Here's a powerful reason to get your vote in early in the upcoming mayoral election - aside from avoiding lines at the polls, and the joys of exercising your civic duty, and all that other stuff. A new initiative, Happy Voting Hour, is hoping to raise voter participation in Toronto and encourage early voting through that great universal motivator: Beer and snacks.

Here's how it works: Several bars have volunteered to host free happy-hour events on days advance polls are open (October 14 to 19), offering inexpensive apps and beer. (Take note: You don't have to have voted to swing by, and the events are non-partisan - voters of all political stripes are welcome.) A few restaurants and bars, including Rock Lobster, Dog & Bear, Cadillac Lounge, and Le Petit Castor, have already signed on to serve this Wednesday and Thursday, with more expected to sign on in the next day or so.

To find out more, check out the Happy Voting Hour Facebook event for the full schedule.