Fiction Writing

Join us for our in-person Saturday critique session! We'll be meeting in the basement of **The Blake House**, which is located near Wellesley and Jarvis, about a 10-minute walk from Wellesley Station or Sherbourne Station. **In respect to the Blake House for hosting us, we humbly request that attendees purchase a meal, dessert, or drink if you are able to do so.** Feel free to bring in a piece of writing up to **2000 words** for reading and critique. Please bring paper copies so that listeners can easily follow and make notes. Dedicated listeners are equally welcome. In larger groups, please be mindful of giving everyone a fair chance to speak. Our group values and meeting structure can be found here: [https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines](https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines) We ask that writers provide content warnings when necessary. To limit the spread of diseases, we kindly ask that you stay home if you're feeling sick. We will be here every week! **\*\*We support the hard work and effort that goes into writing fiction, and do not condone the use of AI to replace the creative process.\*\*** And, that's everything! See you there!

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other's work. Other Important Details: WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

Note: You may be removed from the attendance list if you've participated in the previous week's event. This allows for more people to experience this Meetup. Avengers put your costumes on and let’s go and save the world!
Well we can’t save the world (yet), but we aim to try to play a small part in the lives of those experiencing homelessness by making their day a bit better!
Description: Before the event the organizer will post a list in the comment section of the attendees and what they are responsible to bring (food/drink, kitchen supplies, cleaning supplies). We normally ask each attending member to bring approximately $15-20 worth of ingredients/supplies to our event. We will use the items to prepare and serve food/drink at The Meeting Place.
Timeline: We will meet on location at 11:00 am, with lunch served between 12:30-1:00 pm.
Membership Dues: Membership dues are $2.00 for the calendar year. Membership dues go towards paying for food/supplies incurred by no-shows. Membership dues are due at the first meetup of the year that you attend.
No Shows/Late Un-RSVP: We’re relying on members who RSVP to bring key ingredients for recipes! Please try your best to show-up or alternatively change your RSVP early so another member may fill the empty spot.
\*\*\* If you are on the waitlist, keep checking as you may be moved into attendance to replace someone. We will try to message you to confirm your attendance in advance.
Donations will be assigned before the event.

🌸🌆 FLEURS DE VILLES VOYAGE – BLOOR-YORKVILLE FLOWER WALK 🌆🌸 **A Floral Trail, Daytime Stroll & A City in Bloom** For a few days each year, Bloor-Yorkville transforms into a living, walkable art exhibit — filled with flowers, colour, and creativity around every corner. Join us for Fleurs de Villes VOYAGE, a one-of-a-kind experience where top floral designers partner with local businesses to completely “flower-bomb” the neighbourhood. This daytime version is perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace — giving us time to wander, explore, and really take in the details. Expect over 30 unique installations scattered throughout the area — from fashion-inspired mannequins to floral archways, window displays, and even edible creations popping up where you least expect them. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social walk — come explore, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere together. 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) *** **🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do** We’ll meet at the Toronto Reference Library and begin our walk through Bloor-Yorkville, following the floral trail and discovering installations as we go. There’s no rush — we’ll take our time, stop for photos, and enjoy the creativity throughout the neighbourhood. After the walk, we’ll head over to Jack Astor's for food, drinks, and a chance to hang out and connect. 🍔🍹 You’re welcome to join for food or head out whenever you like. *** 🌆 **Vibe & Expectations** This is an easy, relaxed city walk — no distance pressure, no intensity. Just: ✔️ Beautiful visuals ✔️ A lively neighbourhood ✔️ Good company Also — this is NOT a guided or historical tour. It’s about enjoying the experience and being social. *** **🧢 Meetup Details** 📍 Meetup Location: Outside the Toronto Reference Library 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 11:00 AM I will only wait 5 minutes. Early is on time. On time is late. We’ll head out promptly. End Point: Yonge & Bloor *** 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** This helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 *** 🎒 **What to Bring** Water Comfortable walking shoes Camera or phone for photos 📸 Weather-appropriate clothing Optional: cash/card if joining for food & drinks afterward Please also use the washroom before arriving, as stops are limited. *** 🌈 **Who Is This For?** This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. **We also host:** 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. *** **REMEMBER:** You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. *** 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com Come for the flowers. Stay for the stroll. Leave feeling like the city surprised you — in the best way. 🌸✨

9 books, 45 ebooks. 9 audio

We will walk by the grandest homes in Rosedale and will discuss some of their unique architectural styles and history. We will then end at the Mayfair festival in Rosedale Park featuring bands, carnival rides and games, dog show and a barbeque. There is also a very nice food market nearby called Summerhill Market. This is a free event but you pay for the rides, games and food. Please wear a hat, bring water, and go to the bathroom before arriving. Check out the festival: [[https://mooredale.com/mayfair/](https://mooredale.com/mayfair/)]([https://www.google.com/url?q=https://mooredale.com/mayfair/&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw05_vurYbGu0MzivSEds91O](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://mooredale.com/mayfair/&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw05_vurYbGu0MzivSEds91O)) We will be joined by my other meetup group "Walk and Roll" so there will be a high amount of attendees.

Struggling with motivation and focus as you hammer away on your manuscript at home? Want to join a community of writers as we embrace the joys and pains (mostly pains) of writing together? Bring your laptop, pen & paper, old-school typewriter, or futuristic writing gadget, and join an enthusiastic community of science fiction and fantasy writers as we work on our current projects in the same space. The format will be similar to our online writing sprints: 30-minute blocks of focused, quiet writing time (the sprints), interspersed with breaks where we can chat, ask questions, and share our writing experiences.

