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PEN 100: a Centennial Celebration, featuring Louise Penny

November 25, 2026

Date: November 25, 2026

Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Where: Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge St, Toronto)

Ticket required.

An evening of belonging, community and literature, featuring Louise Penny

One hundred years. Hundreds of writers. Countless stories. More than a few raised eyebrows.

For a century, PEN Canada has championed the transformative power of words, and the courageous writers who dare to write freely. We have defended bold ideas, dangerous books, spirited debate, and improbable friendships, united by an enduring belief that writers can change the world.

To celebrate a century of PEN Canada, and help kick off the next, join us for a special conversation with one of our most beloved writers, Louise Penny, in conversation with Mattea Roach as they discuss mystery, belonging and the communities our books create. The evening will also feature three new PEN awards recipients, special tributes, and plenty of reasons to raise a glass with talented members of the Canadian literary community.

Louise Penny’s latest book will be available for purchase at this event, including limited pre-signed copies.

Date: Wednesday, November 25, 2026, 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Venue: Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge St, Toronto)

Drinks & hors d’oeuvres @ 6:00 pm
Ceremony & Featured Program @ 7:00 p.m.
Dessert reception @ 8:15 pm

Tickets

Tickets are $100, with a portion of your ticket eligible for a tax receipt.

GET TICKETS

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The Mission Behind this Event

Proceeds from this event will fund PEN’s vital work to defend free expression and assist writers in peril.

From our emergency funding for writers fleeing danger, to campaigning against book bans in Canada, PEN is working on issues that affect writers everywhere.

Learn more about who we are.

Donate to our Centennial Campaign

Can’t come to the event? If you would like to help us kick off the next century of PEN’s work, please consider making a gift or becoming a donor.

Donate today.

Thank you to our Sponsors

This event is made possible through the generous support of Michael MacMillan and Cathy Spoel, the Michael Decter Family Foundation, Black Bank Hill winery, RBC, the Ontario Arts Council, and Pendrith Wealth Management and iA Private Wealth.