TORONTO, Oct. 29 /CNW/ -- The Institute of Communication Agencies (ICA), in collaboration with its key industry members, has today announced the dates for its annual Advertising Week. Building on the success of the inaugural Canadian event in 2009, Advertising Week will be held from January 25 to 29, 2010 in six of Canada's creative hubs: Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary.

Advertising Week was created to profile the accomplishments of the Canadian communications industry while providing inspiring thought leadership to drive future success. The event highlights industry leaders and key trends in a sector that contributes more than $19 billion annually to the Canadian economy.

"Advertising Week is designed to celebrate the wonderful business of creativity, innovation and communication, while providing a platform for dialogue and celebration," said Gillian Graham, CEO of the ICA. "The week offers something for everyone, from engaging speakers to gala events."

One of the highlights of the week-long event is an exclusive speaker series featuring some leading thinkers in the world of business and media discussing some timely issues affecting society. This year, Advertising Week and founding media sponsor Torstar, are delighted to present Arianna Huffington, who will speak to a Toronto audience on the timely topic: how to be fearless in uncertain times. Huffington is a nationally syndicated columnist in the United States, author of ten books and co-founder and editor of the popular HuffingtonPost.com.

Other activities during the week include seminars, creative presentations and educational sessions featuring keynote speakers and panel discussions, thought-leadership conferences, student mentoring initiatives and agency open-houses.

Two national industry award ceremonies will also take place during the week to honour exceptional work in the field of advertising. These include the CASSIES, the only Canadian Advertising awards show that recognizes proven business effectiveness, backed up by rigorous published cases and the Canadian Marketing Hall of Legends, which honours Canadians who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of excellence in the field of marketing.

Wrapping up this year's Advertising Week, will be the inaugural Ad Ball.