Guide to St. Pat’s in Kingston in 2009
Wanna get lucky? Are you looking for a good time that’s magically delicious? Or perhaps you’re dying to see my green peace? Now that I have put you in the right frame of mind, it’s my pleasure to resume my role as the Grand Tour Guide for St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Kingston. In case you haven’t realized, St. Pat’s is tomorrow, which means that you’ll either have to take the day off, or be forced join in the fun after work. Thankfully I’ve booked Tuesday off to celebrate and Wednesday off to recover, however I’ll be heading to Ottawa to follow around Kingston’s Celtic sensation, Boru’s Harp, as they play the pub circuit. For me, live Irish and Celtic fiddle music is essential on St. Pat’s, and it’ll be in short supply around the Limestone City tomorrow. But don’t let that ruin your day, as there are tons of great bands playing downtown.
Tir nan Og: The Nog is ground zero for St. Pat’s in Kingston. They’re the only place that draws a crowd big enough to warrant a heated tent, where you can grab a beer while you line up to get inside. Once you’ve made it indoors, you’ll enjoy Tea for the Voyage (fresh off of their recent CD release), The Grog, and The Tir Nan Og Irish Dancers.
The Mansion: The defunct Living Room has re-opened on the top floor of Philthy McNasty’s The Mansion. Although there were few delays in getting it open, this bar within a bar is being touted as Kingston’s most promising new venue for live music. This is probably owing to the fact that Luther Wright is booking the talent, so you know performers are of the highest caliber. They’re celebrating their first St. Pat’s with Rueben DeGroot and The Virginia Creepers.
LegendZ Eatery & Nightclub: Another newcomer on this year’s quest to find the pot of gold. We’ve heard loads of positive reviews for LegendZ, mostly as a cause of their late night menu. Tomorrow they’ll be serving green eggs and ham, and featuring live music by Stray Away Child.
Honorable Mentions: There are heaps of other places to get your Irish on, including my personal faves: The Iron Duke (a British Pub on St. Patty’s?), and The Merchant Taphouse (website no longer online?). While you’re downtown, there’s also the Kingston Brew Pub (a new website but still no live music), and The Toucan (Kingston’s second best Irish pub). As you make your way towards the Hub, don’t miss My Bar, The Brass, and Time to Laugh Comedy Club.
Enjoy a glass of green beer tomorrow, and have a safe/fun time. In case we missed any major performances, please be sure to let us know by commenting below.