Wrap up February 2026 with a week full of markets, live music, comedy, creative workshops, networking nights, and free community events across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph.
Free events
BHM 2026: Building Forward Together – Celebrate strength and shared vision on February 22, 2026, 11 AM–4 PM at Langs, 1145 Concession Road, Cambridge, ON. Live performances and community connections highlight the day. A welcoming Black History Month event that’s completely free.
Guelph Travel Expo 2026 – Sunday, February 22, 2026, 12–3 PM at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph, ON. Discover new destinations, travel trends, and expert advice all in one place. A perfect afternoon for dreamers and planners and it’s free.
Visible Mending Workshop: Give Your Clothes Some Love! – Visit 145 Bedford Road, #2nd floor, Kitchener, ON, this Sunday, February 22, 2026. From 1 PM–4 PM or 5 PM–8 PM, Kwartzlab hosts a relaxed space to fix your mending pile. There is no cost for this workshop.
4Repair @uwsustainable – Got something that needs fixing? Head to University of Waterloo, Engineering 7, Room 1401, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON on February 25, 2026, 5:30–7:30 PM. Volunteers help with repairs, and tickets are free.
Connect & Caffeinate – Ditch the solo morning routine for 175 Holiday Inn Drive, Cambridge, ON, on February 25, 2026, from 9 AM–10:30 AM. It’s a fantastic way to meet colleagues and grow your circle in a relaxed environment. Joining won’t cost a penny.
Black Farmer Groundings Symposium – February 26, 2026, 9 AM–5 PM at ImprovLab, Winegard Walk, Guelph, ON offers a dedicated space for Black farmers to connect, strategize, and shape solutions in agriculture. A thoughtful, community-led symposium with free admission.
DTK Wedding Show 2026: Date Night Edition! – Planning a wedding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. On Friday, February 27, 2026, 5:30–8:30 PM at The Walper Hotel, 20 Queen Street South, Kitchener, ON, couples can explore ideas in a relaxed setting. Free admission.
February Local Social – An after-school hangout with purpose. On February 27, 2026, 4–5:30 PM at Thrive HIV Prevention & Support, 1770 King Street East, Unit 5, Kitchener, ON, youth ages 12–29 can craft and talk about sexual health in a relaxed setting. It’s completely free.
Be Gay, Do Crafts: A Queer Crafternoon – Glitter, glue, and great conversation await on February 28, 2026, 2–4 PM at Kwartzlab, 145 Bedford Road, 2nd Floor, Kitchener, ON. Bring a project or try a pride-inspired craft. This relaxed gathering is completely free.
Fun for the family
Pugs in Parkas – Bundle up your favorite flat-faced friend for 1909 Kossuth Road, Cambridge, ON, on February 22, 2026, 4 PM–5 PM. This “grumble” is the perfect excuse to get outside and share some community warmth.
Family Sundays: Games – Make memories on February 22, 2026, at Four Fathers Brewing Co., 125 Guelph Avenue, Cambridge, ON. Choose either 11:30 AM–3 PM or 5:30–8 PM for family fun, with $5 kids meals when you purchase an adult entrée.
Sweet Traditions: A Family Candy Making Experience – Ever wondered how old-fashioned marshmallows get so fluffy? Find out at 10 Huron Road, Kitchener, ON, on February 22, 2026, 10 AM–1 PM. It’s a lovely way for families to connect over vintage treats. Admission is CA$37.61.
Dining at Bardo in Guelph: A Full Review
Craving fresh pasta and expertly crafted cocktails? Bardo in Guelph blends modern Italian flavours with a welcoming ambiance that keeps locals coming back. Check out the full article to discover what sets this restaurant apart.
Exciting and new
Punch Needle Pillows Workshop – Give your space a little handmade love on February 23, 2026, at Ernie’s Roadhouse, 7 Queen Street West, Cambridge, ON. Between 7 PM and 9 PM, you’ll craft a decorative heart pillow. The workshop price is CA$54.04–59.91.
Make Your Own Pizza with Chef Giuliano – Roll up your sleeves on February 23, 2026, 5–8 PM at Pizzeria Motola, 64 Grand Ave S, Cambridge, ON. Create your own pizza masterpiece with fresh ingredients, antipasto, and a drink. Each reservation is CA$50.
Standard Studio Headshot, Branding & Content Day in Cambridge, ON – Capture your best angle at Park Hill Studios, Cambridge, ON, on February 24, 2026. From 9 AM–7 PM, this branding day is designed to help your professional image stand out. Best of all, it’s free.
Marbled Resin Coasters Workshop – Create functional art on February 24, 2026, 7–9 PM at Metro Restaurant, 168 Victoria Street North, Kitchener, ON. Learn marbling techniques with UV resin and add decorative gold flakes. Price: CA$54.04.
Scented Candle Making Workshop – Ditch the store-bought scents for 199 Victoria Road South, Guelph, ON, on February 24, 2026. From 7 PM–9 PM, learn the science of clean-burning wicks while crafting a signature candle at the brewery. Admission for this session is CA$48.77.
Conestoga Residence Tour – Kitchener Residence – Walk through Conestoga College’s residence with knowledgeable staff on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 11 AM–2 PM at 99 Conestoga College Boulevard, Kitchener, ON. Learn about the amenities and life here. Free event.
The Brain Explained – Get to know your most complex organ at Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Kitchener, ON, this Thursday, February 26, 2026. From 6:30 PM–8:30 PM, experts dive into brain development, health habits, and medical condition management. There is no cost to attend.
Improv Workshop & Jam – Let your imagination run free this Thursday, February 26, 2026, 7 PM at the Visitor Information Centre, 10 Father David Bauer Drive, Waterloo, ON. Connect, create, and improvise. Tickets are pay-what-you-can.
Honey Body Scrub and Facial Steamer Workshop – Treat your skin to some natural magic at The Hive – An Arts Collective, 33 Cork Street, Guelph, ON, on February 26, 2026. Starting at 7 PM, you’ll craft a honey body scrub and learn all about facial steaming. Admission to this workshop is CA$44.29.
Heated Rivalry Night in Guelph! Storm Pride Afterparty! Drag, DJs, Dancing! – Turn up the volume at The Albion, 49 Norfolk Street, Guelph, ON, on February 27, 2026. Starting at 10 PM, it’s a vibrant mix of DJs and drag excellence that you won’t want to miss. Admission costs CA$13.56–45.20.
Bed By 10pm Is Coming To Waterloo! – Miss the club scene but value your sleep? Head to 24 King Street North, Waterloo, ON, on February 28, 2026, from 4 PM–9 PM. It’s a full-throttle rave with confetti and classics, all wrapped up early. Tickets are CA$65.23.
New Friend Game Night Ages 23-36 – Trade your solo Saturday for a lively brewery hangout at Counterpoint Brewing Company, 935 Frederick Street, #4, Kitchener, ON, on February 28, 2026. Between 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM, it’s all about good vibes and meeting great people. Entry is CA$33.28.
Masked Event: Mask Chain Making Workshop (Kitchener) – Why let your respirator be boring when it could be a masterpiece? Head to 100 Park Street, Kitchener, ON, on February 28, 2026, from 1 PM–3 PM. Customize your gear with unique beads and charms for a personalized look. Entry is CA$20–40.
Advanced Beekeeping-Coming Out of Spring – Don’t let your bees swarm before you’re ready! Head to 33 Cork Street West, Guelph, ON, on February 28, 2026. From 6:30 PM–8:30 PM, this session covers essential equipment management for a successful season. Admission for this workshop is CA$27.96.
Date nights
Trivia Night at Foundry Tavern – Think you’re the smartest person in the room? Put those random facts to use at 64 Grand Ave. S., Cambridge, ON, on February 23, 2026, at 7 PM. It’s a battle for prizes and major bragging rights. Entry is just CA$6.
Rusty Nail Comedy At Arabella Park FT: Efthimios Nasioplous – Forget the mid-week slump and visit Arabella Park Beer Bar, Kitchener, ON, this February 24, 2026. From 8 PM–9:30 PM, the Rusty Nail crew brings big-city laughs to your local beer bar. Entry is CA$17.31.
