21st Annual Skeleton Park Arts Festival

One of Kingston’s most beloved summer traditions returns this June as the Skeleton Park Arts Festival celebrates its 21st year with a vibrant weekend of music, theatre, art, food, community, and creativity.

Taking place June 19–21, 2026, this free, family-oriented festival transforms McBurney Park and the surrounding neighbourhood into a lively celebration of local culture and artistic expression. Known affectionately by many as “Skeleton Park,” the area comes alive each summer solstice with performances, installations, artisan markets, and spontaneous moments of connection that make the festival unlike anything else in the city.

This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix of acclaimed artists and local favourites, including Hannah Georgas, Witch Prophet, RAW Taiko Drummers, Piner, Forty Seven Teeth, and many more. Audiences can also experience performances by Voices Rock Medicine Kingston, theatrical presentations from Birdbone Theatre, and a wide range of emerging and multidisciplinary artists throughout the weekend.

Festival programming begins Friday evening with the Open Mic “Walks of Life”, hosted by Abbie Louise at Next Church. Saturday and Sunday feature full days of live performances from 10:00 AM until dusk, including interactive theatre, disability-led art experiences, fine art exhibitions, and the joyful return of the Porch Jazz Parade winding through the neighbourhood Sunday morning.

A highlight of the weekend is Sounds on Sydenham Street, an evening side-stage event co-presented by Downtown Kingston and the Kingston Music Office, bringing together live performances and moderated discussions in the heart of downtown.

Beyond the music and performances, festivalgoers can explore more than 40 artisan vendors, community organization booths, local food vendors, family games, and kid-friendly activities hosted by the Department of Illumination.

More than just a festival, Skeleton Park Arts Festival is a celebration of community, inclusion, and creativity, a place where neighbours reconnect, artists shine, and Kingston’s unique spirit fills the streets.

Event Details
Dates: June 19–21, 2026
Location: McBurney Park & surrounding neighbourhood, Kingston
Admission: Free

Bring a lawn chair, wander the neighbourhood, discover something unexpected, and celebrate the arrival of summer in true Kingston style.