What's happening with Kingston Pen?

Gooood morning everybody!
And a good morning it is! If you’re reading this, you are a part of history in the making. This is YGKtoday’s first ever newsletter!

I’m Leila Nasr-Sharifi, but you can call me Leila (pronounced Lay-la) your friendly YGKtoday writer, bringing you good news, local gems, business spotlights, and all the buzz around town. And since I’ll be popping into your inbox regularly, we’re going to get to know each other really well. So grab your coffee (tea, or water), get cozy, and let’s dive into what’s happening in the Limestone City.

Today Around YGK:

• International Women’s Day is this Saturday

• City of Kingston seeking local artists for mural

• United Way KFL&A launches annual Period Promise campaign

and much more…

Weather

Monday
High -2°C | Precipitation 🌨️ 60% chance of flurries
Low -5°C | Wind 🌬️ 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h near noon

Tuesday
High 2°C | Precipitation 🌧️ 40% chance of flurries or rain showers
Low 2°C | Wind 🌬️ 20 km/h

Weather loves to keep us on our toes! Be sure to check an official weather source closer to the date for the latest forecast. ⛅️

Saving Kingston Pen: The City’s Going All In

Big moves are underway to secure the future of one of Kingston’s most iconic landmarks — the Kingston Penitentiary. The City of Kingston is stepping up in a big way, officially expressing interest in purchasing the historic waterfront site from the federal government.

What’s the plan?

The city is aiming to preserve and reimagine the site while keeping it open to the public. This means a focus on tourism, heritage, and community use — and making sure this piece of Kingston’s story stays accessible for generations to come.

Why does it matter?

Kingston Pen has drawn over 500,000 visitors since 2013, when public tours first launched. It’s become a major economic driver and one of the most photographed spots in the city. In short — losing it would be a pretty big deal.

What happens next?

The City is actively working with the Correctional Service of Canada and the federal government to negotiate the purchase. Public input will also play a key role, with community consultations expected as plans unfold.

Timeline

There’s no firm deadline yet, but City Council has made it clear — securing Kingston Pen is a top priority for 2025.

Stay tuned — this story is just getting started. (Source: Kingstonist)

Weekend Wrap-Up

Parks Canada is Hiring for Summer 2025!
Ditch the desk, embrace the outdoors—Parks Canada is hiring! From conservation to marketing, there could be a role for you at Thousand Islands National Park! Apply by May 1. (Parks Canada)

United Way’s Period Promise is Back!
United Way KFL&A has launched its annual Period Promise campaign, tackling period poverty in our community. Want to help? There are many ways to donate—now through March 31. Every contribution makes a difference! (United Way KFL&A)

Winter parking ban stays put in Kingston
Snow’s still hanging around, so overnight street parking is a no-go until at least March 7. Park at your own risk—tickets and tows are ready to roll. (City of Kingston)

Thousand Islands Playhouse hits all the right notes with Hip musical
Gananoque’s iconic playhouse is teaming up to create a new musical celebrating The Tragically Hip. It’s Hip history—live on stage. (YGK News)

Kingston Fire & Rescue wants you (to volunteer)
Looking to give back—and get paid for it? Attend the March 3 info session to learn how to join the volunteer firefighter crew. (Kingston Daily)

Clothes for Kids campaign hits $55K goal
Thanks to big community support, the campaign will keep local kids warm all winter long. (Kingstonist)

Ottawa REDBLACKS heading to Kingston for spring training
The CFL team will hold its 2025 training camp at Richardson Stadium—giving football fans a front-row seat to pre-season action. (Kingstonist)

Five days left to buy tickets for ALCDSB’s First-Ever 50/50 Draw!
Want to win big and support local students? The ALCDSB’s 50/50 raffle is on now until March 7 at noon! Half the jackpot goes to a lucky winner, and the other half supports the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic Education Foundation. Get your tickets today! (ALCDSB)

How does Kingston’s business community and practices rank in Canada?

Kingston isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s a top spot to thrive! According to Kingston Economic Development, Kingston is the best place to be a woman in Canada, the #1 small city startup ecosystem and top 20 places to invest. Thinking about launching a business? Kingston’s got you covered. (Kingston Economic Development)

Free Business Workshops in Kingston
From tomorrow to Thursday, Kingston Economic Development is hosting free events and workshops—think hiring success tips, business basics, and more! Whether you're launching or growing your business, don’t miss this chance to level up. (Kingston Economic Development)

Nominate a Kingston Newcomer Entrepreneur
Now in its third year, the awards celebrate the innovation, creativity, and resilience of newcomer business owners. Know a standout entrepreneur? Nominate them—or yourself—by March 17! (Kingston Economic Development)

OVO Coming to Kingston? (And I don’t mean Drake…)

Events

Bugs, love, and acrobatics collide when OVO hits Slush Puppie Place March 5-9. Get ready for a wild (and weird) ride. (Slush Puppie Place)

Kingston International Student Symposium | Wednesday, March 5 | 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. | Portsmouth Olympic Harbour | Registrations are open for this global student gathering—get involved!

Tea, Makeup & Self-Care at Pedal Works | Saturday, March 8 | 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. | Pedal Works Café & Studios | Tea tasting, a makeup workshop, self-care sessions, a painting project—because you deserve a little “me” time.

The Anti-Queens at The Broom Factory | Saturday, March 8 | 2:30 p.m. | $20 + fees | All ages welcome to rock out with this powerhouse punk band, presented by KPP Concerts!

KFPL celebrating Kingston women for International Women’s Week
The library is shining a spotlight on inspiring local women with special events and programs today until March 8. (Kingston Frontenac Public Library)

Kingston Food Tours serving up tasty downtown bites | Ongoing | From tapas to gelato, these walking food tours are the perfect way to eat your way through downtown. (Downtown Kingston)

Create Space at KFPL | Ongoing | KFPL Central Branch | Free | Unlock your creativity with a key card from the service desk! Check out the ‘learn’ section on the KFPL website for all the cool equipment available.

_{Note: Events may be cancelled or have changed times. Be sure to see our event calendar and reach out to the venue before going.}

Downtown Kingston’s Next Masterpiece?

Art, Theatre, & Culture

The City’s looking for local artists to transform the Robert Bruce Memorial Parking Garage into a permanent piece of public art. The deadline to throw your paintbrush in the ring is Friday, March 28.

Poet Laureate Mentorship Program | Apply by March 7 | Ages 14+ | Send a paragraph about yourself and up to five pages of poetry to [email protected] for a chance to be mentored by Kingston’s Poet Laureate, Sadiqa de Meijer, and share your work at a public reading on April 19.

Kingston Grand Theatre Discount Program | Ongoing | Score discounted tickets if you’re 18-30, an artist in the non-profit sector, a Kingston Transit pass holder, or a military member. Because great performances shouldn’t break the bank!

And that’s a wrap… until Wednesday 😊 

It’s been an absolute pleasure and honour to be the first writer of YGKtoday. Here’s to many more e-newsletters delivered straight to your inbox!

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