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Kingston Museum Mini-Guide, Part 2

My latest tour of museums opened my eyes to the pioneer school system, the ice age and rock origins as well as the lives of inmates from the beginning of the Corrections System – and all within the limestone city! Museums in Kingston have once again redeemed their boring reputation with beautiful displays and fascinating facts. Learn why you should consider stopping by the Miller Museum of Geology, Canada’s Penitentiary and The Frontenac School Museum.

Miller Museum of Geology

Admission: FREE. Tours available for groups of ten or more people (maximum 30), hands-on educational programs are offered. Book at least one week in advance for a fee of $70/group.

Hours: Open on weekdays only, from 8:30am – 4:30pm. By special appointment, the museum can open at other times for group programs.

Miller_Museum_Geology_1

Get a view of an Albertosaurus!
Get a view of an Albertosaurus!
A real life dino tail from a duckbill dinosaur!
A real life dino tail from a duckbill dinosaur!
Get a look at an amethyst up close.
Get a look at an amethyst up close.

I’ve discovered the only man I’ve ever  known capable of fact-checking Ross Gellar’s paleontological references – Miller Museum of Geology’s curator.

He pokes his head out to offer assistance as I brush around the sand in the museum’s “Dig for Fossils” display. He says though the museum is self-guided, he tries to talk to as many visitors as he can. He doesn’t just teach me a little about gemstones and dinosaur bones, he shows me a stunning, sparkling amethyst stone and a piece of a REAL dinosaur tail from a duckbill dinosaur.

While wandering the beautifully curated space, I get a refresher on the types of rocks that are Kingston’s foundation, how limestone was originally formed and learn about the Meat-Eater: Albertosaurus dinosaurs that was first found in Canada in 1884 by geologist Joseph B. Tyrrell.

I don’t know how I haven’t visited this space on Queen’s campus before. I am bringing friends back to share in my new-found enthusiasm for rocks and dinosaurs.

geol.queensu.ca/museum/

 

Canada’s Penitentiary Museum

Admission: By donation

Hours: Summer (April 30th – October 31st) Weekdays: 9:00am – 4:00pm, Weekends: 10:00am – 4:00pm

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Some surprising hobby crafts done by inmates over the years.
Some surprising hobby crafts done by inmates over the years.
More unbelievable talent by a former inmate.
More unbelievable talent by a former inmate.

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Appropriately located in the former Warden’s residence across the street from the Kingston Penitentiary, Canada’s Penitentiary Museum has so many unexpected facts about the history of Canada’s Corrections System.

One minute I am looking at a bin filled to the brim with confiscated shivs and the next I am admiring a beautiful handbag, incredible paintings and hand-carved clay statuettes created by inmates.

There is so much to read that I could spend a solid two hours learning an array of historical anecdotes like how the inmates ruined the Pen bell that dictated their movement for 70 years in a riot. And who knew there was an inmate band named the Solitaires? When you go upstairs you can hear there swinging beats playing from the display dedicated to them and the Kingston Pen radio station launched in 1952.

penitentiarymuseum.ca

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The Frontenac School Museum

Admission: By donation (classes $2 per person)

Hours: May – June: Monday & Wednesday 9am-noon; July – August: Tuesday – Friday 10am-3pm; September – December: Monday & Wednesday 9am-noon (Group visits available)

Frontenac_School_Museum

The Frontenac School Museum was initially a passion project created by a group of retired educators and was formally established in 1977, opening to the public in 1979 and moving to the beautiful, quaint Barriefield Village in 2006.

It will take you back to the rural one-room school house system of the early 1900s. Experience school as a student sans projectors, iPads and calculators and test your math skills old school style – using only your memory and knowledge – at an old wooden desk.

There are plenty of photos and memorabilia to to admire as well as extensive archives for research (book an appointment to access).

fcsmuseum.com

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Mini-Museum Guide Part 1

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4 Weeks, 10 Fests: Your July Festivals Guide

The Kingston festivals lineup is stacked this July. Starting with Canada’s birthday, and packed with long-time faves like Artfest, Buskers Rendezvous and a guitar festival, there shouldn’t be a miss this month. A Taste of Kingston returns, too, as do the CORK sailing regattas. And don’t forget: the outdoor movies in Market Square continue on Thursday nights (Jurassic World, on July 14, tops my list).

 

Canada Day in Kingston, July 1

Photo by Marcus Jeffrey, Flickr
Photo by Marcus Jeffrey, Flickr

Canada turns 149 years young this year, and as always the first capital of the Province of Canada is throwing one big party. Out on Highway 2, Grass Creek Park has free music, beach volleyball, kids activities and a beach, while downtown there’s the Limestone Mile marathon, people parade, live music, wagon rides and, of course, fireworks (here are the best spots to see them). cityofkingston.ca; downtownkingston.ca

Artfest, July 1 – 3

Artfest Kingston
Artfest Kingston

Whatever medium you’re into, the 5th annual Artfest likely has it covered: pottery, glass, wood, jewellery, gourmet food, live music, outdoor theatre, poetry — you name it. About 150 artists and artisans from Ontario and Quebec will be there this Canada Day weekend, all offering up plenty to buy and browse along the shady paths of City Park. Free admission. artfestontario.com

 

#DKShopFest, July 2

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I’ll skip the typical cliché, but you might actually drop at this shop fest all over downtown. Merchants will have tables out on the sidewalks, and most will have some type of special or discount. In other words, where comfortable shoes (or buy some there). If you do drop, come back later with a $100 gift card you won by tagging photos with #DKShopFest. downtownkingston.ca 

Kingston Buskers Rendezvous, July 7 – 10

BuskersRendezvous_TheGreatWaterway

This is the only time and place in Kingston to watch knife jugglers, flame swallowers, contortionists and almost any other countercultural busker you can think of — or can’t — do their thing. Most perform in Market Square and Confederation Park or on Princess, Sydenham or Ontario Streets. Admission is free but tip the hat, cheapskate. downtownkingston.ca

I Feel the Winds Festival, July 11 – 16

Photo by Michael Pereckas, Flickr
Photo by Michael Pereckas, Flickr

This is the Royal Canadian College of Organists’ national convention, but anyone wanting to listen to and learn about these “Kings of Instruments” is invited. Look out for concerts featuring international artists, workshops, exhibits, a banquet and boat cruise on the St. Lawrence, tours of Kingston’s heritage sites, and more. Stay tuned to the website for up-to-date lineups. kingstonfestival2016.ca

The Kick & Push Festival, July 15 – August 13

Beneath Our Feet, Photo by Stoo Metz
Beneath Our Feet, Photo by Stoo Metz

Don’t expect simple stage productions from this 2nd annual collaborative theatre fest. Think more immersive experiences like a performance in an alley or a play in a jazz club where the servers are the actors. You can brush up on your acting chops at workshops here, too, and check out the new Storefront Festival (July 15 – 23) featuring new and emerging artists. thekickandpush.com

Canadian Guitar Festival, July 22 – 24

Photo by Nathan Phillips, Flickr
Photo by Nathan Phillips, Flickr

For 12 seasons now, some of the best fingerstyle guitar masters in the world have played this festival on the banks of Loughborough Lake (8 km north of Kinston). Set on a 48-acre campground in a 10,000 square-foot concert hall with retractable side walls, it also has food and bevvy vendors, a lobster dinner Saturday night, and camping. Bring a chair. Day and weekend passes available. canadianguitarfestival.com

CORK Sailing Regatta, July 22 – 24

Photo by Queen's University, Flickr
Photo by Queen’s University, Flickr

Every summer, Kingston’s waterfront fills with 1000-plus sailboats and crews from around the world. They’re here for the Canadian Olympic-training Regatta, Kingston (CORK), a multi-class competition and training event that kicks off this month with the Etchells Canadian Championship and the Olson 30 North American Championship. Hit the waterfront or head to Portsmouth Olympic Harbour to see who wins. cork.org

A Taste of Kingston, July 24, 10 am – 3 pm

TasteofKingston_LexnGer_FlickrCC
Photo by LexnGer, Flickr

Come hungry to Confederation Park for a sampling of culinary creations from some of Kingston’s top eateries, each with its own booth. Tasting tickets are $1 each (number of tickets varies by vendor), and proceeds support the Canadian Diabetes Association. There will also be live music, inflatable fun for kids, a “Best of Taste” comp and more. diabetes.ca

 

Princess Street Promenade, July 30

Photo by Robin Dawes, Flickr
Photo by Robin Dawes, Flickr

Take back K-Town’s main drag for one day at this always popular street fest where Princess Street is closed from Ontario to Division Streets. Expect summer eats, cold beverages, kid-friendly fun, and lots of surprises, like last years’ electric car show. All of it is a way to support downtown businesses, community involvement and active, sustainable transportation. downtownkingston.ca

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“Kick & Push” Your Way to this Summer Festival

Imagine standing in the bar/reception area of The Grand Theatre waiting for the show to begin.

But instead of being shown to your seat by one of the volunteer ushers, you are approached by one of the actors. You are then led around The Grand Theatre as you dig into the mysterious disappearance of millionaire Ambrose Small, who was the owner of the theatre (and many others) back in the early 1900’s.  The production Ambrose is a return from last years inaugural festival, and promises to keep you out of your seat and exploring The Grand Theatre in a way you never have before!

It is this kind of innovative theatre that makes the Kick and Push Festival unique – and just the thing that the summer theatre scene in Kingston needed. Last year saw 120 performances over the 30 day festival with over 4000 tickets sold; I guess that Kingstonians and visitors alike love summer theatre!  The event was born out of a need for summer programming at The Grand and brings seven different local production companies together to do what they do best: put on great, unique productions for their for their audience.

Beneath Our Feet, Photo by Stoo Metz
Beneath Our Feet, Photo by Stoo Metz

Mike Sheppard, the General Manager for the K&P festival tells me that aside from audience immersion in some of the performances, the other thing that makes the festival unique is the use of performance space.

“We also are working in some new spaces we haven’t before, and starting to give our audience a bit more variety of performing arts. We have a show at Murney Tower, a historic landmark in Kingston that a lot of people haven’t even seen inside of. This show is Stubborn Stone, being produced by The Cellar Door Project, an emerging group of artists who all graduated from Queen’s Drama. We’re transforming the Baby Grand Theatre into a Jazz Bar for the musical Chicago, we’re using the back alley of The Grand for Overlooked and we’re dropping a classic Shakespeare production in Market Square. So I think there is quite a bit that audiences have not experienced before.”

 

From 2015's AutoShow in Market Square.
From 2015’s AutoShow in Market Square.

New this year, and to kick start the K&P Festival is the addition of the Storefront Festival (a festival inside a festival!) which will see 13 shows running in 4 different empty stores downtown. Running from July 15-23, audiences will have the chance to see $8 shows, including one store that will have shows geared towards kids and families.

