Princess Street Promenade returns for second 2022 edition

On Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022, Princess Street will be closed to traffic from Barrie Street to Ontario Street for the Downtown Kingston Business Improvement Area (BIA)’s Promenade. Local retailers, restaurants, salons, spas and more will take to the street with special offers, giveaways, prize draws and fun activities for the whole family.

According to a media release from the BIA, the July event was a great success. “It’s so fun to see what participants do for this event,” said Sandi Griffiths, events coordinator with Downtown Kingston.

“Many of them really pull out all the stops, whether it’s live performances, interactive art displays, or face painting. It’s a really fun day.”

The one-day festival will take place this Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The BIA stated that Promenade is designed to promote active living and community involvement in downtown Kingston. In addition to participating downtown businesses, a number of community groups will also be on-site to engage and entertain festival-goers, according to the release.

“W.A.F.F.L.E.S. Community Robotics will be back with their 125 lb robot,” confirmed Griffiths. “You can actually play catch with the robot, which both kids and adults love. It’s a big draw.”

Princess Street will be closed from approximately 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to allow for the set-up and tear-down of the activities. Side streets between Ontario and Barrie (with the exception of Barrie itself and Bagot Street) will also be closed for the festival. According to the release, this better allows for the safe passage of pedestrians across streets during the event. Access to public parking lots will not be affected.