August is one of the busiest months of the summer in Kingston, with festivals, live music, waterfront events, outdoor fitness, sailing championships, and community celebrations happening across the city. Whether you're looking for a family day out, planning a weekend with friends, or simply hoping to make the most of the warm weather, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy Kingston this month.

From Princess Street Promenade and Forever Hip Weekend to sunflower festivals, outdoor movies, and concerts by the waterfront, here's your guide to what's happening in Kingston throughout August 2026, organized by date to help you plan your month.

Princess Street Promenade

Date: August 1, 2026
Where: Princess Street (Division Street to Ontario Street)

One of Kingston's most anticipated summer events returns as Princess Street transforms into a pedestrian-only festival. Browse sidewalk sales, enjoy outdoor patios, watch live entertainment, discover community pop-ups, and take part in family-friendly activities throughout downtown. It's the perfect way to kick off August while supporting local businesses. 
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Wynn Farms Floral Frenzy

Dates: August 1–3, 2026
Where: Wynn Farms (8191 Hwy 33, Greater Napanee)

Celebrate flower season by picking your own bouquet at Wynn Farms. Wander through colourful flower fields, create your own arrangement, and enjoy a relaxing summer outing just outside Kingston. 
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TK Fringe Performing Arts Festival

Dates: August 6–16, 2026
Where: Tett Centre & Various Kingston Venues

Experience Kingston's independent arts scene during Theatre Kingston's Fringe Festival. Featuring original theatre productions, comedy performances, dance, storytelling, and experimental works from local and visiting artists, there's something new to discover every day of the festival.
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Kingston Sheep Dog Trials

Dates: August 7–9, 2026
Where: Grass Creek Park (2991 Highway 2)

Watch highly skilled handler-and-dog teams compete in one of Kingston's most unique annual events. Along with the sheepdog competitions, enjoy food trucks, craft vendors, livestock demonstrations, agility showcases, and plenty of family-friendly activities overlooking the St. Lawrence River.
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Wynn Farms Sunflower Festival

Dates: August 8–9 & August 15–16, 2026
Where: Wynn Farms (8191 Hwy 33, Greater Napanee)

Spend a summer day surrounded by thousands of blooming sunflowers. Admission includes access to the sunflower fields, family activities, a bouncy castle, treats, and plenty of opportunities for memorable summer photos.
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Back to the Farm Beer & Music Festival

Date: August 16, 2026
Where: MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company (1915 Lennox and Addington County Rd 22, Bath)

One of the region's favourite summer festivals returns with live music, local craft beer, food trucks, lawn games, and a full day of entertainment on a beautiful 200-year-old family farm. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy great music and local brews just outside Kingston.
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CORK International 14 World Championship

Dates: August 18–28, 2026
Where: Portsmouth Olympic Harbour

Kingston welcomes elite sailors from around the world for the International 14 World Championship. Watch high-performance skiff racing from the waterfront, breakwall, or nearby parks as competitors take advantage of Kingston's world-renowned sailing conditions.
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Forever Hip Weekend & Rockin' the Square

Dates: August 20–22, 2026
Where: Springer Market Square & Downtown Kingston

This special weekend commemorates the 10-year anniversary of The Tragically Hip's historic final concert in their hometown.

Events throughout the weekend include:

• August 20: Rockin' the Square concert featuring Choir! Choir! Choir! alongside local musicians.
• August 21: Musician merch market, guided walking tours, and outdoor video screenings.
• August 22: Community viewing of the CBC rebroadcast of the band's iconic final concert.

A meaningful celebration for fans and an unforgettable weekend in downtown Kingston.
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Teddy Bear Picnic at Wynn Farms

Date: August 22 & 23
Where: Wynn Farms (8191 Hwy 33, Greater Napanee)

Bring your favourite teddy bear and enjoy a "beary" fun day at Wynn Farms! This family-friendly event includes a farm-wide scavenger hunt, story time, colouring activities, photo opportunities with Mr. Teddy, and a chance to wander through the beautiful sunflower fields. Every child receives their own bear ears, an ice cream cone topped with sprinkles and a gummy bear, and even gets to pick a sunflower to take home. Don't forget to pack a picnic blanket and your favourite stuffed friend for a memorable summer day on the farm.
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Bryan Adams Live in Concert

Date: August 25, 2026
Where: Slush Puppie Place

Canadian music icon Bryan Adams brings his latest tour to Kingston. Expect an evening filled with classic hits, incredible live performances, and one of the biggest concerts of the summer.
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Kingston Blues Festival

Dates: August 27–29, 2026
Where: RCHA Club & Confederation Park

Close out the summer with three days of incredible live music at the Kingston Blues Festival. Presented by the Kingston Blues Society, this annual festival features award-winning blues artists, international performers, and local favourites. Enjoy ticketed evening concerts at the RCHA Club, or take in the free afternoon performances at Confederation Park while soaking up the waterfront atmosphere. Whether you're a lifelong blues fan or simply looking to discover some great live music, it's the perfect way to wrap up August in Kingston.
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Weekly & Ongoing Events Throughout August

Springer Market Square Farmers' Market

When: Every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday
Where: Springer Market Square

Ontario's oldest continuously operating public market continues throughout August. Shop fresh produce, local food, flowers, baked goods, handmade products, and artisan crafts while supporting local vendors.
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Salsa in the Square

When: Every Tuesday Evening (Starting at 7:00 PM)
Where: Springer Market Square

Whether you're an experienced dancer or trying salsa for the very first time, these free outdoor lessons are a fun way to spend a summer evening downtown. Lessons are followed by open social dancing.
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Free Waterfront Zumba

When: Tuesdays & Thursdays (7:00 AM)
Where: Breakwater Park / Gord Downie Pier

Start your morning with an energizing outdoor workout overlooking Lake Ontario. These free community Zumba classes offer a fun way to stay active while enjoying Kingston's beautiful waterfront.
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Fort Henry Sunset Ceremonies

When: Every Wednesday Evening
Where: Fort Henry National Historic Site

Watch military drills, live music, artillery demonstrations, and cannon fire as the sun sets over Kingston Harbour. A truly unique Kingston summer tradition.
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Live 365 Summer Music Series

When: Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays
Where: Various Downtown Locations

Enjoy free outdoor concerts featuring talented local musicians throughout downtown Kingston all month long.
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Movies in the Square

When: Every Thursday at Dusk
Where: Springer Market Square

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars in the heart of downtown Kingston.
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Free Yoga in Battery Park

When: Every Sunday (10:00–11:00 AM)
Where: Battery Park

Local yoga studios host free waterfront yoga classes each Sunday morning. Bring your own mat and enjoy a relaxing start to the day overlooking Lake Ontario.

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Sydenham Street Commons & Play Me Kingston

When: Daily Throughout August
Where: Downtown Kingston

Take a stroll through Sydenham Street Commons, a pedestrian-friendly public space featuring outdoor seating, games, and public art. While you're downtown, explore the Play Me Kingston guitar sculptures designed by local artists, scattered throughout the downtown core.
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Gord Downie Pier & Breakwater Park Swimming

When: Throughout August
Where: Gord Downie Pier & Breakwater Park

August offers some of the warmest water temperatures of the year, making it the perfect time to cool off at Kingston's popular waterfront swimming spots. Spend the afternoon swimming, relaxing by the lake, or grabbing a bite from nearby food vendors.
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Make the Most of August in Kingston

From waterfront concerts and downtown festivals to sailing championships, sunflower fields, live performances, and family-friendly activities, August is packed with opportunities to experience everything Kingston has to offer before summer comes to an end.

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