Kingston Student Ghetto - Social Events

Social Events

Due to the large student population, the area is well known for being loud and active, especially on weekend nights and during the annual Homecoming celebrations. The opposite is true over holidays as most students leave the area which creates a huge demand for police patrols to discourage break and enters. During the summer months the ghetto has a cottage feel to it as most students are gone, but the ones that remain enjoy front-porch BBQ's, games of four-square (on the famous four-square courts on William and Earl Streets) and a relaxed atmosphere.

The student ghetto has received national media attention for its street parties. Recently, the annual Aberdeen Street Homecoming Party has attracted attention due to the actions of some poorly behaved visitors during the festivities. Recent campaigns by local citizens, City Council and the University have helped to create a more relaxed atmosphere although these efforts are sometimes at odds with the local police who in the past have used the event as a launch pad for bigger budgets and tougher enforcement of liquor laws.

As a result of the transient nature of the student population representation at City Council is usually poor, resulting in the concerns of 'permanent' residents are considered more important than those of students. Unfortunately poor reporting by local media and the related 'hype' has resulted in a poor opinion of the area by permanent residents and members of the University administration.