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Insider Itinerary: Dave McNamara

My name is Dave, and I’m the owner of the Merchant Tap House, a downtown Kingston favourite, and co-owner of the new restaurant Union Kitchen and Cocktails.

14 years ago, I moved back to Kingston from Vancouver to be closer to family—and because I love this city. There are many things to love about Kingston, but some highlights for me are how many great musicians call Kingston home, I love to take in their shows. And you can’t beat the beautiful waterfront views.

Below are ten of my favourite things about Kingston.

 

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1. Awesome restaurants

I love Kingston’s amazing locally-owned restaurants. A few of my favourites are Casa Domenico, Woodenheads, Days on Front, Tango Nuevo, Chien Noir, and the Wolfe Island Grill (which is just a short ferry ride away). There are so many great options.

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2. The historic buildings

If you take a walk downtown, you can admire them everywhere you look.

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3. The Waterfront

There are so many opportunities to take in the beautiful views of Kingston’s waterfront and surrounding lakes. You can live in the city and take a 10-minute drive to some of the best lakes in Ontario.

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4. Wolfe Island

At no charge, you can drive onto the Wolfe Island Ferry, have a great meal, and take a scenic drive on the island. Hopping over to Wolfe Island is a perfect way to spend a summer day.

5. Live music

Kingston’s live music scene and amazing local bands can’t be missed. I always enjoy live music at my own place (The Merchant) but I really enjoy seeing bands at the Toucan and the Mansion.

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6. Beautiful City Hall

I’ve travelled around the world and we have one of the nicest city halls
I’ve seen. The city also puts on so many great events in Springer Market Square and Confederation Park which are right next to City Hall.

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7. Top-notch sports programs and facilities

We have great coaches and volunteers here in Kingston. The fields and arenas at the Invista Centre are amazing. And I love that the Leon’s Centre—home to the Frontenacs and a stop to many touring performers—is located downtown.

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8. Music legends

I am proud that The Tragically Hip and Glorious Sons are from Kingston. There are so many amazing bands and singers and many great acts touring that love Kingston and stop in to play at small venues. The Trews are always popping in to play at small venues.

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9. That small-town feeling

Even as we grow, Kingston still holds onto a charming know-your-neighbours kind of vibe that I love.

 

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10. Hidden gems

I love that we still have a drive-in movie theatre.

Describe Kingston in 3 words

Friendly, historic and clean.

If Kingston had a theme song, what would it be?

So Much Love to Give by the Glorious Sons (maybe not the lyrics but the song title seems right.)

Complete the sentence: Kingston makes me…

Proud to live in Canada. I’d recommend this city to anyone to visit.

 

Want more Insider info? Check out Kingston artist Danielle Folkerts’ top 10 picks.

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Athletes of Kingston: Andrew Maciel

Kingston’s Andrew Maciel is not yet old enough to drive a car on local streets but that doesn’t stop the soft-spoken 15-year-old from pursuing his dream of being Canada’s next great Indy Car driver and following the tread marks of Canadian Indy Car racers James Hinchcliffe, Robert Wickens and Paul Tracy.

“When I was little I used to watch Lightning McQueen (an animated race car from the 2006 Pixar movie Cars) and I said I wanted to become like him, I wanted to start racing.” He said in a recent interview in his west-end home. “Later when I got older I started to watch Indy Car, Formula One and I thought these drivers are very talented I want to become like them.”

Maciel was born in Toronto but has lived in Brazil and Ecuador. He moved to Kingston four years ago. Maciel can speak three languages; English, French and Portuguese. He’s going into grade 10 in the fall at Ecole Marie-Rivier.

Maciel started racing when he was nine-years-old when he lived in Ecuador.

The car he currently drives a Tommy Kart, a high end go kart but can go as fast as a street car, about 115 km/h., Maciel said.

He usually races at the Mosport Kartways, a track facility in Bowmanville. As of early August Maciel was leading his junior racing division after eight races. The season which runs from mid-April to mid-October has four races left.

In mid-August he was to compete in the Canadian Karting Championships against racers from Canada and the United States.

Maciel also races in Quebec and parts of the United States including Florida.

He couldn’t do what he does without the support of his family.

“My dad (Adriano), my mom (Juliana) and sister (10 year-old sister Vivian), always support me since they come to all my races even though there long and tiring weekends,” he said. “My Dad is actually my mechanic, he helps me out a lot by getting the parts on properly,” he said. “He’s sort of new at it but he’s starting to catch it.”

In the 2020 season when he turns 16 Maciel hopes to move on from go kart racing and drive a real race car.

Photo Credit: Ian MacAlpine

“Now I’m looking forward to move on to car (racing) the USF 2000 which is part of the ‘Road to Indy’ series. Then could go towards another class like ProMazda class, then Indy Lites, then you actually realize your dream, Indy Car.”

Maciel hopes to reach the Indy Car circuit by the time he’s 20-years-old.

But to get there he’ll need support from sponsors to cover the high costs related to his racing. To that end, his family has put out an ambitious sponsorship proposal looking for funds to support his dream.

“With the support of sponsors, one of my goals is to is to actually help the sponsors achieve their goals first and then with the sponsorship help it’ll help me get to Indy Cars as well,” he said.

What does he like best about racing?

“I always enjoy the adrenaline that is put into the sport, racing close, inches from each other, hard racing, inside dives and it’s just a great sport to be around,” he said.

