This bookstore contest could win you a $1,000 gift card

Gooood morning, Kingston! Your weekend forecast calls for a dangerously good café tip and a book-buying spree that could win you a $1,000 gift card. Let’s get into the weird and wonderful world of local info you didn’t know you needed.

But first….

News Notes

Curbside battery pickup starts Monday
Got dead batteries? Bag ’em in a clear, sealed plastic bag and leave them beside your recycling between April 28–May 2 on your regular collection day. Single-use household batteries only — no car or power tool batteries, please. (City of Kingston)

Queen’s grad students end nearly six-week strike
Grad students at Queen’s have ratified a new contract, ending a nearly six-week strike. The deal addresses wages and working conditions, with classes and research now back on track. (The Whig)

Free inclusion toolkit now available for small biz
The City of Kingston has launched a new Inclusion Toolkit to help small businesses boost their workplace IIDEA practices (that’s Indigenization, inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility). It’s packed with local examples, checklists, and templates — all free to download here. (City of Kingston)

Foodie Friday: Juniper Café edition

Big thanks to Brian N. for this hot tip — Juniper Café is serving up more than just waterfront vibes.

With not one but two cozy locations (Centennial & Cat Woods + the Tett Centre), this spot is beloved for its stellar coffee, steeped teas, local wine and beer, and a menu of fresh, flavourful meals and pastries. Bonus: there’s even a mini market stocked with specialty goods.

As Brian says, “You really can’t go wrong.”

Got a favourite spot you think deserves a shoutout here? Send us your rec — we love a good tip-off.

Local Biz

Book lovers, your big day is almost here.
Canadian Independent Bookstore Day is tomorrow—Saturday, April 26—and Kingston’s own Bookland and Novel Idea are both recognized on the Indie Bookstores website! This annual celebration is all about indie bookstores, community vibes, and Canadian culture.

Feeling lucky?
Pick up a book or two (or five) from Bookland and Novel Idea on Saturday, April 16 and enter the 2025 Contest for Book Lovers. Up for grabs: four $200 gift cards and one grand prize of a $1,000 gift card to the indie bookstore of your choice.

Red House just dropped their new summer menu and it's full of bold flavours, local ingredients, and patio-worthy dishes. Check it out and see what your next dinner out could look like.

Wander DIPA is back at Fine Balance Brewing and this new batch is extra hazy, extra juicy, and brewed with tropical New Zealand hops. See what’s inside the can and how to get free Friday delivery in Kingston.

From cold brews to craft spirits, Kingston’s beverage scene is pouring with local talent. See what’s brewing, blending, and bottling near you, all made by small businesses in the region. (Visit Kingston)

Events

Things to do this weekend

The Caesar Company has your weekend soundtrack covered. See who’s playing live and plan your next night out with a side of music and cocktails:

Petal to the Metal: KRD Triple Header | Saturday, April 26 | Doors 1:00 p.m., First Whistle 2:00 p.m. | Memorial Centre | $15 at the door | Three games, one fierce afternoon—Kingston Roller Derby kicks off the season with junior and adult bouts against Hogtown’s toughest teams.

In May

HomeGrown Live Music Festival | Saturday, May 3 | All day | Various Kingston venues | $10 wristband | Over 140 local acts on 16 stages —Kingston’s grassroots music fest is ready to rock for a great cause.

Friends of Lemoine Spring Tree Sale | Saturday, May 17 | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Lemoine Point Conservation Area | Free | Dig into spring—shop native trees and shrubs while supporting local conservation at this popular annual sale.

Spring Into Summer | Saturday, May 17 | 1:00–9:30 p.m. | Lake Ontario Park | Free | Live music, food trucks, drag, kids' activities, and a fireworks finale—Kingston’s ultimate start-of-summer bash is back and bigger than ever. (Source: City of Kingston)

Hosting an event? Submit it to our calendar here.

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

Hot Links

The Rotary Club’s annual clothing drive is back, and this year, it’s all in support of Almost Home. Here’s what to donate and where to drop it off to help families with kids in hospital.

Burger 347 is hiring experienced line cooks with competitive wages, tip sharing, staff meals, and more perks.

New Leaf Link is expanding in Kingston and bringing more inclusive programs and community connections for adults with developmental disabilities. (Kingstonist)

Weather

Monday
High 15°C 🌡️ Low 9°C | 🌦️ 

Tuesday
High 10°C 🌡️ Low 5°C | 🌧️ 

🌡️ View current weather here.

🚗 See live traffic here.

⛽ Check out local gas prices here.

Signing Off

Snag the book, win the prize, support the shop — it’s a literary hat trick. See you out there, Kingston!

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