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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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 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!
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
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!”
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.”
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.
Kingston is in full bloom this month with an abundance of events happening in the city. From the Juvenis Festival to a great lineup of concerts to seasonal museums opening in Kingston – there’s something fun to bring anyone out of their winter hibernation.
Theatre + Live Performances
1. Don’t miss out on initially/(un)conditionally, a performance presented by Blue Canoe Theatrical Productions Inc. as part of The Juvenis Festival. (May 1) 2. Based on the classic 1989 film, Blue Canoe Theatrical Productions and Reelout Arts Project are putting on a performance of Heathers – The Musical as part of the Juvenis Festival. Catch one of their shows this month at The Grand Theatre. (May 3 – 8) 3. [title of show] is an off-broadway hit, telling the story of two struggling writers trying to get their big break. Performed as part of the Juvenis Festival, don’t miss this performance at the Tett Centre. (May 4 – 7) 4. The Poetry Show at Café Church is a night to share your own poetry and other written pieces, as well as enjoy a performance from award-winning slam poet Andre Prefontaine. (May 5) 5. Follow the action of The Sam Shepard Series at the Kingston Community House. Performers move from room to room with the audience in tow for a performance full of drama and twists. (May 7 & 8)
Concerts + Music
7. On Friday Nights, Tir Nan Og is home to live jazz music with The 20th Century Band. Come down and join in on a great night of music! (every Friday) 8. Come to St. George’s Cathedral to see Music with H’art, performed by Melos Choir & Period Instruments. (May 1) 10. The Scott Woods Band is one of Canada’s top talents, and the best fiddling show you’ll ever see. Two hours of old-time fiddling, country gospel songs, perennial favourites, and a few laughs will make for an unforgettable evening at the Grand Theatre. (May 4) 11. There’s not much that’s out of reach for the Encore Saxophone Quartet to cover, ranging from Baroque to Bieber. Check out their performance at the RCHA Club as part of the Juvenis Festival. (May 5) 12. Paul Langlois of The Tragically Hip and recording artist Emily Fennell are judging the Battle of the Bands as part of the Juvenis Festival! Head to the Ale House and Canteen to support some young, local talent. (May 6) 13. The Isabel hosts Orchestra Kingston with Canta Arya for an evening of Bach, Rossini, Mascagni, John Burge, Clifford Crawley, and John Palmer. The latter three are Kingston natives, so come indulge in some international classics, as well as some of Kingston’s own incredible talent. (May 7) 16. Allison Brown will be performing at Musiikki Café this month! (May 12) 17. The Rankin Gallery is hosting the Trio Balkan Springs this month, performing a fusion of Balkan music. (May 12) 18. Award-winning organist David Gray will be performing at the Kingston Korean Church this month. (May 13) 20. The Live Wire Series will be presenting Shari Ulrich with Karen Savoca, performing this month at Octave Theatre. (May 14)
Festivals + Events
23. Commemorate those who were lost at sea during the Battle of the Atlantic in WWII. Join Canada’s naval community at the Navy Memorial Park to pay your respects and learn something new about Canada’s war history. (May 1) 27. The Murney Tower National Historic Site of Canada was monumental in the mid-19th century to defend the Kingston and St. Lawrence region from an American invasion. Now, it’s a museum that you can tour and learn about the military history of Kingston. The museum will be opening for the season mid-May. 29. Head to the Alibi for a Pub Trivia Night, inspired by the Outlander series! (May 16) 31. Head to the Central Branch of the Kingston Frontenac Public Library for a screening of Highlander as part of their Outlandish! program series. (May 30)
Community
32. Find a unique gift (or something for yourself!) at the Kingston Potters Guild Spring Show and Sale at the Tett. (May 1) 34. Support the Kingston Grandmother Connection at their Spring Fun Fair and Sale for Africa, just in time for Mothers’ Day! The organization cares for grandmothers who are raising orphaned grandchildren in the small country of Lesotho in southern Africa. (May 7) 35. Celebrate Victoria Day with food, fireworks, and music at Lake Ontario Park! (May 23) 36. Support the Kingston Boys & Girls Club by participating in the Capital One Race for Kids! Get a team together for a day of fun (and lots of awesome prizes!) for a great cause. (May 28)