“This is a “fringe” type festival, they have these sorts of things across Ontario, it is a great chance to see new work in development and experience a wide range of theatre in a short period of time for a very affordable price. We did a call out to theatre producers, artists, showrunners, writers, and anyone we could think of to get submissions to the Storefront Festival. This is not curated, it was selected by a lottery system, so you really never know what you’re going to get and the variety of shows is quite high!” Sheppard tells me.

From the 2015 production of Shipwrecked, Photo by Mark Bergin.
From the 2015 production of Shipwrecked, Photo by
Mark Bergin.
From Overlooked, Photo by Refraction Theatre,
From Overlooked, Photo by Refraction Theatre,

I admit I am not much of a theatre-goer. Not for lack of desire or interest – any show I have ever attended I have thoroughly enjoyed. I guess I’ve never gotten excited about a particular show before. But now that I understand more of what the K&P festival is all about, as I pull out my summer calendar there are a few new additions to it this year. Beneath Our Feet will allow me to actually be on stage at The Grand Theatre (I secretly love being on stage!). I loved the movie Chicago, seeing it live I’m sure will be a vastly different experience. I work downtown, and am looking forward to checking out how some of the empty stores around me get transformed.

So, grab YOUR calendar, open the production schedule and book seats for the performances running from July 20 through until August 13, and explore theatre like you never have before!

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Big Bang Views: 6 Spots to Watch the Canada Day Fireworks

Get out the red and white, and wave that flag high — it’s time to celebrate Canada’s 149th birthday. Downtown Kingston will throw the biggest bash around on July 1st, and, as always, the all-day partay will culminate in a fireworks show on the waterfront. Here are 6 of the best places to catch the big bang show, which, by the way, will start just after 10 pm.

 

Confederation Park

ConfederationPark_TheGreatWaterway

This is the go-to fireworks spot for most, and for good reason. Not only is it ground zero for Canada Day festivities, but with the park’s wide views of Kingston Harbour and 100-metre long path along the waterfront, you won’t have any trouble seeing the show. If large crowds aren’t your thing, take a stroll along the waterfront path towards Delta Kingston. And if you have a boat, nab one of the 350 slips in the marina or venture out into the harbour for your own private viewing. cityofkingston.ca
 

Fort Henry

Photo from Agatha Barc's Flickr
Photo from Agatha Barc’s Flickr

For the best backdrop to the Canada Day fireworks, get yourself up to the top of Point Henry and find a grassy perch just outside of Fort Henry, the 19th-century fortification that once protected a naval dockyard, the entrance of the Rideau Canal, and Kingston itself. Once there, you’ll be treated to panoramas of downtown K-town and Lake Ontario as it narrows into the St. Lawrence River. Just remember to bring a sweater; there’s usually a breeze at 100 metres of elevation. forthenry.com

The Vu at AquaTerra

AquaTerra_PatrickBissonTheGreatWaterway

Pair your pyrotechnics with a glass of wine and a charcuterie board at The Vu, the lounge inside AquaTerra restaurant that comes with big windows and bigger views of the harbour. Known as one of the more elegant restaurants in the city, AquaTerra serves up new Canadian fare ranging from lobster brioche to roasted duck to rib eye in a relaxed space. Come on: a waterfront vista, fine food, fireworks — what more do you need on Canada Day? aquaterrakingston.com

Jack Astor’s Bar & Grill Rooftop Patio

JackAstors_TheGreatWaterway

More in the mood for a beer and wings but still want those bright bangers as a background? Then grab some friends and a table on Jack Astor’s rooftop patio, which overlooks Market Square. Granted, City Hall might partially block some of the fireworks, but you shouldn’t have any trouble seeing those larger splashing displays of colour. Try to snag one of the tables along the railing, but get there early; this is one of the most popular patios in the city. jackastors.com
 

Cruise Boat

Cruise_TheGreatWaterway

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, a cruise is one of those Kingston adventures everyone has to do at least once. And because Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises has a full range of evening cruises, including dinner voyages, there are few better seats to watch the fireworks from. Whichever boat you choose — The Island Star, Island Belle or Island Queen — each comes with a full service bar and, just maybe, the most memorable Canada Day fireworks experience you’ve had yet. 1000islandscruises.ca
 

Wolfe Island Ferry

Photo from Liz's (NapaneeGal's) Flickr
Photo from Liz’s (NapaneeGal’s) Flickr

This is a personal favourite of mine, mainly because it’s free, you’re on the water and there’s nothing to impede your view. With a car or without, hop on the 10 pm ferry from the dock just north of Confederation Park and keep your gaze fixed on downtown. Like Fort Henry, the backdrop of the city is a stunning match to the light show. Stay on the ferry when you get to Wolfe Island for a 20-minute trip back to Kingston, or stick around and get a room at The General Wolfe Hotel. wolfeisland.com

(Header graphic from Mr. Blixt’s Flickr)

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Kingston Mini-Museum Guide, Part 1

I feel like museums get a bad rep for being quiet and exclusive to intellectuals who stand cross-armed — eyeglasses in hand — while muttering, “Hmmm interesting.” However, after recent trips to four of the museums in Kingston, I am happy to report that is not the case! Read about a few family-friendly (and a few free!), museums right in our backyard.

