Gather, connect and celebrate for free at select City of Kingston facilities

As part of the new Free Space Initiative, ethnocultural, community and neighbourhood groups can now book rooms in three City of Kingston recreation facilities free of charge.

The initiative emerged out of a Council motion in May 2024 directing staff to coordinate a pilot program to make underused municipal recreation spaces available to emerging ethnocultural groups in Kingston to support their growth as community organizations. The two-year pilot project, launching Feb. 21, 2025, was endorsed by City Council at its Feb. 18 meeting.

“I am incredibly proud to witness Kingston take a significant step towards providing greater access for both emerging and established ethno-cultural community organizations to celebrate their heritage, build meaningful connections, and share their traditions,” says Jimmy Hassan, Trillium District City Councillor.

“As I mentioned when I first presented this motion to Council in May of 2024, this Pilot Program is more than just a space—it's a commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to celebrate their diversity, forge new friendships, and contribute to the rich tapestry of our community. This initiative is propelling Kingston forward as a progressive leader not only in Ontario but across Canada.”

“I want to thank City staff and the EDI Advisory Committee for their dedicated work and consultation on this program,” adds Hassan. “With the creation of the new Free Space Initiative, Kingstonians now have an inclusive and welcoming space that meets the diverse needs of our vibrant community.”

"The intent of the Free Space Initiative is to build capacity for community groups to gather, connect and strengthen relationships,” says Ruth Noordegraaf, Director of Community Development, Well-being and IIDEA. “Staff have been supporting previous space requests through other existing City programs; we’re pleased to launch the initiative to make these spaces more accessible to both emerging and existing groups.”

Groups can book space in the following facilities pending availability:

Artillery Park Aquatics Centre (382 Bagot. St.)

• Matthew Cahill Gymnasium
• Multi-purpose Room

Rideau Heights Community Centre (85 McCauley St.)

• Multi-purpose Room
• Large Hall
• Meeting rooms
• Full gym and half gym
• Kitchen

Cataraqui Community Centre (1030 Sunnyside Rd.)

• Sunnyside Hall
• Cloverdale Hall

Groups looking to book a community space for a free event, program or meeting that aims to strengthen community connections in Kingston are encouraged to apply. The event, program or meeting must align with the City of Kingston’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Advance booking is required to accommodate other requests and scheduled programming. View the full program guidelines and requirements on the Free Space Initiative webpage.

How to apply

Interested groups can apply online through MyKingston. If you need the application in an alternate format, please contact us by phone at 613-546-0000 or by email at ContactUs@CityofKingston.ca.