We are now at **Yonge Sheppard Centre** in the **food court** near **Dazzle Mi**. We start a bit past 1pm, so if you're late, please find a seat and start writing -- we'd love to hear about your story or your day -- afterwards. :) **Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near **Dazzel Mi**. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

🚆🦜 **GO Train Adventure to Niagara Falls – Bird Kingdom & Lunch!** 🌊🍔 Bird is the word. I love birds and we're lucky enough to have Bird Kingdom to visit, one of the largest indoor aviaries in the world! It is also Mother's Day weekend so consider bringing her too and make some lovely memories together. Join us for a fun Saturday day-trip adventure as we hop on the GO Train and head to Niagara Falls for birds, burgers, and beautiful views! **📅 Date:** Saturday, May 9 **⏰ Meet Time:** 8:15 AM **📍 Meeting Spot:** Outside the Fairmont Royal York Hotel (across from Union Station) We’ll walk into Union Station together to catch the **9:04 AM GO Train** to Niagara Falls. ⚠️ **The train departs exactly at 9:04 AM and the doors close one minute earlier**, so please arrive on time! **🚆 Train Schedule** • Depart Union Station: **9:04 AM** • Arrive Niagara Falls: **11:30 AM** Upon arrival at the station we’ll walk over to **Chuck's Roadhouse** and start with a group meal first. **Bar & Grill** for a relaxed and affordable lunch. 👉 Menu: [https://chucksroadhouse.com/menu/](https://chucksroadhouse.com/menu/) Note - everyone is responsible for their own food/drink bill Following lunch, we’ll do some **sightseeing around Niagara Falls**, take photos, and hit our final stop. Before we leave we'll stop at **Bird Kingdom**, the **world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary**, home to hundreds of tropical birds inside a lush multi-level rainforest environment. ([Bird Kingdom](https://birdkingdom.ca/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) 💳 **Bring your PRESTO card for 20% off admission!** 👉 More info: [https://www.birdkingdom.ca/](https://www.birdkingdom.ca/) **🚶 What to Expect** • Lots of walking • Rain or shine – the trip happens regardless of weather • Great scenery, good food, and fun company **🚆 Return Train** • Niagara Falls → Union Station • **4:00 PM departure. Doors close one minute earlier.** There are later trains and buses if you wish to stay longer. 💰 **Travel Deal:** The **GO Transit Weekend Day Pass is only $10** for unlimited travel that day. 👉 Details: [https://www.gotransit.com/en/partners-and-promotions/weekend-passes-with-go](https://www.gotransit.com/en/partners-and-promotions/weekend-passes-with-go) **You can purchase your GO pass as early as May 2, just don't activate it until May 9** Look for **Nick and the Meetup sign** at the meeting spot. Let’s ride the rails, see amazing birds, grab a great lunch, and enjoy one of Canada’s most iconic destinations together! 🚆🦜🌊 [WhatsApp for the trip](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FDfbPqh5Xc3Kh39eFcQWsB?mode=gi_t)

Moved to May - Location will be Hotel Victoria and Restaurant is "Mossops" as of now and this is in Toronto downtown on the date given in the [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elegant-afternoon-with-desi-singles-singles-event-tickets-1698444034829?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elegant-afternoon-with-desi-singles-singles-event-tickets-1698444034829?aff=oddtdtcreator) This will be our very first Pitch a Friend!! Because we have postponed to March, reach out if you want to buy for yourself or you and +1 wants to purchase. YOU GET A SPECIAL EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT! We want to give enough time to ask to purchase tickets! [Event Link](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1698444034829?aff=oddtdtcreator)

World Premiere-- *Ticket link is below*. $30-$72 (look at the seating map--and your age!) In 2035, a decade after the Trinity Bellwoods Collapse, an investigation into the mysterious disappearance of a young girl leads to a very peculiar house that has sunk into the earth. **Could a strangely luminous painting** unlock long-buried secrets of what flowed beneath the home? Howling winds, storms, and the ever-present sound of cicadas remind us that nothing stays buried. ***cicadas*** is a modern eco-thriller from the minds of Governor General’s Award and Siminovitch Prize laureate David Yee and award-winning composer Chris Thornborrow that serves as both mystery and warning. Directed by Nina Lee Aquino https://nac-cna.ca/en/bio/nina-lee-aquino **Ticket link here: (Sunday May 10th)** https://tarragontheatre.com/plays/2025-2026/cicadas/ (Play around with the seating map, and ticket prices. Any seat is a great seat--even the last row!)

We’re heading to Kensington Market for a mix of vintage finds and tabletop strategy. Sunday, May 10th at 1:00 pm. Limited to 15 people. First, we’ll meet up to explore a thrift stores around the market. Afterward, we’ll make our way over to Harmony Cafe for some board games. I shall update with the list of games. You are free to bring your own as well. 1:00 PM: Meet at the Thrift store. [https://maps.app.goo.gl/zgm3LGXJ34nSybzb7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/zgm3LGXJ34nSybzb7) 1:45 PM: Head to Harmony Cafe for board games. [https://maps.app.goo.gl/BHPNJcftkxCR5dfC7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BHPNJcftkxCR5dfC7) There is a cost of the meetup $5. To keep up with the meetup app platform subscription and Harmony cafe for hosting us. Pay using the link below or cash. (Please get in touch with me for cash as I need to keep track of the count to save you a spot) [https://buy.stripe.com/14A14o1u3bEoaSS6JGcAo00](https://buy.stripe.com/14A14o1u3bEoaSS6JGcAo00) This event is limited to 15 people. Its a cozy cafe. See you there! Games list. If you are brining a game, please let me know I'll update the list. 1. UNO 2. ⁠CHESS 3. ⁠MONOPOLY 4. ⁠NEVER HAVE I EVER 5. ⁠ABSURD BOX 6. ⁠PLAYING CARDS 7. ⁠the game of life 8. ⁠guess who 9. Stock exchange

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!