Ambient-electronic, Musiikki Cafe
Blues, RCHA Club
Celtic, The Toucan
Classical, Next Church
Comedy, Something in the Water
Country, The Buckle (main floor)
Folk, The Caesar Company
Hip hop, Tommy’s
Jazz, Time Out
Mixed Bag, Royal Tavern 2.0
Next Gen, The Buckle (downstairs)
Original – OG51, Broom Factory
Psychedelic Snack, Bottoms Up
Rebel Yell, Bottoms Up
Singer-songwriter, The Embassy
Songwriter’s Lounge, Monte’s
The Toucan Presents, The Toucan
PLEASE NOTE: Line-ups and schedules are subject to change. Some licensed venues may have restrictions on attendees under 19 years old. Please check ahead with individual venues for the most accurate information
Ambient-electronic, Musiikki Cafe. 73 Brock Street.
5 pm - 11 pm
Kahraba, meaning "electricity" in Arabic, is the moniker of Michael Boulos's noise outfit. Kahraba uses the mixing board itself as the instrument, with the help of noisy channels and feedback loops. The result is a sonic soundscape of ebb, flow, chitter, hum, pulse, blare, and shriek.
WillHound first made his mark behind the decks at local bars and clubs. What began as late-night sets and packed dance floors soon evolved into a deeper exploration of sound — one rooted in Kingston’s dynamic mix of genres and raw creativity.
Will Van Rhyn (Synthesizer, Bass, Guitar) and Tom Stewart (Didgeridoo, Harmonica, Mandolin, Vocalization) lay down landscapes of rhythms, melodies, and sounds to create primordial, atmospheric and danceable grooves, forgotten by your soul, but soon to be remembered.
Coming soon
Robodonut play original folk/pop songs with vocals/guitar (Paul Clifford), electronic drums (Devin Beames), keys (Grace Dixon), bass (Dylan Lodge), and theremin (Michelle Bunton). They have a dreamy, atmospheric sound with a mix of slow jams and a few bangers for dancing.
KaKaow, from Kingston, Ontario, is a psychedelic and funk infused multi-instrumentalist, producer, composer, performer and creator. KaKaow has established himself as a leader within the local music community, striving to connect, promote and most of all create.
Blues, RCHA Club. 193 Ontario Street.
12 pm - 12 am.
Sonny Slide is a Kingston musician who has been playing music for 60 years, specializing in roots and blues. He plays the music of the pre war blues masters such as Blind Willie McTell, Robert Johnson, Bukka White... Sonny favours playing his music on National guitars.
Lukas is a diverse 15 year old singer-musician.
Performing since April 30th 2024. Lukas has performed in many of Kingston and area venues, festivals, and events.
Lucanus "Lukey", wins the crowd wherever he goes regardless of age or musical preference. Most of his gigs are at KGH for patients where his music is treated like medicine. Pell was named Best Entertainer 2025 on Kingston Community Votes.
Stemming from a passion for harmonica, Sam Coons's musical interests span the acoustic traditions of North America. Accompanying guitar and banjo with harmonica and quills, they hope to share their appreciation for those who shaped traditional blues, country and folk musics.
Steve performs his "porch" inspired music locally at various cafes, markets, pubs and open mics. He brings a blend of blues, roots, folk music with just a little ? stirred in. He prefers to say that he does interpretations rather than covers of other's songs.
Geoffrey Wickham:
Performing country, blues and folk-rock, his first album received CBC Radio play across Canada. As part of "The Wickham Brothers" he was a regular performer at The Limestone Blues Festival. Geoffrey's second album is near completion at Musty Music in Kingston, ON.
Originally from Kingston now based in Montreal, Ethan Crosby is a young up and coming blues singer/songwriter in the local scenes. Blending together the sounds of soul and folk music, Ethan strives to find the balance between heartbreak and hope
We are a trio of musicians who all play guitar with our own unique sound with a mix of blues and a few originals. Two talented lead guitar players who each bring their own style and vocals with a dynamic female lead vocalist who sings from the soul and plays rhythm guitar.
HHT (Hellhound Trail) is a Kingston-based blues-rock band blending Blues, Rock, Soul, Surf, and Roots. With soulful vocals, slide guitar, surf-style leads, and a gritty rhythm section, their sound is raw, honest, and high-energy.