Maclachlan Woodworking Museum

MaclachlanWoodworking_loghouse
MaclachlanWoodworking_plains
Admission: $5.00 – Adults, $1.70 – Children, $4.22 – Students/Seniors (plus tax) – Free on Thursday nights
Maclachlan’s has something for everyone – even the kids! Located on Highway 2 near Grass Creek Park, the tour begins in the old log house that has been resettled 5 times since it was built in 1855 (learn more about it here).
Our tour guide, Louisa, gives a bit of insight into each exhibit, sharing stories and knowledge that aren’t written on the displays. Each area has a kiddie corner to keep children from touching the historical items as well as mini-workshops to keep them occupied – nice touch. The museum is currently hosting an exhibit featuring furniture by “The Shakers”, a religious group established in the early 1800s that felt the harder they worked, the closer to God they would be. Their wood work is intricate and beautiful (but don’t touch!).
woodworkingmuseum.ca

Twitter: @maclachlanwood
Facebook: Maclachlan Woodworking Museum

Queen’s Archives

QueensArchivesEntrance
QueensArchives
Free Admission
This space is a gem for researchers and acts as a museum for specific topics you might be interested in. If you’ve never been to the Archives before, bring a piece of photo ID and be prepared to fill out a piece of paper to create a membership card before you begin browsing. I suggest visiting archives.queensu.ca to search what you’re looking for in advance and bring the location number with you for the Archivist.
Taking photos – sans flash – of items you find is free! However, there is a fee to scan (more details, here). For fun, I requested the box of old City Hall information and found news clippings that went back to 1842.
This is a good place to take your children for proof there was life before Google.
archives.queensu.ca
Twitter: @queensarchives
Facebook: Queen’s University Archives

Pump House Steam Museum

PumpHouse
PumpHouse_SportsScience_2
Admission: $5.00 – Adults, $1.70 – Children, $4.22 – Students/Seniors (plus tax)
This eye-catching museum is a mix of old and new. Stunning old pumps fill the high-ceiling space and are truly amazing to look at – and they’ve just recently added a Sports Science Exhibit – which couldn’t be more opposite. One minute I am learning about the logistics of John Inglis’ engine (installed in 1895), the next I am testing out my cheerleading skills on an interactive game. It’s a perfect mix for young and old to appreciate together.
There is also a room filled with lego to entertain the little ones as well an exhibit dedicated to intricate model trains that circle the room.
steammuseum.ca
Twitter: @PumpMuseum
Facebook: Pump House Steam Museum

The Original Hockey Hall of Fame

HockeyHallofFame
Free Admission
No need to drive to Toronto to get a little piece of hockey’s history. Fittingly located on the second floor of the Invista Centre (originally located on York Road), The Original Hockey Hall of Fame is filled with a ton of interesting facts and artifacts — like hockey’s oldest hockey sweater worn by Queens’ Guy Curtis in 1894. The best part is the focus on Kingston-born legends like Doug Gilmour and Jayna Hefford.
And what would a hall of fame be without a shrine to Grapes (aka Don Cherry)? This space is worth a browse!
originalhockeyhalloffame.com
Facebook: International Hockey Hall of Fame

Want access to all of these museums for free? Consider getting a K-Pass on your next visit to Kingston!
Mini-Museum Guide Part 2

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#LunchKingston: Royal Angkor on Princess Street

Welcome to the new #LunchKingston series, dedicated to exploring unique eating places that will excite your taste buds! Kingston offers an eclectic range of cuisines, unique in Eastern Ontario. I’ll feature some of the best for you to discover on your next trip to this amazing city by the lake.

It’s rare to find a good Asian restaurant outside of the larger metropolitan cities – but Royal Angkor on Princess Street in Kingston delivers a culinary punch for those seeking the vibrant flavours of Thailand and Cambodia.

Small and unassuming from the street front, this restaurant is hopping at lunch with many local regulars dining in or taking out. And no wonder – all the dishes are made from scratch with pungent spices and fresh ingredients. Everything is made to order and that can take a bit of time if one is hungry – but it’s worth the wait.

They offer a number of starters, like the Cambodian spring rolls which pack a lot of chicken and are quite dense and crispy. Served with a sweet Thai dipping sauce, and topped with a dusting of peanuts, it’s a nice alternative to your typical fish sauce. And don’t be fooled by the size of the traditional soups like Tom Yum and Coconut Chicken, because they are a meal into themselves. It’s likely a good idea to split a bowl for a starter.

Curries are a staple on their menu (offering a range of about 12), from red to green and mild to hot. Smartly, the menu uses red chili pepper symbols to indicate the heat level. The Green Curry Bamboo delivers excellent heat and is generous with the chicken and light on the coconut milk – a welcomed change to the heavier curries often found in other establishments. The slivers of bamboo shoots and flavourful eggplant rounded out this dish.

Most popular among the rice dishes, according to the server, is their Golden Chicken. Chicken thighs are slow cooked in a hot and sour red curry topped with green chilli. This dish is tied with the Thai Panang Curry. Somewhat similar to the former dish, but with the addition of coconut milk and fresh basil.

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IMG_3610_2

On the noodle side, they offer four rice noodle dishes. A Thai staple that I believe gauges the chef’s talent, is the sauce in the traditional Pad Thai. The use of tamarind balanced with the sweet is the key stabilizer of this dish. And Vath Sin, the chef of Royal Angkor, hits a home run with a well- balanced portion of plump shrimp and juicy chicken with noodles that are well sauced and perfectly cooked.

The ambiance might be lacking for die-hards, but the décor is inviting and tidy – and the service is friendly and efficient. But the big draw here is the food, and every dish stood out as a fine example of Thai cuisine. According to their website, the restaurant was voted among the Top 500 BEST restaurants in Canada by “Where to eat in Canada” – and they have a faithful following. Regulars were excited to tell me stories of their favourite dishes. What will be yours?

