of social media followers isn’t a magic formula for selling books or gaining traction with agents and publishers\, it is a trust signal to the people buying your books that you are a ‘in real life’ person whom they can relate to. \nI managed to grow my social media following on three platforms from fifty to over a thousand in a matter of months\, but my novel isn’t out yet. How did I do this? \nI’ll explore methods for increasing your reach on BlueSky\, Threads\, and Instagram. The techniques are also effective for other platforms. \nTopics covered \n\nWhy is it necessary to have a social media following\nExamples of authors with successful followings\nWhat should you be selling as an author\nDemystifying the author brand\nWho is your target audience\nHow do you match your effort to your strengths\nWhen to diversify your reach\nWhat to do while waiting for results\n\nBiography \nI’m an author who has moonlighted as a product leader for over a decade. During that time\, I’ve helped sell million-dollar SaaS products through community building\, podcasting\, and thought leadership blogs. I’m in the early stages of my author journey\, but I would love to share what I’ve learned. I am the host of the podcast Myths & Samsara\, and I am on submission with my first novel while writing the second. \nReserve your spot today. 
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/a-marketing-cheatsheet-to-growing-your-social-media-following/
LOCATION:Taylor’s Funeral Home\, 524 Davis Drive\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 2P3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Members Only,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Website-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260119T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260221T235959
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20260127T150759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T150759Z
UID:5625-1768780800-1771718399@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:7 Stories
DESCRIPTION:7 Stories is a writing competition inspired by art. Each year\, seven artworks are selected from the Gallery’s collection. Writers are invited to spend time with these pieces — to notice what stirs\, unsettles\, comforts\, surprises\, or lingers — and respond with an original story. Your story can be funny\, quiet\, haunting\, reflective\, hopeful\, or unexpected.
 There is no perfect response. Whatever the artwork evokes in you is the right answer. \nVisit the Art Gallery of Georgina’s 7 Stories webpage for more information\, submission guidelines\, and how to enter.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/7-stories/
LOCATION:Art Gallery of Georgina\, 149 High St.\, Sutton West\, Ontario\, L0E 1R0\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Competitions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/7-Stories-image-e1769526381975.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260117T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260117T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20260115T132309Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T132355Z
UID:5525-1768647600-1768654800@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Artist-Poet Gathering
DESCRIPTION:A quarterly meetup between artists and poets in the Aurora Cultural Centre’s galleries in Aurora Town Square’s Homeroom Galleries. Participants are invited to create spontaneous written and visual responses to the artworks on display within our current exhibitions. \nEach gathering begins with 1.5 hours of viewing\, social\, and creation time\, followed by a 30-minute sharing session with the option to present any work made. All writing/art materials are responsible of the participants. Please note that only dry media is permitted in this program. \nPlease see https://auroraculturalcentre.ca/events-for-artists/ to register.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/artist-poet-gathering-3/
LOCATION:Aurora Town Square\, 50 Victoria Street\, Aurora\, Ontario\, L4G 1R3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Artist-Poet Gathering
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Artist-Poet-Gathering-January-17-2026-1-e1768483079442.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Aurora Cultural Centre":MAILTO:Info@auroraculturalcentre.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260113T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260113T200000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20251227T162548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251227T162548Z
UID:5398-1768329000-1768334400@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Self-Publishing for New Authors
DESCRIPTION:Stepping into self-publishing means becoming both an author and a publisher\, but what does that really mean? This workshop provides an essential overview of the publishing industry from a self-publisher’s perspective. Learn about the difference between traditional\, vanity\, and self-publishing. From obtaining ISBNs and distribution networks to royalties\, this workshop is perfect for writers who want a big-picture view into the world of self-publishing before diving in. \nPlease go to https://markham.bibliocommons.com/events/69175f670d45944c9e671fbe to register.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/self-publishing-for-new-authors/
LOCATION:Ontario
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-27-112119-e1766852658748.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251129T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251129T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250820T122944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T122944Z
