Downtown Kingston is one of those magical storybook places where there’s always something to experience, no matter the season. 

And there’s something extra special about winter in downtown Kingston. From art exhibits to outdoor activities in Springer Market Square, there are plenty of ways to Embrace the Season this February. 

Whether you’re cozying up around the outdoor fire pits after your skate, experiencing the cultural Lunar New Year festivities, or taking in the art scene with renowned film festivals- Downtown Kingston is the place to be in February.  

Embrace the beauty of the sky this winter with a serene light and sound experience at the Horizon art exhibit in Springer Market Square. Relax inside beautifully constructed cocoons and look up as the rhythmic rocking of the cocoon’s chair triggers a magical series of lights and music inspired by the twinkling stars, soaring birds and wind-swept trees!

Kick off your Lunar New Year celebrations on Saturday, February 10th with a special Dragon Dance from Tallack Martial Arts at 4pm in Springer Market Square. It is the year of the dragon, after all! Feel the rhythm and immerse yourself in the cultural magic. Bring your friends and family for an unforgettable performance. Check out all the exciting Lunar New Year celebrations.

After the Dragon Dance, keep the festivities going with a special K-pop Skate Night with Korean Pop music and a red-lit City Hall as your backdrop. Sip on Asian-inspired cocktails from The Caesar Company’s Apres Ski travelling bar, then take a short jaunt to get your picture taken beneath the red lanterns strung across the alleyway beside Black Dog Tavern on Brock Street.

Presented by Kingston's own Original Hockey Hall of Fame, this three-team round-robin series features Queen's University, Royal Military College of Canada, and the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, 2nd Regiment, from Petawawa as they battle it out the way they did in Kingston’s first-ever hockey game that was played in 1886 on the Kingston Harbour.

Skate in one of the oldest market squares in Canada as you take in the beautiful historic view of Downtown Kingston. Warm up with a Beavertail and hot chocolate around the firepits in the square after you skate for the perfect winter day or evening.

Don’t have your own skates? You can rent a pair from Trailhead for $12 (overnight) or for $10 (3 hours). 

The Caesar Company is bringing their On The Go Mobile Bar to Springer Market Square for Après Ski! Take a couple of spins around the rink and then cozy up around a warm fire pit with a delicious bevy. The Caesar Co. is serving up spiked hot chocolate, caesars, shooters, beer and more!

Bring the whole family down to Springer Market Square for a skate with the Kingston Frontenac hockey team and their beloved mascot, Barrack the Bear! Learn some new tricks and get autographs and pictures with your favourite players after your skate. 

Calling all foodies! Kingstonlicious is the prix fixe dining experience you won’t want to miss. Featuring special menu items at 30+ downtown Kingston restaurants and 6 special events, from five-course feasts to guest chef collabs, this is a must-attend event in downtown Kingston. Book your tickets and view the 2024 menus.

The Kingston Canadian Film Festival (KCFF) is the world’s largest all-Canadian film festival, and it’s happening right here in Downtown Kingston! Featuring panel talks, special guests, live music, and of course an outstanding lineup of films that spans over five days at various venues, including The Screening Room. This is a must-attend for all film buffs and creatives alike!  Get your festival passes and see the lineup.

This special 25th edition of the ReelOut Queer Film Festival is showcasing over 90 films from 35 countries at The Screening Room over 11 days! They’ll be revisiting some of their most beloved themes from past years, like Reel Peeps Doc Series, RealOut Doc Series, and ReelOut in the Dark spooky spotlight. Get your tickets and check out the 2024 lineup.