Royal Angkor
523 Princess Street
Lunch 11:00am – 3:00pm
royalangkor.ca

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All Hopped Up: The Rise of Microbreweries

Passion for local beer has seen craft breweries leading the charge in the small scale, locally produced, farm-to-table movement. Across Canada, “big beer” sales are falling while an explosion of microbreweries has witnessed steadily increasing demand. Here in Ontario, the Ontario Craft Brewers’ Association is adding new members at the rate of three per month and report that craft beer is the fastest-growing segment in the LCBO’s beer category.

Way ahead of the craft beer craze is the Kingston Brewing Company – known for its beer, its laid back vibe and the gorgeous, private patio in the old carriageway beside the pub; the well-known landmark is Ontario’s oldest brewpub, now in its 31st year of operation.

Housed in a 1800s telegraph office, the place is packed to rafters with assorted beer memorabilia. Brewmaster Peter Snell oversees the brewing operation which includes four beers brewed on site: Dragon’s Breath Ale, Regal Lager, Dunkelnacht, and Framboise Royale. Snell lights up when he talks about the pub’s 9% alcohol Rampant Rooster beer. “We brew it with a whole, cooked, marinated chicken in it.” He says, “But we only make it every five years.” Two other beers developed on the premises, Whitetail Cream Ale and Dragoon’s Breath Pale Ale are so popular that they are now produced off-site by breweries with more capacity.

The Kingston Brewing Company also proudly sell beer from all the other craft breweries in Kingston and are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the first beer from the new Skeleton Park Brewery.

Kingston Brewing Company’s awesome patio on Canada Day. Photo by Kingston Brewing Company.
Chef Colin Burtch has a time out at the bar. Photo by Lindy Mechefske
Chef Colin Burtch has a time out at the bar. Photo by Lindy Mechefske

Just down the road in historic Bath, the MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company conduct tastings and beer sales on the 1400 acre farm which has been in the family since 1784.

Six years ago, brothers Daniel and Ivan purchased the farm from their father and continued growing crops including oats, barley, and wheat. Two years ago when they started brewing beer, they added hops to their crop list. Today, Ivan, a mechanical engineer, and Dan, a Scottish trained brewmaster, along with cousin Ben Vandenberg, are working flat out brewing beer with ingredients grown on the farm. I can’t talk to the MacKinnon brothers because as staff member Kori tells me, “They’re actually busy farming.”

So I join in the fun in the old hen house where an enthusiastic group of visitors perched on tractor-seat stools at the bar, are working their way through the tasting flights which include three year round beers – CrossCut Canadian Ale, 8 Man Ale, and Origin – a German-style wheat beer, and one of two seasonally available beers – a peppermint stout in winter and in summer, Red Fox, flavoured with beets from the farm.

Daniel and Ivan MacKinnon. Photo by: Mackinnon Brothers Brewing.
Daniel and Ivan MacKinnon. Photo by: Mackinnon Brothers Brewing.
Some of Mackinnon Brothers' goods! Photo by: Travis Sharrow
Some of Mackinnon Brothers’ goods! Photo by: Travis Sharrow

At 2 pm on a rainy Saturday afternoon, Kingston’s Stone City Ales is packed.

This is a place with a definite vibe – there’s lots of natural light along with exposed brick, metal, blackboard menus, and the impressive glassed-in, gleaming stainless-steel brewery. When owner Ron Shore opened the place in August 2014, he was interested in the local food movement, so in addition to craft beers, the menu at Stone City Ales is dedicated to local ingredients.

I ask Justin da Silva, Head Brewer, who guides me through a quick beer 101 course, about the evolution of the customer base. “We have witnessed a big change in the increasing sophistication of beer drinkers. Part of that change includes many more females, especially young career women. Our clientele are here for a reason. They come here to socialize and appreciate the fact that we have no televisions, great local food, and our award-winning craft beer.” I raise my glass, “Cheers to that.”

Photo by: Stone City Ales
Photo by: Stone City Ales
Brewmaster Justin da Silva hard at work. Photo by: Stone City Ales

More Information

Kingston Brewing Company
34 Clarence Street, Kingston, Ontario
613.542.4978
kingstonbrewing.ca

Stone City Ales
275 Princess St. Kingston, Ontario
613.542.4222
stonecityales.com

MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company
1915 County Road 22, Bath, Ontario
info@mackinnonbrewing.com
613.777.6277
mackinnonbrewing.com

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4 Weeks, 8 Fests: Your June Festivals Guide

Summer festivals season is finally back — and it’s kicking off in June with a bang. From a marathon with a Beethoven soundtrack to a craft beer party overlooking downtown Kingston, you’ve got your pick this month. Plus, Movies in the Square and Music in the Park return. Here are the details on 8 fests, in calendar order, to put on your June to-do list.

