A Taste of the Kingsway

Last weekend Bloor St. in the Kingsway was a happening place. At first Peter and I, having been disappointed by our recent visit to the CNE, were reluctant to go to another fair. But this was our own neighbourhood and we wanted to support our local businesses. So off we went.

The walk up Prince Edward Dr. is pretty at this time of year: rose of sharon blooming on bushes, sunflowers reaching high up towards the sky, and annuals waving their last hurrah. The cemetery was peaceful as we passed; the deer were down by the river. And Bloor St. was alive with people.

We sauntered along past the rides and games. Basketball hoops beckoned young players to make a basket in exchange for one of the colourful stuffies seated below. The ferris wheel was not as tall as the one at the EX, but there was still a long line of customers. Little riders waited in fear nearby for a chance to scream down the gigantic slide.

Other entertainment included several bands and musical groups performing along the street. A magician attracted a crowd with his tricks and his enticing banter. A mini car show lured car buffs and photographers. Two balloon men, sitting in the middle of Bloor St, created bunnies and clowns for the delight of the kids gathered around.

Restaurants and food stores offered hand-held goodies like sushi, pizza, lamb ke-babs, fresh fruit cups, veal sandwiches and butter tarts, all mouth-wateringly delicious. Sunnyland, Peter’s favourite store, did their part, serving up watermelon slices and roasted corn on the cob. There was no gimmicky food, such as fried crickets, anywhere in sight.

Many other business owners had come up with unique ways to participate in this fair with enthusiasm. The kick-boxing company put on a display. The art studio presented a demonstration of painting techniques. The BBQ store gave out advice and recipes. Local politicians got into the act, handing out free pens, flags, and slightly melted chocolate bars. The music lesson company hosted impromptu dance classes for tiny tots.

Even the church donated the front steps as a picnic area.

Today, things are back to normal – bankers lending money, podiatrists cutting toenails, and the pharmacist filling prescriptions. But, for one weekend, the Kingsway became a real community… just like magic.

Sue