Top Five Things to See and Do in Summer 2012

In the wake of the last day of school, the end of highschool exams and Canada Day festivities, few would argue that Summer has yet to arrive. The smell of campfires, booming sound of fireworks and welcome relief of a mid-day sun shower forge unbreakable memories that help keep us cozy during those blizzard-filled months. Summer also brings with it a new crop of impressive events on our community calendar. Of course, selecting which events to feature in our seasonal top 5 is almost as difficult as choosing which ones to attend. Challenging as it may be, we’ve handpicked the most accessible, affordable and anticipated events from this coming quarter. Enjoy!

Outdoor Movies, now through mid-September: I have written extensively about my undying love for the local drive-in, which I consider to be both underused and under appreciated. Drive-ins are practically extinct, and with the looming cost of upgrading equipment to accommodate digital projection, the 3-screens at Kingston Family Fun World could soon close once and for all. With a long list of Hollywood blockbusters including: Madagascar 3, The Dark Knight Rises, The Amazing Spider-Man, Brave, The Avengers and the list goes on, two movies for the price of one offers great value. Of course, you can also get your fix of outdoor movies via Movies in the Square, which screens old and recent titles once a week in the shadow of City Hall.

Trolley Tours, now through end of August: If you’ve been around Confederation Park in the last decade or so, you’ve likely seen the once red now green-coloured Confederation Trolley embarking and disembarking happy tourists. But just how many Kingstonians have actually gone on the Trolley Tour? Well, me for one!  Not only do I recommend being a tourist in the Limestone City, I strive to do it often and therefore can vouch for the valuable educational and historical aspects of the Trolley Tour. If you’re looking for something self-guided, more hands on or lengthy, the newly launched step-on/step-off tour bus is also something worth looking into.

Princess Street Promenade, 4 August 2012: Voted by our loyal readers as one of the most anticipated event of Summer 2012, the third-ever Promenade is not to be missed. From Ontario to Division along Princess Street you’ll find both free and affordable treats from local merchants and restauranteurs. From climbing walls to BBQ cookouts, dodge ball to dancing demonstrations, live music and more, the pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare draws a sizable crowd. In addition to all of the action on the street, all businesses remain open for those who are interested in doing some shopping.

Wolfe Island Music Festival, 10 to 11 August 2012: Voted one of the best music festivals in Ontario a few years back, it’s no wonder why festival goers continue to make the annual pilgrimage to Wolfe Island.  This two-day festival has it all: camping, small intimate shows on Friday night as well as the traditional main stage all day on Saturday.  With a line-up that boasts the likes of Sam Roberts, Rich Aucoin, Hollerado, Zeus, Elliott Brood and local talent such as Pelt, WIMF 2012 is not to be missed.  This local festival is an affordable way to see numerous up and coming acts.  Plus you can enjoy a free, scenic ferry ride to and from the Island.

Fare on the Square, 3 22 September 2012: The second-most anticipated event of Summer 2012, according to our readers, is this one-day food festival that takes place on Market Square.   Featuring 10 or so local restaurants such as: Olivea, Atomica, Le Chien Noir and the Kingston Brew Pub, each presenting a unique dish that strives to highlight local, seasonal ingredients.  Locally produced vegetables and fruit are available for purchase, while you can also take advantage of free corn on the cob and tomato sampling.  Who will serve up your favorite fare on the Square this year?

The poster of the Wolfe Island Music Festival was sourced from the festival’s website. All other photos in the composition were taken by the fine folks at Kingstonist and can be viewed in their original glory on our Flickr.