Beat Beethoven

Sunday, June 5, 10:30 am

Photo by Robby Breadner
Photo by Robby Breadner

Few can say they’ve bettered Beethoven, but this fundraising event for the Kingston Symphony is your chance. That is, if you can finish a 4- or 8-kilometre run/walk through downtown before the symphony finishes playing 50 minutes of Beethoven’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 out to Sir John A. Macdonald Blvd. and back. More of a relaxer than a marathoner? Stay at the starting line, and chill with Beethoven on the grass. $30 – $45. beatbeethovenkingston.com
Confederation Park

Kingston Art Scenes Summit

Sunday, June 5, 2 pm – 5 pm

Photo Courtesy of Queen's University Flickr
Photo Courtesy of Queen’s University Flickr

After you’ve beaten Beethoven, run over to Queen’s University’s premier art museum for an afternoon that’ll take you through Kingston’s art scenes from the ’70s to now. The broad themes of the eight short talks given by artists, curators and cultural leaders will be “Time” and “Space,” ranging in topic from the 1973 controversial sculpture, “Time,” on the waterfront, to the state of studio and exhibition space in Kingston today. Free. agnes.queensu.ca

Agnes Etherington Art Centre

Cannonball Crush

Saturday, June 11, 10 am

Photo by Saint Lawrence Parks Commission
Photo by Saint Lawrence Parks Commission

With its steep hills, deep ditches and water on three sides, Fort Henry hasn’t dared to be attacked in its 150-plus years. You can change that at this 5-kilometre run with over 15 obstacles that include swimming, crawling and climbing up this National Historic Site that once protected the Rideau’s entrance and the town of Kingston. Complete the course alone or with a team of at least four; either way, only the finishers can truly claim to have conquered Fort Henry. $50 – $75. forthenry.com
Fort Henry

YGK Craft Beer Fest

Saturday, June 11, 11 am – 7 pm


When you’ve conquered the fort, quench your thirst with some fresh suds, cider or spirits from craft brewers near and far. Local beauties Gananoque Brewing and MacKinnon Brothers Brewing will be there, as will Ontario’s first micro-distillery, Black Fly. For the best times, pair with local food, good tunes from the likes of The Elwins, Rueben deGroot and others, and some of the best views of downtown. Adults: $15 (plus $2.50 per 4-ounce sample). Free for Cannonball Crushers. forthenry.com
Fort Henry

First Capital Day

Wednesday, June 15, 9:30 am – 2:30 pm

Photo from Queen's University Flickr
Photo from Queen’s University Flickr

Kingston was named the first capital of a united Canada on June 15, 1841, and each June you can step back to that era at City Park, where permanent legislative buildings were to be erected. Spinning and weaving demonstrations, rope making, Victorian toys and games, early medicine, and military displays are just the start. Also go on an architectural scavenger hunt, experience the aboriginal way of life, and take a horse-drawn wagon through old King’s Town. Free. cityofkingston.ca
City Park

Kingston Sportsman’s Expo

Friday, June 17 to Sunday, June 19

KingstonSportsmanExpo_TheGreatWaterway
If you’re looking for a new fishing rod or mountain bike, or you want to explore a potential hobby or learn from a live outdoors demonstration, then this is your event. It’s a one-stop shop for everything hunting, fishing, extreme sports and outdoor adventure related. There will be plenty of contests, too, including ones for tent building, animal calling and log splitting. $15 – $25. Kids under 13: Free. sportsmen.kxomedia.ca
Kingston 1000 Islands Sportsplex

Doors Open Kingston

Saturday, June 18

DoorsOpen_TheGreatWaterway
Go ahead. This is your chance to take a peek inside the front door of some of Kingston’s most cherished sites. Twenty are on the list year, and the theme is medical science and innovation, which means a big draw should be the Museum of Health Care, a beaux-arts style building that will feature behind-the-scenes tours. Other notables: Canada’s Penitentiary Musuem, HMCS Cataraqui, Kingston Police Headquarters, City Hall and the Lawn Bowling Club. Free. doorsopenontario.on.ca
Various Locations

Skeleton Park Arts Festival

June 22 – 26

Photo from Christopher Canning Flickr
Photo from Christopher Canning Flickr

This five-day arts fest and community celebration keeps on drawing big-name musicians and artists from Kingston and around the world. Sloan, for example, will play on Saturday in Skeleton Park (aka McBurney Park) for the weekend music and arts fair. Later, at The Toucan’s after party, PS I Love You will bring the rock. Earlier in the week, there will be an aqua fit concert with Sheesham & Lotus & Son, a film screening with Rae Spoon, a concert and barbecue with Lost Cousins, and way more. Free. skeletonparkartsfest.ca
McBurney Park Area

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Kingston’s Night Life

By Holly Blommers and Claire Bouvier

FYI: There are countless exceptional venues to enjoy during a night out in Kingston.

Instead of choosing one, why not hit a number of them up in a pub crawl? Join us as we tour our favourite bars in Kingston’s downtown core and experience what each unique location has to offer.

The Mansion

506 Princess Street

Upon arrival at the Mansion we are immediately greeted by warm and busy staff, riding the final waves of the dinner rush. The atmosphere here is casual and relaxed – with most tables seating friends sharing pitchers of beer. Server Hayley advocates that “People come here for a hip, pub vibe that has a great mixed crowd.” Our favourite draw to The Mansions is their massive patio. On warm summer evenings you will find this garden patio filled with Kingston locals looking for somewhere to kick back and enjoy a pint.

The patio is home to a tiki bar and beach volleyball court – meeting all the demands of summer. The Mansion also has nightly live music with a venue space upstairs for larger crowds, featuring local Kingston bands as well as out of towners.

The Toucan

76 Princess Street

While participating in a Kingston pub crawl, it’s imperative to make a stop at The Toucan, a favourite local pub.

It’s the ideal place to gather with friends over traditional pub fare and a Guinness. We ran into a couple regulars who gave us some insight into why they love the Toucan. Cody commented that “This is the most authentically local pub in Kingston. It has an inexplicable charm to it. We don’t know why everyone comes here, but we have been coming here for years and we don’t want to stop.” After hanging out in the cozy, dimly lit space, it becomes clear that the customers feel at home here. The atmosphere is light and casual, and if you get lucky you can usually catch live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Merchant

6 Princess Street 

A great addition to the YGK nightlife is The Merchant. This bar is another local favourite and has enough space to house large, fun crowds.

