Kingston punches above its weight for live music. For a city its size, the number of venues booking bands on a regular basis is impressive. Here are the spots we know from playing them.
Raxx Bar and Grill
Raxx books bands on weekends and draws a crowd that comes specifically for the music. The room sounds good, the stage is solid, and the staff knows how to run a live music night. River Cats play Raxx regularly and it consistently packs out.
Royal Tavern 2.0
Royal Tavern 2.0 has become a hub for the Kingston music community. They host multi-band events like HomeGrown Live, which supports local causes like Joe's Music Mill. The room has good energy and the owners actively support local artists.
Confederation Basin Waterfront
In the summer months, Confederation Basin hosts outdoor music events right in downtown Kingston. Playing in front of City Hall with the waterfront behind you is a setting that does not exist in many cities. These events draw tourists and locals alike.
Blu Martini
Blu Martini offers an intimate setting for live music. The crowd tends to be engaged and the room is small enough that the band connects directly with the audience. Good for a tighter, more personal show.
The Wider Kingston Scene
Beyond these venues, Kingston's Princess Street corridor, the university district, and the waterfront all support live music in various forms. Open mic nights, busking permits, and seasonal festivals keep the scene active year-round.
If you are looking for a live band in Kingston, check our upcoming shows page to see where we are playing next.