Big Mo and The Blues Mission - Formed in 1998, their blues stylings include songs from such greats as Buddy Guy, and the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Their love of R&B groove and contemporary blues really shines in this exciting and dynamic combo.
Coming soon
The Tomcats are an electric blues band playing the classics with a steady and grooving rhythm section (Dan Costa on drums and Mike Pacey on electric bass). The band features instrumental leads on harmonica (Tom Stewart) and electric guitar (Richard Burgman). Make sure you wear your dancing shoes!
Music brought us together eighteen years ago, and lasting friendships were formed. Though we each play with other groups these days, Celtic Rumblings is where our journey began. We’re always especially grateful for the chance to reunite, share a few laughs, and make music together.
Proudly local, Fiddle Earth brings the spirit of Celtic music to Kingston. Our blend of twin fiddles, guitar, and banjolele creates a nostalgic yet vibrant atmosphere. From foot-stomping Canadian reels to feel-good sing-along songs, we love sharing our passion for traditional music.
Coming soon
Shane Dunne has been a fixture in the Kingston, Ontario music scene since the late 1990s, first with the Kingston Ceili Band for 20 years, and now performing celtic/folk material both solo and with others (duo SIAN, trio Fromage a Trois).
Rideau Street Variety Orchestra is a unique chamber music group consisting of musicians of all ages and experience levels playing a wide variety of music.
The Rideau Street Guitar Circle is an all-ages group made up of singers who also play guitar or drums. They play a wide variety of folk, rock and pop covers, with unique medleys, Canadian content and the occasional saxophone solo.
Oscar Evans is a genre bending composer based in Kingston. Oscar is always pushing himself to create new music and gain a deeper understanding of his chosen instruments. He has been composing new music for solo double bass and is eager to share his exciting creations with the Kingston community.
- Since the age of nine, I have had a sincere passion for playing classical melodies on the guitar. What particularly inclined me to specialize in the guitar as opposed to another instrument was its inherent nature of being extraordinarily graceful and, in my subjective opinion, fundamentally elegant.
Coming soon
The Orchestra Kingston Brass Quintet is comprised of five local area musicians, all of whom have a connection to Orchestra Kingston, either as current or former players. We like to play a wide range musical forms and styles with the intent of entertaining our audience.
NOTE: This is a 'shotgun' style comedy event. The first performer's name will be drawn randomly, and after their last joke, they will pull the name of the next performer. Each set is approximately 10 minutes. 19+ only
Comedy, Something In The Water. 275 Princess Street
8 PM - 10 PM
Al Babcock is a comedian based in Kingston and Toronto. known for his unique style and presence in any local comedy scene. Al has performed with acts such as Ari Shaffir, Luis J Gomez, Ahren Belisle, Trailer Park Boys, Insane Clown Posse & more. Al is known for being an advocate for mental health.
Coming soon
I'm currently writing this bio while recovering from hernia surgery. I'm in a lot of pain... and if YOU want to have your sides hurt from laughing, come check me out! (That was lame, I know. Blame the meds.)
Noah is from Toronto and started doing stand up comedy there as a teenager. He moved to Kingston for school and continues to do stand up all over Ontario
Coming soon
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Hannah is a multifaceted artist from Madawaska, Ontario. As a writer, comedian, and spoken word artist, she weaves narratives that explore the comedic depths of the human condition.
Coming soon
Northern Attitude is a father-daughter duo of acoustic guitar and drums. They play a mix of upbeat, danceable music that focuses on songs everyone knows and can sing along to. They play a mix of country, folk, rock and classic rock music.
The Beverly Boys practice in a small cabin beside the Upper Beverly Lake, or, when weather permits, in a boathouse on the Lower Beverly Lake. Their music is inspired by the land and the lakes that surround them.
Lukas is a diverse 15 year old singer-musician.
Performing since April 30th 2024. Lukas has performed in many of Kingston and area venues, festivals, and events.
Saul T Doggs - Ole timey music with a trippy twist.
Coming soon
Abby Stewart is a powerhouse country singer-songwriter from Kingston, Ontario, known for her soaring vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and undeniable stage presence. Performing has always been where she feels most at home, and she’s already built an impressive resume across Canada and beyond.