The exposed brick and cozy couches encourage ease and comfort among customers. While mingling with some fellow bar-hoppers we quickly discovered that a lot of our new friends were from out of town. One of the visitors, Rob, told us “it’s the bartender Brad” that keeps them coming back. The service is always efficient and friendly, and they have a massive bar that allows for the optimal socializing and beverage enjoying experience. The typically mature crowd will often be seen mid dance party, enjoying great live bands that keep the party going all night long.

The Grad Club

162 Barrie Street 

This unique little bar is nestled in a repurposed house in a neighbourhood near the University.

Established in 1963, the club radiates tradition and community spirit. Most evenings you will find the bar is packed with Queen’s students and locals alike, enjoying some remarkable live music. Dan, a faithful customer of over 10 years tells us why he keeps going back: “Great food at reasonable prices, craft beer and they get some of the biggest names in the indie music industry.” The Grad Club has hosted several renowned Canadian bands like Winter Sleep and Rural Alberta Advantage, while also celebrating local talent. Know a lot of random information? Their trivia night on Thursdays always packs the house, and even if you don’t win, the beer is always delicious!

Red House

369 King Street 

No matter where our explorations of the city take us, our night always ends at Red House.

Friday and Saturday nights consistently bring a packed house, and the crowd is always vibrant and social. The exposed brick-lined establishment has two large wooden high top tables adjacent the bar, constructing the perfect set up for socializing. It’s one of those places where you will always leave with more friends than you had walking in. A Red House frequenter, Sarah, said “The red house is a tried and tested hot spot for the local year-round Kingston drinkers. It’s a really laid back spot and always seems to be a good way to cap off a night.” Owned by three local brothers, the vibe here is trendy, without being pretentious and welcoming. You’ll usually find Greg behind the bar, serving drinks and witty banter until the wee hours of the morning.

Thanks for joining us on our YGK pub crawl – we hope you will enjoy our favourite places as much as we do. Cheers and please drink responsibly!

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The Makers of Kingston, Volume 1

It’s no secret that Kingston is brimming with many talented local makers and artisans – here, our creative community thrives and is always producing incredible new works. Read on for a quick look at a few of them!

EverLovin’ Press

What’s not to love about EverLovin’ Press? Sole proprietor, designer and pressman Vincent Perez is a creative tour-de-force when it comes to fine letterpress goods and stationery. From traditional to contemporary, business to social, bespoke to read-made – whatever your pleasure, Vince is your man.

vince
Photo by Andrew Szeto

After a term overseeing NSCAD University’s famed Dawson Printshop (a decades-old teaching print shop for the book arts and one of the largest collections of moveable the in the country!) Vince went on to found Everlovin’ Press as a boutique printing outfit specializing in readymade and custom work for an ever-growing audience of letterpress enthusiasts! Don’t miss Vince’s extensive collection of impressive work at Kingston Alley.

everlovinpress.com

Kingston Olive Oil Co.

oliveoil

When you think ‘authentic olive oil,’ you probably don’t immediately think ‘Kingston’ – but family-run Kingston Olive Oil Co. is changing that by bringing an impressive assortment of oils and vinegars to your table. Their olives are grown and pressed by small artisans and farmers and imported seasonally according to crush date – resulting in some of the freshest oils that you have ever tasted.

Their diverse collection of balsamic vinegars (with flavours that include Cinnamon-Pear, Dark Chocolate, Lavender, Honey-Ginger, Sicilian-Lemon and many, many more) are aged in wood casks imported from Modena, Italy and naturally and exquisitely flavoured to enhance your gourmet experience. Check them out at Kingston Alley June 10 – 12!

kingstonoliveoil.com

Hilary Cosgrove

 

Image from Hilary Cosgrove's Etsy Page
Image from Hilary Cosgrove’s Etsy Page

Admittedly, Hilary Cosgrove sews like hot damn. She’s a textile visionary that sees colour and texture everywhere, and has created an ever-growing line of adorably amazing things with which to decorate your home – like the popular handmade Winston & Squeak sculpture of owl and mouse buddies made of scrap materials – or custom alphabet pillows that add some personality to your bedscape.

Hilary has continued to grow her brand and her work can be found in 15 stores from coast to coast in Canada and at art shows around Ontario. Check out her impressive work at Kingston Alley and see for yourself why her pieces are so popular.

hilarycosgrove.com

Kingston Soap Company

 

Image from Kingston Soap Company's Facebook Page
Image from Kingston Soap Company’s Facebook Page

Kingston Soap Company began after a trip to Provence, France in 2003 where the market featured a local soap maker offering dozens of varieties of soaps – accented with ingredients like herbes de provence, lavender and other spices. After years of research and experimenting, Kingston Soap Company launched in 2008 – specializing in Castile soaps (soaps made using only olive oil) and using fragrance oils that are parabens and phthalate free.

They also offer a wide variety of unscented soaps, lip balms, bath products, shampoos, shower gels, lotions, butters, creams and more – all available in unique and popular scents. Don’t miss them at Kingston Alley June 10 – 12!

kingstonsoap.com

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The 2016 Great Canadian Cheese Festival

Updated May 24

Truly, there is no other place in Canada where cheese lovers can sample so many different glorious Canadian cheeses and purchase them at direct-from-producer prices than at The Great Canadian Cheese Festival (TGCCF).