Food + Drink
37. Love Scottish cuisine? Or maybe just keen to try something new? Join food historian Paul Fortier at Sir John’s Public House for a free haggis tasting and a history lesson to go with it. (May 19)
The Arts
38. Anyone between the ages of 13 and 30 can take place in this Poetry Writing Workshop at the Tett Centre. There’s limited spaces though, so sign up now because it’s sure to fill up! (May 1) 39. Come celebrate some talented young filmmakers at a Film Festival featuring short films made by members of the KFPL Central Branch Teen Advisory Group, along with other local youth. (May 3) 40. Kingston’s youth have been challenged to create short films in just 48 hours. Come check out what they created at the Rapid Reel Screening at Landmark Cinema! (May 4) 41. Life Drawing for All at the Tett with Tim Rosillo is a class for all levels of artistic experience. So whether you’re a seasoned sketcher, or just looking to try something new, drop in to this class for an evening of creative fun. (May 5) 43. Looking to improve your photography skills? Head to the Photo & Digital Media Convention at St. Lawrence College for classes and workshops, and meet people in the industry within Kingston. (May 12 & 13) 45. Take the Photography Intensive course at the Tett Centre to boost your skills (or learn where to start!) with your camera. The workshop will be a full day spent with two established photographers, and you’ll surely walk away feeling more confident and creative with your camera than ever before. (May 14) 46. Sign up for the Shaker Woodworking Skill Series at the MacLachlan Woodworking Museum. Over the course of 4 workshops, participants will learn new skills to create a shaker-inspired candle stand. (first workshop May 21) 47. Visit the Agnes Etherington Art Centre for Tour and Tea: New Men at the Agnes. Explore two new additions to the gallery, followed by tea in Etherington House. (May 25) 49. Already have a pretty good understanding of how your camera works, but can’t quite get that composition right? Join Mark Bergin and Suzy Lamont for Imagine: A Photographic Journey at the Tett Centre for a workshop that will leave you with a whole new perspective. (May 28) 50. The African Beat is an event being held at the Agnes Etherington Art Centre to celebrate African culture. This drop-in event will be a day of great food, music, and art-making, featuring a drumming workshop with Julian Gregory. (May 29)
Downtown Kingston! is excited to announce a new event and new festival concept to its roster. Pop-Up Country Kingston will ‘pop-up’ over the weekend of the sold-out Jason Aldean concert at the Rogers K-Rock Centre on Friday May 13th. This is inaugural ‘pop-up’ weekend – subsequent occasions will be built around either Rogers K-Rock Centre or Grand Theatre country concert announcements. Concert-goers will be greeted by enthusiastic Pop-Up Country Kingston volunteers as they leave the Jason Aldean concert, offering them free bracelets as admission to see great country bands in downtown bars and restaurants both May 13 and May 14. Free bracelets will also be available at each participating venue, both evenings. Favourites Ambush, The Abrams, Teagan McLaren, Andrew Mack Band, Little California, Rudy & Saddle Up, Amanda Sadler and more will be playing – keep an eye on Downtown Kingston’s website for ongoing updates to the listing and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Pop-Up Country Kingston is proudly presented by Country 93.5 and generously sponsored by Celebrate Ontario, Molson Coors, Tir nan Og, BluMartini, The Merchant Tap House, Sir John’s Public House, The Toucan, RCHA, Queen’s Inn and Dianne’s Fish Shack and Smokehouse. Pop-Up Country Kingston is produced by the Downtown Kingston! BIA. Downtown Kingston! BIA is an association comprised of, and funded by, 700+ downtown businesses. The association is dedicated to the maintenance and promotion of a vibrant and healthy downtown. For more information, you can contact Jan MacDonald at Downtown Kingston! BIA at 613.542.8677 or visit www.downtownkingston.ca.
It’s no secret that Kingston is brimming with some of the best culinary fare in the province – not just in terms of volume, but diversity. With so many enticing options (and with more and more popping up around the city), the hardest part is deciding on where to eat. Below are some of our favourites!
