Staycations in Kingston
First off, this week’s poll marks a momentous milestone for Kingstonist, as it’s the 50th time we’ve asked our readers to vote on a given topic of interest. Over the past year we’ve registered your support on who you will vote for in the upcoming federal election, the best small venue for live music, whether or not light rail transit makes sense for Kingston and the list goes on. Thank you for voting, and as always, for taking the time to share your opinion by way of comment or two.
Last Thursday, March reminded us that Spring had not yet fully arrived, as we awoke to chilly temperatures and a sloppy mix of flurries. I think that I’ve raged on Old Man Winter enough this past year, and now that it’s April, all I can think about is tulips, green grass and warmer weather. In fact, we’ve already begun to plug things into our summer schedule including camping at Bon Echo, trips to the cottage, and triathlon or two. But as much as we’re looking forward to getting away in the coming months, we’re looking forward to enjoying everything the Limestone City has to offer during the summer months. Staycationing can be great for the pocket book, while cuts down on travel time, as well as increases your appreciation and understanding of the local area. With sun-drenched days in mind, this week’s poll asks:
What are you planning to do in Kingston this summer?
- Take in a few festivals and concerts. (26%, 18 Votes)
- Get outdoors. Camping and hiking. (21%, 15 Votes)
- Sports! Running, golf, ultimate etc.. (21%, 15 Votes)
- Visit some museums and historical sites. (17%, 12 Votes)
- Something Else Entirely. (14%, 10 Votes)
Total Voters: 70

For me, staycationing is all about exploring new things in my own backyard. I accomplished this last summer by taking in the Kingston Symphony’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture at Fort Henry, as well as the legendary Haunted Walk through Sydenham Ward. In addition to these new experiences, I enjoyed old favourites including the public market, Buskers Rendezvous, Limestone City Blues Festival, Movies in the Square, nights at the Drive-In, as well as the Skeleton Park Music Festival. I’m sure that’s not a comprehensive list of all of the major events I attended, and that’s one of the good things about summer in Kingston. It’s jam packed with so many great things for kids of all ages, spanning a wide range of interests, and budgets. How are you planning on being a tourist in the Limestone City this summer?
Thanks to J.A.G. for today’s accompanying photo.
I plan on avoiding the teeming throngs of people that jam up the streets, littering garbage everywhere and making a huge amount of noise while taking up every legal (and many not) parking spaces.