John Tiffany and Dean Price first got the idea for a Canadian edition of San Francisco’s famous Folsom Street Fair when a friend of theirs was denied entry into the United States because he is HIV-positive.
“When we started the fair our only goal was to raise awareness of that issue and bring the party to him,” says Tiffany.
Rebranded FFN last year after a falling out with the original Folsom, FFN5 starts with a welcome party on Fri, Jul 20 and culminates with the actual fetish fair at Allan Gardens on Sun, Jul 22.
Featuring a marketplace with more than 75 vendors, a beer garden, entertainment stages and separate dance area, it’s all one big kinky carnival.
Never been to a big kinky carnival before? How does one act? What does one wear?
“The way we originally established the event has led us to always embrace new ideas, new kinks, fetishes and interests,” says Tiffany. “You’ll see some of the usual leather and rubber, but also some skater boys, punks, motocross, superhero outfits, and lots of sports gear. After all, the Muddy York Ruggers — Toronto’s local gay rugby team — and the Team Toronto Gay Hockey team will be in gear, pouring in the beer garden.
“I think it’s always best to come with an open mind,” Tiffany advises. “Our party provides something for everyone. Those who like to watch, those who like to show off and those who like to break away from their friends and go hunting for someone or something new.”
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