Dianne’s Fish Shack & Smokehouse
Mere steps from Kingston’s beautiful waterfront is Dianne’s – a classic East Coast kitchen fused with the flavours of Baja Mexico – that seafood lovers can’t ignore. And while the menu is abundant with crustaceans (think Lobster Rolls, Fish N’ Chips, and Oysters & Fish Chowder, among many others), Dianne’s also boasts an impressive lineup of delights for hardcore carnivores: Smoked Pulled Pork Carnitas, Chicken Tinga & Beef Brisket Xocolatl, Grilled Steaks, Burgers and Fried Chicken are all fan-favourites. Wash your meal down with Dianne’s impressive selection of premium whiskies and tequilas, creative cocktails or the City’s best fresh-squeezed lime Margaritas (seriously – Dianne’s Margaritas are a must-try). Enjoy it all in a fun and vibrant atmosphere that also caters to children, vegetarians and the gluten intolerant. Open Daily from 11:30 AM for Lunch and Dinner. dianneskingston.com 195 Ontario Street 613.507.3474
Pan Chancho Bakery + Cafe
Locals have long-known Pan Chancho as the go-to source for delicious baked goods (like croissants, scones and muffins to name a few), speciality breads (unique offerings like Apple Cider and Potato Cheddar Leak are always in high-demand) and gluten-free goodness (including baguettes and their incredible Raspberry Lemon Scones) – but where they perhaps shine the brightest is on their creative brunch menu. Pan Chancho’s take on your traditional bacon and egg breakfast is yet another testament to their creativity; the El Chancho ($16) can satisfy even the hungriest of patrons and is served with bacon, chorizo, shredded ham in red eye gravy, over easy eggs, roast corn salad, crispy potatoes (with three onions), and a grilled savoury brioche with bacon jam. The menu also features the likes of the Red Eye Poutine (patates frites, shredded smoked ham, poached egg, cheddar curds and red eye gravy for $12) and the Wild West (B.C. smoked wild salmon with fennel cream cheese on light rye, cucumbers, red onion and mixed greens with a caper lemon dressing; $12) – ensuring that you’ll be back to try something different. panchancho.com 44 Princess Street 613.544.7790
Frontenac Club Inn
You’ll have to spend the night at the historic Frontenac Club Inn to enjoy their homemade breakfasts, but it’s well worth it. A full-service breakfast is included in their rates (to be enjoyed in one of their three intimate dining rooms), with the menu changing daily dependant on seasonal availability and the whims of talented chef and owner, Beare. One thing you can always bank on is Beare’s use of fresh, local ingredients when preparing his breakfasts. And while the menu does change daily, an example of a crowd-favourite is their sinfully delicious spin on the classic Eggs Benedict – Eggs Frontenac, served with a base of rosemary focaccia bread, an organic poached egg, grilled tomato, smoked salmon and topped with Béarnaise sauce. Beare is always happy to make your breakfast to your taste, so let him know if you’d like to forgo any of the ingredients used. Complimented with freshly baked breads and homemade jams, hot Irish oatmeal or homemade granola and Cooke’s coffee – The Frontenac Club Inn’s breakfasts are always among the best in town. frontenacclub.com 225 King Street East 613.547.6167
Le Chien Noir
Just steps from historic Market Square, Le Chien Noir serves up French bistro classics and modern ‘Farm to Table’ features that Kingston can’t get enough of. With an innovative menu that also caters to children and vegetarians, Le Chien Noir’s dishes are always prepared using fresh, high-quality, seasonal and local ingredients whenever possible. From small plates (including the highly desirable Escargot Gratin and Grilled Chili-Lemon Martinated Calamari) to mains that feature the likes of White Strip Rack of Lamb (with garlic-mustard crust, farro risotto, green olives, grilled treviso, preserved lemon, Canreg Station pecorino and lamb jus) and Beef Cheek Bordelaise (prepared with papardelle pasta, red wine braise, sautéed rapini, roasted Enright Cattle Co. marrow bone) – the menu at Le Chien Noir never fails to impress. In the warmer months, guests can indulge on their colourful heated Courtyard Terrace while sampling the impressive selection of wines, craft beer, or vintage and contemporary cocktails. lechiennoir.com 69 Brock Street 613.549.5635
Tango Nuevo Tapas + Wine
After travelling the world and enjoying many amazing meals in countless places, the culinary forces behind Tango Nuevo concluded that the best meals are prepared with the freshest, local products – it’s a philosophy that has served them well, given that Tango Nuevo is on the ‘Must Try’ list of many foodies visiting Kingston. Tango Nuevo embraces the Spanish tradition that sharing small plates of food brings people together and encourages conversation. They serve an impressive array of cold and hot options (crowd favourites include their Turkish Bruschetta [served with diced vegetables, chili pepper, walnuts and finished with a traditional Turkish pomegranate syrup vinaigrette] and Asian Spare Ribs [tender pork ribs with a ginger, soy, honey and anise glaze]), ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will find something they love. Just remember: In Spain, if you start eating tapas, you finish eating tapas – you don’t stop until you’re full. tangoneuvo.ca 331 King Street East 613.548.3778
AquaTerra
Literally located on the waterfront in the Delta Kingston Waterfront Hotel, AquaTerra has a reputation for being one of the fancier spots in Kingston to have a meal – but still worth every penny. AquaTerra’s innovative team serves breakfast, Sunday brunch, lunch and dinner with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. With a superb dinner menu that includes the likes of their Ravioli (prepared with roasted squash and ricotta, caramelized onion velouté, roasted mushrooms, wilted baby kale, shaved parmesan and walnut brown butter) and Beef Tenderloin (consisting of Grilled beef tenderloin, garlic confit mashed, toasted walnuts, St. Andre cheese, seasoned arugula and a shallow demi glaze) – to their impressive Sunday brunch menu featuring creative takes on classics like French Toast and Belgian Waffles, it’s unsurprising that AquaTerra has been featured on ‘Where to Eat in Canada’ for more than a decade and is one of Kingston’s not-to-be-missed dining experiences. aquaterrakingston.com 1 Johnson Street 613.549.6243
Kingston is buzzing this month with great Canadian music, comedy shows, and creative workshops. Get out and celebrate spring by trying something new, and here’s the 50 best things in Kingston this April to inspire you!
1. The Just For Laughs Roadshow is an annual event that is not to be missed. These up-and-coming comics will make for a night of sidesplitting laughter at The Grand Theatre (April 5) 3. Experience four different genres of dance in one incredible performance by Ravel, Stravinsky, and Bernstein at The Grand Theatre (April 17)
Concerts + Music
5. Every Friday Night, Tir Nan Og is home to live jazz music with The 20th Century Band. Come down and join in on a great night of music! (every Friday) 7. Head to The Mansion for great, small-size shows. May we suggest Canadian indie-rockers Kasador, coming to Kingston this month (April 1) 9. Spend an afternoon at The Isabel with Cameron Carpenter, a young organist who is trying to break the stereotypes of traditional organ music (April 3) 10. Head down to Tir Nan Og to either listen to, or participate in, Open Mic Night (April 4) 12. One of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians, Johnny Clegg, will be performing at The Grand Theatre this month (April 8) 13. The Men of the Deeps are North America’s only coal miner’s choir. Originally formed in 1966, the group celebrates the coal mining communities of Cape Breton through their music and live performances. Don’t miss them at the Grand Theatre this month! (April 9) 14. Join award-winning pianist Minsoo Sohn for Bach Goldberg Variations at The Isabel (April 10) 16. Montreal-based group Trio BBQ will be performing their jazz music, infused with klezmer music and latin rhythms, at The Octave Theatre (April 15) 17. The Octave Theatre will be hosting two Welsh acts – Martyn Joseph and the Red Dirt Skinners. Joseph has a 30 year, 32 album career, and his been dubbed “the Welsh Springsteen”. Red Dirt Skinners are award-winning musicians in both country and blues, and create unique music through saxophone and guitar instrumentation (April 16) 19. The Kingston Chamber Choir will be performing Magnificently Mozart at The Isabel later this month (April 24) 21. Check out Nova Scotia native Joel Plaskett at The Grand Theatre (April 26) 23. Check out Dave Bennett performing his new show, American Roots, at the Grand Theatre (April 30)
Events
24. Put all those random facts to use at Trivia Night at the Brooklyn! (every Sunday) 26. Once a month, book (and beer) lovers get together at Tir Nan Og to chat about what they’ve been reading. Head to this months Books & Beers for Twentysomethings and maybe you’ll discover a great new page-turner! (April 11) 27. The Kingston Symphony will be hosting their Nearly New Sale this month at the Kingston Symphony Warehouse! See the website for sale times, as well as information on how to donate (April 14 – 16) 29. You’re invited to Writers & Friends 2016 at Kingston City Hall, in aid of Horizons of Friendship and the work they have done with marginalized people in Central America and Mexico (April 17) 30. More of a coffee drinker than a beer drinker? No worries, there’s a book club for that too! Once a month, meet for a coffee and chat about your new favourite books at Books and Beans, hosted at Coffeeco Kingston Centre (April 25)
Community
32. Get yourself signed up for some new activities to celebrate spring! Visit the Recreation and Leisure Showcase at Portsmouth Olympic Harbour for information on everything available (April 2) 33. Join Amnesty International Kingston for a film screening of Blood Coltan, hosted at The Screening Room (April 3)
Food + Drink
36. You won’t want to eat anywhere other than The Grizzly Grill on a Wednesday – with specials on both pizza and bottles of wine, what more could you need?! (every Wednesday)
The Arts
38. Learn the beautiful Japanese art of Shifu at the Spinning Paper workshop at The Tett (April 2) 39. A Stitch in Time is a colourful showcase of new work done by the Kingston Fibre Artists, as well as a celebration of the history of the Tett Centre (April 2 – April 30) 41. Want to improve your poetry, or even just learn the basics? Then come to the Poetry Writing Workshop hosted by the Kingston Public Library (April 9) 42. Learn a new craft at the Make Your Own Ornament workshop at the Kingston Glass Studio! (April 9) 43. Make a beautiful memory with your little (or big) one just in time for Mother’s Day at the Handcasting event at the Kingston Glass Studio! (April 16) 45. Join local artists Suzy Lamont and Whitney Haynes for Grafting Talent, a one day workshop in photography, jewelry-making, and mixed media design at The Tett (April 16) 46. Head to The Tett for a group exhibition featuring both collaborative and independent works. Aryen Hoekstra, David Court, & Shane Krepakevich are featured in this exhibition which explores the situation of cultural production within social structures and spaces (until April 16) 47. Join the Kingston Potters’ Guild for their Spring Show & Sale, hosted in The Tett Centre (April 28 – May 1)