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Maciel at 613-217-2526 or via email andrewnevesmaciel@yahoo.com. He’s also on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

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Athletes of Kingston: Matt Brash

Matt Brash, only the second baseball player from Kingston to be drafted by a major league baseball club, is enjoying his first season of professional baseball.

A dominant pitcher for the Kingston Thunder and Bayridge Secondary School, Brash, six-foot-one and 170 lbs., grew up only a long throw from Woodbine Park in Kingston’s west end where he honed his craft to a point now where he can throw a baseball over 95 miles an hour. He’s also developed a slider, change up and curve ball.

On June 4 Brash, 21, was selected in the fourth round, 113th overall, in the Major League Baseball Amateur draft.

He’s only the second Kingston baseball player to be drafted by a major league team. The Montreal Expos in the 41st round drafted Johnny Mazzeo, also a pitcher, in 1999.

Only a few days after getting drafted Brash got to experience a brief moment of life in the major leagues when he and the other top three Padres drafts picks got to throw out the first pitch before a game at Petco Park in San Diego.

“It’s pretty exciting.” Brash said in an interview with the Whig-Standard the day he was drafted. “I couldn’t be happier.”

Photo Credit: Ian MacAlpine

Brash was hoping the Padres would select him after a mound session in front of scouts and coaches at Petco Park a week before the draft.

“I really liked all the people there and everybody was super friendly and I was kind of hoping they’d pick me and they did so I couldn’t be happier about it,” he said.

Brash has been working hard on his craft this summer in the heat of the Arizona desert and in Fort Wayne, Indiana pitching for the Class A TinCaps.

After reporting to the Padres Instructional League team in Arizona in mid-June Brash was quickly called up to the TinCaps where he posted some good numbers in his brief stint with the club. Brash gave up just three hits in 4.1 innings of work (.188 opponent batting average), all in relief while striking out six batters. His WHIP (walks & hits per inning pitched) was 0.69 and he didn’t walk a batter. His earned run average was a slim 2.08.

Brash was sent back to the Padres Instructional League team in mid-July ostensibly to rest his right arm after a busy spring with his NCAA team, the Niagara Purple Eagles.

Brash finished the 2019 college season with a record of 4-5 and a 2.43 ERA for Niagara. He was also recently named the pitcher of the year in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference and a first-team league all-star.

“I’m definitely taking care of my arm and just making sure I’m healthy and getting stronger right now,” he said in a recent interview. “I’ve pitched over 100 innings this year so they don’t like us to go over that so I’m shut down at the moment.”

“I’m sure I’ll be throwing again here soon but I’m not going to be logging big innings obviously but I’m looking forward to getting back on the mound.”

Kingston’s Matt Brash pitches during the 2019 season for the Niagara University Purple Eagles. He was recently named the Pitcher of the Year in the NCAA’s Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference.
Photo Credit: Niagara University

Brash said he’s fine with that as long as he’s getting stronger and improving.

“They’re saying they like my stuff and I don’t have to change too much which is nice.”

Brash hopes to move up in the Padres system next year but at this point doesn’t know what level he’ll be playing in the 2020 season.

“I know they like my stuff and I know if I keep getting stronger, better and add more miles to my fastball I think I’ll be moving up next year.”

Brash said he wouldn’t be in the position he’s in if it weren’t for the support of his family – dad Jamie, mother Sandra and sister Carlye – as well as the Kingston community including coach Randy Casford and the Casford family along with his coaches at Niagara.

“They gave me an opportunity to expand my game and there was never a doubt in my mind of their belief in my ability.”

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Athletes of Kingston: Ali ten Hove

When Kingston’s Ali ten Hove takes to the water in early August with sailing partner and crew Mariah Millen on their 49er FX sailboat at the Pan Am Games; she’s not only representing her country, she’s representing her city, the Kingston Yacht Club and everyone who supported her and her love of sailing along the way.

“I have traveled a lot with my sailing,” she said in an email exchange. “I have seen a lot of different yacht clubs and communities. I can honestly say that there is something so special and unique about Kingston and the sailing community here,  the unconditional support through highs and lows, the advice passed down from experienced members of the community, and the contagious love and passion for the sport of sailing. It is so special to be a part of such an amazing community, and I know that I would not be where I am today without their continued support.” 

ten Hove and Millen recently completed some training in San Francisco where the winds were very strong which are similar to the conditions they’ll experience in Paracas, Peru where the competition goes on from Aug 3 to Aug 10.

Although ten Hove feels healthy heading into the games Millen is nursing a sore back but ten Hove said they’re managing the injury and feeling strong leading up to the games. 

The challenge that ten Hove and Millen face at the Pan Ams is not only attempting to place high at the games but they need a result which will qualify the country for the sailing events at the 2020 Toyko Olympics. If they don’t make the grade at the Pan Ams they’ll have one last chance or at the 2019 Worlds in Auckland, New Zealand this December.

“Once the country is qualified – there will be a competition between the Canadian teams to see which team gets sent to Tokyo 2020,” she said. 

ten Hove and Millen have sailing in their blood

“Both our fathers competed in the Olympics,” she said. “They both crewed for skipper Frank McLaughlin. My father, Martin ten Hove, won a bronze medal in the 1983 Pan Am Games in Caracas, Venezuela. I hope to follow in his footsteps!” 

ten Hove, a graduate of Kingston Collegiate and has an engineering degree from Queen’s University, enjoys competing with Millen in their quick boat.

