Writing

Join us for this month's dark fiction writers meeting! Participants are encouraged to bring sacrifices—writing excerpts, that is—of up to 2000 words to read and receive critique. Listeners are appreciated as well. We welcome all dark genres and subgenres, including but not limited to: horror, dark science fiction, dark fantasy, suspense/thriller, etc. We'll be meeting at the MaRS Building near Queen's Park Station.

( This event is SOLD-OUT ) **Join U of T Professor Morris Lum for a dialogue on the shifting architectural and cultural landscapes of *Canadian Chinatowns.*** --We've been interested in this conversation/topic for many years--and attended previous walks/talks/conversations with Professor Lum. ***You need to get your own FREE Eventbrite ticket***\*--link is below. (Limited tickets--so follow all the instructions)\* https://www.cbc.ca/arts/for-more-than-a-decade-this-artist-has-photographed-north-americas-changing-chinatowns-9.6958912 Drawing from his engagement with the David Lai fonds at U of T Libraries and his new monograph, *Chinatowns: Tong Yan Gaai*, Lum examines the transformation of these vital communities. The program includes an introduction by archivist June Chow. https://www.morrislum.ca/projects Over the past decade, **Morris Lum has embarked on an extensive exploration of the Chinatown communities across Canada and the United States. Focusing on the architecture and evolution of these enclaves,** Lum delves into how “Chinese” identity is shaped and expressed through their structures. Using a large-format camera, he has captured Chinatowns in cities such as Victoria, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York City, and Boston, chronicling the rapid transformations these communities face and documenting their shifting architectural and economic landscapes. His colourful photographs offer a poignant visual record, spotlighting both historical and modern cultural landmarks—small family-owned businesses, iconic Chinese restaurants and vital community organizations—that define these neighbourhoods. **EVENTBRITE link for a FREE ticket...** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/morris-lum-chinatowns-in-art-and-archives-tickets-1984631579479?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true&mc_cid=3e11656b62&mc_eid=ed20ec3e5e

EVENT DETAILS: Event #47 - Amazing! \*\*Please note: This is the Omventure MISSISSAUGA location - not the Markham or Scarborough locations, where we have also done rooms in the past. \*\*\*BIG NOTE: The rooms this month are DIFFERENT LENGTHS AND PRICES, so please make note of the START TIME and PRICE for the SPECIFIC ROOM you want to do. RSVP PROCEDURE: \*\*\*To secure your RSVP to this event, you must complete TWO steps. Both steps must be completed to attend. Simply RSVP'ing to this event via the Meetup "RSVP" button will NOT secure your ticket. This group is incredible and we have a ton of fun. I appreciate your help in making sure it can run smoothly. 🙂 Here are the steps, in order: STEP 1. Please send $37.50 per admission as an E-TRANSFER, to [TorontoEscapeRoomMeetup@gmail.com](mailto:TorontoEscapeRoomMeetup@gmail.com) In this email, please note: -> The name of the room you want to join. -> If you are paying for more than 1 admission, please send the appropriate amount for the number of tickets you want (e.g. 2 tickets = $75), to which event(s), and note the name of your guest. \*\*\*Out of fairness to members who are committed to attending, if I do not receive your etransfer within 24 hours of you joining the event, your RSVP will be removed to open up space for someone else. You are free to re-join when you are ready to send the etransfer, space permitting. STEP 2. Once you have completed STEP 1, click RSVP on the event for the room you want. If you are bringing a guest, select a +1. Managing large events can be complex so thank you for helping me keep track of all you incredible, amazing escapers! 💕 \*\*\*\*\* We have four rooms for you to choose from this month! Feel free to join this room, or check out the other rooms here: Sinister Circus – 75 minutes – Arrival time 7:30: https://www.meetup.com/toronto-escape-rooms/events/313739429/ Virus Outbreak – 60 minutes – Arrival time 7:45: https://www.meetup.com/toronto-escape-rooms/events/313739447/ Chaos Kitchen – 60 minutes – Arrival time 7:45: https://www.meetup.com/toronto-escape-rooms/events/313739460/ Here's the room description for this specific event page, from the website: Re. Penitentiary – 60 minutes – Arrival time 7:45: "You suddenly wake up to find yourself locked in a cramped prison cell, cold, scared, the air-filled with silence. You soon realize that you are in the St. Temple Prison. This abandoned prison has a history of mysteriously taking the lives of its prisoners. If you don’t want to be next, you have to escape...” This room is 1 hr. in length. Per tradition, we'll do optional coffee/drinks/dinner/dessert afterward if people want to hang out. Important details about the escape rooms only: 1. We will book the spots for the escape room, so no planning needed! 2. This is a prepaid event, so you must pay the fee to join in. 3. Please arrive at the listed time. This is scheduled 15 mins ahead of the room time so that everyone can arrive, check in and sign waivers if applicable. 4. No shows or last minute cancellations after the booking has been paid for will not receive refunds due to the non-refundable nature of the escape room businesses. 5. If there is a cancellation/rescheduling of the of the event, you will receive refunds. 6. If you ever want to join an event but all of our rooms appear to be full/sold out, please message me. I can sometimes find a way to add a person or two; and if I hear from a lot of people, I may even be able to book a whole extra room for the bonus folks so they can join in the fun! 7. Please share the puzzles! We can be big groups thanks to your patronage, and sometimes escape rooms don't have multiple puzzles to work on at one time, so only a few people may be able to work on a given puzzle. Share the love! If you've been the leader on a few puzzles in a row, kindly step back and let someone else have a turn. 8. Check out their website for additional details: (https://www.omventure.ca/mississauga)

