Macaron Day Toronto

For anyone that’s wondering, that’s not a typo in the title.

This is a macaroon, a confection made of coconut.

 And this is a macaron, a colourful meringue biscuit with a delicious filling.

I’ve had Tuesday, March 20, 2012 circled in my calendar for weeks now. My friend John and I are planning to visit a local pâtisserie (French pastry shop) on Macaron Day Toronto. John is a work colleague who loves food and shopping as much as I do. I will always remember that John surprised me with Laduree macarons from his trip to Paris, France. I think the bigger surprise was that I happened to be on vacation when he returned with them.  You can trust me when I say that week-old Laduree macarons still taste pretty good!

I’m very excited that the macaron is gaining popularity in Toronto.  If you haven’t had one before, next Tuesday is your big chance to try one for free.  All you have to do is visit a participating pâtisserie and mention that you are celebrating Macaron Day. After you sample one, there’s no doubt in my mind that you will want to try all the flavours and March 20th would be the perfect day to do so. 25% of the proceeds of all macarons sold on Macaron Day will be donated to the Red Door Family Shelter, a non-profit organization that provides emergency shelter for Toronto residents in need. I feel a bit like Marie Antoinette, dreaming about decadent treats while people are suffering around me. However, Red Door is a lesser-known charity that will greatly benefit from the publicity and profits of Macaron Day. So round up some friends to enjoy this special event and help support a local charity at the same time!