Princess Street Promenade returns this Saturday with special Emancipation Day Collaboration

Thousands take to the street during the June 21 Promenade. Photo credit @jepesnaps 

Kingston, ON – [Tuesday, July 29, 2025] – Downtown Kingston is thrilled to announce the next edition of the Princess Street Promenade, taking place this Saturday, August 2nd. This beloved community event will once again transform Princess Street into a vibrant pedestrian-only thoroughfare filled with local businesses, family-friendly activities, live music, and more. 

 

With this edition of the Promenade coinciding with Emancipation Day (August 1), a number of local Black-owned businesses will be featured alongside participating Downtown Kingston BIA member businesses. This special collaboration is the result of a partnership between Downtown Kingston’s Retail Advisory Working Group and the organizers of the Black Block Party. 

 

“We’re proud to partner with the Black Block Party team to present an event that reflects the spirit of Kingston—diverse, welcoming, and supportive,” says Cyndy Gibson, owner of Agent 99 and WHIT and member of the BIA's Retail Advisory Working Group. “This Promenade is not just a day of fun and shopping—it’s an opportunity to celebrate the strength of a connected and collaborative local business community." 

 

This special edition of Promenade also marks a special anniversary for one downtown retailer. Trailhead is celebrating 30 years in downtown Kingston by bringing in a free-standing climbing wall, so Promenaders can try their hands (and feet!) at rock climbing. Bring your friends and family, shop local, and be part of this vibrant celebration of community, culture, and connection. 

 

More information on the collaboration with the Black Block Party, Trailhead’s anniversary and all other Promenade activities can be found at downtownkingston.ca.