Canada Day
When it comes to looking for something to do on Canada Day, look no further then Downtown Kingston and Confederation Park. There are many great events planned to entertain the whole family!
The day begins with the annual Limestone Mile in historic downtown Kingston. The event is made up of four races – a junior race, a high school race for grades 9-12, a senior women’s, and a senior men’s race. New for this year: kids race free!
Next is the Red & White People Parade, which leaves the Metro parking lot at Princess and Barrie Streets at 11:30am sharp. Mayor Harvey Rosen, Mr. John Gerretsen MPP, and Kingston’s own Town Crier will all be on hand to lead the parade down Princess Street to City Hall. The public is also encouraged to show their spirit by dressing up in red and white clothing and walking in the parade as well.
This year the parade will do double-duty, celebrating not only Canada Day, but also the re-opening of lower Princess Street. The “Big Dig” is done! Be one of the first to walk down the freshly paved streets by participating in the parade!
The 2010 First Capital Award Winners will be guests of honour for the parade and will also be recognized during the Civic Ceremony on the steps of City Hall at noon. The Parr Christie Singers will kick-off the ceremony by singing the national anthem.
The Civic Ceremony will be followed by the Mayor’s Sailpast at Crawford Dock at 1pm. This annual event is one of very few in Canada. Kingstonians turn out each year in wonderfully decorated canoes, kayaks, sailboats, and motor crafts to celebrate on our waterways.
Throughout the afternoon, live entertainment will be on in Confederation Park. Local talent will grace the stage with a wide range of musical performances by Boru’s Harp, Trevor Walsh Group, The Torres Project, Jamie Flegg Band, Sugar Plum, Cherry Chapstick and Everlea. A Motorcycle Show ‘n Shine, wagon rides and other fun children’s activities are planned throughout the day.
As the music concludes and the night sky turns to black, a colourful fireworks display will light up downtown. This year’s fireworks extravaganza will start at 10pm sharp and is best viewed from Confederation Park.