Page 45 – Visit Kingston

May 9, 2017July 15, 2024

9 Festivals to Hit This June in Kingston

Kingston’s festivals lineup this month includes real gems, plenty of cold craft beer and five days of solstice celebrating with people like Sarah Harmer and Fred Penner. Here are 9 of them to check out across the city in calendar order.

#1: Limestone Genre Expo

Saturday, June 3 – Sunday, June 4
St. Lawrence College

Calling all literary fans of fantasy, horror, mystery, romance and science fiction — this two-day Canadian genre fiction fest is back. Expect panel discussions and workshops, readings and pitch sessions, and more books to buy than your car’s suspension can probably handle. Over 50 authors will be there for you to meet, and there will be special events, too, like a Q&A with a forensic investigator from Kingston Police. $25 – $60. limestonegenreexpo.ca

#2: Beat Beethoven

Sunday, June 4, 10:30am
Downtown

Beat Beethoven Run at Fort Henry — Photo via Peter Stokes

Definitely one of the more original marathons in the province, Beat Beethoven challenges you to finish an 8 kilometre race or 4 kilometre fun run before the Kingston Symphony finishes playing 50 minutes of Ludwig’s best. Start at Confederation Park in front of City Hall and then head to the route around City Park or the course that goes to Sir John A. Macdonald Blvd. and back. More of a relaxer than a marathoner? Stay at the starting line and hang with the symphony. $30 – $45. kingstonsymphony.ca

#3: Cannonball Crush

Saturday, June 10, 9:30am – 12pm
Fort Henry

Cannonball Crush at Fort Henry — Photo via St. Lawrence Parks Commission

If Fort Henry wasn’t already difficult enough to attack, it definitely will be at this 5 kilometre run with 15 obstacles. Complete the course alone or with a team of at least four, but be prepared for running, climbing, crawling, swimming and more. The reward at the end will be free entry into the YGK Craft Beer Fest and the satisfaction of knowing you were one of the rare ones to conquer Fort Henry. $70 – $75 per person. forthenry.com

#4: YGK Craft Beer Fest

Saturday, June 10, 12pm – 8pm
Fort Henry

There are few better places to kick off Ontario Craft Beer Week than at this brew fest on Fort Henry Hill. Sip on special collaboration brews, exclusives and mainstays from breweries across the province, including five from the Kingston area. Pair with sweeping views of Lake Ontario, fresh local eats and live music from Kasador, a five-piece indie rock band from the city. $15. Free for kids. $7 for youth. Beer/food tickets extra. forthenry.com

#5: First Capital Day

Thursday, June 15, 9:30am – 2:30pm
City Park

First Capital Day in Kingston Ontario — Photo via Queens University Flickr CC

Kingston was named the first capital of a united Canada on June 15, 1841, and now this annual free fest brings that era back with hands-on historical displays and activities. Mayor Paterson and the Town Crier will kick things off at 9:45am, and then feel free to explore everything from early medicine to broadsword demos, woodworking to military drills, rope making to a puppet journey through the Great Lakes. Pack a picnic or enjoy the local eats you’ll find onsite. Free. cityofkingston.ca

#6: Doors Open Kingston

Saturday, June 17
Citywide

While many of the 25-plus doors on this festival’s list are open all year, Doors Open is always the best way to find out more about what’s inside. Think special guided tours of the Islamic Centre. Or a new exhibition at the Pump House Steam Museum focusing on bizarre objects from Kingston’s past. Or a walk through the Queen’s Solar Education Centre, which is used to test and create sustainable housing technologies. Free. doorsopenontario.on.ca

#7: DK Shop Fest 2017

Saturday, June 17
Downtown

DK ShopFest in Kingston — Photo via The Great Waterway

You may actually drop at this annual sidewalk sale, but it’ll be worth it because you probably won’t find as many specials and deals downtown on one day all year. Most businesses will have tables out on the sidewalks, and as usual it should be a great way to meet the local merchants who continue to make downtown such a vibrant place to work, live and play. Free. downtownkingston.ca

#8: Gemstorm 2017

Saturday, June 17 – Sunday, June 18
Cararaqui Arena

Gemstorm 2017 in Kingston — Photo via Kingston Lapidary And Mineral Club

Now in its 48th year, this annual gem and mineral show will feature over 45 dealers from Ontario and Quebec. They’ll display and sell everything from unique jewellery and crystal treasures to exotic fossils and gemstone carvings. There will also be a children’s mine and a jewellery workshop, as well as a food truck onsite. $5. Free for kids under 12. mineralclub.ca

#9: Skeleton Park Arts Festival

Wednesday, June 21 – Sunday, June 25
McBurney Park

Skeleton Parks Arts Festival in Kingston, Ontario — Photo via Christopher Canning

This summer solstice celebration is always one of the best fests of the year in Kingston, and that should hold true again in 2017. Sarah Harmer, Fred Penner, Justin Rutledge, Hidden Cameras, Minotaurs, Old Man Luedecke and many others are on the lineup for the all-day outdoor festivities on Saturday and Sunday. During the rest of the week, look forward to free morning yoga, a porch jazz parade, an artisan fair and way more. Everything takes place in and around McBurney Park (aka Skeleton Park). Free. skeletonparkartsfest.ca

May 4, 2017March 27, 2023

Chef Ian Arthur: Life at The Pig

If there’s one thing that Chez Piggy’s executive chef Ian Arthur exudes, it’s decency. He’s also humble and deeply reverent about the importance of food. “Food is the universal language,” he says. “It’s fundamental to everything. To our memories, our health, our relationships, our travels, and the future of the planet.”

Ian grew up homeschooled, on the land, on a small, organic market garden farm near Lyndhurst. His mother, Janette Haase (author of From the Seed to Table, 2009) was a server at Chez Piggy and also supplied the restaurant with produce from their farm. As a toddler, Ian would help with the deliveries up the back stairs of Chez Piggy to the kitchen. The very same kitchen where he’s now in charge. Though he’s strayed from home to travel to far flung bits of the world, Chez Piggy has featured prominently in Ian Arthur’s life.

Lindy Mechefske: Where did you find your love of food?
Ian Arthur: In Spain. Some winters when my parents shut our family farm down, we went to Spain. My father was a great cook and I learned young about food – about the incredible importance of quality ingredients and simplicity. In Spain, we’d eat fresh rabbit and duck and local oranges plucked straight from the trees. I still remember those exquisite tastes.

LM: How did you train to be a chef?
IA: My training probably began at a very young age, growing up with parents who were passionate about food. At university, I did a degree in International Development and worked part-time in a vegetarian co-operative café. When I graduated in 2008, I went to cook in Iceland for a year and learned to clean and cook fish properly. Unfortunately, while I was there, the Icelandic economy crashed and I lost everything. I had to come home and start again. Incredibly for me, I came back home to Chez Piggy. A full circle.

LM: How would you describe your cooking style?
IA: I like simple flavours. Not overly complicated food. I like to leave things alone – let them show off their own glory. I like seasonal foods. At the moment it’s ramps. I also love fish. But my style is very definitely influenced by my early days – the market garden and those winters spent in Spain. Unlike the French, who like fantastic but quite complicated food, the Spanish are the opposite: simplicity is paramount.

LM: Is there a chef you admire or a food book that inspires you?
IA: I think if I had to name a single chef, I’d say Dan Barber (Chef and co-owner of Blue Hill in Manhattan and Blue Hill at Stone Barns, in Tarrytown, NY). He’s at the forefront of a whole new movement that blurs the lines between dining, education, and farming. His book, The Third Plate, is the best food book ever written. I’m also an admirer of Gabrielle Hamilton, chef and owner of Prune Restaurant and author of Blood, Bones, and Butter.

LM: What misconceptions are there about Canadian food?
IA: I think the greatest misconception is that there is nothing novel happening in Canadian cooking. That’s not true. There are some fantastic changes afoot. Like Fogo Island Inn, perched at the edge of the earth off the remote Northeast Coast of Newfoundland, where diners sit looking out floor to ceiling plate glass windows to the iceberg-littered Atlantic Ocean, from where dinner has just been caught. And then there’s Chef Michael Smith’s team in his Prince Edward Island restaurant, FireWorks, named for the 25-foot-long, brick-lined, open wood burning fireplace where everything is cooked and then served family-style at long tables.

LM: What would you like to see change about Canadian food and cooking?
IA: This is a big question with a complex answer. I’d like to see a Canadian restaurant finally break the Top 100 Restaurants in the World list. Currently we have two honourable mentions but no Canadian restaurant has made the list recently. It’s not because of a lack of talent. We have the talent and resources to cook better food than people are generally willing to buy. Compared to other countries around the globe, we spend considerably less of our income per capita on groceries and food. And unlike France, for example, where people seek the very best quality food that money can buy, Canadians are more reluctant to spend money on very high quality food. I think that is slowly beginning to change and palates are evolving. Just as an example, we try make 100 percent of everything from scratch at Chez Piggy EXCEPT things like ketchup. People want Heinz not homemade! I’m hopeful though, that things are shifting in new directions and we’re going to see a lot of change ahead in how much we care about quality food and cooking. I think we’re going to see growing support of Canadian food producers and Canadian cuisine.

LM: When makes you happiest at work?
IA: Sous Chef, Matt Allen, is a great part of my happiness in the kitchen. He’s young and creative and fun to work with. But in general, I’m happy when the team is happy.

LM: What’s your favourite off duty, go-to-meal at home?
IA: Halibut. A good burger. And on a hot summer night – oysters and wine.
LM: If you could cook with anyone at all, who would you choose?
IA: Chef Francis Mallman, of Patagonia, who does all these intense burnt flavours by cooking with fire and clay. Because of all the things I’d learn.

LM: What do you value most in life?
IA: First up: family. Mother, brother, young cousin Derek. All my family. I like setting goals and working towards things and I’m incredibly pragmatic so I like fixing up houses and of course, making food. Also, playing hockey. But ultimately, I’d like to do practical things on a bigger scale so I’m running for the NDP nomination for Kingston and the Islands because I care deeply about this community and worry about our future.

LM: Who are a few of your favourite local suppliers?
IA:
Enright Cattle Company
Forman Farms
Honey Wagon Farms
Patchwork Gardens
Reinink Family Farms
The Kitchen Garden
The Whalesbone Sustainable

Chez Piggy Restaurant, 68 Princess street, Kingston, is open for lunch (brunch on Sunday) and dinner, seven days a week. For more information please visit www.chezpiggy.ca or call 613.549.7673

Lindy Mechefske is the award-winning author of Sir John’s Table and A Taste of Wintergreen. You can find her blogging about her adventures in the kitchen at lindymechefske.com

April 28, 2017April 4, 2023

15 Can’t-Miss Concerts in Kingston This May

When a month’s live music lineup kicks off with Tanya Tagaq and ends with a tribute to Johnny Cash, you know it’s going to be a prime month for concerts. Especially when legends like Sam Roberts and Charley Pride are peppered in between along with stellar up-and-comers like Close Talker and Lost Cousins. Such is the case for the concert lineup in Kingston this May. Here’s the lowdown on 15 to check out.

Tanya Tagaq Accompanies the Silent Film Nanook of the North

May 3, 7:30pm
The Grand Theatre
Seeing Inuk throat singer and Polaris Prize winner Tanya Tagaq live is unlike any concert experience you’ve probably had. Her intense, evocative vocalizations create a powerful emotional soundscape, and on this night she’ll use them to help reclaim the controversial 1922 film Nanook of the North. Tagaq, along with percussionist Jean Martin and violinist Jesse Zubot, perform a live accompaniment to the film’s silent images of life in an early 20th-century Inuit community in Northern Quebec. $19.50 – $39.50. kingstongrand.ca

A Tribute to Elvis in Concert

May 4, 7:30pm
The Grand Theatre
Since The King’s death in 1977, tens of thousands of impersonators have tried to recreate his music and magic. Few have truly succeeded, but two that have are Toronto’s Pete Paquette and the UK’s Chris Connor. Backed by and eleven-piece band, this world-renowned duo has played to thousands of Elvis fans across the country. Now it’s your turn to put on your blues suede shoes and see what all the fuss is about. $49. kingstongrand.ca

Battle of the Bands

May 5, 7:30pm
Ale House & Canteen
The Juvenis Festival’s band battle is always a highlight of the week-long youth arts celebration. This year six local youth bands will play their hearts out on the Ale House’s stage for the coveted title of best band. The four judges include Paul Langlois (The Tragically Hip), Emily Fennell (Miss Emily recording artist), Michael George (Broken Charts Records) and Zane Whitfield (North of Princess Studios). $10. All ages. juvenisfestival.ca

Mark Herman Performs on Canada’s Largest Theatre Organ

May 5, 7:30pm
Kingston Korean Church
Since 1981, some of the world’s best organists have visited Kingston to see and play Canada’s largest theatre pipe organ. Now it’s Mark Herman’s turn. Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana, Herman is one of the one of the busiest young theatre organists playing today, performing more than 30 concerts and silent film presentations each year across the world. $8 – $25. ktos.ca

The Mikado, Unstaged

May 6, 7:30pm
Sydenham Street United Church
The Mikado is a comic opera in two acts and one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most loved operettas. Set in the 1880s in the imaginary Japanese town of Titipu, the satire offers sharp commentary on contemporary English society. This concert version of the opera will be performed by Orchestra Kingston and the Kingston Choral Society. $5 – $25. kingstonchoralsociety.ca

HomeGrown Live Music Festival

May 6
Citywide
Now in its ninth year, this one-day live music fest is all about celebrating the local music scene while supporting local charities and causes. As usual each of the 13 participating venues this year will feature performers in a similar genre. Sir John A’s Pub is all about folk music, for example, while at The Mansion expect psychedelic, at Blu Martini rock and at Musiikki electroacoustic. This year’s proceeds go to the Joe Chithalen Memorial Musical Instrument Lending Library. All-access bracelet: $10. homegrownlive.ca

Melos Presents “Da Roma a Venezia”: Baroque Music of Italy

May 7, 3pm
St. George’s Cathedral
This afternoon of choral, solo and instrumental works from the 17th and 18th centuries should be a fantastic tribute to Italy’s Baroque musical traditions. Expect to hear Allegri’s Miserere mei, Handel’s Dixit Dominus and the works of Marcello, Scarlatti and Vivaldi. Kingston’s renowned Melos Choir and Period Instrumental Ensemble will be your guide. St. George’s Cathedral, with its incredible acoustics and architecture, will be your setting. $5 – $25. melos-earlymusic.org

Hollerado

May 10, 9pm
Ale House & Canteen
Formed in 2007, Ottawa indie rockers Hollerado have gone on to tour the world, get nominated for three Junos and release three albums, including their latest, Born Yesterday, which came out in April. Expect a high-energy, power-pop show that, with the Ale House’s intimate but rollicking vibe, will make you feel like you’re rocking out onstage with the four-piece band. $20. thealehousekingston.ca

SaDunya Kingston Arts Festival Experience #001

May 10, 9pm
The Mansion
Think of this show as a teaser for the SaDunya Festival, a world music and arts fest set to take place in Kingston in 2018. One performance will feature Sengalese guitarist UMARO and Kingston percussionist Dough van der Horden. Another, a Latinos concert with the Son Latino Band and artists from Kingston and Latin America. The third, a drums and painting collaboration with Yessica Rivera Belsham and Ndate Sylla. $15 – $20. sadunyaartsfestival.com

Close Talker with Lost Cousins

May 10, 9pm
The Grad Club
The Grad Club’s stage area almost feels like a living room, so psychedelic soul rockers Lost Cousins should feel right at home. The four-piece band played their first shows in the living room of their Kingston student house before going on to reach the top 10 in the CBC’s Searchlight competition. Close Talker is an indie rock trio from Saskatoon with two releases under their belt and numerous tours throughout North America and Europe. Since becoming a trio in 2015, the band has honed their craft, creating a more vast and iconic sound that is turning heads and drawing crowds. $13. queensgradclub.wordpress.com

Sam Roberts Band

May 12, 8pm
Springer Market Square
This free outdoor concert should be the perfect closing to The Breakout Project, a three-day social innovation festival at Fort Henry. Like the cross-disciplinary nature of the fest, Sam Roberts Band has universal appeal for almost any rock fan. Since bursting onto the Canadian music scene in 2002, the Montreal-based band has won six Junos and five Much Music Video Awards. Translation: get to this show early — it’s going to be a big one. Free. thebreakoutproject.com

Charley Pride

May 15, 7pm
The Grand Theatre
Country music legend Charley Pride has been performing his own special brand of country music for over 50 years. He has 36 number one hits to his name, and his most memorable tunes include “Kiss an Angel Good Morning,” “Just Between You and Me” and “Is Anybody Goin to San Antone.” Pride has always loved touring Canada, saying this country has some of the greatest, most loyal fans in the world. Over 700 of them will likely be waiting for him at the beautifully restored Grand Theatre. $93.17 – $129.17. kingstongrand.ca

Songs from Les Misérables and Miss Saigon

Les Miserables in Kingston — Photo via FlickrCC: StevenPisano

May 26, 7:30pm
The Grand Theatre
Whether you’ve seen Les Misérables and Miss Saigon or not, you won’t want to miss this tribute to two of the most popular Broadway musicals ever. It’s rare that this calibre of world-class musical performers grace the same stage, and it’s even rarer that that stage is in such an intimate, acoustically-sound space as The Grand Theatre. $54.50. kingstongrand.ca

Kingston Community Strings Celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday at The Isabel

May 26, 7:30pm
Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts
This community-based string group meets weekly for the pleasure of making music together. In celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday, this concert will feature an all-Canadian program, including works by three Kingston composers: Cliff Crawley, John Palmer and Danielle Lennon. The performance of the Crawley piece, A Group of Seven, will include projections of paintings by the seven Canadian artists. $15. theisabel.ca

The Man in Black

May 27, 7:30pm
The Grand Theatre
Though Johnny Cash died almost 14 years ago, you’d be forgiven for thinking he was still alive after seeing this show. Shawn Barker is considered the pre-eminent Johnny Cash tribute artist today, and he’s a dead ringer to a young Cash. Expect to hear tunes from the Man in Black’s full library, including his early hits, those made famous with June Carter Cash and those he was making right up to his death in September 2003. $45. kingstongrand.ca

April 28, 2017July 15, 2024

Your Kingston May Festivals Guide

Kingston doesn’t really have a festivals season, per se, but the number and diversity of fests in the city definitely picks up every spring. This May, for instance, there’s National Youth Week, the HomeGrown Live Music Festival, a cask beer festival and an arts expo, to name just four. Here are the details on 10 happening throughout the month.

The Juvenis Festival

April 29 – May 7
Citywide
This is the second year for this youth arts fest, and if the first year was any indication you’re in for a treat. The three main areas of focus are arts education, professional development and youth-curated and created arts presentations. Think musicals at The Baby Grand, a temporary art gallery in a downtown storefront, live music at Musiikki Café, films at The Screening Room, a battle of the bands at Ale House and way more. Varying prices. juvenisfestival.ca

National Youth Week

May 1 – 7
The Juvenis Festival is just part of the festivities happening across Kingston for National Youth Week. The City has also organized a number of free events — many at Artillery Park — including arts workshops, movie nights, open gym afternoons, leisure swims and even a kickboxing for beginners session. The United Way is getting in on the action too with its “Success by 6 Week” and free family-friendly activities like movies, swims, celebrity story time, moms and tots yoga, and more. Free. unitedwaykfla.ca

Kingston Potters’ Guild Spring Show and Sale

May 4 – 7
The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning
The Kingston Potters’ Guild turns 50 this year, making it one of the oldest pottery guilds in Ontario. Check out what the current members have been creating recently at this annual show, where you can also purchase ceramics and support a thriving local industry at the same time. Times: Thursday 5pm – 9pm, Friday 10am – 9pm, Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 10am – 3pm. Free. kingstonpottersguild.com

HomeGrown Live Music Festival

May 6
Citywide
For eight years now this one-day live music fest has been celebrating Kingston’s incredible music scene and supporting local charities and causes at the same time. Each of the 13 participating venues will feature performers in a similar genre. Sir John A’s Pub is all about folk music, for example, while at The Mansion expect psychedelic, Blu Martini rock and Musiikki electroacoustic. This year’s proceeds go to the Joe Chithalen Memorial Musical Instrument Lending Library. All-access bracelet: $10. homegrownlive.ca

Red House Downtown Cask Fest

May 7, 2pm – 5:30pm
Red House Downtown
Cask-conditioned beer, or “real ale” as it’s sometimes called, is unfiltered and unpasteurized beer that’s served from a cask. Because no additional nitrogen or carbon dioxide is added, it has a fresh, soft texture. Taste a few of the best made locally as well as a few bottle- and barrel-aged craft beers at this afternoon of beery good times. Featured brewers will include MacKinnon Brothers, Stone City Ales, Napanee Beer Company, Nickel Brook and more. $25 ticket includes five beer tickets and bar snacks. redhousedowntown.ca

The Breakout Project

May 10 – 12
Fort Henry
Part conference, part hackathon, this three-day festival will be Canada’s biggest social innovation event. Working around the clock, 10 teams will compete to raise the human and financial capital needed to kickstart social good projects designed to improve our communities, society and planet. Thousands of people are expected, including renowned speakers, experts, investors and maybe you. Sam Roberts Band will close things out with a free concert in Springer Market Square. $49 – $349. thebreakoutproject.com

Science Rendezvous

May 13, 10am – 3pm
Rogers K-Rock Centre
Though it’s known as a hockey arena, the Rogers K-Rock Centre will be transformed into a pop-up science centre for one day only. Enter the inflatable dome to experience the stars and constellations. Control a WWI Sopwith Ship Camel biplane with your body. Make a kaleidoscope. Meet scientists. Participate in an experiment or special presentation. Whatever your family’s interest in science, technology, engineering and math, there will be something to get each of you inspired by the wonders of the universe. Free. rogersk-rockcentre.com

Tett Arts Expo 2017

May 13, 10am – 4 pm
The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning
This will be one of your best chances all year to truly get a taste of what this gorgeous waterfront arts hub is all about. Home to arts organizations, studios, rental spaces, community areas and a licensed café, The Tett will open all of its doors all day to get you inspired. Meet the artists. Experience hands-on arts workshops and demos. Find beautiful, locally made creations. Browse the art gallery. Just scratch that creative itch. Free or by donation. Some workshops require registration. tettcentre.org

Victoria Day Celebrations

May 22, 1pm – 9:30pm
Lake Ontario Park
Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with a full day of family-friendly fun on the waterfront capped off with fireworks. The Fire Guy will be there eating, juggling and breathing fire. The Thousand Islands Playhouse will perform “Daisy Amazed.” A zip line and obstacle course will be set up, as will inflatable bouncers and a canine obstacle course. From 6pm to 8pm look forward to live entertainment from Taylor Angus, the Jordy Jackson Band and Absolute Journey Tribute. Stay fuelled with eats from local food trucks onsite throughout the day. cityofkingston.ca

Art After Dark Spring 2017

May 26, 7pm – 10pm
Downtown
Downtown Kingston is home to dozens of art galleries, and at this bi-annual nighttime festival you’ll get into 18 of them for free. Some will have special events and light refreshments, but at each you’ll have the chance to enter to win a $500 art shopping spree. Chart your gallery course using this handy map. Free. downtownkingston.ca

April 20, 2017March 27, 2023

Up Close and Personal with Chef Clark Day: Bayview Farm Restaurant

Chef Clark Day wants Canadians to watch fewer chef shows on television and get into their own kitchens. “It’s just cooking,” he says, “It’s not like changing the transmission on a BMW.”

Day, who was recently made a Fellow of the Ontario Hostelry Institute, needs little introduction around Kingston. The long-time restaurateur is something of a local legend and is perhaps the closest Kingston comes to having a celebrity chef. He is renowned for creating seriously good food and for being refreshingly unpretentious: a winning combination.

Day opened his first restaurant, the River Mill in 1985, before going on to open Clark’s by the Bay, Clark’s on King, and Aquaterra by Clark in the Radisson/Delta hotel.

In 2015, Day opened Bayview Farm restaurant on the old family homestead – the same place where he once ran the bigger, more formal Clark’s by the Bay. The old stone house built in 1831, and picturesque property looking out across at Collins Bay, was once the home of Day’s grandparents, Harriet and Harold Clark. It’s also the house where Clark and Laurie Day live and where they raised their three children.

An exceptional culinary experience is waiting for you.

Lindy Mechefske: Where did you find your love of food?
Clark Day: I found my passion for food young. I grew up in Europe, where my father, an RCMP officer, was stationed at Canadian Embassies in Germany and Switzerland. We spent time as a family traveling through the area and often into France. I was a fussy eater but I discovered truly great food and those early years influenced my thinking about food. About how important good food is.

LM: How did you train to be a chef?
CD: I started in the restaurant industry in the early 80s learning everything I could. I tell young chefs to be a nomad for a decade and absorb all they can about food and cooking. You learn an awful lot by watching and even more by doing. When Laurie and I first opened a restaurant, we were each working in excess of sixty hours a week and raising our young family. That’s life in the restaurant industry. You need to be passionate about food to sustain that kind of workload and lifestyle.

LM: How would you describe your cooking style?
CD: I like honest, rustic, real, straightforward food made with the highest quality ingredients possible. It’s true, the adage, you can’t make a silk purse from a sow’s ear. I have a deep and abiding respect for farmers and growers and food producers.

LM: What misconceptions are there about Canadian food?
CD: I hear people complaining about fusion food but the truth is, Canada is a melting pot – a fusion society. Fusion makes sense. As for myself, I like the simplicity of European food and the complexity of Asian. I think it’s time we embraced cooking that incorporates all aspects of Canadian culture.

LM: What would you like to see change about Canadian food and cooking?
CD: I’d like Canadians to embrace local farmers, local food producers, growers, and Ontario wineries and breweries. Food doesn’t come from a store in plastic wrap.

LM: When are you happiest at work?
CD: When I have a newbie in the kitchen that I’ve opened up the door for. Or when we feel like we’ve made someone’s night important.

