How to get Involved with Forever Hip
As summer activities ramp up, so does the excitement surrounding Forever Hip, a year-round commemoration of the Tragically Hip’s final concert in Kingston 10 years ago. With activations and window decals now appearing throughout the downtown core, visitors are learning that this year is extra special.
August 20, 2026, marks the 10th anniversary of The Tragically Hip’s final concert. A moment that remains deeply meaningful for Kingston, Hip fans, and Canadians. For many, this anniversary brings a range of emotions, excitement, sadness, pride, gratitude, and nostalgia. The Tragically Hip’s legacy is woven into our community though music, landmarks, memorabilia, stores and shared memories.
Forever Hip Events
This city-wide tribute is offering Hip fans the opportunity to honour the band all year, with all types of events and programming throughout Kingston. Downtown Kingston BIA is excited to partner with Tourism Kingston and the City of Kingston to bring a special viewing party of the Hip’s final concert on August 20, 2016.
On August 22, 2026, fans will gather once again in Springer Market Square to watch CBC’s commercial-free rebroadcast of The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration, honouring the band’s enduring legacy as well as the release of their new live album, Live July 22 – August 20, 2016.
For a full list of the year-round programming, visit Tourism Kingston’s webpage Forever Hip.
How Downtown Businesses Can Get Involved
Because this anniversary is so significant to both the community and visiting fans, businesses have a unique opportunity to create memorable experiences that honours the Hip’s legacy. Whether you wish to tribute year-round or want to collaborate with the watch party in the Square on the 22nd, there are many ways you can create an unforgettable experience for Hip fans alike.
If you missed out on the distribution of the Forever Hip sidewalk and window decals, email hello@downtownkingston.ca to send a request, we’ll happily deliver to them to you.
What Businesses Are Doing
Many members are already finding creative ways to commemorate the occasion:
Atomica - Featured menu item: Fully Completely Pizza
Black Dog - Featured drink: The Modern Spritz
Dianne’s - Featured drink: The Silver Suit, a glittery cocktail
Harpers - Featured mocktail, Mission Zero Smash
Frontenac Club - Backstage Suite celebrating Kingston musical artists, featuring a photo wall and turntable with records
WHIT Kingston - Official Tragically Hip merchandise
Jack Astor’s - Second floor photo wall featuring Hip album artwork and photos
Kingston Marriot - Forever Hip photo backdrop
General Brock’s Commissary - Selling Tragically Chip ice cream
Looking for Ideas?
If you’re wondering how your business can participate, here are a few ways to join in:
Host a Hip themed trivia night
Create a special menu item, drink or dessert inspired by a song or album
Display photos or album artwork
Create photo opportunities for customers
Offer a themed promotion
Have a Hip themed night
if you’d like some help with brainstorming ideas, we’ve got you covered. Just let us know you’d like some help when completing the sign up form (button below).
Tell us What You’re Doing!
We want to know how you’re celebrating. Click the button below to tell us your plans. And, as always, be sure to tag @downtownkingston when posting your plans on social media. To learn how to properly tag @downtownkingston for each platform, click here.
Blog written by Jenna Norman