UID:4535-1764410400-1764432000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Georgina Public Library Local Author Showcase
DESCRIPTION:Join Georgina Public Library for our annual local author showcase. Authors will be sharing their published works and selling their books at the event. Enjoy author talks\, children story readings\, book-themed crafts\, writing workshops\, and much more. Check our website at the\nbeginning of October for the schedule of events and to see who will be attending.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/georgina-public-library-local-author-showcase/
LOCATION:Georgina Public Library – Keswick Branch\, 90 Wexford Dr.\, Keswick\, Ontario\, L4P 3Y9\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Book Signing,BookVendors,Local Author Showcase,Readings
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/georgina-PL-local-author-showcase-image-e1755692970575.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T203000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250911T134349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T211535Z
UID:4725-1763578800-1763584200@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:November's Book Club Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this month’s book club\, featuring the creative writing of Elise Abram. The Depth of Water is an urban fantasy that is sure to keep you turning the page. Simply sign up\, grab yourself a copy of the book and start reading. In October\, we will connect back with you about the meeting time and date. This is your opportunity to read a novel by a local author\, chat about it with fellow readers\, and ask the author questions. We hope you can join us. The book synopsis can be found on the registration form: https://forms.gle/pPeaF3emYHAtFVrY6
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/novembers-book-club-meeting/
LOCATION:Ontario
CATEGORIES:Book Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Screenshot-2025-09-16-171435.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251111T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251111T200000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20251027T144028Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T144028Z
UID:5036-1762884000-1762891200@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Four Poets on "Remembrance"
DESCRIPTION:“Readings at Richvale” is a quarterly series of readings by local poets\, held in the auditorium of the Richvale Library. The next session is on Rembrance Day November 11\, and the theme is “Remembrance.”  \nOne highlight will be John Oughton reading his poem\,  “Growing Up A Block Away From John McCrae\,” (author of “In Flanders Fields.) \nThere is no admission fee or registration required.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/four-poets-on-remembrance/
LOCATION:Richvale Library\, 40 Pearson Avenue\, Richmond Hill\, Ontario\, L4C 6T7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Poetry,Readings
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot_20251027-090620_Drive.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251020T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251020T210000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250911T130904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T205046Z
UID:4719-1760986800-1760994000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Writing to Market: You're Not Selling Out\, You're Selling Books
DESCRIPTION:Are you convinced that writing to market means you have to give up on writing the ideas you love? Are you having difficulty selling your unique books and getting them noticed? \nTake an honest look at your target market\, genre of choice\, and industry competition in this practical workshop where you’ll discover the research process for fleshing out a story idea with the goal of selling mass-market books (and getting one step close to writing what people want to read). \nParticipants will require a personal device (cell phone\, tablet\, laptop) to allow them access to the internet. \nProgram Overview \n\nWelcome & WCYR News\nWriting to Market debunked (what it really means & how you can do it without sacrificing the quality of your writing)\nDiscuss the main genres of those writers in the room & explore mainstay ideas vs. trends\nTrope & Story scavenger hunt with personal devices\nAnalyzing the story you “want” to write & how to tweak it for market salability (explore K-Lytics as an informative tool)\n\nReserve your spot today.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/writing-to-market-youre-not-selling-out-youre-selling-books/
LOCATION:Taylor’s Funeral Home\, 524 Davis Drive\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 2P3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Members Only,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Website-3.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251003T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251004T163000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250916T163732Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T163732Z
UID:4770-1759516200-1759595400@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Inkwell Literary Festival