*Unwind, get creative, and connect with cool people.* Looking for a calm space to do some art, have meaningful (or silly) convos, and meet new friends in the city? This is your spot. I’ll be bringing **colouring pages and markers** for anyone who just wants to show up and relax. You're also totally welcome to bring whatever creative activity helps *you* unwind — think **sketchpads, mini canvases and paint, journals, clay sculpting, wire bending, model building kits, and collage supplies**. We’ll hang out, make art, and enjoy chill conversations in a cozy, no-pressure environment. No experience or talent required — just bring yourself and whatever helps you feel creative and calm. **✦ What to Bring (optional):** * Any relaxing art or activity you enjoy **✦ I’ll provide:** * Colouring pages, markers, and good vibes **Where to Meet (MADO Cafe at the Food Hall inside The Well):** * The easiest way to get to the venue is to make your way to La Plume restaurant or The Dorset restaurant and turn towards the statue then take the stairs to the lower level. * Shoppers will be on the right and across from Shoppers will be an entrance to The Well's food court. * Make a left and you should see the long tables and MADO cafe. * **We'll meet at the long tables in front of MADO Cafe** Come solo or bring a friend — this is all about slowing down, making connections, and enjoying a creative evening together ✨

PLEASE NOTE: I HAVE CHANGED THE LOCATION TO SAFARI We are going to watch the Jays at Safari, which has a very cool vibe to it. Very trendy and upscale. There are pool tables and great food. A great way to make new friends and meet new people

\*\*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.

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.

**SUBSCRIBE TO [THE MAILING LIST](https://torontorationality.beehiiv.com/). EVENTS ARE NO LONGER POSTED HERE.** ​Arguing about important things doesn’t usually lead to people changing their mind. Double Crux is a technique for making discussions more productive and understanding the actual reasoning of those who disagree with us. Sometimes it even helps to better understand the foundations of your own beliefs. Together, we'll learn about [Double Crux](https://www.lesswrong.com/posts/ya59PtGeYnCG25eWn/double-crux-in-a-box), and then break into pairs with someone we disagree with to practice finding out why our views are different and what might change our minds. ## Location Enter the Mars Atrium via University Avenue entrance. We'll meet at the food court in the basement. I'll be wearing a bright neon yellow jacket. ## Detailed Directions to the Food Court Enter from University Avenue and walk east until you see escalators. Take the escalators down. The food court is to the east of the escalators. If you are lost/confused, ask a security guard to direct you to the food court. [This event is cross-posted from LessWrong.](https://www.lesswrong.com/events/wuMwSJJEKZHfccoRs/toronto-acx-meetups-everywhere-spring-2025)

I’m participating in a **48-hour short film challenge**, where a team has just two days to write, shoot, and finish a short film. This meetup is for anyone who wants to **experience the process of making a film from scratch**. You’re welcome whether you want to: • act in the film • help with filming or ideas • see how filmmaking works • or simply hang out and watch the creative process unfold Our style is **very indie** — small team, simple gear, and lots of creativity. Even if you’ve never been on a film set before, this is a great chance to **see how a movie comes together in real time**. Film lovers are very welcome. Location: Chaffe Coffee Corner 2060 Ellesmere Rd Toronto, ON M1H 2V6 Inside Lazeez Shawarma.

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!

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!

**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**

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, April 22 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 thought of one of the interesting things that can be enjoyed at this time of the year. We will be meeting at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for a "Fish Fry" in Marian Hall on Friday, March 27th at 5:00 PM. It might be fun for you to experience what has become a tradition on the Fridays before Easter. They will have fried fish or baked fish, French fries and Cole slaw, as well as beverages, all for $16.00 for adults. They will have other beverages and desserts available for sale, as well. We have never tried this, and sometimes there are quite a few people at these events so we hope that we will be able to find each other easily. I'll try to have signs outside Marian Hall that Identify our group. We hope to have you join us!