Clem Chesterfield - outlaw musician, alt-country slacker, inclusive cowboy, Canadiana ambassador. His honest approach to folk-roots country music can be heard in every note he sings. Filled with tongue-in-cheek humour, the songs are straight to the point in their political, environmental, and social messaging. Whether with his band of notorious outlaw musicians,
The LA-Z Boy Recliners, or solo, Clem delivers high energy entertainment for intimate house concerts or rowdy barn dances.
Courtney Kane is a 27-year-old Canadian country singer and songwriter whose passion for music has been the driving force behind her journey. Born and raised in Kingston, Ontario, Courtney has lived the quintessential artist’s journey—from performing in local bars to opening for JUNO- and CCMA-award winning James Barker Band at the Tweed Stampede, where she played to a crowd of over 7,000 people in August 2024.
Her career has been shaped by collaborations with respected figures in the Canadian country music scene, including Jay Smith, Abby Stewart, Sam Davs, Andre Besel, and Wes Mack. With a love for live performance, Courtney has shared her music in every setting imaginable, from intimate bar gigs to fundraisers to sporting events, including singing the National Anthem at numerous games across Ontario.
Courtney’s musical journey began at the age of five when she started piano lessons, and has been self-taught on guitar since age 12. Her first ever live performance was for an audience of 600 at her elementary school talent show. Her desire to grow and push her boundaries led her to Nashville, where she recently graduated from Dark Horse Institute in Franklin, Tennessee. There, she honed her songwriting and music business skills, learning from industry veterans.
Her debut single, “Revenge Song,” set to release in Fall 2025, is the culmination of this training. Written with her former fellow classmate Angelina Devonn and former instructor PG Banker, the track was mixed and mastered by GRAMMY Award-winning engineer Dave Hagen and recorded at Dark Horse Recording.
Courtney is an artist who isn’t just about the music; she’s about the connection. “If you love country music as much as I do, I think we’ll get along just fine!”
The Foley Mountain Playboys mission is to provide the perfect soundtrack for a country dance in a small town community hall, legion or tavern. Music that should be accompanied by a potluck supper, or a homemade pie auction. Foot-stompin', dance floor fillin', down to the core Roots music.
Good Co. is an Alt-Country band from Kingston, Ontario. What began as a solo songwriting project by Cody Allen James has evolved into a bonafide country rock outfit founded on a simple principle: write good songs and play them well.
Folk, Caesar Company, Caesar Company. 177 Princess Street
12 PM - 9 PM
Matthew has been playing music across Canada for over 25 years as an artist and theatre performer. He has recorded two albums of original material and shared the stage with Tom Cochrane, Rita McNeil, Dee Snider among others. He is proud to call Kingston home and raise his son Eli here.
Laine Kaja Raudsepp - Canadian-Estonian singer, guitar player. Charming acoustic covers of oldies, rock, pop and folk songs
David Shuter (The artist formally known as D-Shoots), is a solo acoustic performer that has been active in the Kingston area for over 2 years now. Playing a mix of popular pop and alternative covers as well as catchy originals, this powerful vocalist's set is bound to have something you will enjoy!
have been playing music together for years in venues and festivals around town and beyond. Josh and Rose have performed together as part of The Next Church Band and The Affirmations at past Homegrown Festivals, but wanted to focus on their folkier side this time around.
Carrick McAllister previously of Tighten Up and The Pinkertons. Singer/songwriter. Born and raised in Kingston/Wolfe island. Proud supporter of all things local
Kingston-based performer and French Immersion teacher Nicci Rea creates bilingual folk-pop that blends theatre roots with heartfelt storytelling. Inspired by artists like Loreena McKennitt and Raffi, she brings warmth, playfulness, puppets, and tender melodies to families.
Kingston songwriter Simon Webb delivers clever, warm acoustic folk‑rock with a coarse edge, mixing catchy originals with the occasional pub‑ready drinking tune.
John Rose has been playing folk, blues, and country music live for 25 years. He is a songwriter inspired by work, love, and the land. His music is shaped by thoughtful lyrics, simple melodies, and smooth vocals. Influences include John Prine, Taj Mahal, and Patty Griffin.
Stephen Bruce Medd performs original historical ballads and spiritual songs along with covers of other Folk musicians like Gordon Lightfoot, Stan Rogers and Mac Beattie. His music and performing info is available on Bandcamp, YouTube and Facebook under Stephen Bruce Medd Music.
The Hydeaways are a talented trio that specializes in acoustic, singer songwriter, folk and original music. The unique style and range of lead vocalist and guitarist Nathan Hyde, leaves audiences amazed. Their original songs have beautiful and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with all.
Bad Fortune is an indie folk duo, comprised of local artists Max Tinline and Piper Noelle. Bad Fortune creates a dreamy and warm environment for their listeners through their unique combination of honest lyrics, melancholic harmonies, and hearty array of folk-inspired instrumentals.
Kingston-based indie-folk trio, The Kildeers, blend intricate finger-picking rhythms, harmony vocals and thoughtful lyrics to create a familiar yet unique musical performance. Their debut release, Faster than the Light, released in May 2025, was 6th on CFRC's top 10 albums of the year.
"Homegrown" ClassAct & Karli.G, born and raised in Kingston Ontario, met in 2009 and started performing in 2010 in and around the city at venues such as The Mansion, The Tucan, Overtime Sports bar, The Grad Club, Blue Martini to name a few. Now performing their newest album "A Decade Later".
Pretty Boi K.O is a high-energy rap artist with over 3.7M streams worldwide. Back-to-back albums over 1M streams, latest project at 1.6M and rising. Global radio play. Underrated but undeniable.
Shiznick is a Canadian hip-hop artist and high-energy MC originally from the Greater Toronto Area who has become a fixture in the Kingston, Ontario music scene. Known for his sharp wordplay, punchy lyrical style, and dynamic live performances, he’s been upping his game exponentially.
Jake Clarke from Belleville Ontario. A high energy performing lyricist. Performed for 10+ years and have opened for artists like Merkules, TechN9ne, D12, MadChild, Roney and many more. A catalog of music styles from boom bap, melodic rap, and occasionally alt rock. Team Yuneek baby!
The Martello Alley Cats - Kingston's own vocal jazz ensemble.
Coming soon
The Monaghan Quartet is a newly formed Jazz/Fusion group from Kingston, Ontario featuring the talents of sisters Sarah and Emily on upright bass and vocals, Liam Noronha on keys, and Ethan Davidson-Harden on drums.
Spencer Evans is a renowned keyboardist, singer/entertainer and clarinetist. He performs extensively in Kingston with the Mourning Doves (Classic Jazz and Originals), Ghetto Express (Funk and Soul), the Goat Steppers (New Orleans Street Parade Jazz) and countless solo/duo/trio formats for tour boats, patios, festivals, and corporate and private events.
For over 30 years he has worked as a session and touring musician, notably with Cowboy Junkies, Sarah Harmer, The Good Lovelies, Jill Barber, Jeff Healey, Pat Temple, and many local groups including Michael Myers, Ryan Lewis, FABB (Free Association Blues Band), Pico de Gallo, Funkyfrenz, Open Voices, Chris Jackson and many others. As an entertainer, he plays and sings thousands of songs and improvises over many styles: Jazz, Blues, Funk, Classic Pop, Reggae, Soul, Classical, Latin, and Rock and Roll.
Spencer's self-titled album of original music was released in 2021 and can be found on streaming platforms.
Mauricio is a folk-classical and pop flamenco guitarist extraordinaire—combines Latin songwriting, composing, and arranging with an infectious blend of World Fusion rhythms. Mauricio's songs are a reflection of his roots in Chile and his life's' journey to share his love, and passion for music, this world, and it's people. His performances are an invitation to celebrate this shared journey through music and dance!
Euro Café Duo is a captivating musical duo featuring Andrea Leyton’s enchanting vocals and Edward (Ted) Leyton’s versatile digital piano accordion, which evokes the rich sounds of a jazz quartet. This husband-and-wife team performs cabaret/cafe music, and jazz standards.
Featuring several long-time local musicians and performers The Kingston Jam Bros (KJBs) create a fully immersive sonic experience that spans multiple genres (jazz/pop/rnb/reggae/rock/soul) & involves delightfully rhythmic monologues and movements that truly invites all audiences to Join in the Jam!
