Freestyle Socials: Is This Supposed to be Funny?

You've probably noticed that everything is a little… tense right now. Politics are unhinged. Group chats are landmines. Someone you love just sent a "thoughtful" meme that ruined your entire morning. Conversations where the only goal is winning are ruining the world. We've forgotten how to disagree without triggering each other in the process.

What happened to having a little fun?After all, a well-timed joke can still save the night. What gives?

This is not your typical library event. This is a playful and fun evening that encourages participation, conversation and laughter!

How to Play: The host asks a question. You pick a side. Then everyone shares ideas about why the other side should switch. No winners, no losers, just better conversations in three easy steps: Disagree. Laugh. Repeat!

Expect a slightly unhinged, but secretly very smart and fun exploration of why we laugh, when we shouldn't, and why that might actually be the point. Because it turns out humor isn't just entertainment—it's social glue. Awkwardness isn't failure—it's fertile ground. And "too soon?" is sometimes exactly on time.

About Freestyle Socials: In a world where conversations focused on winning are tearing us apart, this game reminds us we can laugh, learn and connect instead with one simple rule: switch sides if you’re surprised or laughing.

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This event is part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

This event is generously supported by McConnell Foundation.

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PLAN YOUR VISIT:

Location: Novella Room, Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street), 2nd floor, inside the Bram and Bluma Appel Salon

Time: Doors open 5:30 PM, Event starts 6:00 PM.

Tickets: Free registration required.

Ticket policy: We oversell these events to make sure that most people have an opportunity to attend. Tickets are guaranteed until 5:45pm or until capacity is reached. Any remaining space will be opened up to the rush line beginning at 5:45pm.

Filming Notification: You may be photographed or filmed during this program.

TPL is committed to accessibility. If you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation for this event, please contact [email protected] or 416-393-7099 at least three weeks prior to the event.

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Information Collection Notice: The personal information on this form is collected by the Toronto Public Library under the Public Libraries Act, sections 20(a), 20(c), and 20(d). The information will only be used for event and program registration, delivery and evaluation. Registrants may be contacted to fill out a brief survey following the program. Questions about how the library handles your information can be directed to Answerline staff at [email protected], 416-397-5981, 789 Yonge Street, Toronto ON M4W 2G8.

Info: Come early so you can chat and make new friends.

Info: Freestyle Socials invite audience members to engage in fun and hilarious games meant to breakdown the social divide.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Toronto Public Library