The sixth edition of the TGCCF – now the largest artisan cheese show in North America – runs from June 4th – 5th at the Picton Fairgrounds – a scenic drive that takes just an hour to get to from beautiful Kingston.

And while Canadian artisan cheese (in all of its delicious variations) is the primary focus of TGCCF, lovers of fine wine and craft beer will be thrilled to hear that plenty of the good stuff will also be featured at the festival, alongside a cornucopia of incredible artisanal foods from the country’s best producers.

While at the festival, you'll get to taste and purchase the best sustainable Canadian cheeses from coast to coast to coast.
While at the festival, you’ll get to taste and purchase the best sustainable Canadian cheeses from coast to coast to coast.

While at the festival, you’ll be able to:

  • Taste and purchase sustainable Canadian cheese from coast to coast to coast;
  • Meet the industry’s leading cheesemakers from Quebec, Ontario and the rest of Canada;
  • Sample Canadian Cheese Grand Prix winning cheeses;
  • Learn about the best in Canadian cheese at special seminars by Dairy Farmers of Canada in the All You Need is Cheese Annex;
  • See the animals that produce milk for cheese at the Festival Dairy Farm;
  • Learn to cook with artisan cheese at From the Farm Cooking School;
  • Enjoy an unforgettable evening on Chef Jamie Kennedy’s farm in Prince Edward County;
  • Kick back a Makers + Mongers in Cheeseburger Paradise; and
  • Share your passion for cheese with kindred spirits from across Canada.

And for a limited time only, you can take advantage of a special TGCCF offer! Experience the festival with a guest, plus a sommelier-guided tour of two wineries courtesy of County Sips Wine Tours and round-trip transportation from downtown Kingston – and it’s all free when you stay for one night at any of the participating hotels below! Just use the code CHEESE when you book online!

Just hurry! There are a limited number of seats available and this offer won’t last!

About County Sips

Sommelier Ian Nichols of County Sips has operating his famous tours and tastings of the Prince Edward County Wine Grower Association’s wineries for years now, always creating new experiences for his guests. His well established relationships with the wineries make his tours unique and entertaining.

“[County Sips] was a spectacular wine tour. Ian was so organized and made our tour such a fun and educational experience. I would highly recommend jumping on one of his tours!” – Brittany, September 2015

Discover the wines of The County on a County Sips Wine Tour!
Discover the wines of The County on a County Sips Wine Tour!
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Homegrown Harmonies: Sheesham and Lotus, PS I Love You, Lost Cousins

It’s never been clear why, exactly, Kingston has been able to consistently produce solid homegrown musical talent like The Tragically Hip, Sarah Harmer and Bedouin Soundclash. Maybe it’s the supportive arts scene. Maybe it’s the abundance of music venues. Maybe it’s the limestone in the water. Whatever the reason, it’s a trend that continues.

More recently, three of the bigger names carrying the K-Town torch and making waves across Canada and elsewhere are Sheesham and Lotus, PS I Love You, and Lost Cousins. Keep reading for the lowdown on each.

Sheesham and Lotus

SheeshamLotus2

Backstory

Hailing from Wolfe Island, Sheesham Crow, Lotus Wight and sometimes Son Sanderson got their start at the end of the twentieth century playing at the Kingston Public Market and outside the downtown liquor store.

Sound

It’s just “good time high-stepping music,” says Sheesham, and for this troupe that means a unique cross between old-time Americana, blues and ragtime. Fiddle, banjo and sousaphone are the backbone; vocals, harmonicas and handmade instruments compliment.

Live

“We dress in clothing from the 1910s and use period instruments alongside instruments of our own creation, such as the contrabass-harmoniphonium and sepiaphonic monophone,” says Sheesham. “We put on a good show, besides! With foot lights and everything!”

sheeshamandlotus.com

PS I Love You

PSILoveYou1

Backstory

Launched in 2006, lead-singer and guitarist Paul Saulnier and drummer Benjamin Nelson have taken their indie rock band from Kingston’s bars and basements to around the world, picking up accolades from Pitchfork and Spin magazine, which named Saulnier the 99th greatest guitarist of all time.

Sound

Since Nelson joined, the duo has become known for soaring rock anthems with heart. As Saulnier says, “We are kind of abrasive but sometimes catchy, also weird rock n roll music. If you listen to our loud noise, you can hear sweet nice songs hiding inside it.”

Live

“We often screw up, and it’s really charming,” says Saulnier. “Our shows are also loud and exciting. And I might play a guitar solo behind my head or something.”

facebook.com/psiloveyouband

Lost Cousins

LostCousins1

Backstory

Cam Duffin, Dylan Cantlon Hay, Thomas Dashney and Lloyd McArton formed Lost Cousins in the basement of a Kingston student house and played their first shows in the living room. They went on to reach the top 10 nationally in the CBC Searchlight competition.

Sound

This isn’t a band that easily fits into a category, but Cantlon Hay says that lately they’ve been using “psychedelic soul rock” to describe their sound. “While we formed as a rock band at heart, we’re largely influenced by R&B music, such as Motown and Stax.”

Live

“Every time we take the stage we aim to take the audience on a rollercoaster ride,” says Cantlon Hay. “With songs varying from high-energy rockers to groovy soul jams, we love keeping the audience on their toes throughout the set, unaware as to what may happen next.”

News

The band recently released their debut music video for “Feel an Emotion,” shot in Poland, Norway and Berlin, and now they’re working on their debut full-length album. This summer, they’ll play in cities that include Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, New York, Boston and Chicago.

findlostcousinsband.com