Brampton Ontario has the distinction of being one of the fastest growing municipalities in Canada, with over 110,000 people expected to move to the city in 2007! The City of Brampton credits its growth in part to the municipal focus on the importance of culture. Here are some of the cultural events planned in Brampton in 2007, many of them sponsored and organized by the Brampton Arts Council.



Throughout the Year

Running throughout the year are various exhibitions of still life put together as a group effort by the Visual Arts Brampton school of painting. The exhibitions run from the first of each month and are scheduled to last the entire month at Shopper's World in the Brampton Mall (499 Main St. S.) during regular mall hours.

In addition to the Visual Art Brampton organization, several major cultural contributors offer demonstrations of their art all year long. Groups include the Brampton Symphony Orchestra, the Brampton Folk Singers, the Brampton Lyric Opera, and the Brampton Folk Club.

The newly opened Rose Theatre in Brampton is expected to begin fulfilling its promise in a big way in 2007, the first entire year of operations. Major events include concerts, recitations, and a special Musical Theatre performance of L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables, which kicks off in March.

Special Events

The City of Brampton's downtown core also features several series of special events which usually begin taking place when the weather turns warmer. Tuesdays and Thursdays from June to September offer music tailored to suit, with inspirational offerings from the Inspirational Impressions group on Tuesdays and a free concert held

each Thursday. In addition, the last Friday of every month offers an installment of a concert series from the Brampton Folk Club.

Running from July to September is the Flower City's Annual Shakespeare in the Square Festival, put on by ACT Productions. This event is admission based on donation, and all are invited and encouraged to attend. There is a performance every weekday from 7:30 pm at City Hall.

The month of February is also an important one culturally in Brampton, with the kickoff of the Brampton Indie Arts Festival on the 9th and running through to the 17th.

One of the biggest cultural events in any Canadian city is the celebration of the country's birthday on July 1st, and Brampton is no exception. Festivities to celebrate Canada's birthday are held throughout the city, with a huge celebration around city hall and at various parks. The festivities include bands, booths, presentations, and performances that celebrate all aspects of Canada, from our multicultural heritage to our burgeoning arts. Don't forget about the annual fireworks display!

Brampton's cultural vibrancy is a major attraction and benefit to the city both in terms of financial and population growth. With the sheer number of events happening, residents are sure to find something that suits them!