“The speed of the boat is amazing,” ten Hove said. “Reaching top speeds of 25 knots [over 45 km/h land speed]. “It is a very physical boat – and the harder you work the faster you will go,” she said.  “I always tell people that there is never a bad day when racing 49er’s. You are always going super fast and having such a great time.” 

Ali ten Hove and Robert Davis | Photo Credit: Ian MacAlpine

Shortly before leaving for the games the Kingston Yacht Club held a community send-off for her and Laser sailor Robert Davis which was attended by about 50 people and former Kingston Pan Am and Olympic sailors wish the local sailors good luck at the games.

“I take a lot of pride in representing Kingston as well as my home club KYC at each competition and in each country I visit.” ten Hove said. “I hope my Olympic pursuit doesn’t just bring me closer to the Games, but brings the community closer as well. I hope everyone can feel apart of my journey.” 

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KINGSTON LIVE, EPISODE 8: A SUMMARY

Kingston Live is a monthly podcast that offers up behind-the-scenes insight into the Kingston music scene. If you’re looking to learn more about the city’s emerging artists and where to see them play live, you’ll find it here! If you’re a resident music lover or visitor looking for the inside scoop on Kingston’s local music scene, it’s a perfect fit for you, too.

Kasador

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Originating in 2015 Queen’s University, Kasador wears the label “Kingston band” well with family connections to The Hip and a history of performing all over the limestone city. Cam Wyatt and Boris Baker discuss the making of their first full-length album including the logistics, the inspiration, the creator behind the artwork and more (it’s releasing in September right before Rocking the Big House at the Kingston Pen), plans for their current tour out west and the importance of radio-play in a time of streaming. Listeners will also get a chance to listen to a single from the album, Brood and Bloom.

Grand OnStage

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John and Riley go on location to the Grand Theatre to chat with Program Manager, Jayson Duggan. They discuss the history of one of Kingston’s most historical and prettiest live venues, its beaming reputation with artists, their favourite Grand Theatre memories, and the plans for the upcoming season Grand OnStage programming which includes a variety of performances at every price point. Find out who you can look forward to seeing perform at The Grand and learn about the perks of subscribing to the program. 

Mid-show, Johnny and Riley follow the tradition of listing every show worth attending in the Kingston area from now until September. 

Firebird Sessions

Speaking of shows happening this summer in Kingston, their next guest is Selina Chiarelli, the founder and host of Firebird Sessions at Musiikki Café, which showcases female jazz musicians. Selina calls it a “Female Forward Jazz Jam,” explaining “as artists, women are encouraged to explore where we want to go, what we want to express and how we want to do that. By taking ownership of our own expression, we’re releasing ourselves from unspoken factors that hold us back or constrain us to certain aesthetics.” She adds, “I’ve spent a lot of my life feeling like I have to sound a certain way, choose a certain repertoire.” And, “It’s really about sloughing off those restrictions that are imposed on us and trying to find a space where we can get funky with it.” Selina touches on how Firebird Sessions originated, its importance and highlights upcoming performers.

Look out for new podcasts every month to stay up to date on the Kingston music scene! The Kingston Live podcast is syndicated to all major podcast platforms. Find them wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to subscribe: Soundcloud, Spotify, iTunes, TuneIn and Stitcher. They also air on Wolfe Island Radio on Tuesday and Thursdays! You can also follow them on Instagram. 

Missed episode 7? Catch the recap here.

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9 Festivals to Hit This August 2019 in Kingston

Four music festivals keep the rhythm alive this month, while the Princess Street Promenade, Kingston Women’s Art Festival, and The Kick & Push Festival make their return.

 

Photo via The Kick and Push Festival Facebook

The Kick & Push Festival

Until Sunday, August 11, 2019

Downtown

Back for its fifth year, this unconventional theatre fest features award-winning Canadian and international works across eight downtown venues. The point is to challenge what theatre is or could be, so don’t be surprised if your seat isn’t in an auditorium. Take “Tales of an Urban Indian” for instance (pictured), the story of an Indigenous man who grows up on the reserve in British Columbia and in Vancouver. It’s staged on a moving city bus that visits locations matching those of the play’s plot. 

Prices vary

Princess Street Promenade

Saturday, August 3, 2019, 10 am – 5 pm

Princess Street

Kingston’s main drag will be closed to traffic between Ontario and Division Streets once again this August for this bi-annual street fest. Local businesses, community groups, and restaurants will replace all of those wheels with activities that have, in the past, included everything from robot demonstrations to a climbing wall to pop-up food events. 

Free

Photo via Wolfe Island Music Festival Facebook

Wolfe Island Music Festival

Friday, August 9 – Saturday, August 10, 2019

St. Margaret’s Hall, Wolfe Island

Wolfe Island’s yearly indie music fest is heading completely inside this year. “It is going to be a hall party!” says the festival’s artistic director Virginia Clark. “Lots of fun and super intimate with a great mix of local artists with some Canadian legends.” The Sadies (pictured), NQ Arbuckle, and Emilie Steele will be there on Friday, while on Saturday the lineup includes Born Ruffians, Ice Cream, Charlotte Cornfield, and Jim Bryson. Local food vendors will be there too, as will MacKinnon Brothers Brewing, Collective Arts Brewing, Oasis Juices, and Top Shelf Distillers. 

