The advantage of being in a smaller city is the ease of access to a variety of activities and events. Kingston offers a wide range of volunteer and recreational opportunities that will help you make meaningful connections as you explore your new community. Getting involved will go a long way towards making you feel at home.
Kingston offers various recreational activities and clubs that take advantage of our ideal location near waterways and green spaces rich in biodiversity:
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The Frontenac Arch Biosphere is a region of global ecological significance spanning 2,700 square kilometres offering walking trails, nature programs, and summer camps.
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The Kingston Field Naturalists Club's goal is to stimulate an interest in nature and the preservation of wildlife through field trips and speakers.
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The Rideau Trail Club sponsors day hikes and other outdoor activities. Hikes vary in length and degree of effort; many are on the Rideau Trail, a cross-country footpath between Kingston and Ottawa. In winter months, there are cross-country ski outings.
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Take up the Frontenac Park Challenge with Friends of Frontenac and explore over 100 km of stunning backcountry and hiking trails in nearby Frontenac Provincial Park on the southern edge of the Canadian Shield. Or take a wilderness skills training course and embark on a canoe camping adventure on the beautiful lakes.
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Closer to the city, you can explore the Cataraqui Watershed basin on largely accessible hiking trails at Lemoine Point Conservation Area in Kingston's west end or engage in nature appreciation with the many outdoor educational and recreation opportunities offered at nearby Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area, in all four seasons. Maple Madness is one for your list of must-dos!
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Explore Kingston's waterways:
Volunteering is a great way to get involved in a new community and build leadership skills.
High school students in Ontario are required to complete 40 hours in volunteer placements as part of their diploma requirements.
Some volunteer positions may require you to submit a Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) Background Check. Learn how to apply for a police background check from Kingston Police.
Find a volunteer position:
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The United Way for Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington (KFLA) has a Volunteer Centre online platform that connects local organizations to people who are looking for volunteer opportunities. Visit the United Way KFLA Volunteer Centre.
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Compassionate Communities Kingston is actively looking for volunteers to join their network. They are passionate about actively improving the experiences of those coping with life-limiting conditions, dying and death, and dedicated to creating a community in which people are better able to help each other in times of need.
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The City of Kingston also offers various volunteer opportunities and provides training where required
Kingston offers an exceptional variety of cultural events and venues. Kingston's lively downtown offers a newly renovated venue for the City's symphony orchestra, and venues for many musical groups, amateur and professional theatre companies. For a detailed listing of the many offerings available check these sites:
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The Agnes Etherington Arts Centre features contemporary and historical exhibitions throughout the year. The Agnes is currently under renovation so check out their events page for alternative venues.
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Isabel Bader Centre for Performing Arts includes a world-class performance hall and a diversity of exceptional performances and arts experiences. Queen's University faculty and staff receive 8% off single ticket, general public pricing for all Isabel shows.
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The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning is a hub of creativity with programs and spaces for painting, weaving, pottery, dance and more! Borrow an instrument from Joe's Music Mill - Kingston's own musical instrument lending library.
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The Grand Theatre offers an exciting line-up of shows and concerts.
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Le Centre Culturel Frontenac un lieu de promotion, de formation, de production et de diffusion dans le domaine artistique, un lieu de presentation de services communautaires en francais ainsi qu'un lieu de rassemblement pour les francophones et francophiles.
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The Kingston Symphony is a professional orchestra with a mission to bring the world's greatest music to the stage, from masterworks to pioneering new music.
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Theatre Kingston produces new and existing work, a fringe festival, and educational activities for adults and children.
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Domino Theatre is a community theatre offering a full seven-play winter session.
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Slush Puppie Place, Kingston's largest downtown entertainment venue, offers events from hockey to concerts.
Visit YGK Events and Kingston Live for event listings!
Find recreational clubs, sports leagues, and instructional programs to help you stay active and meet new people:
Kingston has something for everyone. Find more clubs, special interest groups, and sports groups: