2026 Leacock Gala Weekend

SAVE THE DATE! Laughter Awaits!
79th Leacock Medal for Humour Gala Weekend – June 19 & 20, 2026

Tickets on Sale Soon – Members, April 1 / Public April 7

Get ready for a whirlwind of wit, whimsy, and world-class, Canadian humour!  The Stephen Leacock Associates proudly invite you to the 79th Leacock Medal for Humour Gala Weekend on Friday, June 19, and Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the beautiful Hawk Ridge Golf Club in Severn, ON.

This is the literary event of the year-two unforgettable evenings filled with hilarious readings, insightful author chats, local entertainment, special guests (including literary legends and politicos), delicious dining, and the exciting reveal of the $25,000 Leacock Medal winner.

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Mark your calendars now and prepare to grab your tickets!

• Members of the Stephen Leacock Associates:  Early access begins April 1, 2026. An early access code will be sent to members prior to April 1st.
• General Public:  Tickets go on sale April 7, 2026 – don’t delay, as spots are limited!

Head to www.leacock.ca/gala.php to secure your seats and be part of the celebration.  You won’t want to miss this much-anticipated extravaganza of laughs and literary marvels!

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Two fun-filled events over the weekend:

• Meet the Authors & Student Showcase, Friday, June 19, 2027, 5:00 p.m. 
  
  Hosted by 1993 student winner and Medal sponsor Brad Dunkley, Co-founder, CIO, and Chief Risk Officer of Waratah Capital Advisors.
  Enjoy uplifting readings from the three finalists for the 79th Leacock Medal, plus three emerging student humour essayists introduced by Brad Dunkley.
  A feel-good kickoff for $75 per person (business casual).

• Leacock Medal for Humour Dinner, Saturday, June 20, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
  
  Hosted by the delightfully wry Morgan Murray (self-proclaimed 2021 Medal “loser”!).
  Savour clever comedy, toasts, spotlights from past winners, such as: Wayne Johnston (Leacock Medal Winner 2023, Jennie’s Boy, 2025 Canada Reads shortlist), Rod Carley (Longlisted, Leacock Medal 2021, 2023, 2025), and Cathal Kelly (Leacock Medal Winner 2019, Boy Wonders), as Mayor of Mariposa – and the big $25,000 Medal winner announcement.
  Celebrate in style for $125 per person (semi-formal).

!!! News !!! You can now purchase a combination ticket for both evenings…for $180 you get a discount and can enjoy the entire Gala Weekend!

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Heartfelt Thanks to Our Sponsors!  A huge thank you to our generous sponsors whose unwavering support makes this weekend possible.  Your dedication to Canadian humour and literary talent keeps Stephen Leacock’s spirit alive and laughing - we’re proud to have you with us!
Tickets are expected to sell fast - set your reminder for April 1 (members) or April 7 (public).  Join us for a weekend of laughter that lingers long after the last punchline! 

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Gala Dinner Sponsored by: