Summer in Kingston Brings Canoe & Kayaking Adventures

Memories await for paddling enthusiasts

Eastern Ontario is home to some of the highest grade canoe and kayak trails in Canada. Nestled along three waterways; the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario and the Cataraqui River / Rideau Canal, you'll experience a cornucopia of sights. From the famous 1000 Islands to passing of historic towns, villages and restored cottages. 

For paddling fanatics, this summer couldn't have come fast enough. The endless waiting to feel your oar hit the glistening water, sun on your face, leaving stress on land and taking to the open water. 

Love of the Water  

Kingston knows its way around the water  

One of the major perks of living here, is the amazingly close access to the water. Many Kingstonians and visitors a like use the region's historic waterways for all sorts of recreational activities. Kayaking and canoeing are passionate lifestyles, and we are serious about them here in Kingston. Also, wouldn't want to leave out sailing, fishing and boating among the city's key treasures but that is for another post. 

Routes to ride this summer

Paddle through these Ontario hotspots

#1 - Frontenac Provincial Park

Witness a wide scope of landscapes and southern Canadian habitats, experiencing mixed forests and wetlands. Venture through canoe trails that have many variations of dozens of surrounding lakes.

Click here details

#2 - Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area

If you have the opportunity, The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority has canoe and kayak rentals available at Gould Lake Conservation Area and Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area over the summer.

Click here details

Your Paddling Resource 

Adventure is all around you in Kingston

Discover all our region's best trails, routes, lakes and rivers for yourself! Visit The Frontenac Arch Biosphere for an extensive guide to water trails. Running northwest-southeast through central and eastern Ontario in Canada, this is an experience you'll want to be apart of.

Book your Summer Adventure, Visit Kingston, Ontario. 

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Doors Open For Kingston, Ontario Historic Landmarks & Buildings This June

Visit Kingston's best locations on the house

In less than a month, Kingston will open its doors to their historical landmarks, attractions and amazing architecture collections. A variety of sites will be open starting June 23, 2012 throughout each day from 10AM to 4PM, apart of the Doors Open Ontario initiative. Visiting these sites are free of charge, making for an inexpensive dose of culture this summer. 

Bellevue House National Historic Site

Walking tours are an up close and personal way to experience the city during your stay. Go on a sightseeing adventure, than when your belly starts rumbling and feet get tired, hit up one of Kingston's many downtown patio scenes. 

Murney Tower by the waterfront

 

Sightseeing like you own the place  

Kingston has over 27 sites with an open door policy, explore museums, beautifully designed churches, city hall, old cottages, and the list rages on! Over the summer we'll be doing spot light features on the historic sites you need to see while you're here.

Stay tuned for more on Doors Open Kingston as June approaches.

Track down a Kingston hotspot

Click here to view full list of historic sites.

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Father's Day Beer Festival in Kingston @FortHenry this June

Celebrate dad at Fort Henry's Beer Fest

A home run gift idea to surprise any father 

Show your dad some love by bringing him to the Father's Day Beer Festival on Saturday, June 16^th. This first beer festival (hopefully one of many!) will be hosted in Fort Henry's brand new Discovery Centre and has everything a guy could ask for on Father's Day.

Some dads are easy to shop for, where others take more time and effort to concoct something outside the box. Whatever the case, it's always a great idea to think less about material things we can buy and more about sharing new memories and experiences with the people you care about the most. 

Ultimate dad experience in Kingston, Ontario

Brews, BBQs and Booms 

Taste local beers with dad!

Fort Henry has made this Father's Day event into the “ultimate man experience”. Imagine this, golf with inflatable driving range, racing simulations, sports cars, motorcycles and tons of cool gadgets. Plus a mega BBQ feast that will leave dad filled to the brim. 

And did we mention there will be beer? Visit all the local beer vendors at the festival. See the list below to know whose coming.

Live Entertainment 

Local talents take the stage

On top of Fort Henry's activities, live music from the Rob Carnegie Band and Andrew Krause Band will be performing throughout the event. Never a dull moment on dad's day!

Say cheers to dads everywhere

The festival is a proud partner with Ride for Dad

In support of prostate cancer research all proceeds from the Beer Festivals’ silent auction will be donated to Ride for Dad. Make this Father's Day about more than just your own dad, you can help win the fight against prostate cancer. 

Perfect opportunity to do something different with dear ol' dad, check out the Fort's newly constructed centre and help out with a truly amazing cause. Three birds, one stone. 

 

Step aside Oktoberfest... 

What's a beer festival without quality brew?

Here's a list of the participating breweries at the festival;

Make a new Father's day memory

It's time to put away the predictable gift ideas for dad, he is tired of new ties and DVD box sets. Make a lasting memory by celebrating this special occasion at Fort Henry’s New Father’s Day Beer Festival.

Cheers!

For more information click here

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The Great Race in Kingston, Ontario June 27th @ Confederation Park

Antique car lovers get a treat in June

The Great Race makes a pit stop in Kingston, Ontario during their race around the Great Lakes. Venture downtown to Confederation Park from 12PM to 3PM to check out all the neat antique cars.