Sports + Outdoors
48. Embrace the spring weather by getting some fresh air along the Rideau Trail! See their website for a listing of group hike dates, or route maps if you’d prefer to plan your own. 49. As winter comes to an end and we begin a new season of outdoor activities, there couldn’t be a more important time to do inventory on all your gear! Come to the Gear Swap event at Trailhead to hand off what you don’t use anymore, and pick up something new! (April 16 – 17)
I am usually self conscious when pointing my camera in a public place (unless my kids are the subject). I am not a photographer (I use the manual setting… all the time) and I certainly don’t feel like I look like I know what I’m doing.
However, this past weekend, when I pulled my camera out and starting randomly shooting while at the Juniper Cafe, well, I felt like I belonged. I was, after all, inside the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning – and had just narrowly missed getting a table as the cafe had been overrun by a cloud of pink; a troupe of small tutued ballerinas, likely from the Kingston School of Dance.
A year and a half in the making, Juniper Cafe finally opened it’s door on January 12, 2016. And it didn’t take long for it to become a busy, happening little spot. The first time I checked out the newest cafe in town was for breakfast. I had their bacon breakfast sandwich. Let me try to describe what I tasted. First off, my family and I raise hens and eat fresh eggs everyday. So, I have high expectations when it comes to eggs. And I have never tasted a creamier poached egg. Then there was the house made Haanover View Farms bacon: the flaky biscuit that held it all together was like pie crust. Juniper Cafe’s breakfast sandwich is like Grandma’s pie. Only in a breakfast sandwich.
The next time I ventured in, my sons were in tow. I tried the cappucnino, and the boys said yes to hot chocolate with house made marshmallows with a cookie each, (almost the size of their face – one oatmeal raisin, the other a gluten-free cocoa walnut meringue). Apparently the hot chocolate was “country like… it tasted more… like better… it calmed and relaxed me… way better than what comes out of a package.” The marshmallow “…tasted like whipped cream, like dried whip cream that was minty and tasted real and fresh.” The cocoa meringue cookie also got a rave review from my 8 year old “When I bit into it, it was like I bit down into chocolately nut fudge… like umm… it was just great, you should learn how to make them, Mom.”
Do I have a food critic in the making?
Amber crafting a cappucino (Photo credit Brian Chard Designs)A pretty cappucino!“The” cocoa merignue coookie that blew away my son.
Like other cafes and restaurants in Kingston, there is local art adorning the walls. I noticed that the piece behind me was actually made by an old friend of mine, which was a pleasant surprise! But unlike other cafes in town, you will not find free wifi at the Juniper. Amber Thom, one of the owners, tells me it’s intentional “We want to encourage our customers to turn off their devices, chat with a neighbour, take 5 and enjoy the view.”
The view! Once we hit patio season, The Juniper Cafe will open up their patio, the only “true” waterfront patio in Kingston, literally just metres away from the shore. And they will extend their hours in the summer, to 7 days a week with evening licensed service on the patio.
A sample of Skot Caldwell’s encaustic art, adorning the limestone walls.This offering too! Local brews
Amber, and partner Chef Jamie are no strangers to the food scene in Kingston; they also run a catering company, Epicurious, of which I have also had the pleasure of experiencing earlier this year. They are also proud to be sourcing at least 70% of their ingredients from Kingston area farms and food producers.
