Ford Fest Friday: Doug and Rob hold annual barbecue

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Doug and Rob Ford will hold their annual barbecue on Friday night amid criticism from Mayor John Tory that the event is a fundraiser.

Tory told the Toronto Sun that, like every year, the Ford brothers will be asked if they are campaigning. And, like every year, Tory said, the Fords won’t answer.

Ford Fest will begin at 6:30 p.m., at 2200 Islington Ave. near Rexdale Boulevard. There will be free food, bands, amusement rides, and T-shirts for the first 1,000 people who show up.

Last year, city ombudsman Fiona Crean said her office was “deluged” over complaints about the event. At the time, Doug Ford was a city councillor and Rob Ford was the mayor. While Doug said he wouldn’t be running in the upcoming municipal election, Rob said he was running for councillor.

The city’s election rules prohibit candidates from hosting campaign events in public spaces, including parks. But the brothers maintain the barbecue is simply a community event.

The Ford family has hosted large barbecues for 20 years. Up until 2013 the party was held in the Etobicoke backyard of the Ford family home. Last year and this year, the BBQ will be held in a public space.

An invitation to the 205 Ford Fest. Image via Twitter.

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