Definitely need to look at their photo gallery here, some really awesome shots!

What is The Great Race?

If you aren't familiar with The Great Race it is a cross-country rally that pits driver / navigator teams against the clock and against each other. 

The annual event covers 19 cities, 2 countries and 4 states.The name of the game is to excel in all categories such as timed, controlled-speed and endurance competitions over the Great Lakes region.
 
Teams must come together and show off their ability to follow very precise course instructions. The winning team is based on who achieved the most accurately driven route from start to finish. 

Would be an amazing experience to be apart of or at least get to watch.

Good luck to all the teams involved! Have a fun and safe ride.   

More details on what The Great Race is all about, click here

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all in one convenient location, Visit Kingston here

Join Kingston's Jazz Festival This June @ The Grand Theatre

Jazz enthusiasts far and wide...

Settle in to Kingston, Ontario the weekend of June 21st, 2012 for the sweet sounds of Jazz, as the The Empire Life Kingston Jazz Festival  begins this summer!

The 2012 Kingston Jazz Festival

Choose from a variety of concert venues, from the traditional theatre setting to more intimate performances outside and downtown restaurants.

Catch Jazz legends in action. Time to name drop! Talents like Joe Lovano, Dave Douglas, Sophie Milman, and other established names in the Jazz community. 

Jazz filled weekend

Between featured performers at the Grand Theatre, there is still plenty to do over the Jazz filled weekend. Join the free Porch Jazz walk, set-up through Sydenham Ward on Saturday June 23rd, followed by a concert from the Skeleton Park Music Festival.

Get more details here.

Jazz + Kingston Hotspots

This combination is flawless, enjoy the soothing sounds of Jazz while you eat at one of Kingston's incredible restaurants. These live local performances go on from 4PM to 7PM, just enough time to grab a drink and some dinner for the show. 

Get the details here.

The Kingston Jazz Festival is made possible through the collaboration of The Grand Theatre, Kingston Arts Council, Kingston Jazz Society and the Skeleton Park Music Festival. All organizations that preserve Kingston's music culture and thriving art scene.   

See the full festival schedule here.

List of Jazz Performers:  June 21st - June 23rd

Anat Cohen Quartet

Sophie Milman

Jerry Granelli Trio

 

Tanya Tagaq

Homburger/Guy/Niggli 

Click here for tickets to The Kingston Jazz Festival 

 

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Four Ways to Experience Kingston, Ontario this Summer

Experience Kingston by land, air and water

With the summer fast approaching, people are beginning to plan their summer adventures after the dull and dreary season.

Flowers are blooming, patios are opened, festivals begin and the coveted vacation days you're been saving are just around the corner.Whether you are a family looking for fun outdoor experiences or a couple searching for a romantic getaway, visiting Kingston is the best way to enjoy your summer.

 #1 – Join in on the festivities!

Every summer brings out the most awesome festivals to attend. Plan your visit around one of these special events, guaranteed good times.

Check out these events coming up summer 2012... 

Kingston Buskers Rendezvous

The annual event spans four wildly entertaining days, with street performers at every turn.The festival showcases Buskers from all over the world. Jugglers, dancers, musicians, Magicians and everything in between!

Details here

Limestone City Blues Festival

This four-day festival brings together over 50 blues performers, scattered across the city in dozens of venues. Catch performances at Confederation Park and more intimate shows in Kingston's downtown hub.

Details here

#2 – Cruise time in Kingston

As gateway to the beautiful 1000 Islands, those visiting Kingston will want to take a scenic cruise of the area. From lunch and dinner charters to a number of special event tours over the summer, it's time to set sail. 

Find out more of booking a cruise

#3 – City walking tours

As Canada’s first Capital, Kingston boasts some amazing attractions and events intermixed with historically steeped buildings, neighbourhoods and institutions.This gives you the opportunity to take in Kingston's amazing downtown core. You'll stumble upon unique shopping locations and restaurants that makes a foodie's mouth water. 

Click here for a list of walking tours

#4 – Helicopter tour of the region

You've seen Kingston on land and water, now it's time to take to the skies. Experience Kingston, Ontario and the 1000 Islands from a different angle. Kingston Heli-Tours offers a number of customized tours that will fit your trip perfectly. Take a helicopter ride to Huff Estates Winery in Prince Edward County for lunch, wine tasting and vineyard tours. 

Learn more here

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CEO of Rugby Canada Talks About Rugby In Kingston

Interview with Graham Brown 

Graham Brown, CEO of Rugby Canada, tells us why you need to watch the epic tournament taking place at Richardson Stadium on June 9th, 2012 at 2PM. 

 

Click here for tickets   

 

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Interview on Canada Vs.USA Rugby in Kingston

Interview with Gareth Rees of Rugby Canada

Gareth Rees, Men's National Program Manager for Rugby Canada and 2011 International Rugby Hall of Fame Inductee talks the intense tournament coming to Kingston on June 9th, 2012 at Richardson Stadium. 

This will be an exciting rematch of Canada’s National Senior Men’s Team vs. the U.S. The competition began when the teams played in the “Battle at BMO” in Toronto. Now, a year later the teams are back to fight once again in this International Rugby Test Match! 

 

 

Click here for tickets   

 

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Leonard Cohen's “Old Ideas” Tour Stops in Kingston this December

Another musical icon travels to Kingston, Ontario

Last week, online was a buzz when it was announced the legendary LeonardCohen would be stopping by Kingston on December 13^th 2012 at the K-Rock Centre for his Old Ideas World Tour. This was just a day after Bryan Adams graced the city with his presence. So many huge names come to Kingston, we love it!

 

The massive tour is stretching across Canada and the United States, starting this October in Texas. Luckily Kingston, Ontario made the cut! Leonard's twelfth album, “Old Ideas” is the focus of his 2012 world tour.

Take a listen...   

Song: "Darkness" off Cohen's forthcoming album

Gushing Critics

“Mr. Cohen sang these words with a kind of gracious generosity…awash in wild applause,”

The New York Times

“Charming, funny, poignant, smart, sharp, sexy… he is still a ladykiller.” 

 

Toronto Sun

“Listeners have been relying on Cohen's heartbroken yet grinning, world-weary yet hopeful voice to get through that night for decades, and this album should continue that for a whole new batch of souls."

TIME Magazine

You'll have the chance to get your K-Rock tickets this Friday, May 11th, 2012

Click here for your tickets when they become available via @KROCKCentre in Kingston 

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May Preview @ The Grand Theatre in Kingston

Travel to Kingston to get your monthly dose of theatre.  

The Grand Theatre sure doesn't lack for entertaining and unique shows. 

See what they have in store for you over the month of May...

Mother's Day | April 25 – May 12, 2012

Show your mom some love this month. As part of the evening, members of the Kingston community will be invited up on stage to present the life of their mother, in any form, whether through song, story, letter, or even dance!

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BrassWerks presents Stones 'n' Bones | May 4^th, 2012

Brassers and Funky Voices with special Guests "THE LIMESTONE CHORAL" under the direction of Ian Juby. Don't miss this performance at the Sydenham Street United Church.

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An Evening with Measha Brueggergosman | May 4^th, 2012

Canada’s premier soprano star, is one of the most magnificent and vibrant performers in opera today. She has garnered worldwide acclaim, played the worlds most storied stages and played for some of the worlds most prominent figures in recent history.

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Orchestra Kingston presents Light-Hearted Classics | May 6^th, 2012

From those humble beginnings, Orchestra Kingston has grown into a 40+ piece orchestra that provides local musicians with the opportunities to play international and Canadian orchestral repertoire. 

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Domino Theatre presents THE WOMEN IN BLACK | May 10^th – 26^th, 2012

Who is the woman in black? The mere mention of the woman terrifies the locals, for she is the spectre who haunts the neighbourhood. Anyone who sees her dies. This thriller has all the right elements to keep your attention; thick fog, an isolated old house that can be cut off from the mainland when the water rises, ghostly echoes of an old horse and cart that are not present - into this situation, to stay for a few days, comes the executor to settle the estate. Can he survive? Can you?

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HopScotch - Celebrating Beer, Whisky & Music | May 19^th, 2012

HopScotch is a celebration of local and independent beer, whisky and live entertainment. It aims to deliver good drink, good music and a good time to Kingston. It is the only event of its kind in the area. Tasting partners and musical line-up to be announced soon!

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Young Frankenstein | May 24^th, 2012

IT'S ALIVE! From the creators of the record-breaking Broadway sensation The Producers comes this monster new musical comedy. A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks' classic comedy masterpiece, the story follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein (that's Fronkensteen) as he attempts to complete his grandfather's masterwork and bring a corpse to life. With such memorable tunes as "The Transylvania Mania," "He Vas My Boyfriend" and "Puttin' On The Ritz," this production is scientifically proven, monstrously good entertainment.

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13 The Musical | May 24^th – June 2^nd, 2012

Geek. Poser. Jock. Beauty Queen. Wannabe. These are the labels that can last a lifetime - and this new musical from Tony Award-winner Jason Robert Brown is already being labelled as the most original shows. The new musical about fitting in and standing out!

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Cantabile Choirs present PASSION AND ROMANCE | May 26^th, 2012

Men, Women, Young Women & Young Men. The grande finale to our 16th season brings fabulous music from the world of operetta including delightful favourites by Gilbert & Sullivan, Sigmund Romberg, Jerome Kern and Leonard Bernstein as well as highlights from The Merry Widow.

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Dramatic Impact presents THE ODD COUPLE | May 31^st – June 9^th, 2012

Dramatic Impact brings two of Kingston's most popular actors to the Grand Theatre stage in this classic Simon comedy. This hilarious production asks the question of whether two recently divorced seniors can find happiness before they strangle each other. 

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