By Shaundra Selvaggi

It’s what most consider the last weekend of summer.  The festivals are winding down, the CNE is wrapping up and school is just around the corner. But this year, we’re in the middle of a heat wave and summer is still going strong.  Get out there and enjoy it while it lasts!

Thursday, September 2

Poetic Fashion 2010

Poetic Fashion is hosting its 2nd annual youth arts showcase.  Youth from Toronto’s 13 underserved neighbourhoods have gathered together to represent themselves and each other through fashion, design, music, dance, visual arts, drama and spoken word poetry. Support this amazing youth initiative and witness the city’s most organic and passionate talent.  This is an event you don’t want to miss! St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts. 7 pm.

Friday, September 3

Hispanic Fiesta 2010

The 29th Anniversary of Hispanic Fiesta in 2010 is ready to fill Mel Lastman Square with the splendid sounds, tempting treats and colorful culture that the Hispanic heritage is famous for. Hispanic Fiesta will feature the best known local and International Hispanic performers covering 20 different Spanish-speaking countries. More than 300 local, national and international performers will be taking part in the festival.  Sep. 3 -6.

Saturday, September 4

Exhibit Africa – A Cultural Affair

Exhibit Africa hosts its first cultural event this year, showcasing some of the 50 different cultural ethnicities within the African-Canadian communities. Expect great entertainment with the sounds of traditional instruments on live centre stage performances, witness movements to the rhythms of the African beat,all geared up in traditional costumes designed for the occasion.  The Assembly Hall. 10:30 am – 5 pm.

The Air Show at Ontario Place

Ontario Place is the best place to catch the Air Show with all the excitement happening just overhead! Also kids will have the chance to meet Fifi, Fuzz Buzz, Elmo, Cookie Monster and Abby Cadabby live in the park.  Ground Admission provides access to park events and entertainment. Tickets: Adult/Youth – $16.90  Child/Senior – $11.19. Children under 4 are free.

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live: There’s a Party in My City

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live: There’s a Party in My City features DJ Lance Rock, and everyone’s favorite cast of characters– Brobee (the little green one), Foofa (the pink flower bubble), Muno (the red Cyclops), Plex (the magic robot), and Toodee (the blue cat-dragon). The one-of-a-kind live event includes music, animation, games, singing, dancing and offers audience members of all ages the opportunity to witness their favourite characters come to life with the magic words, “Yo Gabba Gabba! Molson Amphitheatre. Shows at 2 pm and 5 pm.

Sunday, September 5

The 8th Annual Toronto International Poetry Slam

It is that time again! We are getting ready for the end of summer classic, where poets take to the stage in Toronto to compete for $1000US. This year, come witness the excitement as Nikki Germany, Ms. Wise,  Myk Miranda, Spin,  Fraser McDonald,  Tomy Bewick,  David Delisca, Ten Thousand, Kiki and many more take the stage with hopes of taking home some of the prize money! Poor Alex Theatre. 8 pm.

Monday, September 6

Labour Day Parade

The annual parade starts at Queen St. and University Ave. at 9:30 a.m. and proceeds along Queen to Dufferin St., then south to the Dufferin Gate at the CNE. For over a century working people and their unions celebrate their struggles and their contributions to building Toronto and the region. The theme of this year’s parade is Protect Our Public Services.