Top Five Things to See and Do in September 2017
September is upon us, and that means two things. First, the kids are back on the bus and headed back to the classroom. Second, this is our last chance to enjoy some really great weather before tucking in for the Fall, and whatever may come as the days get shorter. Fret not friends, because all month-long there are plenty of reasons to wear white after Labour Day, and rock that socks and sandals look. Once again, we’ve taken a deep dive into our calendar, and come back to the surface with an extra special list of the most promising events in Kingston. Handpicked just for you, freshness guaranteed, here are the top five things to see and do in Kingston in September 2017.
Kingston Symphony Fall Book Fair, 6-17 September 2017: this annual fundraiser is an absolute must for book worms and collectors alike. It’s popularity has grown over the years, thanks to an impressive array of genres, from mystery to historical fiction, geography to sci-fi, and many more. The Fall Book Fair attracts so many patrons, that the Kingston Symphony now offers early bird tickets ($20/each), which will grant people special access to the stacks of coveted reads at The Kingston Symphony Warehouse (785 Sir John A. Macdonald Bvld, Unit 7A), before the doors open to the general public. With cooler weather on the horizon, now’s the time to restock your supply of books for those days where you simply want to curl up next to the fire with a good book. Regular admission tickets are $5 each and are available in person only on September 6th after 2 pm at the door. Admission is free from the 7th on.
Ribfest and Craft Beer Show, 8-10 September 2017: BBQ ribs and craft beer. Need I say more? Coming up on the show’s fifth year, for many of us, this annual event caps off the summer in an awesome way. The grounds of the Memorial Centre will be transformed by at least half a dozen “ribbers” who travel the North American circuit, duking it out for mouth watering title’s such as “Best Ribs”, “Best Brisket”, “Best BBQ Sauce” and, you the idea. Then there’s the lineup of craft breweries on hand to wet your whistle, which includes the likes of: 555, Beau’s, King’s Town, MacKinnon Brothers, Napanee, Prince Eddy’s, Riverhead, Skeleton Park, Whitewater and Wolfe Island Spring. Admission to the park is free, but donations for Partners in Mission Foodbank are encouraged. Wristbands ($6/each) and tokens ($2/each) are required for beer tastings, which you can now buy in advance with your phone.
Kingston Multicultural Arts Festival, 10 September 2017: the 8th annual Kingston Multicultural Arts Festival will continue the show’s tradition of showcasing Kingston’s vibrant and storied culture scene, through delicious food, captivating art and lively cultural demonstrations. This free, family-friendly affair takes place on the doorstep of City Hall in Confederation Park, which will be transformed by dozens of cultural pavilions, each highlighting people and their stories from various regions around the world. Jet-setting visitors will make their way from one pavilion to the next, tasting and experiencing the various cultures that are alive and well in our city. The always popular world music and dance performances on the main stage will also keep things lively and entertaining throughout the day. Don’t miss it! The Kingston Multicultural Arts Festival runs from 11:30am-5:30pm.
Limestone City Tattoo and Arts Festival, 16-17 September 2017: now in it’s second year, this festival proudly features 40 carefully curated tattoo artists who hail from Canada, the USA and beyond. By drawing on this wide range of talent, audience members will get to experience the eclectic mix of styles and ideas honed by each of the artists. Once again, artists will be taking appointments to create custom works for those hoping to acquire some unique body-art. There will also be a variety of vendors as well, offering artwork and tattoo culture-related products for purchase during the weekend. Hosted at the Four Points by Sheraton, the convention includes two days of exhibitions, entertainment and after-show parties for artists and patrons alike. Tickets are $15/day or $25/weekend.
WritersFest, 27 September to 1 October 2017: boasting over 60 authors, many of whom with novels set for release this Fall, Kingston WriterFest is back in big way! The festival continues to cater to readers of every age and taste, which is reflected in the impressive roster of notable authors, which includes the likes of: Michael Chabon, S.K. Ali, Steven Heighton, Helen Humphreys, Elan Mastai, Alison Pick, Anna Porter, Ahmad Danny Ramadan, Diane Schoemperlen, Leanne Batasamosake Simpson, and Terry O’Reilly. Aside from their being something for the fans, aspiring writers and poets can attend workshops (selling out quickly), which are led by accomplished authors and professionals from within the literary world. With book signings, poetry readings and stuff for the kids, Kingston WritersFest has something for everyone. Get your pass or tickets now!
Photo credits to CCAC North Library, Isaac Wedin, Multicultural SA, Marina Setti, and imanka.