Youth Open Mic is a Kingston Music Office initiative that provides a welcoming, low-pressure space for young musicians to perform, build confidence, and connect with their peers. Held monthly throughout the school year, the program supports emerging artists at all stages, whether they’re stepping on stage for the first time or developing their live performance skills.
Victoria Day
Celebrate the long weekend and spring into summer with live, local music in the park, presented by the Kingston Music Office, and a fireworks display over Lake Ontario. Experience a not-to-be missed drone show presented by Slush Puppie, taking place right before the fireworks.
City park amenities are reopening throughout the weekend, including public washrooms, picnic areas and most splash pads, making it easy to plan a day outside with family and friends. It’s also a great time to explore downtown shops, restaurants and patios, visit the Public Market, and enjoy a stroll or roll along the waterfront.
Admission to this event is free.
When and where
Monday, May 18, 2026 at Confederation Park (211–225 Ontario St), from 7 to 10 p.m.
Activities
Learn more about the activities planned for Victoria Day!
Music from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
The Kingston Music Office presents ‘Ahead by a Century: A Youth Open Mic Showcase’ live from the Visitor Information Centre patio in Confederation Park. Featuring a curated lineup of regular Youth Open Mic performers, the showcase highlights the talent and growth of Kingston’s young artists sharing original compositions and covers – kicking off a Forever Hip summer.
Location: on the back patio of the Visitor Information Booth by the Spirit of Sir John A (Clarence St. side of the park).
Enjoy free slush drinks courtesy of Slush Puppie (while supplies last).
Drone show presented by Slush Puppie at 9:30 p.m.
Get ready for an unforgettable visual spectacle as the sky comes alive with a cutting‑edge drone show presented by Slush Puppie.
Fireworks at 9:35 p.m.
Cap off the evening with a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Ontario.
Transportation
Everyone is encouraged to use public transit this weekend. Use the Kingston Transit Trip Planner to find your way there!
Parking
There is limited street parking around Confederation Park and Ontario Street will be closed.
There are multiple options for parking, all located less than a 10-minute walk away from Confederation Park, including surface lots, parking garages and on-street parking. On-street parking is free on statutory holidays.
Accessibility information
- Confederation Park is fully accessible. Some activities will take place on grassy areas.
- Accessible public washrooms are available in the Visitor Information Centre in Confederation Park. Additional accessible washrooms are located inside City Hall where there is one single-stall non-gendered restroom.
- Water bowls will be available for service dogs at the Special Events Office information booth.
- If you have any specific accessibility needs, please email specialeventsoffice@cityofkingston.ca
Washrooms
There are accessible public washrooms on site at the Visitor Information Centre in Confederation Park. There are additional public washrooms in the lower level of City Hall, accessible from both the courtyards, and there is a ramp via the north entrance off Brock Street.
Weather
This event happens rain or shine. The event will only be cancelled if it becomes unsafe to be outside. Some activities may need to stop temporarily if it is raining but will start again when it is safe to do so.
Note: this event was previously held at Lake Ontario Park.
Contact Us
City of Kingston
City Hall
216 Ontario Street
Kingston, ON K7L 2Z3
Canada
contactus@cityofkingston.ca
Phone: 613-546-0000
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.