DESCRIPTION:Join the lively Inkwell Literary Festival for author discussions and interactive workshops that craft opportunities and dreams!\nFriday\, October 3\, 6:30 – 9:00pm\n6:30 PM – Doors open\n7:00 – 8:00 PM – Storyteller Spotlight: Lisa Jakub Register at https://www.inkwellfest.com\n8:00 – 9:00 PM – Networking Hour \nSaturday\, October 4\, 10am – 4pm\n10:00 – 4:00 PM – Vendor Market\n10:00 – 10:45 AM – Preschool Storytime with author Deborah Kerbel\n11:00 – 11:45 AM – Children’s Author Visit with twin sisters Sarena Nanua and Sasha Nanua\n12:30 – 2:00 PM – Writer’s Workshop. Register at https://www.inkwellfest.com\n2:30 – 3:30 PM – Writing Contest Awards\n3:30 – 4:30 PM – Networking Hour \nFor more information about the event\, please visit https://www.inkwellfest.com.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/inkwell-literary-festival/
LOCATION:Civic Centre Resource Library\, 2191 Major Mackenzie Drive\, Vaughan\, Ontario\, L6A 4W2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/InkwellGeneralAd_Banner-e1758040634329.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250921T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250921T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250827T130813Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T130904Z
UID:4632-1758461400-1758474000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Clarence Chong a Retrospective: "Painted Girls - Imagined Histories"
DESCRIPTION:Clarence Chong\, maternal grandfather to Erika MacNeil\, arrived in Canada with an unknown birthdate and lineage. His grade school teacher\, known to MacNeil as Granny Abel\, recognized his talent and sent him to art school through a tunnel from Windsor to Detroit across the border when he came of age. \nThe works are a collection of portraits from Chong’s studies as an art student recently discovered in a tube portfolio in Erika MacNeil’s basement. Erika\, local Newmarket resident\, librarian at Rogers Public school\, who runs open mics\, a book club and writing workshops pays tribute to her grandfather\, Clarence; this exhibit celebrates the life and works of Clarence in recognition of MacNeil’s rich family history. \nArtists and poets will be in attendance to draw and write in response to the portraiture\, accompanied by live music. All welcome.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/clarence-chong-a-retrospective-painted-girls-imagined-histories/
LOCATION:NewRoads Performing Arts Centre\, 500 Pickering Crescent\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 8H1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Artist-Poet Gathering,Open Mic
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot-2025-08-27-090659-e1756300082961.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Town of Newmarket / Erika Loughran":MAILTO:jluttrell@newmarket.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250921T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250921T150000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250820T214905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T121653Z
UID:4543-1758459600-1758466800@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Open House & Speaker Cali Platek
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Sunday\, 21 September 2025 from 1 – 3 p.m. for our annual Open House meeting at Old Town Hall in Newmarket featuring Cali Platek’s talk “Ink to legacy: How to Publish Your Book.” \nThis year’s Open House event is hosting speaker Cali Platek\, an experienced publishing professional\, currently serving as Senior Digital Marketing Manager at Simon & Schuster Canada. Cali works on marketing campaigns for top authors like Stephen King\, Jeannette Walls\, Megan Miranda\, Mona Awad\, and more\, while overseeing Simon & Schuster’s digital strategy\, including website updates\, social media\, email marketing\, and influencer marketing. Previous roles include Marketing & Communications Manager at TCAF: Toronto Comic Arts Festival\, Digital Marketing Manager at Scholastic Canada\, and editorial roles at Robert Kennedy Publishing\, Maple Tree Press\, and Firefly Books. Cali has a Bachelor of Arts from Queen’s University\, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Book and Magazine Publishing from Centennial College\, and has trained at Brainstation. Cali lives in Toronto with her two daughters. \nReserve your spot at https://wcyork.ca/product/open-house-speaker-cali-platek/
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/open-house-speaker-cali-platek/
LOCATION:Newmarket Town Hall\, 460 Botsford St.\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 1T1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Open House,Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/image-e1755726056923.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250919T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250919T210000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250821T163924Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T130007Z
UID:4575-1758308400-1758315600@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Fall Open Mic at The Grey Goat
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/fall-open-mic-at-the-grey-goat/
LOCATION:The Grey Goat Pub and Grill\, 74 Main St. S.\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 3Y6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Open Mic
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Open-Mic-2025-v1-e1756299192489.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250913T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250913T173000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250821T163141Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T125205Z
UID:4568-1757754000-1757784600@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Coldwater Steampunk and Oddity Days
DESCRIPTION:This quiet historic village will become a 19th Century world of retro-futuristic creativity\, celebrating the splendid styles of STEAMPUNK. \nA free\, family-friendly event\, with entertainment and discoveries for all ages. The incredible costumes\, as well as the Artisan & Oddities markets\, will dazzle you.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/coldwater-steampunk-and-oddity-days/
LOCATION:Town of Coldwater\, Ontario\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Book Signing,BookVendors,Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot-2025-08-21-123051.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250906T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250906T150000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250827T121343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T121343Z
UID:4623-1757156400-1757170800@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Book Signing -  Diliny De Alwis
DESCRIPTION:Join fantasy and children’s author Diliny De Alwis at Chapters Newmarket on Saturday\, 6 September 2025 for a book signing from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/book-signing-diliny-de-alwis/
LOCATION:Chapters Newmarket\, 17440 Yonge Street\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 6Y9\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Book Signing
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/dmdealwis_indigosept6-e1756296791578.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250906T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250906T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250821T161954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T161954Z
UID:4562-1757152800-1757178000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Fergus Steampunk Festival 2025 Cogs & Clockwork
DESCRIPTION:Cogs & Clockwork\, Fergus Steampunk Festival\, takes place in downtown Fergus on St. Andrew Street and behind the Fergus Public Library and is for all those interested in the unique science fiction sub-genre of steampunk! \nThis FREE\, family-friendly event aims to introduce and share the creativity of the steampunk community and to show locals and guests a truly wonderful time! \nShow is free with some paid events. \nWhat’s New for 2025? This year we have added Robot Racing\, and we will have our food trucks in a single area creating a food court. \nWe have split our scavenger hunt into two separate events so our guests can pick up their prizes before they leave. We are adding a sample of “The Enchanted Forest” in Templin Gardens where you can play relax with a cup a tea and watch some Tea Dueling hosted by The Toronto Steampunk Society. \nThere will be a schedule of some of our artists doing discussions and demonstrations at their booths.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/fergus-steampunk-festival-2025-cogs-clockwork/
LOCATION:Downtown Fergus\, Fergus\, Ontario\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Book Signing,BookVendors,Festivals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot-2025-08-21-121836-e1755793161647.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250827T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250827T210000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250821T153727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T160853Z
UID:4557-1756321200-1756328400@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Summer Artist-Poet Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Artist-Poet Gatherings are a quarterly meetup between artists and poets in Aurora Cultural Centre’s public galleries (Homeroom Galleries – Level 1). Participants are invited to create spontaneous written or visual responses to the artworks on display.    \nEach gathering begins with 1.5 hours of viewing\, social\, and creation time\, followed by a 30-minute session with the option to present created responses.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/summer-artist-poet-gathering/
LOCATION:Aurora Town Square\, 50 Victoria Street\, Aurora\, Ontario\, L4G 1R3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Readings,Write-in
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot-2025-08-21-113548.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Aurora Cultural Centre":MAILTO:Info@auroraculturalcentre.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250821T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250824T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250712T153016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250712T153016Z
UID:4312-1755763200-1756054800@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:WCYR at Fan Expo Canada
DESCRIPTION:We are so excited to announce that we will be at #FANEXPOCanada2025! Make sure to check out our booth\, we’ll have some very special exclusives you won’t want to miss. \nStay tuned–more details to follow.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/wcyr-at-fan-expo-canada/
LOCATION:Metro Toronto Convention Centre\, 255 Front St W\, Toronto\, Ontario\, M5V 2W6\, Canada
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/FXHQ-Logos_Black-e1752333944369.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250622T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250622T150000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250522T123821Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T123821Z
UID:3879-1750597200-1750604400@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Words and Music
DESCRIPTION:Words and Music: Readings from local writers and solar guitar music. \nReadings can be poetry or prose. Even better if they are dramatic. \nIf you are interested in participating\, please contact Sheila (see organizer email below).