$40 – $65

Photo via Little Caesar Press

Emerald Music Festival

Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11, 2019

Amherst Island

The other island-based music festival this month happens on Amherst Island on a 100-acre beef farm facing Lake Ontario. Expect a range of musical styles at this one, including country, Celtic, bluegrass, and 50s rock ‘n’ roll. Sixteen bands will take to the stage over the three days, including Saturday’s headliner Little Caesar & The Consuls (pictured), a rock ‘n’ roll dance band that once included Robbie Robertson and, decades ago, shared the stage with The Beach Boys and The Rolling Stones.  

$15 – $50 

Photo via Flickr CC

Kingston Sheep Dog Trials Festival

Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11, 2019

Grass Creek Park

More than 7,000 people are expected at this three-day sheep corralling competition that attracts visitors and handlers from all over the globe. Dock Dogs Worldwide and Kingston Police’s K-9 team will be there to perform, too. Plus, bring your own dog to the trials, and let them loose on the canine adventure lure course and in the doggie playzone. There will be a marketplace onsite as well, where you can pick up anything your furry friends might need. 

$8 – $15/day

Photo via Downtown Kingston Facebook

1000 Islands Poker Run

Friday, August 16 – Saturday, August 17, 2019

Confederation Basin

More than 80 powerboats from across North America will be on Kingston’s waterfront this August. Get up close to them at the docks on Friday night while enjoying the live music, and then head back on Saturday for the big race. The boats will take off at 10 am, dashing to five checkpoints throughout the 1000 Islands where drivers draw a playing card at each. The object is to have the best poker hand at the end of the run. Saturday night’s festivities will include more live music in Confederation Park.

 

Photo via MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Facebook

Back to the Farm Beer and Music Festival

Sunday, August 18, 2019, 11 am – 10 pm

MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company, Bath

This big ol’ field party is back for its fifth year at the MacKinnon bros’ brewery just outside of Bath. The live music is the big draw, which this year includes rockers The Beaches, Fast Romantics, Brother Elsey, Chris Koster, and eight other acts. But there will also be lots of craft beer of course, plus food trucks, brewery tours, and games for kids and adults (giant Jenga, anyone?). Check the website for the shuttle bus details from Kingston. 

$30

Photo via Kingston Women’s Art Festival

Kingston Women’s Art Festival

Sunday, August 18, 2019, 10 am – 5 pm 

City Park

What started in the late 1970s as a small fest with about 50 artists has grown into one of the biggest art fests of the year in the city. It now features over 200 female artists working in everything from sculpture to photography, a full day of music and dance, a silent auction, a children’s activity area, local food vendors, and over 4,000 visitors. After expenses, all monies raised are donated to organizations that support women and children who live in Kingston and the surrounding area. 

Free

Limestone City Blues Festival

Thursday, August 22 – Sunday, August 25, 2019

Downtown

Over 100 hours of live blues music will be pulsating from downtown parks, clubs, and street stages once again. The big headliners this year include New Orleans-born Kenny Neal (pictured), who recently won the Contemporary Male Blues Artist of the Year Award at the Blues Music Awards (Saturday, Springer Market Square); Kansas City’s Danielle Nicole, who won the Contemporary Female Blues Artist of the Year Award at this year’s Blues Music Awards (Friday, Princess Street Stage); and Australia’s Lachy Doley, who’s been called the “Jimi Hendrix of the Hammond Organ” (Thursday, Confederation Park).  

$20/all-access bracelet 

Clear some space this month for Kingston concerts!

10 Can’t-Miss Concerts this August 2019 in Kingston

 

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10 Can’t-Miss Concerts in Kingston August 2019

With four music festivals, a free concert from Moist, and a handful of smaller gigs from the likes of Deux Trois and others, August will be a great month for live music in Kingston. Here are 10 shows to get you started. 

Photo via Soloman Woodland Facebook

Soloman Woodland

Thursday, August 1, 2019, 9 pm

The Merchant Tap House

The frontman of local rock band Kings of the Cold takes it down a notch at these weekly Thursday night gigs, preferring to show off his singer-songwriter chops. Typically armed with just an acoustic guitar and his gravelly voice, Woodland plays his own original music, but also covers artists like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Steve Earl, The Tragically Hip, and The White Stripes. 

Free

Photo via Moist Facebook

Moist

Friday, August 2, 2019, 8 pm

Springer Market Square

This annual free concert will be headlined by legendary Canadian rock band Moist, who have reunited this summer to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their breakthrough — and four-time platinum — album “Silver”. Singer David Usher, guitarist Mark Makoway, keyboardist Kevin Young, and bassist Jeff Pearce all spent some time living in Kingston, so this should be a homecoming of sorts. Kingston indie rockers Paper Ladies will open.  

Free

Photo via Clem Chesterfield Facebook

Clem Chesterfield & The LA-Z Boy Recliners

Friday, August 2, 2019, 10:30 pm

The Toucan

Country music has a long of history of comedy and irreverence, and Kingston’s Clem Chesterfield fits right in with his brand of old-time country and western music. Clem sings and plays acoustic guitar, and is accompanied by bass, drums, fiddle, mandolin, and sometimes electric guitar. Some songs are originals, some are covers of Hank Williams, Merle Haggard, Neil Yong, and others. As Clem says: “I tip my dusty ol’ hat to cowboys and rebels and everyone that might be an outlaw by nature.”

Free

NQ Arbuckle (Wolfe Island Music Festival)

Friday, August 9, 2019

St. Margaret’s Hall, Wolfe Island

With bands like Born Ruffians and The Sadies playing Wolfe Island Music Fest this year, it’s tough to pick a favourite. But I have to go with this multiple Juno-nominated alt-country outfit, a five-piece that’s played some legendary shows at The Grad Club and elsewhere in Kingston over the years. Don’t be surprised to lose your voice at this one as you sing along with Neville Quinlan’s self-deprecating, booze-filled tunes of small towns, heartbreak, and history. 

$40 (includes NQ Arbuckle, The Sadies, and Emilie Steele)

Little Caesar & The Consuls (Emerald Music Festival)

Saturday, August 10, 2019

Amherst Island

Sixteen bands will take to the stage over the three days of this annual music fest, but the biggest draw will likely be Saturday’s headliner, Little Caesar & The Consuls. Formed in 1956 and once including a young Robbie Robertson, the group is now Canada’s oldest rock ‘n’ roll dance band. In the 1960s, they recorded multiple hits, including “Hang on Sloopy” (#1 in Canada and Top 50 in the U.S.), and shared the stage with The Beach Boys and The Rolling Stones. 

$30/Saturday pass

Photo via The Lucky Ones Facebook

The Lucky Ones

Monday, August 12, 2019, 4 pm

Musiikki Café

It can’t be easy being in a band made up of members dispersed across the Yukon, but this country-roots outfit definitely makes it work. Straddling traditional and contemporary roots influences, their music is, as they say, “reminiscent of old-time dances in hotel taverns and barrooms, barns, kitchens, and saloons.” Think guitars, mandolin, double bass, fiddle, and banjo.  

Pay what you can

Photo via Deux Trois Facebook

Deux Trois

Friday, August 16, 2019, 8 pm

The Mansion

It’s tough to put this Kingston pop fourpiece in a category, but they describe themselves as post-punk and new wave, concept-heavy and post-classic rock. However you categorize them, expect dark pop, driving rhythms, and heavy guitar — an overall heart- and fist-pumping experience. Ottawa lo-fi experimental band Empty Nesters plays this show too, as does Kingston indie rockers Emilie Steele & The Deal.   

$10

Photo via The Beaches Facebook

The Beaches (Back to the Farm Beer and Music Festival)

Sunday, August 18, 2019

MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company, Bath

Toronto’s alt-rock, all-girl band The Beaches headline the MacKinnon Bros’ annual field party this year. Fresh off their 2018 Juno win for Breakthrough Group of the Year, the band has been spending the summer in the U.S. touring with Passion Pit. With danceable beats, glam- and garage-rock influences, and killer guitar riffs, they should be the perfect end to this all-day music fest.

$30 (includes 11 other bands)    

Photo via Danielle Nicole Facebook

Danielle Nicole (Limestone City Blues Festival)

Friday, August 23, 2019, 8 pm

Princess Street at Barrie Street

Kansas City’s Danielle Nicole will headline the Princess Street Stage at this year’s Blues Fest. In May, the singer and bass player took home two pieces of hardware at the Blues Music Awards — Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year and Instrumentalist-Bass — so look forward to a true professional pushing the boundaries of blues music. As she says: “I grew up playing the blues, and the blues is still a big part of what I do. But now I’m reaching out more and trying different things.”  

$20 (includes all blues fest shows)

Photo via Kenny Neal Facebook

Kenny Neal (Limestone City Blues Festival)

Saturday, August 24, 2019, 9 pm

Springer Market Square

Saturday’s Blues Fest headliner is the legendary New Orleans-born Kenny Neal, who was nominated for a Grammy in 2017 and was named Contemporary Male Blues Artist of the Year at this year’s Blues Music Awards. Known as a modern swamp-blues and multi-instrumentalist master, Neal draws heavily from the sizzling sounds of his native Louisiana. He knows those sounds well, having played in his first band at age 13 and, at 17, landing a job playing bass for Buddy Guy.      

$20 (includes all blues fest shows)

Get the inside scoop on Kingston’s live music scene and check out the latest music festivals and events on our music site.

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Kingston Live, Episode 7: A Summary

Kingston Live is a monthly podcast that offers up behind-the-scenes insight into the Kingston music scene. If you’re looking to learn more about the city’s emerging artists and where to see them play live, you’ll find it here! If you’re a resident music lover or visitor looking for the inside scoop on Kingston’s local music scene, it’s a perfect fit for you, too.

Johnny and Riley kick off this week’s episode discussing their personal highlights from the YGK Beer Festival before moving into a conversation with local musicians Ben and Nadia of Deux Trois about their debut album, Health. Then Johnny and the show’s writer, Pete, learn about the logistics of running an instrumental lending library from the President of Joe’s M.I.L.L (Kingston’s Musical Instrument Lending Library).

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzYQXUJAEc6/

The members of Deux Trois come from a mix of musical history in Kingston – from Nadia Pacey’s solo electronic project Konig to bands like Warmer, Carvings, and PS I Love You. Nadia and Ben of Deux Trois discuss the making of their debut album, Health. Nadia touches on how it was influenced from the bandmate’s different styles—post-punk, indie rock and punk – a mixture of what they all love. Nadia also talks about what it was like working with local producer, Matt Rogalski. Both Ben and Nadia discuss the concepts for their music videos and how the use of visual artistry in the music industry has changed due to accessibility of technology. And like many local artists on this podcast, Nadia praises Kingston for its unique music scene, she says, “Kingston sits in this perfect place between cities. You get this influence; like a cloud sitting over it. It’s a little bit grey. You feel like an outsider looking in, because you’re not in a large hub. But you’re not in a tiny town either.” They cap off their interview by premiering their new single, Good News, for your listening pleasure.

Mid-show, Johnny and Riley follow the tradition of listing every show worth attending in the Kingston area from now until the end of summer. Very key if you’re looking to fill the rest of your summer with the best memories!

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Johnny takes on the second interview with the show’s writer and his brother, Pete. They two sit down with the President of Joe’s M.I.L.L (Kingston’s Musical Instrument Lending Library) Terry Schneider and Chris Morris Festival co-ordinator of Homegrown Live (which raises money for Joe’s M.I.L.L) . The lending library makes instruments accessible to all musicians. And it’s the first of its kind. They have more than 1100 items available from woodwind instruments, brass and percussion to guitars and keyboards. Terry and Chris share how Joe’s M.I.L.L began and discuss the logistics of offering such an incredible service to the community. They started with 450 loans a year 11 years ago and they now lend out 6000 times a year – pretty amazing! They also share how you can take out your very own instrument if you’re wanting to experiment.

Look out for new podcasts every month to stay up to date on the Kingston music scene! The Kingston Live podcast is syndicated to all major podcast platforms. Find them wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to subscribe: Soundcloud, Spotify, iTunes, TuneIn and Stitcher. You can also follow them on Instagram.

Missed episode 6? Catch the recap here.

Episode 6: A Summary

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Where’s the WiFi? Awesome Kingston Restaurants with Internet Access

In the age of connection, the saying “home is where the WiFi is” has never been more accurate. But let’s be real, we all want to stay connected beyond our homes. Usually, a restaurant with WiFi brings to mind cafes with students taking up all the tables; but not in Kingston. It’s easy to share our Limestone City’s world-class cuisine with your entire network. 

Some people say you should just live in the moment, and we’re not denying that! But, it’s nice to know you won’t get fifty dollar data charges every time you head out for a delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for casual pub food or fine dining, we rounded up some of the top spots in Kingston that offer WiFi! 

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Geneva Crepe Cafe

297 Princess Street

Crêpes and WiFi? It’s the pair we didn’t know we were missing. Locally owned, this Kingston favourite serves their legendary crêpes made with local ingredients and seasonal produce to a loving fanbase. Head here for an intimate cafe experience with a huge menu. From Tuscany, Bombay, and smoked salmon crêpes, to Canadian waffles and White Pecan lattes—there is something for everyone here. 

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AquaTerra

1 Johnson Street 

With a view and food this beautiful, you can’t help but share it. Send those snaps of your locally sourced Ontario Beef Tenderloin, Ceviche Tostadas, or Cauliflower Steak with the lake as the backdrop without worrying about data charges. All guests of AquaTerra, The Vu lounge, and the Delta Hotel can enjoy WiFi on the house. Plus, with the Chef’s Test Kitchen Menu, creating and testing new dishes every day, you’ll have plenty of reasons to head back here. 

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River Mill Restaurant 

2 Cataraqui Street

Sitting on the shore of the Cataraqui River is the River Mill, one of Kingston’s finest dining experiences. The beautiful heritage building is anything but dated, offering an innovative menu featuring fresh and local produce with dishes like Buffalo Mozzarella Panzanella Salad, House-Made Ricotta Gnocchi, local Wagyu Beef Burger and more. Combine that with the modern decor, excellent wine service, friendly staff, and free WiFi and you’re in for a meal to remember! 

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Dianne’s Fish Shack & Smokehouse

195 Ontario Street 

Dianne’s uses four words to sum up their popular waterfront East Coast/Mexican restaurant: surf, turf, tacos, and tequila! Another one we’re throwing in there? WiFi (duh). Dive into their fish n’ chips, oysters, Mexican BBQ, grilled steaks and more for a Mexican fiesta without ever needing to disconnect.

 

 

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Tango Nuevo

331 King Street East 

Tango is known for its innovative tapas, amazing atmosphere, and delicious wine list. And it’s only fitting that they would have WiFi for you to stay connected as their entire menu is centred around Tapas, a style of dining designed to encourage conversation! Share some Tuna Poke Nachos, Kumpir, Grilled Octopus Pintxo with your friends at the restaurant while staying connected to the ones at home! 

 

Flavours of India

461 Princess Street 

Flavours of India is a must-visit in Kingston. With Head Chef Mainul Chowdhury (from Curry Original) combining fresh ingredients with the perfect balance of spices and flavours, you can’t go wrong with any dish here. Try out a Korma, a spicy Vindaloo, a Biriyani and more! And if you order too much? Just use their complimentary WiFi and message a friend to come to join you and share in the feast! 

Looking for a dish worthy of your Instagram feed? Look no further.

Where to Find the 8 Most Instagrammable Foods in Kingston

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25 things to do in Kingston in September 2019

It might be September but the days are just as warm as they were last month, and our line up of events is just as hot. Clear your calendar for the Multicultural Arts Festival’s 10th-anniversary celebration, Kingston WritersFest, the 6th Annual Kingston Family Fun Fest, and arguably the concert of the year — Rockin’ the Big House featuring some of Canada’s favourite artists.

Do you have a Kingston event you’d like featured on our monthly list? Add it to our events calendar for consideration!

 

1. Billy Bridger Lunch Cruise — September 3, 2019

1. Billy Bridger Lunch Cruise: 1000 Islands Cruises - September 3, 2019


2. Guided Fishing Tours — September 6–8, 13–15, 20–22, 27–29, 2019

2. Guided Fishing Tours: Blue Rock Charters - September 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29, 2019


3. Kingston Ribfest & Craft Beer Show — September 6-8, 2019

3. Kingston RibFest + Craft Beer Show - Memorial Centre September 6-8, 2019


4. Kingston Multicultural Arts Festival’s 10th Anniversary — September 8, 2019

4. Multicultural Arts Festival 10th Anniversary: Confederation Park - September 8, 2019


5. The 6th Annual Kingston Family Fun Fest — September 8, 2019

5. 6th Annual Kingston Family Fun Fest: CBF Kingston - September 8, 2019


6. 13th Annual Limestone Century Bicycle Tour — September 8, 2019

6. 13th Annual Limestone Century Bicycle Tour: Portsmouth Village - September 8, 2019


7. Ontario Street: Brewers, Bakers, and Boilermakers 1830–1970 a PumpHouse Museum Exhibit on all month long

7. Ontario Street: Brewers, Bakers, and Boilermakers, 1830-1970: Pumphouse Museum - Exhibit on all month long


8. YGK Emerging Musician Competition Showcase Concert at The Isabel — September 20, 2019

8. Get Rhythm: Johnny Cash & June Carter Lunch & Dinner Cruise: 1000 Islands Cruises - September 10, 2019


9. Kingston Fall Fair — September 12-15, 2019

9. Kingston Fall Fair: Memorial Centre - September 12-15, 2019


10. Rembrandt Exhibit an Agnes Etherington Art Centre Exhibit on all month long

10. Rembrandt Exhibit: Agnes Etherington Art Centre - Exhibit on all month long


11. Rockin’ the Big House at Kingston Penitentiary — September 14, 2019

11. Rockin' the big house: Kingston Penitentiary - September 14, 2019


12. Queen’s Football Game — September 14, 2019

12. Queen's Football Game: Queen's University - September 14, 2019


13. Thousand Islands Gran Fondo — September 15, 2019

13. Thousand Islands Gran Fondo: Douglas Fluhrer Park- September 15, 2019


14. Kingston Poutine Feast City Park September 19–22, 2019

14. Kingston Poutine Feast: City Park - September 19-22, 2019


15. Limestone City Beard and Moustache Competition Lakeshore West Lions Club September 20–22, 2019

15. Limestone City Beard and Moustache Competition: Lakeshore West Lions Club - September 20-22, 2019


16. 2019 Fall Regatta Portsmouth Olympic Harbour September 20–22, 2019

16. 2019 Fall Regatta: Portsmouth Olympic Harbor - September 20-22, 2019


17. Beer and Bites Food Tour Downtown Kingston Sundays

17. Beer and Bites Food Tour: Downtown Kingston - Sundays


18. The Glorious Sons Live Richardson Stadium September 21, 2019

18. The Glorious Sons Live Richardson Stadium - September 21, 2019


19. Kingston WritersFest Downtown Kingston September 25–29, 2019

19. Kingston Writersfest: Downtown Kingston September 25-29, 2019


20. Canadian Society of Decorative Arts Symposium: Decorative Arts in Kingston — September 26–29, 2019

20. Trends and Traditions: Decorative Arts in Kingston - Various Locations September 26-29, 2019


21. Culture Days 2019 — September 27-29, 2019

21. Culture Days 2019: The Tett Centre - September 27-29, 2019


22. Fall Art After Dark — September 27, 2019

22. Fall Art After Dark 2019: Downtown Kingston - September 27, 2019


23. Afternoon Tea at AquaTerra all month long

23. Afternoon Tea: Aquaterra - All month long


24. Oh Solo Wainwright: An Evening with Rufus at the Grand Theatre — September 28, 2019

24. Oh Solo Wainwright: An Evening With Rufus - The Grand Theatre September 28, 2019


25. Fall Princess Street Promenade — September 28, 2019

25. Fall Princess Street Promenade: Downtown Kingston - September 28, 2019

Events Just In

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A guide to beers and bands in the Limestone City

Kingston can’t always decide if it’s a city for beers or bands—truth is, it’s both.

The street signs tick off pubs and bars, crammed with regional beers, and play host to the musical acts rocking the city’s weekends. For beer connoisseurs doubling as music fans, there’s no better town for a pub crawl and a sampling of the city’s music offerings. Here’s a list of signature local drinks to kick off your musical journey and pub crawl in the Limestone City.

Skeleton Park Amber at the Merchant Tap House

 

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By the waterfront, there’s the Merchant Tap House, a classic lamplight pub with dark, lacquered floors. The house stage in the corner was a launching pad for luminaries like The Glorious Sons, who cut their teeth honing their timeless sound in the pub.

It’s best to start the night right with a Skeleton Park Amber. The titular brewing company’s signature beer, a pint of Skeleton Park is hoppy, caramel chaser and a perfect introduction to bar-hopping live stages in the city.

MacKinnon Brothers Crosscut at The Toucan

 

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A weathered staple, The Toucan’s famous for two things: pints of Guinness and the stage near the back. The latter is where student bands aim when they want to reach the city’s long-term residents; the former is what brings the crowd, in addition to seeing fresh musical talent, of course. However, Kingston’s breweries stack-up against any import.

For example, local brewer MacKinnon Brothers Crosscut is darker than most lagers, slipping past dad-beer status to reveal a more refined taste than you initially bargained for. What better way to celebrate a stalwart stage that continues to serve musical surprises while keeping a loyal base of music fans. It’s a community, music, and a brewery’s best all in a single bar.

Waupoos Cider at Musiikki Café

 

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Musiikki Café, meanwhile, is less bar, more experience. There are old books on the shelf, a stage buried in its storefront window, and a face-to-face intimacy that means a change of pace. Its open mic nights are famous and host next to every genre, from folk to jazz. It’s a cultural nerve centre. And, whether it’s a professional or an amateur on stage, it can be a spell-binding experience.

At the bar, it’s a chance to sample Waupoos Cider from the County Cider Company, which is a short drive south of the city in Prince Edward County. It’s crisp, light, refreshing and matches the energy on stage.

Sam Roberts Band Ale at The Mansion

 

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The Mansion is a crossroads for a city that blends together styles and genres to create something unique to itself.

Students mill around with long-term residents; emerging artists open for touring acts on their from Montreal to Toronto and multiple rooms cater to a town that fell in love with its bands. Close-off your night catching a headliner at this landmark establishment, and then grab a Kingstonian tribute to a Canadian musical icon.

Celebrate future Juno winners taking the stage with a collaboration between Sam Roberts Band and Kingston’s Spearhead Breweries. The Sam Roberts Band Ale is a combination of American and British ales and a much-needed, hop-filled conclusion to any musical tour of the city.

There’s nothing more complementary to watching a local band on stage than a pint from a local brewery.

Get the inside scoop on Kingston’s live music scene and check out the latest music festivals and events on our music site.

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Kingston Pride: A Growing Celebration of Inclusion

2019 marked the 30th anniversary of the Kingston Pride festival and this year’s theme—Remember the Past, Create the Future—celebrated its legacy with record-breaking attendance.

KPI chair Ruth Wood in rainbow dress in yellow convertible
Photo by Mary Ann Wamboldt

From its humble and stressful beginnings as a ‘sidewalk stroll’ in 1989 (they couldn’t get a parade permit) to this year’s parade of over 450 people, Kingston Pride has come a long way in 30 years. Ruth Wood—who’s served as chair of the board for 2 years now—spoke to a community member who was at the first Kingston Pride. “They said it was a very small group of people quite nervous, kind of rushing down the sidewalk.”

People marching in the parade
Photo by Mary Ann Wamboldt

Wood says the festival continues to grow each year: “We have more involvement from the Kingston community, people who support us in a number of ways, and the growing level of acceptance makes us [the LGBTQ2S+ community] more of an entity to the wider community.” She continues, “it’s become more attractive to people visiting Kingston from other places.”

Though the festival has grown, it’s not as wild as pride celebrations in larger cities which gives it a uniquely grassroots vibe. “It’s a different experience,” says Wood. “It’s smaller so it’s not as crowded and the parade doesn’t take as long to go by.” Wood encourages people from other cities to attend Kingston Pride for its friendliness: “When you visit Kingston for Pride, you’re coming into an area where people will welcome you.”

In no way does this mean the celebration is dialled back, as even the Mayor was in attendance to re-sign the Kingston Pride Month Proclamation. “It’s wonderful to be in a large group of people walking down Princess Street.” Wood Continues, “it grows every year: more floats, more people watching the parade go by, cheering us on—just a lot of fun.”

From left to right; Treasurer Anne-Marie Kooiman, Chair Ruth Wood, and 2019 Festival Director Ted Robinson. Photo by Wihse Green, Green Touch Photography.

There’s also the community fair where various organizations and vendors set up booths on the Saturday in Confederation Basin. Treasurer Anne-Marie Kooiman says, “seeing the influx of happy people, proudly bringing their colours into the park and the general positivity this creates is an amazing experience.”

Two women holding signs at the community fair
Photo by Mary Ann Wamboldt

The festival is organized annually by Kingston Pride Inc. (KPI), a not-for-profit organization that is governed by a volunteer board of directors, currently with 6 members. The board is responsible for the orchestration of the parade and community fair, but other members of the community contribute events to the schedule as well. Kooiman says it’s no small task: “It takes a full year to plan and work up to the festivities.”

A pride flag is hoisted up on a fire truck ladder in at city hall
Photos by Mary Ann Wamboldt

Wood says, “the festival is wide-open to anyone who wants to be there.” Inclusivity is always a key factor for any pride event, so it’s important to the board as much as possible to have a wide variety of events in physically accessible spaces. They also make sure to feature events with and without alcohol in order to include people of all ages in the festival.

Portrait of a young woman in rainbow tie-dye and suspenders
Photo by Mary Ann Wamboldt

“Kingston Pride is a focal point for the [LGBTQ2S+] community,” says Wood. “We don’t speak for the whole community—it’s extremely diverse—but we try to be there and advocate for everybody in the community.” There is room on the board for up to 10 people, and members change often, so the board encourages people who are interested in helping with next year’s festival to register to volunteer at kingstonpride.ca.

The board’s vision for the future is to continue to improve the festival to better reflect the diversity of Kingston’s LGBTQ2S+ community. “We hope to engage with our local indigenous communities to strengthen our ties and recognize the contributions of two-spirited people,” says Kooiman.