Well established members of the Kingston music scene, The Saxobelles Saxophone Quartet have branched out to offer a fresh take on the classics. The Saxobelles have been performing jazzy tunes in the Kingston area for over 10 years and are supporters of Joe's MILL.
The members of Django’s Kitchen live in Kingston, Ontario, performing the music of Django Reinhardt, referred to as Gypsy Jazz or Jazz Manouche. Get ready to swing!
Hold The Door is a brand new trio playing instrumental covers of pop and rock songs with saxophone, guitar and drums. They are frequent collaborators who can also be seen playing with the Rideau Street Guitar Circle and will be performing works from Bruce Springsteen to Barenaked Ladies, and more.
Mixed Bag, Royal Tavern 2.0. 344 Princess Street
1 pm - 1 am
V.I.P. has been playing bars and other venues in Kingston and area for twenty years.
Interrobang‽ is a 3 piece band from Kingston, Ontario featuring Alex Merkley on bass, Callum Nicholson on drums, and Talyn Brown on lead vocals and guitar. They play a multitude of grunge and punk songs from the 90s, including Sublime, Nirvana, and more. Interrobang‽ is also working on originals.
Brass over Tea Kettle, is a high-energy Kingston brass band that specializes in a fusion of pop and dance club hits creating a delightful concoction of whimsy and mischief, with frantic energy permeating every note.
Groovalicious originals and cosmic interpretations. A trio with a voice that charms unicorns, guitars like conversations with the cosmos, bass grooves that could communicate with dolphins and dynamo drums that are a dynamic roller-coaster. The Peter Copp Project is a sonic journey.
Sons of Rick are a four-piece indie rock band from Kingston, Ontario, formed by friends at St. Lawrence College in 2022. Known for high-energy shows and a fun, loose stage presence, they draw from The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, and Peach Pit, with a single, EP, and more music on the way.
A new project from a crew of established Kingston musicians, Simon Webb and the Bad Dog Beat deliver a tight, punchy mix of rock and alternative tunes built for a pint, a crowd, and a good time.
Nolan Hubbard weaves soul, blues and jazz into an indie pop sound unmistakably original. A virtuoso with an unforgettable smile, his music pulses with nostalgia & fearless curiosity. With 11M+ songwriting streams & 1350+ gigs played, Nolan’s music tells heartfelt stories with a feel-good groove.
Dads With Jobs are four guys raising young families in the suburbs of Kingston. They started the band naturally from a shared love of music. If forced to describe themselves they might call it "original millennial dad rock".
Triple-J is a Kingston and Gan based punk/rock band playing lighter old school rockers and some of our own. Think Headstones, Clash, Sex Pistols, Gob, Bowie, Hip. We play a balance of Canadian, UK and USA songs (reducing the US to avoid tariffs!!). We take pride in our gigs to support foodbanks.
Max and His Equals is a dynamic egalitarian rock band that blends influences of rock, pop, soul, theatre, and everything in between. This five-piece ensemble invites audiences to embark on a sonic odyssey that promises to captivate music fans with their diverse repertoire and energetic performances.
Sweet Machete is a band that blends metal and power pop with hints of psychedelic and punk. The band released their debut single "Blood and Oil" in 2022, followed by "Vodka" in 2023, all songs are available on major streaming platforms. They won the 2025 Napanee Battle of the Bands.
TwoTime is an indie rock band from Kingston, Ontario, bringing high-energy performances and good vibes to the stage. Formed in the summer of 2024, the band consists of four young but seasoned musicians from the local scene. Also, they really like Taco Bell.
Frances Ritsma (age 10) lives in Kingston with her parents and younger sister. Despite her young age, she has performed at many spots across Kingston and the province, at concerts/festivals, competitions, and weddings as well as in local musical theatre productions. She loves to share her passion for music!
Kyla Kane is twelve years old from Westport, Ontario. She got her first guitar on her ninth birthday and has been performing ever since. She performs at various venues around Kingston with the Youth Open Mics and at many Westport music festivals/venues. Kyla enjoys a good mix of country and pop!
Iris Whelan is a 14 year old singer songwriter who grew up in Kingston, Ontario. She plays pop and folk style music along with original songs of that genre at open mics and coffee houses, and is always looking for a chance to share her music with others.