Kitchener-Waterloo Speed Dating (Ages 38-48F / 40-50M) – Trade those “u up?” texts for actual conversation at ABE ERB – Downtown Kitchener, ON, on February 24, 2026. Between 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM, meet local singles in a relaxed, screen-free environment. Participation costs CA$49.64.
Weekly Trivia Night at Whale & Ale Pub – Kitchener – Why settle for a quiet Wednesday when you could be dominating the leaderboard at 1120 Victoria Street North, Kitchener, ON? On February 25, 2026, between 7 PM and 9 PM, grab a pint and join a lively crowd for brain-teasing fun and neighborhood spirit. There is no cost to participate.
Rusty Nail Comedy PRO AM – There’s nothing quite like the energy of an “anything goes” comedy night in DTK. On February 25, 2026, head to the Walper Hotel’s lower level at 7:30 PM to catch the latest installment of the Rusty Nail series. Experience the rush of live, local talent for only CA$6.66.
The Brutal Comedy Tour – Kitchener – Forget the “safe” jokes and dive into a night of raw comedy at Kitchener-Waterloo Little Theatre, Waterloo, ON, on February 26, 2026. Starting at 8 PM, this tour brings a “no-holds-barred” energy that has racked up millions of views online. Secure your seat for CA$22.63.
Tango’s Trivia at the Taproom: Reality TV Edition! – Grab your friends and prepare for some “brooding energy” at Wellington Brewery, Guelph, ON, on February 26, 2026. From 7:30 PM onwards, test your knowledge of the small screen’s most famous faces and legends. Registration for this event is CA$11.98.
Whimsy and Whisky – Experience the “unforgettable and captivating” comedy of Crystal Ferrier at The Ward Bar, Guelph, ON, on February 26, 2026. From 8:00 PM–9:15 PM, the Ward Bar hosts this world-traveling comic for a night of sharp wit and great drinks. The cost to attend is CA$25.
J.I The Prince Inside Rare Nightclub – Waterloo, prepare for a takeover! J.I. The Prince of N.Y. brings his signature flow to Rare Nightclub on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 10 PM to 3 AM. Secure your spot for CA$33.28.
Burlesque and Variety Show at EVO – Trade the ordinary for the extraordinary at EVO Kitchen & Bar, Cambridge, ON, on February 27, 2026. Starting at 8 PM, experience a cheeky, high-energy variety show that’s breaking all the traditional rules. It’s the perfect way to add some “bold” to your weekend plans for just CA$22.63.
Taylor Swift Trivia Night – Embrace the atmosphere at 84D King Street North, Waterloo, on February 27, 2026. From 7:30 PM to 10 PM, Midnight Run Cafe offers a peaceful space for fans to answer deep-cut questions. Secure a spot for this unique trivia experience for a total of CA$17.31.
Everything 90s Speed Dating Ages 33-46 – Save the date for February 27, 2026, 7 PM–9 PM, at Royal City Brewing Company, 199 Victoria Road South, Guelph! Experience a night of 90s mixtapes and meeting new people in a chill brewery setting. Tickets are priced at CA$45.
Line Dance Party (Classes + Social Dance)! Beginners Welcome! – Plan for a fun Friday on February 27, 2026, 8 PM–10:30 PM, at 92 King Street South, Waterloo! This monthly event features a beginner-friendly lesson and plenty of social dancing time. Entry to this party is exactly CA$28.25.
Back To The Future Party: The Party Continues – Visit The Canadian Brewhouse, Kitchener, on February 28, 2026, at 10:30 PM, for an immersive musical journey. It’s the ultimate 90s and 2000s era party for local fans. Participation in this nostalgic night is exactly CA$22.90.
Rusty Nail Comedy Saturday TWH Social: Sammy Farid – Need a weekend pick-me-up? Head over on February 28, 2026, 7:30 PM–10 PM, to TWH Social in Kitchener for a curated stand-up experience. Enjoy professional comedy in the heart of the Waterloo Region. Entry is CA$22.63.
Club’N – Après Ski – Dust off your goggles for February 28, 2026, 9:30 PM–2 AM, at 89 Macdonell Street, Guelph. This mountain-themed event helps provide school breakfasts for children across Canada. Joining this charitable night costs CA$10.05.