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/words-and-music/
LOCATION:Black River Coffee\, 126 High Street\, Sutton\, Ontario\, L0E 1R0\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Words and Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/WORDS-AND-MUSIC-2025-e1747917480757.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Sheila Teixera":MAILTO:sheilteix1@gmail.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250614T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250614T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250606T135935Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250607T132940Z
UID:4042-1749888000-1749906000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:The Bookshelf
DESCRIPTION:The Writers’ Community of York Region is proud to present local\, Canadian authors at The Bookshelf. Our usual location is the Riverwalk Commons in Newmarket near the Lions Hall community centre (next to the Farmer’s Market) where local authors\, publishers\, and reading-related craftpersons from all over York region and the GTA will feature their own works.\nLearn the stories behind the books. Rub elbows with local talent. Have a cup of coffee and converse with authors in a multitude of genres.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/the-bookshelf/
LOCATION:Newmarket Farmers’ Market\, 200 Doug Duncan Drive\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 3Y9\, Canada
CATEGORIES:BookVendors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Website-Bookshelf-e1749218349884.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250611T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250611T200000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250601T142003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T133802Z
UID:3990-1749668400-1749672000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Youth Write Now Open Mic
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Wednesday\, June 11 from 7-8 p.m. for the Youth Write Now’s Open Mic Night\, located in the Newmarket Public Library’s Multipurpose Room. Please come\, join the audience\, and support the next generation of local authors.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/youth-write-now-open-mic/
LOCATION:Newmarket Public Library\, 438 Park Ave\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 1W1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Open Mic
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Youth-Write-Now-Open-Mic-v2-e1748957872175.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250607T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250607T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250510T160343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T133943Z
UID:3767-1749303000-1749312000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:AGM & Nina Munteanu
DESCRIPTION:As the event year draws to a close\, please join us on Saturday\, June 7\, 2025 at 1:30 pm at the Aurora Public Library – Lebovic Room\, for our Annual General Meeting (AGM) to discuss our past year as well as look ahead to the next. The AGM is free for members. \nFollowing the AGM\, we will host our final public event for the year. We are happy to announce that Nina Munteanu\, who was the guest speaker at this year’s Open House\, will be with us again to close off our year. This time\, we will discuss how to incorporate setting and place in writing\, with a focus on eco-fiction examples. Participants will have an opportunity to practice their writing skills during the session\, so please come prepared with a pen and notebook. Her guidebook\, The Ecology of Story: World as Character\, as well as some other publications\, will be available for purchase. \nThe Annual General Meeting will take place at 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. \nNina Munteanu’s presentation will take place at 2:30 – 3:50 p.m.\nPlease use the links below to confirm your registration. \n\nAGM and Speaker Event (for members) – $20.00\nAGM and Speaker Event (for non-members) – $25.00\nNina Munteanu Speaker Event Only (for members) – $20.00\nNina Munteanu Speaker Event Only (for non-members) – $25.00\nAGM Only (free)\n\nAbout Nina Muneanu\nNina Munteanu is a Canadian ecologist\, novelist and award-winning short story author of eco-fiction\, science fiction and fantasy. Nina teaches writing at U of T and writes for various magazines\, including essays on science and futurism. Her short work has appeared in Neo-Opsis Science Fiction Magazine\, Chiaroscuro\, subTerrain\, Apex Magazine\, Metastellar\, and several anthologies. She currently has 10 novels published and several non-fiction books on writing and science. Her book Water Is… (Pixl Press)—a scientific study and personal journey as a limnologist\, mother\, and teacher—was Margaret Atwood’s pick in 2016 in the New York Times‘ The Year in Reading. Nina’s most recent novel\, A Diary in the Age of Water released in 2020 by Inanna Publications\, is about four generations of women and their relationship to water in a rapidly changing world. Her novel Gaia’s Revolution is currently in production with Dragon Moon Press.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/agm-guest-speaker/
LOCATION:Aurora Public Library\, 15145 Yonge St\, Aurora\, Ontario\, L4G 1M1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:AGM,Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Website-3-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250601T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250630T235959
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250513T135422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T135422Z