LM: What’s your favourite off duty, go-to-meal at home?
CD: A simple cheese fondue with great things to dip in it like broccoli, ham, pears, apples, and of course bread. Or a really great hamburger. Hamburgers are underrated. We like special occasions too. There are 23 family members who come for Christmas. We all pitch in and make tapas. It’s perfect and everyone is happy: adults, children, vegetarians, those with food restrictions. It’s a slow, leisurely day with lots of great food, gifts, music and very little pressure.

LM: If you could cook for anyone at all, who would you choose?
CD: Mother Theresa and anyone she wanted me to cook for.

LM: What do you value most in life?
CD: Living life right, family, food, music, decency, ethics, morals, and wine tasting. I’m not a big drinker but I love wine tasting.

LM: Who are some of your favourite local suppliers?
CD: These are just a few of my regular suppliers:
Burt’s Greenhouse
Crosswinds Goat Farm
Cave Springs
Enright Cattle Company
Featherstone Estate Winery
Fielding Estate Winery
Freedom Farm
Glengarry Cheese
Hagerman’s Farms
Karlo Estates
Milk House
Ontario Water Buffalo Company
Patchwork Gardens
Rosehall Run
Sun Harvest
Wendy’s Mobile Market
Wilton Cheese
Bayview Farm Restaurant, 4085 Bath Road, Kingston, is open for dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. Reservations are recommended. For more information including the full menu, please visit their website.
Lindy Mechefske is the award-winning author of Sir John’s Table and A Taste of Wintergreen. You can find her blogging about her adventures in the kitchen at lindymechefske.com

April 8, 2017June 27, 2024

25 Things to do in Kingston in May 2017

For the most recent 25 things to do list in May, please visit this link.

There are plenty of things to keep you busy in Kingston this May – including the hotly anticipated Breakout Project, The Juvenis Festival, Homegrown Live, a free outdoor concert with Sam Roberts, Science Rendezvous and much, much more!

Would you like your event covered in our monthly list? Add it to our events calendar for consideration! Look for the ‘Add Event’ button on our Events Calendar!

April 4, 2017April 3, 2023

Your Summer 2017 Kingston Festivals Guide

The sunniest season is almost here, and to help you get ready, here are 12 summer festivals happening in Kingston to put on your can’t-miss list. This is just a taste of what’s to come, though. For a full plate of Kingston summer fests, keep your eye out for my monthly lists.

June

YGK Craft Beer Fest: June 10, 12 pm – 8 pm

Fort Henry
This third annual craft beer fest is upping its game this year with more breweries, bigger samples, a full day of live music, and cider and wine options. Fresh local eats from the likes of Dianne’s, Harper’s Burger Bar and others will be there too, as will those unbeatable downtown views, of course.
$15 + HST. Free for kids 5 and under and Cannonball Crush participants
forthenry.com

Doors Open Kingston: June 17

Many of the 25 doors on this festival’s list are open all year, but Doors Open is always a good way to find out more about what’s inside. Think guided tours of the Islamic Centre, a new exhibition at the Pump House Steam Museum focusing on bizarre objects from Kingston’s past, and a display of rare items at the W.D. Jordan Rare Books and Special Collections Library.
Free
doorsopenontario.on.ca

Skeleton Park Arts Festival: June 21 – 25

McBurney Park
Celebrate summer solstice with Sarah Harmer, Fred Penner, free morning yoga, a jazz parade and way more at this five-day multidisciplinary fest. Every year it welcomes artists from the city and around the world and takes place in and around Kingston’s historic McBurney Park (aka Skeleton Park). The wide-ranging lineup has something for every age.
Free
skeletonparkartsfest.ca

July

Canada Day: July 1

The country turns 150 this year, so you can be sure Canada’s first capital will host one of the nation’s biggest parties. The Limestone Mile marathon, People Parade and, of course, fireworks on the waterfront will make their return, but new events should make their mark too, including the exhibition “Road Trip: Across Canada with Alan C. Collier” at the Agnes Etherington Art Centre.
Mostly free
City of Kingston

Kingston Buskers Rendezvous: July 6 – 9

Downtown
What began as a side note to Kingston’s July sidewalk sale has turned into one of the region’s most popular festivals of the year. The reasons for that rise include the calibre of street performers from around the world who perform and the beauty and accessibility of downtown Kingston itself. The result is a fest that’s attracted the young, old and everyone in between for 28 years.
Donation per performance
downtownkingston.ca

Taste of Kingston: July 30, 9:30 am – 3 pm

Confederation Park
A whopping 5,000-plus people are expected at the 19th annual Taste of Kingston this year. And no wonder. Some of this city’s best restos will be in the park serving up tasty bite-size eats in support of Diabetes Canada. Have your say on the day’s best bites at the public voting competition.
Tickets: $1/each (servings will cost $1 – $5)
diabetes.ca

August

Princess Street Promenade: August 5, 10 am – 4 pm

Princess Street
To “promenade” means to take a leisurely stroll, and the best place to do so this August long weekend may well be Princess Street. Closed to traffic between Ontario and Division Streets all day, Princess will come alive with businesses, community groups and restaurants hosting special pop-up food events, sidewalk sales, games, a climbing wall and way more.
Free
downtownkingston.ca

Wolfe Island Music Festival: August 11 – 12

Wolfe Island
After a 2016 hiatus, the Wolfe Island Music Festival returns this year. And thank goodness. Where else in the country can you take a 20-minute ferry to an intimate island festival featuring some of the biggest names in Canadian indie music? The lineups for the indoor shows and outdoor Saturday event haven’t been released yet, but past artists have included Shad, Constantines and the Sam Roberts Band, so expect good ones.
Prices not yet available
wolfeislandmusicfestival.com

Limestone City Blues Fest: August 24 – 27

Downtown
This yearly big kahuna of a festival features one hundred hours of live blues music on outdoor stages and in downtown bars, restaurants and clubs — all for just a $15 bracelet. The 2017 lineup hasn’t been set yet, but with past appearances by legends like Edgar Winter and Joe Louis Walker, rest assured it’ll once again offer the greatest value of any Kingston festival this year.
$15
downtownkingston.ca

September

The second annual Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival will host 40 tattoo artists from Canada, the U.S. and beyond. (Photo: Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival)

Garrison Family Fun Fest: September 9 – 10

CFB Kingston
Garrison Kingston will mark Canada’s 150th with what should be its best annual fun fest. Legendary Canadian rockers Trooper, Honeymoon Suite and Sass Jordan will play on Saturday night, while the Canadian Forces Snowbirds will put on two special shows over the weekend. Also expect family-friendly activities, military exhibits, good food and a beer garden.
Prices not yet available
pspkingston.com

Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival: September 16 – 17

Four Points by Sheraton
This tattoo arts fest was a huge hit last year, so organizers aren’t changing much. About 40 carefully selected artists from Canada, the US and elsewhere will be there to tattoo, and vendors will be onsite selling artwork and tattoo culture-related products. Organized events, entertainment and after-show parties will round out the weekend.
Prices not yet available
limestonetattoofestival.com

Kingston Writersfest: September 27 – October 1

Multiple locations
Every year, it seems, this literary festival featuring readings, events and masterclasses gets better and better. In 2015, Patrick DeWitt, Jane Urquhart and Lawrence Hill showed. Last year, 75 writers that included David Mitchell, Lisa Moore and Emma Donaghue were there. The 2017 lineup hasn’t been released yet, but expect more literary heavyweights.
Prices not yet available
kingstonwritersfest.ca

March 20, 2017March 29, 2023

Find What Moves You at Electric Circuits Electronic Music Festival

On April 7 and 8, two of Kingston’s premiere creative spaces will transform into a hypnotic swirl of sounds, sights, and experiences, thanks to the Electric Circuits electronic music festival. This brand new fest will combine the many genres of electronic music with enchanting visuals and performances, creating a vibe like nothing we’ve seen before in YGK. We spoke with Kristiana Clemens, head of programming for the fest, to find out what kind of digital delights you can look forward to at Electric Circuits.

Electric Circuits promises a wild weekend of eye-opening experiences. Photo via Electric Circuits

“It’s the first event of its kind in our city,” she says. “Electric Circuits will bring together amazing cutting edge music, incredible new visual art, and dance.” And this isn’t just a one-night gig – the festival runs for two magical nights, with each evening’s party taking over a different artistic space. If you’re coming from outside the city, you’ll definitely want to book a weekend stay at a hotel downtown to make sure you can soak up every moment of this one-of-a-kind weekend.

Get ready to dance to beautiful beats from artists like Hans Ohm. Photo via Electric Circuits

The Electric Circuits experience will kick off on Friday night at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. The night will begin at 9pm as a mellow, ambient chill-out space, ramping up the energy as the night progresses, and ending on a hyped-up, energetic dance party that goes until 1am. Saturday night’s electronic extravaganza will be at the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning. This party will include three separate music-filled rooms, each filled with their own unique atmosphere and musical style. The second night’s festivities will run all night – from 10pm to 6am – allowing revelers to dance, explore, and just absorb the atmosphere to their hearts’ content.
At each of the weekend’s parties, visual artists will use video projections and experimental film to transform the space into something uniquely entrancing. The Tett’s all-night party will also feature movement-based performances, including an aerial and dance acts, as well as performance art.

Erin Ball will move to the music with an astounding aerial performance. Photo via Electric Circuits

The musical styles will feature a huge variety, ranging from relaxing, downbeat ambient tunes to the more pulse-thumping rhythms of techno, house, and drum & bass. But the artists at the fest will all have one thing in common: “we’re showcasing only artists who are based on Canada,” says Clemens. “That was a conscious choice of ours: to celebrate the emerging art scene that we have here, to allow artists to connect with one another, and to reach new audiences as well.”
For those new to electronic music, Electric Circuits is the perfect way to dip a toe into this fresh and ever-evolving musical style. “For people that are interested in new music and electronic sound, but maybe aren’t looking for a nightclub experience, this event might provide a new opportunity,” says Clemens. “We encourage attendees to just show up and explore the spaces that are being created, and to find what moves you.” The fest has also been designed to be as inclusive as possible to all audiences, with all-ages admittance and wheelchair-accessible venues.

Expect a welcoming vibe and a magical atmosphere.
Photo via Electric Circuits

Clemens expects the vibe of the whole weekend to be exciting, fun, and kind of magical. “I think that when you combine really moving and powerful sound with visual images and also add some amazing visual artists and performers into the mix, you get a really potent and transformative experience,” she says. “That’s really what we’re hoping to create for audiences: a mind-expanding couple of evenings of new music, and new art, that can really inspire people.”
Electric Circuits runs from April 7 to 8 at The Isabel and The Tett. Lineups and set times for musical acts will be released closer to the festival date. For more information, go to www.electriccircuits.org.

March 20, 2017July 15, 2024

Celebrating Canada’s 150th in Kingston

For Kingston as our nation’s First Capital, the Sesquicentennial promises to be a pretty amazing year, chock full of events; some we have grown to love, and a few new ones to keep us entertained! Along with lighting up our City Hall, planting 150 maple trees, finishing our beloved K&P Trail, and an extra special July 1 celebration – be sure to mark you calendars with all that YGK will offer in the upcoming year!

For the History Buff

Step back in time at Fort Henry! Saturday May 20 marks their opening day for the season, a season full of Sunset Ceremonies, exploring the history of the Fort, visiting with staff in period costume and getting lost in the secret tunnels.
Have you ordered your FREE Parks Canada Discovery Pass? Use it to gain entry into the Bellevue House, once home to Canada’s First Prime Minister, Kingston’s own Sir John A. MacDonald.
Be sure to visit one of Kingston’s many museums for special Pop-Up exhibits throughout the year. Think you have something worthy of being in a museum? Check out one of the “Bring you Thing” events.

For the Music Lover

Kingston is home to many music festivals, I expect all will kick it up a notch for this sesqui year. Here are just a couple to mark on your calendar! April 7 and 8 will see the first ever Electric Circuits, an electronic music festival, the return (after a 1 year hiatus) of the Wolfe Island Music Festival August 11 & 12, Chill on the Hill at Fort Henry on July 15 and Bluesfest returns August 24-27.

For the Foodie

YGK loves food-and we have plenty of great places to eat, and some great talent feeding us. We also love festivals, add them together, throw in a few pints, and you’ve got yourself a Craft Beer & Food festival. TWICE! June 10th will see the YGK Craft Beer Fest-Canada 150 Edition! We’re promised more beer, more food, more entertainment, and a special nod to Canada 150. From September 8–10, the Ribfest & Craft Beer Show returns for the 5th year at the Memorial Centre.

For the Family

Head down to City Park on June 15 for the annual First Capital Day where you can step back in time and experience life in the 1800’s.! Downtown Kingston will host the Buskers Rendezvous July 6-9, an event that will delight everyone of every age with the music and amazing stunts performed by street artists from around the world. The Kingston Sheepdog trials will return to Grass Creek Park from August 7-13. The Skeleton Park Art Fest has grown from their June festival to include many family friendly events throughout the year. Be sure to attend the community run festival that kicks off the summer, a day of music, theatre and crafts for kids!

For the Art Lover

On September 10th, be sure to join in the celebrations of the different cultures we have in Kingston at the 8th annual Mulicultural Art Fest. At City Park from July 1-3, we will see the return of ArtFest, showcasing 150 artists and artisians from across Ontario & Quebec. For the young aspiring artists, April 30-June 7th will see the return of Juvenis Festival; a performance arts festival geared towards youth aged 13-30, who can partake in workshops and performances.
Kingston is looking forward to a full year ahead, hope you can join in on one, or many of the events listed above or others not yet listed! Happy 150th to all!

March 8, 2017March 29, 2023

Kingston’s Cultural Gems: The Grand Theatre

If you’re in search of an evening of entertainment and exhilaration, look no further than The Grand Theatre. Kingston’s premiere venue for all things related to music, comedy, and performance, this intimate theatre plays host to some of the world’s most exciting acts. We spoke to performing arts manager Jayson Duggan to learn more about this year’s most buzz-worthy shows, and why top talents keep flocking to The Grand.

Visit Kingston: What is your role at the Kingston Grand?

Jayson Duggan: As performing arts manager for the City of Kingston, part of my job is to curate the Grand Theatre Presents season, which is a multi-discipline performing arts series that runs between September and April each year. It features over 40 national and international performances, and typically covers everything from comedy, to blues, to dance, jazz, and everything in between.

VK: What’s your favourite thing about your job?

JD: Ultimately, the most enjoyable part of my job is when the artist steps onstage, the audience reacts, and the reviews of everyone’s experience are positive. But as a presenter, my job changes every day. I’m working with different artists on a daily basis, learning constantly about new talent, and becoming better informed about the different art forms.

VK: What have been some of your favourite shows from recent years? Any standout memories from your time at the Grand?

JD: One standout show was Jon Batiste, performing with his band Stay Human. Batiste is now the bandleader for The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. It was an unbelievable night of jazz music for those lucky enough to see it – it was just before his big break.
Certainly Burton Cummings this year was a big deal for me – only because Burton really hasn’t done smaller venues, like our 775 seat hall, in a very long time. So when I had the chance to book that performance, I knew it was going to be very successful, and popular for our community – and it was! It sold out incredibly fast.
Another one that stood out for me was when we were fortunate enough to present Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and their performance of Truth and Reconciliation. That particular work was their nationally-recognized collaboration addressing the impact of the residential school system. It acted as an important catalyst in our community leading to discussions around the issue. It was one of those special moments that combined fabulous art with a very relevant, poignant, and deeply impactful social issue.

VK: What exciting things do you have lined up for 2017?

JD: First we’re excited that it’s the 10th anniversary of the Presenting program. 2008 was the first time the City of Kingston decided that it was important that the diversity of the programming represents our community, and offered new and really interesting programs. So we’re going into our 10th season, and we’re really excited about all of the shows lined up for the upcoming year. (Tanya Tagaq, acclaimed Juno and Polaris prize winning throat singer, is just one of the exciting acts lined up for next season).
For the rest of this season, we have shows right through until May 4th. We’re very fortunate in Kingston, because of the geography of the city. With shows that typically wouldn’t come and play a smaller city on their own, we can take advantage of those off-nights between playing the major centres like Toronto, Ottawa, and Montréal. This is one of those shows – it’s an international touring spectacle playing major cities, but we were able to get a date on their way into Toronto. It’s a live show featuring Brazilian dancers, musicians, and singers, and I am definitely looking forward to it.

Tanya Tagaq, photo via The Kingston Grand

VK: What makes the Grand one of Kingston’s “must-visit” venues?

JD: Something that’s always very important to us is the total patron experience. So coming to The Grand is more than just coming to see a performance: it’s the experience of being in a world-class, intimate facility with outstanding acoustics and friendly staff that’s located downtown in the heart of the city, it’s readily accessible, it’s surrounded by great restaurants, and you can make a whole night of it.
For me, I feel that is is fantastic to be able to buy a ticket to a Grand Theatre Presents performance and know that you are guaranteed to see something that is world-class, and yet so close to home.

March 1, 2017July 15, 2024

David Bowie Weekend Falls to Earth

The spirit of the Starman himself will soon be alive and well in Kingston. March 24 and 25, 2017 has been designated David Bowie Weekend, to the delight of music lovers and misfits alike.
The City of Kingston’s cultural services has concocted a glittering weekend celebrating the iconic artist, who left us just over a year ago, and far too soon. More than just a late-night rock show, this weekend will have something for every Bowie enthusiast, from the young to the young-at-heart.

Ziggy will play guitar on March 24 at The Grand.
Photo via Sara Smith

Friday, March 24
Ziggy Played Guitar at The Grand

Ziggy Played Guitar, a full-album tribute to The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, will kick off the weekend at The Grand. Audiences will be treated to a faithful, note-for-note performance of the glam-rock masterpiece. Want to get really into the spirit? Relive the golden years of glam by putting on your tallest platforms and sparkliest androgynous outfit, and get your lightning bolt makeup done before the show by the crew at Total Diva. (Reserve your makeup appointment with Jenny Pedler at jpedler@cityofkingston.ca).

Saturday, March 25
Oh! You Pretty Things at Tett Centre

Introduce your youngsters to some new and inventive stories, and help them create their own unique sense of style, at Oh! You Pretty Things at the Tett Centre. The day will feature a special glam-rock edition of KFPL’s Family Storytime, including stories that centre around rock music, as well as a Ziggy Stardust-themed tale. And just as Bowie championed creativity, colouring outside the lines, and being true to yourself, your kids will have the chance to explore their own weird and wonderful imaginations with crafts, fashion dress-up, and special Bowie-inspired face-painting. It would certainly be an oddity if space for this event didn’t fill up fast, so reserve your spot before March 16 by emailing Jenny Pedler at jpedler@cityofkingston.ca.

Kids can explore creative looks at Oh! You Pretty Things at Tett Centre.
Photo via flickr.com – rubengarciajrphotography

Saturday, March 25
You Remind Me of the Babe at The Screening Room

Ever wish your kids could experience the wonder that you did, when you first laid eyes upon the fabulousness that is Bowie’s King Jareth in the classic Jim Henson film Labyrinth? Now’s your chance to introduce those absolute beginners to this family favourite (and maybe do a little dance, magic, dance!) at You Remind Me of the Babe, a dress-up and sing-along showing of the movie at The Screening Room. Parents and kids alike are encouraged to get into the spirit by dressing up in their Hoggle-iest togs. Getting into this show will be much easier than navigating the labyrinth – admission is free – but show up early, as seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Saturday, March 25
Let’s Dance at The Grad Club

Does a long work week have you feeling under pressure? Reelout Queer Film Festival encourages you to put on your red shoes and dance away the blues at the Let’s Dance dance party and fundraiser at The Grad Club. The Thin White Duke’s most boogie-friendly songs – spun to perfection by DJ Drop Shadow – will provide the soundtrack for a glamorous and fun-filled evening alongside some of Kingston’s most eclectic creatives. Admission is $10, with proceeds supporting Reelout Arts Inc., dedicated to diverse programming and representation in our city. Just think: while you’re dancing the night away, you could also be heroes… just for one day.

Dance away the blues at The Grad Club on March 25. Photo via flickr.com – Curran Kelleher

February 23, 2017March 20, 2023

8 Ways to Satisfy Your Culture Cravings

If you’re craving an experience with substance, you’ve come to the right city. Kingston’s cultural gems offer a huge variety of shows and exhibits, with something on the calendar for everyone.
Whether you want to expand your horizons by learning to appreciate new forms of art, or seek out voices from places and perspectives far from your own, the choices offered by The Agnes, The Isabel, and The Grand have you covered.
Check out some of Kingston’s best upcoming cultural experiences, which promise a day (or night) out that will intrigue, enlighten, and entertain.

A Snapshot of Indigenous Life: Picturing Arctic Modernity
Take in a firsthand account of life on North Baffin in 1964 – drawn with striking honesty by the Inuit residents of the communities of Clyde River (Kanngiqtugaapik), Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik) and Arctic Bay (Ikpiarjuk). (Jan 7 – April 9 at the Agnes)
Photo via The Agnes Etherington Art Centre
Important Voices of Humanity at The Isabel Human Rights Arts Festival
Expression meets activism with this important series. Choose from several moving and enlightening shows, such as The Angel of Budapest (a film about Holocaust-era human rights activist Raoul Wallenberg), and Songs of Freedom, a soul-searching performance by superstar soprano Measha Brueggergosman. (Starting March 14 at the Isabel)
Get Inspired at The Hold: studies in the contemporary collection
Got a term paper due, about to participate in a roundtable, or just feeling a lack of creative spark lately? Prime your mind with some serious inspiration amid these thrilling and thought-provoking modern works. (Jan 7 – April 9 at the Agnes)
The Very Best in Irish Dancing: Rhythm of the Dance

Get pumped for an energetic, exhilarating show! Irish dancing is so stirring, your heart will beat in time to their feet. (March 15 at the Grand)
Study a Master: Beneath the Surface of the Man with Arms Akimbo
Delve deeper into a renowned work by one of the masters of the Baroque period. A fascinating x-radiograph of the work will be exhibited alongside the original painting, giving insight into Rembrandt’s centuries-old process. (Jan 7 – April 9 at the Agnes)
Photo via Bernard Clark
One of Canada’s Best: Basia Bulat
Don’t miss your chance to see the Polaris Prize winner perform one of her electric and enthralling pop/folk concerts. (March 18 at the Grand)
Great Works of Piano Performed by Marc-André Hamelin
Considered one of the world’s elite pianists, Hamelin will bring to life works by some of history’s greatest composers, including Haydn, Beethoven, and Brahms. (March 19 at the Isabel)
Photo via The Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts
Hear the Next Generation of Talent at the Isabel Overton Bader Canadian Violin Competition
Phenomenal young violinists from across the country will converge at the Isabel to compete for the top honour. The winner will receive an engagement with the Kingston Symphony! Witness the semi-finals on April 26 and 27, and the finals on April 29. (April 26, 27, and 29 at the Isabel)

#1: Limestone Genre Expo

#2: Beat Beethoven

#3: Cannonball Crush

#4: YGK Craft Beer Fest

#5: First Capital Day

#6: Doors Open Kingston

#7: DK Shop Fest 2017

#8: Gemstorm 2017

#9: Skeleton Park Arts Festival

Tanya Tagaq Accompanies the Silent Film Nanook of the North

A Tribute to Elvis in Concert

Battle of the Bands

Mark Herman Performs on Canada’s Largest Theatre Organ

The Mikado, Unstaged

HomeGrown Live Music Festival

Melos Presents “Da Roma a Venezia”: Baroque Music of Italy

Hollerado

SaDunya Kingston Arts Festival Experience #001

Close Talker with Lost Cousins

Sam Roberts Band

Charley Pride

Songs from Les Misérables and Miss Saigon

Kingston Community Strings Celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday at The Isabel

The Man in Black

The Juvenis Festival

National Youth Week

Kingston Potters’ Guild Spring Show and Sale

HomeGrown Live Music Festival

Red House Downtown Cask Fest

The Breakout Project

Science Rendezvous

Tett Arts Expo 2017

Victoria Day Celebrations

Art After Dark Spring 2017

June

YGK Craft Beer Fest: June 10, 12 pm – 8 pm

Doors Open Kingston: June 17

Skeleton Park Arts Festival: June 21 – 25

July

Canada Day: July 1

Kingston Buskers Rendezvous: July 6 – 9

Taste of Kingston: July 30, 9:30 am – 3 pm

August

Princess Street Promenade: August 5, 10 am – 4 pm

Wolfe Island Music Festival: August 11 – 12

Limestone City Blues Fest: August 24 – 27

September

Garrison Family Fun Fest: September 9 – 10

Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival: September 16 – 17

Kingston Writersfest: September 27 – October 1

For the History Buff

For the Music Lover

For the Foodie

For the Family

For the Art Lover

Visit Kingston: What is your role at the Kingston Grand?

VK: What’s your favourite thing about your job?

VK: What have been some of your favourite shows from recent years? Any standout memories from your time at the Grand?

VK: What exciting things do you have lined up for 2017?

VK: What makes the Grand one of Kingston’s “must-visit” venues?

Friday, March 24 Ziggy Played Guitar at The Grand

Saturday, March 25 Oh! You Pretty Things at Tett Centre

Saturday, March 25 You Remind Me of the Babe at The Screening Room

Saturday, March 25 Let’s Dance at The Grad Club

A Snapshot of Indigenous Life: Picturing Arctic Modernity

Important Voices of Humanity at The Isabel Human Rights Arts Festival

Get Inspired at The Hold: studies in the contemporary collection

The Very Best in Irish Dancing: Rhythm of the Dance

Study a Master: Beneath the Surface of the Man with Arms Akimbo

One of Canada’s Best: Basia Bulat

Great Works of Piano Performed by Marc-André Hamelin

Hear the Next Generation of Talent at the Isabel Overton Bader Canadian Violin Competition

Visitor Information

Visitor Guide

Friday, March 24
Ziggy Played Guitar at The Grand

Saturday, March 25
Oh! You Pretty Things at Tett Centre

Saturday, March 25
You Remind Me of the Babe at The Screening Room

Saturday, March 25
Let’s Dance at The Grad Club