Drag Bingo at 1881! Hosted by Anne Tique Doll and Ultraviolet! – Imagine a Saturday filled with laughs at Western Hotel Burgers & Steaks, 72 Macdonell Street, Guelph, on February 28, 2026, at 8 PM. This high-energy event features legendary local performers. Admission is CA$13.56.
Your Guide to Kitchener, Ontario
Kitchener blends small-city charm with big personality. Explore local markets, stroll through scenic spaces, and discover the city’s growing food and arts scene. Dive into the full article for ideas you won’t want to miss.
Live music
The Tonewheels – Prepare for a sonic journey on February 22, 2026, 2 PM–4 PM, at Boathouse DTK in Kitchener. Experience the raw energy of live R&B and soul as this talented group takes the stage for a unique musical experience.
Sunday Night Hit Music Video Bingo at McCabe’s Irish Pub & Grill in Waterloo – Get ready to dab along on February 22, 2026, 7 PM–9 PM, to your favorite hits at McCabe’s Irish Pub & Grill, Waterloo. It’s the ultimate spot for a pint and a proper laugh. Participation is free.
Groove Sessions – Feel the rhythm on February 24, 2026, starting at 7 PM, at Boathouse DTK in Kitchener. Join a community of local artists for an evening of soulful collaboration and spontaneous live music that will keep you moving.
The Llandovery Castle – Opera Laurier – Imagine an evening of powerful vocals on February 25, 2026, 7:30 PM–9:30 PM, located at Theatre Auditorium, Waterloo. Experience every aspect of production brought to life by dedicated students in this local cultural highlight. Entry may vary from free to CA$32.
Eamon McGrath live at the House of Miracles – Get ready for a soul-stirring Thursday on February 26, 2026, 8 PM–11 PM, at The House of Miracles, Cambridge. Eamon McGrath returns for a special local set you won’t want to miss. Admission is CA$22.90.
Music at Noon: Spitfire Brass – Brighten your Friday on February 27, 2026, 12 PM–1 PM, at Maureen Forrester Recital Hall, Waterloo. This professional military quintet performs everything from Gershwin to Debussy in a relaxed recital setting. Attending this high-caliber concert is free!
Live music! Ebirah, Local Goblin, The Deprecates and Rhynos – Prepare for a loud Friday on February 27, 2026, 7 PM–11 PM, at 124 Sydney Street South, Kitchener. The Union hosts a stacked bill of local talent that music fans shouldn’t miss. Admission for the show is CA$15.
Johnny B. at The Duke of Wellington – Fuel your weekend fire on February 28, 2026, 2 PM–5 PM, with a live set that hits all the right notes. The Duke of Wellington, Waterloo provides the perfect backdrop for Johnny B.’s signature sound and high-octane performance.
Other notable events
Ladies In The Lead – Secure your spot for February 23, 2026, at 7-9 PM, for a curated women’s networking event in 25 George Street South, Cambridge, ON. It’s the perfect opportunity to exchange marketing ideas and gain fresh perspectives without the usual stress. Participation is totally free!
Let’s Collab Networking – Get ready to grow your circle on February 25, 2026, 5 PM–8:30 PM, located at Boathouse DTK in Kitchener. This creator-business mixer focuses on the real-world impact of social media and strategic collaborations. Joining this session costs CA$40.01.
Gather at the Gallery: Gallery Tour and Illustration (55+) – Elevate your Thursday afternoon on February 26, 2026, 2 PM–4 PM, at the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, Waterloo! This specialized program offers seniors a peaceful space to learn new illustration techniques from local experts. Tickets are CA$13.54.
KW Community Independent Short Films – Support the visionaries of tomorrow on February 28, 2026, 2 PM–4 PM, at Princess Twin Cinemas, Waterloo. This screening brings together the region’s top indie talent for an afternoon of discovery and artistic connection. Admission is CA$12.06.
The Improv Polycule – A Collaborative Improv Show! – Clear your schedule for February 28, 2026, 7 PM–9 PM, because a massive “improv love-in” is taking over ArtsBuild Ontario at 44 Gaukel Street, Kitchener! Afterschool Arcade is teaming up with multiple local troupes for a night of unscripted chaos. Tickets are CA$9.52–CA$12.19.