UID:3796-1748736000-1751327999@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:June's Bookclub Meeting
DESCRIPTION:For June’s bookclub meeting\, we will be reading Sunshine Girls by Sheila Horne. \nSunshine Girls explores the complexities of friendship\, family dynamics and personal growth against the backdrop of the 1970s. The story revolves around four young women whose journey is marked by the transformative social and political upheavals of the time\, as well as their own struggles with identity\, independence and love. Ella realizes everything she trusted as a child is a lie. Raynie believes marriage is a woman’s easy way out. Jessie would rather face life stoned while Meg desperately wants a husband and family. But their values and friendship are soon tested when an accident sparks a series of life-altering events. \nHere is the sign-up form for June’s Bookclub meeting.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/junes-bookclub-meeting/
LOCATION:Ontario
CATEGORIES:Book Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Book-Club-Website.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250522T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250522T210000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20241214T152925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241215T141850Z
UID:2172-1747940400-1747947600@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Writing the Narrative Podcast
DESCRIPTION:Description:\nNarrative podcasts are growing in popularity\, and they are an excellent way to showcase your stories. In this workshop\, you will learn how to tell a story using sound and dialogue; you will learn to write for the ear. We will listen to successful narrative podcasts\, both comedy and drama\, to understand how they differ from radio plays of the past. Part of the workshop will consist of a lesson about formatting a podcast script. There are two recognised formats\, and we will look at examples of both. During the workshop\, participants will be able to write a short scene\, focusing on the audio only. They will learn how to connect\nthrough sound. \nThe workshop will begin with an overview of the industry today. We will listen to different clips from popular narrative podcasts. We will then look at the different types of script formats writers use when writing\npodcasts. There will be a few writing exercises for participants to learn how to write for the ear. \nAbout Kimberley Ann Sparks\nKimberley Ann Sparks is an award-winning writer who works in film\, television\, video games\, and podcasts. She’s written episodes of preschool series which have been broadcast on Treehouse\, TVO\, and BBC Kids. She’s also written scripts and dialogue for AAA video games\, including Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.  Most recently\, she and her co-writer made the semi-finals of the Roadmap Writers Podcasting Competition. Kim has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia. She is also a graduate of the Canadian Film Centre’s Prime Time Television Program and UCLA’s Professional Screenwriting Program. She teaches writing courses at Toronto Metropolitan University. \nReserve your spot for this members only workshop. \nDate: Thursday\, 22 May 2025 \nTime: 7 – 9 p.m. \nLocation: Taylor’s Funeral Home\, 524 Davis Dr\, Newmarket\, ON L3Y 2P3
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/writing-the-narrative-podcast/
LOCATION:Taylor’s Funeral Home\, 524 Davis Drive\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 2P3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Narrative-Podcast-e1734190155450.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250507T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250507T200000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250307T165801Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250307T165944Z
UID:3025-1746644400-1746648000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Book Club Meeting #3 - "Interstitial" by Roderick D. Turner
DESCRIPTION:The WCYR Book Club is open to everyone. You don’t have to be a member to jump in\, but you will need to grab a copy of the book we’re reading. \nThis club is all about bringing together authors and writers—it’s a fantastic way to celebrate the written word and dive deeper into the stories our members create. You’ll have about 6-8 weeks to read the novel\, and then we’ll meet up virtually to chat about it. It’s a great chance to ask the author questions and hear all about their publishing journey. \nThe best part? There are no extra fees to be a part of this experience other than buying the book. We can’t wait to read with you! \nBook: Interstitial\nAuthor: Roderick D. Turner\nGenre: Sci-fi\nCost: Ebook: $2.00 Paperback: $11.00\nStore: Amazon Canada \nClick here to register. \nSynopsis:\nA new dark age lurks in the shadows. One young man must face the fate that pursues us and guide our planet through the darkness. Our doom awaits. Are we being watched? The world is more complex than we know. What we see\, touch\, and experience\, just a small part of the reality we inhabit. For most of us\, the infinite layers of existence will manifest rarely\, if at all. A sense of trepidation\, a feeling of being observed\, an unsettling vision of something that is not there. But for some\, a select few\, that larger view of the universe is very real. And dangerous. Sam Carreira is about to discover what it means to exist beyond the physical world. To be present but absent at the same time. To see what most never see. Will he have the strength to battle overwhelming odds and achieve the impossible before it is too late?
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/book-club-meeting-3-interstitial-by-roderick-d-turner/
LOCATION:Ontario
CATEGORIES:Book Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Website-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250426T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250426T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20241212T130926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T131038Z
UID:2089-1745658000-1745686800@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:York Writers' Conference
DESCRIPTION:Are you seeking insight into the world of publishing\, from crafting compelling pitches to understanding market trends? Hoping to network with agents\, publishers\, and authors themselves? Join us to learn how to land an agent\, what publishers seek in manuscripts\, how to navigate the ever-evolving literary landscape\, and more. \nThis full-day in-person event will include sessions led by industry experts\, workshops\, a panel\, and opportunities for attendees to connect with and seek feedback from professionals in the industry. A light breakfast and lunch are included in the ticket price. \nSee the York Writers’ Conference website link (below) to read more or to purchase tickets.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/york-writers-conference/
LOCATION:Optimist Youth Club\, 55 Forhan Ave.\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L9Y 1R4\, Canada
CATEGORIES:BookVendors,Conference,Speakers,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/YWC-Graphic-copy-e1734187143396.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250422T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250422T200000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250325T142620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T142620Z
UID:3298-1745344800-1745352000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:National Poetry Month
DESCRIPTION:Come out to the Richvale Library on 22 April 2025 to celebrate National Poetry Month. Four York Region poets will be reading on the theme of “the canopy of family.”
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/national-poetry-month/
LOCATION:Richvale Library\, 40 Pearson Avenue\, Richmond Hill\, Ontario\, L4C 6T7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:National Poetry Month
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Richvale-Poetry.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250412T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250412T150000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250409T072342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T072412Z
UID:3500-1744455600-1744470000@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Book Signing with Bruce A Hanson
DESCRIPTION:Award-winning\, local author Bruce A Hanson will be at Chapters Newmarket on Saturday April 12 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for a book signing event. Drop by\, chat and take a closer look at his books: Double Cross (finalist in the 2024 Whistler Independent Book Awards)\, Murder & Other Love Stories (includes 5 award-winning stories) and Elephants In My Stew. Read Canadian.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/book-signing/
LOCATION:Chapters Newmarket\, 17440 Yonge Street\, Newmarket\, Ontario\, L3Y 6Y9\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Book Signing
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Screenshot-2025-04-09-032237.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250406T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250406T150000
DTSTAMP:20260405T092646
CREATED:20250124T173840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250317T152429Z
UID:2644-1743944400-1743951600@wcyork.ca
SUMMARY:Busting Editing Myths
DESCRIPTION:Have you ever wondered what an editor does\, or why you might need your book edited before submitting to an agent or publisher? What about self-publishing? Anyone can do it\, so why should you pay someone to change the book you wanted to write? \nMJ Moores and Elise Abram take a look at six major editing myths to help you navigate industry and reader expectations. They will deconstruct common revision practices\, including the differences between developmental and stylistic editing\, proofreading\, critiquing\, and beta reading\, and provide excellent resources to help you on your journey. \n6 MYTHS\nMyth #1: I like the way I write. All I need is for someone to do a quick proofread when I am done\, just to find typos. \n \nMyth #2: I have my beta readers and their feedback\, so I’m good to go. \n \nMyth #3:  I only need one edit. I don’t have to hire an editor before I have representation or a publishing deal. \n \nMyth #4: My editor knows everything\, so I don’t need to. \n \nMyth #5: I don’t need to self-edit. The publisher will organize everything for me. \n \nMyth #6: My editor will make my manuscript publication ready. I am ready to publish it once it is returned from the editor.  \nBONUS \nThe Biggest Myth of All: Editing is too expensive. I can’t afford it.\n\n  \n\nReserve your spot for this workshop.\n\nMembers\nNon-Members\n\nYour Editors in Chief\nElise taught high school English (including Writer’s Craft) for 25 years. She is the owner/operator of EMSA Publishing\, providing services for independent and self-published authors\, specializing in editing\, interior and cover formatting\, and design. She is also an in-house editor for Conscious Dreams Publishing\, Charles Rivers Editors\, Dibbly/The Urban Writers\, and Castle Mount Media.  \nMJ taught high school English for 10 years (focusing on playwriting and running a writer’s group) before freelance editing for another decade\, and working as an in-house editor for Imajin Books\, and DAOwen Publications. After that\, she took on the role of acquisitions editor for Love Knot Books for 3 years\, which led to dividing her time between writing and coaching indie authors on the publishing journey.  \nBoth women have authored more than two dozen books each\, and are eager to share their combined knowledge.
URL:https://wcyork.ca/event/busting-editing-myths/
LOCATION:Virtual Event\, Online
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://wcyork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Event-2-copy-e1737739650901.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="WCYR":MAILTO:wcyr.cochair@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR