The Radical Book Fair and DIY Fest, happening Sept. 23-25, is set to push some boundaries and open some eyes.

In its fourth year, the festival of all things anti-establishment has found its home in and around the parking lot at the corner of Albert and Bannatyne. 

Tim Brandt, a longtime volunteer at the CKUW radio station, is one of the organizers that has been with the festival since its first incarnation as the Spirited Anarchy Book Fair and Festival.

“I had been to the Anarchist Book Fair in Montreal and was so impressed by it. It inspired me; I thought, ‘Winnipeg needs a book fair (like this)’,” Brandt says. “I used to be a bookstore owner and I’m into radical politics, so I thought it was a good thing to be doing.”

The term “radical” refers to the “change from accepted or traditional forms.” In the case of the festival, it challenges the commonly accepted system that “we” live under – capitalism.

“The Radical Book Fair is to show people that the capital system is totally flawed and needs to end if humanity and the earth are to survive in any healthy way,” Brandt explains.

Brandt considers himself radical in some ways, but hesitates to label himself as such, claiming he isn’t nearly as radical as some people that he’s met or read about.

However, he is very against being a consumer. He says that he hardly ever goes to cafés or restaurants – instead, he dumpster dives for free food. Within city limits he travels by bike, and outside the perimeter he works out his thumb.

This alternative lifestyle seems to be the basis for the festival.

Based on first impressions, one might think that the festival would be comprised of completely “out there” events and activities, planned for the very fringes of society.

However, upon glancing through the program –  – a very cool zine that Brandt compiled himself –  – you will see that there are workshops and events for everyone. “Food Preserving 101” is being offered at ArtsJunktion on Saturday, and “Basic Bike Repair” is at Natural Cycle on Sunday.

These are radical?

“I suppose (the festival name) might scare some people away because they want to stay safe in the arms of mainstream culture and not question anything,” Brandt says. “But they shouldn’t be scared. It’s an all-ages, family-friendly festival.”

Brandt is most looking forward to the food politics workshop on Saturday at 11 a.m. at AceArt, as well as his pet project, the A-Zone Co-op Fundraiser, which is the big social event of the weekend.

Hugo Torres-Cereceda, the Rastamils and Nathan are all set to perform at the Regal Beagle.

Festival-goers can also expect workshops on screen printing, radical birthing, and “deconstructing masculinity” with Graham and Alex on Sunday. 

There are even activities for the activists-in-training, with radical story times, book making, and collage tutorials being offered, as well as childcare for parents who wish to attend the workshops.

For those more interested in alternative literature and independent magazines, exhibitors such as Ragpickers, Kustom Kulture, the Green Action Centre and several independent publishers will have their wares for perusal in the parking lot.

All events are free, except the Saturday evening fundraising show at the Regal Beagle, 9:30 p.m., $10, and vegan brunch Sunday at Mondragon, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., $15. Visit http://winnipegbookfair.blogspot.com for more information.

Published in Volume 66, Number 4 of The Uniter (September 22, 2011)