Emily Casement is a 16-year-old singer-songwriter and pianist with heartfelt lyrics and a soulful voice. In 2024, she won Frontenac’s Got Talent, marking her as a rising young artist. Her emotive, piano-led songs explore love, growth, and self-discovery with honesty and depth.
Mina Steorra is an 18-year-old singer/songwriter from Oakville, Ontario. Growing up, she spent most of her free time singing in community children's choirs and show choirs at school. After gaining some confidence, she decided to pivot towards solo singing and songwriting in high school.
Quinn Large is a 16 year old singer/songwriter. She has only been performing for a few years, but she has loved music her whole life. She is so excited to be able to perform at HomeGrown this year!
Lukas is a diverse 15 year old singer-musician.
Performing since April 30th 2024. Lukas has performed in many of Kingston and area venues, festivals, and events.
London Hosier and Elise Cook are an acoustic duo from Kingston. They're seniors at LCVI and have been playing music in different configurations since grade nine. This will be their second Homegrown Festival and they couldn't be more excited!
Ironhound is a speed rockin’ heavy metal band from Kingston, Ontario. We are influenced by heavy metal, speed metal and southern rock music.
The Junior Band is a first-season Rock Skool group already making waves. They made their debut at the Salvation Army Toy Drive in Napanee in December 2025, wowing the crowd with confident stage presence and infectious energy. This young band is just getting started—and already turning heads.
Stereo Cranium is a high-energy junior rock band formed through Harmony Lounge & Music Club’s Rock Skool program. After debuting at HomeGrown Live in Kingston, they became the youngest band in the 2025 Battle of the Bands Napanee lineup, bringing bold covers and fearless stage presence.
Sound Chamber is a dynamic youth rock band delivering tight rhythms, layered guitars, and confident vocals. Blending modern alternative edge with classic rock influence, they bring energy, focus, and serious stage presence to every performance.
doingok - Led by Matthew Francis and supported by longtime collaborators Peter Yagminas and Joseph Harvey. They draw on a range of sounds - from contemporary indiepop to punk music - incubating a sonic ethos that encompasses their collective resignation to, and embrace of, all that cannot be.
Lee Casement is a Kingston bassist and songwriter active for 30+ years. Known for dynamic basslines and thoughtful songs, he’s backed diverse local artists (e.g. Abby Stewart), and has shared stages with The Dears, The Sheepdogs and others. Since the pandemic, he’s released 4 solo albums and an EP.
SayItBack is an exciting Kingston Adult Contemporary/Pop/Soul band that has been performing in Kingston for a couple years now. Formerly know as Mr. Ease, the pandemic forced some lineup changes. We are a bit of a Kingston super group with members of The Astros, Nice On and the Codas.
Formed in 2023, Mama’s Boys are a young band emerging into the Kingston music scene with their unique Indie-Rock sound. They bring excitement to the stage with their originals and often play covers of the artists they draw their inspiration from, favouring strong female vocalists.
Redwoods and Birch - We are a band without a true genre somewhere in the rock realm. Two brothers and two childhood friends melding a sonic landscape together for your listening pleasure.
Exogen is a four-piece alt-metal band from Kingston, Ontario, formed in 2022. Known for raw energy and crushing, experiential riffs, they’ve built a presence through relentless live shows. Inspired by Metallica, Deftones, Tool, Slipknot, and Mastodon, their second EP drops in February.
Psychedelic Snack - Bottoms Up. 285 Queen Street
7 PM - 12 AM
blends beautiful vocal harmonies with keyboards, guitars, percussion, electric and double bass, saxophone… Multi-instrumentalists all! Musicians on stage change often depending on the needs of the other performers and who is available for a gig, hence the name.
Indie/Folk singer songwriter Nate Zahn, formerly of Cosmic Granola, releases his long-awaited
solo project Barn Swallow.
Including the award-winning song “Do Anything”, his album will immerse you in nature, and
place you alongside a crackling fire, reminiscing about love, life and loss.
Rich with emotion, Nate’s life experiences influence and inspire all of the pieces he writes.
“As a full-time teacher and single Dad, my focus has shifted. Music for me today is for my own
enjoyment. It’s a bonus if other people can enjoy it along with me. I’m not in it for fame and
fortune, I’m in it for the experience, and to share my passion and my story with others.”
Currently based in Kingston, Ontario, the albums songs were originally recorded while Nate was
living in Thunder Bay, at Les Henderson’s studio. The songs were tucked away and seemingly
forgotten, but found years later by his wife after Les’s passing, and she was able to reunite the
work with Nate.
Nate’s many talents are showcased in this one-man band project, playing almost all of the
instrumentals himself.
Barn Swallow was recently followed up with a catchy 2-song EP titled “Downtown Café”.
Check out Nate’s work on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, Amazon Music and Facebook.
Galvanic 42 stripped down to its basic elements is a band composed of a traditional alignment of guitar, bass and drums. These three elements conspire to produce original music rising out of the rust of society. This corrosion of metallic elements is influenced by the universal constant in direct proportion to the meaning of life (42). Galvanic 42 performs and composes original music and adds some creative interpretations of Canadiana and anything else we can throw into the mix. It's all about the sounds that these elements create. Iain provides a driving beat, to back drop some searing guitar from Andy, and a mercurial bass from Huw that ties together vocals that are formed from the geographic entity that is Kingston Ontario.
Gerald has been making music for the last 20+ years, and as a solo artist for the last five. He uses live instrument and vocal looping to create engaging sonic perfomances. Gerald has had the good fortune to play with artists such as Joel Plaskett, Graven, Terra Lightfoot, and The Trews.
Lobby Boys are an original rock band from Kingston, featuring active members from the local music scene. Paul Stos formed the group in 2025 as a vehicle for his original compositions. Pulling from a wide variety of influences, the band continues to evolve and expand.
The Mudlocks are a new Kingston band made up of four veteran musicians with a love for juicy originals, classic rock deep cuts, danceable jams, and wanky guitar solos. Featuring Logan Brown, Alec Barken, Chris Morris, and Harrison Stewart-Juby.
Rebel Yell - Bottoms Up. 285 Queen Street.
2 PM - 6 pm
All ages.
is your favourite band's favourite band. Using looped guitars and thick harmonies, their live shows are daring and genuine. They rarely promote or pose for photos, so catching one of their rare performances is always a unique experience."
Lumpfish is a pop-punk/punk band from Kingston Ontario that plays loud and makes people dance while creating an inclusive environment. They are influenced by Blink 182, Green Day and more! May The Lump Be Fish You!
Fresh off the release of our debut EP Welcome to the Real World, RevZed performs anthemic classics and trailblazing originals inspired by the Ramones, RATM, Deep Purple, and more. You’re gonna hear our name again. Don't miss your opportunity to witness our incredible live music experience.
Hailing from Kingston, ON, Crown of Antlers delivers a potent and visceral brand of metal. Everything from death to progressive to melodic sounds, rounded out by the love of the RIFF. Keep your ears to the ground, for you will all wear a Crown of Antlers.
Singer-songwriter - The Embassy (The Spire, William Street entrance). 82 Sydenham Street.
1 pm - 5 pm.
All ages
Our repertoire includes traditional folk music from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Appalachia as well as our own original compositions. According to one fan, 'this great musical duo gives warm, tantalizing performances so if you have the opportunity to see them, do so.'
SIAN is Kingston-based singer/guitarist Shane Dunne together with flutist Anne Archer. We specialize in intricate arrangements of Celtic and Folk songs, including some original tunes by Anne.
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Our repertoire is eclectic and ranges from early music through baroque, blues to klezmer. We are especially fond of traditional folk music : Irish, Scottish, Welsh, South American.
Vocal trio FROMAGE A TROIS is Kingston performers Shane Dunne, Val Hamilton, and Liz Racine. We specialize in intricate arrangements of Folk and Celtic songs, including originals and covers by other Kingston songwriters.
Anthony Albert - Long time bass player and song writer. Currently playing in bands, writing and recording original music, and trying to spread good music
Talyn & Cailyn are a Kingston, Ontario acoustic duo blending harmonies with heartfelt performances. With one guitar and two voices, they’ve appeared in Mamma Mia!, Grease, and Pippin at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School, plus coffee houses and last year's Homegrown Live Music Festival.
The 'Evs are Trevor Strong (Tr'Ev) and Kevin Baker (K'Ev). We are middle-aged and fearless, playing everything from sea shanties to classic rock to pop song re-imaginings. We also talk a lot.
We are a good time.
Songwriter's Lounge - Monte's. 200 Ontario Street
1 pm - 7 pm
Rick Melanson has been playing and recording music for more than 35yrs. His influences include Paul Simon, the Beatles, the Smiths, Steely Dan, and many others. Rick has performed in the Kingston area since the 2000s. He released a collection of songs in 2016. Rick is a multi-instrumentalist
Michael Casteels finds inspiration for his songs from experiences with household rodents, to actual witch hunters in the 1800s, and just about anything in between, as long as there’s a story to be told.
Hi, I've lived in Kingston most of my life, and have enjoyed listening to and playing music. Grew up with the Folk Music genre in the forefront, and most of what I write would fall into that category, though there are some funny tunes too. Grateful to have met and known other musical folk here.
Mellow Lily is more than just a voice-she's a force.
A gifted singer-songwriter from the area, she brings over 15 years of experience to the stage. As a signed artist and professional songwriter, she ensures her audience will remain her fans. Come see why Mellow Lily is an act you won’t forget!
Roger Marshall a singer/songwriter spent most of his working career creating access to music for the youth he had the privilege of working with. They in return gave him the impetus to pursue creating his own original music. You can find his albums, Uninked Tattoos and Portraits streaming online.
Out for a Walk is the work of an Australian-born singer-songwriter, Pamela White, blending pop sensibilities with acoustic guitar and the desire to explore a full range of sonic possibilities.
Kingston, Ontario singer-songwriter-guitarist Chris Giguère writes memorable songs of reflection, insight and pondering that live on the hazy outskirts of folk, country, and rock. Chris is currently recording and releasing singles, gigging solo, and developing a new project.
Jon McLurg is a singer-songwriter based in Kingston, Ontario. Jon has been a staple of the local folk music scene for more than 20 years as a solo performer and member of Turpin’s Trail, Crooked Wood, and The Goodnight Irenes.
Tim Aylesworth is a performer, singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who has released a number of original songs recorded in his home studio.
Tim plays venues all around Kingston as a solo entertainer, instrumentalist and in his band, The RetroKings.
Just Adam is a folk solo artist focused on honest songwriting and human connection. Drawing from personal experience and everyday observations, his music lives in the quiet places -where acoustic guitars, raw vocals, and thoughtful lyrics take center stage. Intimate, relatable, unguarded.
Sonya captivates audiences with her soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, and an unmistakably honest voice. What truly sets Sonya apart is her ability to marry vulnerability with strength.
The Diaries is a folk duo made up of Lia Dawson and Anna Robertson, who have been playing music together for over 25 years. Known for their rich, intuitive harmonies and long-standing musical chemistry, their songs feel lived-in and heartfelt, shaped by decades of collaboration and friendship.
The Toucan Presents, The Toucan. 76 Princess Street.
7:00 PM - 2 AM.
Retro Kings are a folk-rock band playing both originals and classic rock songs.
Entertaining shows, seasoned musicians, three-part harmonies, classic rock, folk-rock songs, and everything from 60-70 hits to 90’s, and beyond..
Doug van der Horden is a multi-instrumentalist and has been performing as a solo act for a number of years. Lately, he has been surrounding himself with some of Kingston's most talented musicians. This line up performs some very creative arrangements of classic tunes from multiple decades.
Holy Wow's dreamy Canadiana is fashioned from America's psychedelic coast and has some dark overtones from weird and swampy Louisiana bayous. It is pop music about bewilderment and joy that has just enough candy sheen to cover its own muddy tracks.
SQUID Pistol is an alternative rock band delivering high-energy songs from our favorite horror and cult-classic movie soundtracks.
Since 2009, Radio Wasteland had been a signature staple of Kingston's independent rock scene. With a lineup of original songs and a new record out in 2026 Radio Wasteland continues to rock out in Kingston.
Originally from New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, now based in Kingston, Ontario, WHYGO is a three piece alternative rock band with versatility, taking inspiration from genres such as blues, soul, classical, metal and virtually anything in between.