Kingston Buskers Rendezvous Grand Finale ends in tie for People's Choice

The Twins’ Trip and Richard Filby celebrate their People’s Choice Awards at Kingston Buskers Rendezvous – photo credit @garrettelliott 

[Kingston, Ontario – July 14, 2025] Kingston Buskers Rendezvous came to an end yesterday evening with a Grand Finale that saw a tie for People’s Choice Award for only the third time in the festival’s 35-year history. 

The Twins’ Trip, a dynamic duo of identical twins from Argentina who made their Canadian debut tied with seasoned circus artist, Richard Filby from London byway of Australia. Winning People’s Choice means the performers are invited to return next year to, once again, wow audiences. 

United Way’s Success by 6 program was also a winner at this year’s Grand Finale with proceeds raised by the performers as they passed the hat benefiting the program. Success By 6 is a United Way initiative set up to help improve the lives of Kingston’s youngest children. Success By 6 is based on the idea that it takes a village to raise a child, and we all have a role to play in ensuring every child has a chance to succeed early in life. 

Thousands of people flocked to this year’s festival, which featured a number of new elements, including Juggle Junction, a designated kids play area funded by the Government of Ontario. Complete with large inflatables, Juggle Junction also offered collaborative colouring tables, live music, and a Busker Bootcamp where festival performers taught workshops on juggling, beatboxing, balloon twisting, and more. 

 "The Kingston Buskers Rendezvous once again proved to be an outstanding success, as enthusiastic crowds gathered to celebrate the incredible talents of our performers. Despite the blistering hot temperatures, the dedication and generosity of our attendees continued all weekend. We are immensely grateful for the continued support and look forward to many more years of memorable performances and community engagement," says Sandi Griffiths, Events Manager with Downtown Kingston BIA. 

Plans are already underway for next year’s Kingston Buskers Rendezvous, which will take place from July 9th to 12th, 2026.