Sometime in the near future, make your way down to the Tett Centre. Take part in an art workshop (Parents: Check out Saturday morning Kid Creative programs!), borrow an instrument from Joe’s M.I.L.L. watch artisans work their craft in the open window studios. Grab a coffee and treat from Juniper. Slip out the door and enjoy the breeze off of Lake Ontario. Pull out your camera and unself-consciously notice your surroundings.
The small girl screams in delight as she flies down the slide. Her father follows, landing with a bigger splash, his grin matches hers. Another Dad is splashing his teenage son in the main pool. A mom, with two small children in tow head over to the splash pad. An elderly couple sit in one of the hot tubs, smiling and taking it all in. The other hot tub is full of a gaggle of teenagers. My sons stop for a moment in front of the lounge chair I am reading in. “Can we go again??” It’s a Saturday afternoon, and we have treated ourselves to an overnight at the Ambassador Hotel. Kind of a mini staycation. No cooking, no cleaning, no reading emails (although we could – the hotel offers free WiFi) – just the four of us taking some time to ourselves. We’ve even been upgraded to a room with a 4 person jacuzzi tub in the bathroom. The kids were so excited by the size of the tub in our room, they almost decided that they didn’t need to go down to the pool. Until they saw the 100 foot slide.
It’s a long flight up to the top of the slide, but worth the climb!
The Ambassador is definately a great choice of hotel to stay at with a family when in Kingston. In fact, they are even catering specifically to families this March Break, with a host of activities planned. And a theme that your kids will go bananas over! Every day from March 13 – 19, the Ambassador will be offering daily free activities to all registered guests. After breakfast, pour yourself another coffee and relax while the kids participate in a daily craft, game or snack from 10:00 – 11:00am. Squeeze in a swim before you head out and visit a site in Kingston. Check out some great field trip ideas from my family’s staycation last March Break! Make sure you are back at least one day to clown around with Silly Sally, who performs everyday from 2:00 – 3:00pm; perhaps followed by another visit to the waterpark? Which by the way, also has a dry sauna and a steam room (no children allowed in either!)
Family movie nights during March Break in the Jungle Room, or book for a Birthday Party throughout the year!
Snuggle up every evening with the family for movie night in one of the themed rooms (which are also available for birthday parties throughout the year!) Or just order in room service and relax. Did you get a room that overlooks the pool or the wetland behind the hotel?
Lots of room to spread out, and super comfy beds!
For meals, visit any one of Kingston’s great restaurants, including JM’s Restaurant & Lounge off the lobby of the Ambassador. We filled ourselves up on the Saturday night Prime Rib buffet….with multiple trips to the dessert bar. I’m told that the banana theme of the week will find it’s way onto the menu. If the banana cream pie is anywhere near as good as the coconut cream pie….make sure you save room! Enjoy your March Break visit to Kingston! I’m off for a trip down the waterslide now!
Another month, another list of 50 things to do in Kingston! This month’s list includes performances by some great Canadians, the mother of all maple syrup festivals, some awesome community events, and plenty of musical performances! Without further ado – and in no particular order – here’s the list!
Theatre + Live Performances
1. Leave yourself pondering the effects of social media with the performance of Late Company at The Grand Theatre (March 2 – 6) 3. Glimpse into the life of childhood friends with Gruesome Playground Injuries, presented by Commonplace Theatre (March 17)
Music
4. Join bartender Heather Gardiner for Hip-Hop Sundays at The Toucan! (Every Sunday) 6. Experience one of the world’s top taiko drumming groups, Yamato the Drummers of Japan, as they perform their show “Bakoun” – Legend of the Heartbeat at The Grand Theatre (March 3) 7. Come to The Isabel for Soundstreams Canada with special guest James MacMillan (March 4) 9. Don’t miss The Sheepdogs at Alehouse! (March 9) 11. Check out Juno award nominee Matt Andersen perform at The Grand Theatre (March 10) 13. Join Autorickshaw on a journey around the world to experience a taste of Bollywood at The Isabel (March 12) 14. Spend a magical night at The Isabel for Fairytales and More (March 13) 15. Head to The Isabel for House of Dreams, presented by Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra (March 15) 16. Let yourself get caught up in Abbamania with the world’s number one production of ABBA, accompanied by Night Fever performing as the Bee Gees, live at The Grand Theatre (March 19 – 20) 18. Grab tickets for The Lights on The Horizon Tour, featuring Canadian indie rock icons Metric, and Alternative group Death Cab for Cutie playing at the K-Rock Centre (March 20) 19. Head to The Grad Club for The Zolas (March 22) 20. Experience Afro-Cuban jazz music with pianist Aldo López-Gavilán at The Isabel. A portion of the funds from this event will go to the Sonia Enjamio Fund at Queen’s University to support Cuban and Canadian student exchange programs (March 23) 22. Don’t miss The High Streets, a trio of friends who banded together while on a trip in Amsterdam, playing at Tir Nan Og (March 25) 24. Come to the Isabel to watch the Queen’s Wind Ensemble join forces with McGill for an unforgettable night of music (March 31)
Events
25. Play some pool and grab a pint with your friends at Pool & Pint Mondays at The Grizzly Grill (Every Monday) 26. Celebrate Heritage Day with the India-Canada Association of Kingston at The Grand Theatre for a day full of dance, drama, and vocal performances (March 5) 27. Listen to Don Chapman speak about his personal battles to change Canada’s citizenship laws affecting WWII brides and their children, First Nations people, WWII veterans, and children born on Canadian military bases abroad. This is part of the Live Speakers Series at the Kingston Frontenac Public Library, Central Branch (March 8) 28. Don’t miss out on King Con, Kingston’s own convention celebrating science fiction, fantasy, gaming, and comic books! Held at the Kingston Frontenac Library Central Branch, there’s a ton of events and programming to check out throughout the weekend! (March 11 – 13) 30. Head to the Ambassador Hotel for Rail-O-Rama (March 12 – 13)
Community
32. Join the Women’s Arts and Craft Fair at Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, in support of Ovarian Cancer Canada (March 5) 33. Come see the City of Kingston greenhouse in full bloom for spring during their Open House! (March 6) 34. Walk in the Queen’s Relay for Life to support the Canadian Cancer Society (March 11) 35. Support the Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area at their Foundation Bake Sale (March 19) 37. Get your kids involved with the community through the Kids for Kids Annual Hockey Tournament! It takes place at various arenas around the city, and is in support of the Boys and Girls Club Fund and The University Hospital Foundation at Kingston General Hospital (March 24 – 26)
Wine + Food
39. Looking for breakfast at 1pm? You’re in luck! Head to Pan Chancho for their All Day Breakfast! (Every day) 41. What’s better than delicious Italian food? Delicious Italian food accompanied by live jazz music! Head to Olivea for Tuesday Night Jazz (Every Tuesday)
The Arts
42. Head to the Agnes Etherington Art Centre for a lecture by Queen’s graduate Ciara Phillips. Followed by a reception, this is a great opportunity to meet and learn more about the work of a leading artist (March 3) 43. Check out the exhibit Re-mixed: Reconfiguring the Imaginary at the Union Gallery (Until March 19) 44. Come see EPIC Moment: a selection of posters and video screening in support of prison justice at the Union Gallery (Until March 19) 46. Check out the various performances going on at The Union Gallery for their Performing Pedagogies series (March 15) 47. Immerse yourself in the creative process by working with your artistic peers to create artwork, and then critique each other’s at a Work/Crit session at The Tett (March 23)
We all knew it would come, it always does. And while many of us enjoyed the mild start to winter (my Facebook feed was littered with friends still riding bikes, driving with the windows down, and paddling over Christmas break – I even had one friend who went for a swim on Christmas Day!) I think I speak for many when I say we are all (secretly) excited that snow has arrived.
My son went out to the shed this morning to retrieve his snowshoes, as his class had plans to snowshoe around the school yard. I asked him to pull my own as well… I’m off today, and I’ve been anxious to strap my snowshoes onto my new winter boots.
Traditionally made of wood that was heated by steam or soaking and formed into round (or oval-like) shapes, snowshoes date back thousands of years (even before the invention of the wheel!). Sinew or rawhide was used to create a latticework between the frame (so that snow would not accumulate on the shoe) and the user’s foot (boot) was then tied to the snowshoe. Snowshoes allowed our ancestors to “float” over the snow to explore and find food in the winter.
Fresh powder flipping up!
The modern snowshoe sees the wood replaced with lightweight aluminum, and the rawhide has been replaced with plastic. The harness (where your boot goes) has the ability to tighten around a variety of different sized feet, and many snowshoes are now also equipped with crampons; often stainless steel “teeth” built into the bottom to offer traction, especially on hilly terrain or icy conditions. Snowshoes come in a variety of sizes (determined based on your weight) and for different purposes!
Snowshoeing is a popular sport that is easy for just about anyone (if you can walk you can snowshoe!). I’m happy to share with you some of my favourite spaces to explore:
Cataraqui Conservation Authority boasts a few conservation areas in the Kingston area: Little Cataraqui Creek offers hourly snowshoe rentals, and many easy trails ranging from about 2km to 7km in length. Lemoine Point is right in town and on a bus route, and offers a large field to try out deeper snowy conditions, as well as an 11km trail system. Further out of town, head to Gould Lake, for some backcountry experiences.
Frontenac Provincial Park: For a real wilderness experience, head north of town to explore backcountry trails, offering a variety of lengths and difficulty. There are also a few winter workshops available at the park’s visitor centre.
Concerned about heading out on your own? Trailhead offers guided evening snowshoe hikes (the full moon night treks fill up fast!), and the fee includes use of snowshoes, guide and a treat by the campfire. They also rent snowshoes by the day.
A new area has recently popped up, that I’m excited to share with you! MTB Kingston, our local mountain bike club, is opening up their trails for winter use. Offering a network of trails (including groomed trails for classic and skate skiing, AND fat biking!) this is an area close to town, but truly feels “off the grid”. Membership fees to apply, and you can visit their website for details.
If you’re a runner and would like to try out a sport that’s growing in popularity, snowshoe running, Spafford Health & Adventure offers clinics/coaching and a popular race series for you to experience!
I hope you take some time to strap on some snowshoes this winter, I promise you’ll love it!
Exploring some back country trails.Running or walking, snowshoeing is a great way to explore your favourite trails…..or better yet, off trail! Photo credit: Rob Whelan
The inaugural Ian Walsh Photography Competition has come to a close, with winners Suzy Lamont and Paige Palmer taking home top honours for their submissions at the awards ceremony held in Memorial Hall at City Hall on Wednesday night. The theme of this year’s competition was Enjoying Kingston, and participants were asked to submit photos that captured the essence of the city. Nearly 100 photos were in contention for the top prizes in the Youth and Open categories – all with unique, authentic perspectives. The top three photos received prizes ranging from $100 to $2,500 – Paige Palmer, first place winner of the Student/Youth category, received $750 for her youthful submission, while Suzy Lamont, first place winner of the Open category received $2,500 for her winning photograph.
Suzy Lamont, second from right, is awarded $2,500 and has her photo taken with Kingston Life’s editor Danielle Vandenbrink, and Kingston Accommodation Partners representatives William J Swan and Heather Ford, after her photo was chosen as the overall winner in the Open Category at the inaugural Ian Walsh Photography Competition award ceremony held in Memorial Hall in Kingston, Ont. on Wednesday February 10, 2016. Julia McKay/The Whig-Standard/Postmedia NetworkPaige Palmer, second from left, is awarded $700 and has her photo taken with Kingston Life’s editor Danielle Vandenbrink, and Kingston Accommodation Partners representatives William J Swan and Heather Ford, after her photo was chosen as the overall winner in the Student and Youth Category at the inaugural Ian Walsh Photography Competition award ceremony held in Memorial Hall in Kingston, Ont. on Wednesday February 10, 2016. Julia McKay/The Whig-Standard/Postmedia Network
The Ian Walsh Photography Competition was established to honour a pillar of the Kingston community who was taken suddenly in 2014. With a generous spirit, good nature and gentle wit, Ian’s dedication and passion for the arts and the community of Kingston left a lasting impression on everyone he met. An accomplished business person, Ian was the co-owner of the Hotel Belvedere, charter Chair of Kingston Accommodation Partners, and a charter Board Member of Kingston WritersFest.
“It is through Ian’s passion and love from Kingston and the arts that we established this photo competition. We wanted a way to celebrate our friend who, sadly, left us too soon. We are thrilled with the interest from the community, with well over 200 entries showcasing the individual photographers’ interpretation of enjoying Kingston. Ian loved bringing community together.” – Murray Matheson, Executive Director of Kingston Accommodation Partners.
If you would like to see the nominated photos for yourself, an exhibition which has been on display since Feb. 4, will remain open in Memorial Hall until February 29. The 2016 Ian Walsh Photography Competition will open March 1, 2016.
The Winners
Paige Palmer, Youth CategorySuzy Lamont, Open Category
The Finalists
Zubair Hossain, Youth CategoryAlison Darling, Open CategoryChalene Weir, Open CategoryJason Kelly, Open CategoryJohn Geddes, Open CategoryKaren Dolan, Open CategoryKaren Dolan, Open CategoryLaura Meggs, Open CategoryViara Mileva, Open CategoryValeriia Bezgula, Youth CategoryZubair Hossain, Youth Category
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