Kingston residents will see a mix of charitable activity and free outdoor entertainment across the city today, as a major food drive runs through several grocery stores and Springer Market Square becomes a hub for family-friendly cinema and country music.
Food drive collects donations at four grocery locations
My Broadcasting Corporation is hosting an All Hands-on Deck Food Drive for Partners in Mission Food Bank from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donations will be accepted at four Kingston-area grocery locations. Organisers are asking shoppers to donate what they can to help local households that rely on the food bank.
The drive is part of ongoing efforts by local charities and media partners to bolster food bank supplies, particularly as demand fluctuates with the seasons and household budgets. For many residents, these drives are a straightforward way to contribute food or funds without arranging separate drop-offs.
Free outdoor movie screening draws families to downtown square
As dusk falls at Springer Market Square, the square will once again host an outdoor screening for families. The feature film is Wreck‑It Ralph, presented free to the public. Viewers are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs.
Bring blankets or lawn chairs, gather friends and family, and enjoy a movie under the stars.
Outdoor screenings at Springer Market Square have become a seasonal staple for downtown — a low-cost evening option for families and visitors. Such events also draw increased foot traffic to nearby businesses, including restaurants and shops, and often serve as informal community gatherings that span generations.
Kickin’ It Country: live music and free line-dancing
Tomorrow evening the square will host Kickin’ It Country, featuring local act Whiskey Smoke on stage from 7 to 8 p.m. From 8 to 9 p.m. participants can join a free line-dancing session led by Jacob Vestervelt. Attendees are encouraged to bring boots or dancing shoes.
The short program of live music followed by participatory dance underscores a broader trend in Kingston’s summer programming: compact, family-oriented events that make public space more active and accessible. These gatherings also offer opportunities for informal tourism promotion, as visitors to the square often browse nearby retail and dining options.
Recreational sports opportunities still available
Local recreational-sports leagues and drop-in programs report numerous open spots for a variety of sessions throughout the day. These options provide further choices for residents seeking active recreation beyond the square’s cultural offerings.
- When: All-day food drive, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; outdoor film at dusk; Kickin’ It Country 7–9 p.m. (tomorrow)
- Where: Food drive at four Kingston-area grocery locations; Springer Market Square for film and music
- Cost: Free (movie screening, Kickin’ It Country, and line-dancing); donations requested for the food drive
Below is a quick schedule for easy reference:
| Event | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| All Hands-on Deck Food Drive | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Four Kingston-area grocery locations |
| Outdoor screening — Wreck‑It Ralph | Dusk | Springer Market Square |
| Kickin’ It Country — Whiskey Smoke & line-dancing | 7–9 p.m. (tomorrow) | Springer Market Square |
For residents planning to attend, organizers recommend arriving early for parking and seating. Those who cannot attend but wish to help are reminded that food banks continue to accept donations through other local drives and drop-off points.
These events illustrate the mix of civic-minded and cultural programming that characterizes much of Kingston’s public life: short, accessible events that aim to bring neighbours together while supporting local services and small businesses.
