This week, winter isn’t just cold…it’s alive with surprises, quiet delights, and the kind of moments in KW, Guelph, and Cambridge that make you pause and breathe!
Free events
Collective Care Series – Slow down and reconnect on Sunday, January 18, 2026, starting at 1 PM at The Branches, 9 Samuel Street, Kitchener, ON. This gentle group circle blends psycho-education, somatic movement, and breathwork to support trauma processing and collective care. Thoughtfully offered at no cost.
The Margins Club – Journalling/Goal Setting Night – Ease into Monday with words, ideas, and unhurried moments. Join the gathering on January 19, 2026, from 6–8 PM at Midnight Run Cafe, 84 King Street North, #D, Waterloo, ON, for journalling and goal setting in a cozy, welcoming space. No admission cost, just show up!
Author Evening with Paul Langan – Curious about the railways that shaped our region? Join the conversation on January 19, 2026, from 6:30–7:30 PM at the Cambridge Public Library, Preston Branch, Cambridge, ON, where Paul Langan discusses Forgotten History and Stories of the Railway. This event costs nothing.
Opening Reception: Industrial Intimacies – Cal Lane – Mark your calendars for January 24, 2026, 11 AM–2 PM at Cambridge Public Library, Queen’s Square, Cambridge, ON. Experience Cal Lane’s Industrial Intimacies, enjoy light snacks, mingle with fellow art lovers, and celebrate a beautiful exhibition. No ticket needed—free to attend.
Expressions 51: Forging a New Path’ Exhibition Opening – On January 24, 2026, from 1–3 PM, visit 101 Queen St N, Kitchener, for Expressions 51. This student exhibition explores ancestry, identity, and sustainability through powerful artworks. Inspiration is included, and there’s no charge to join in the celebration.
The Quarry Story: A Yorklands Greenhub Winter Walk – Join Susan Ratcliffe on January 24, 2026, 1–2:30 PM at 733 Stone Road East, Guelph, for a winter stroll through the historic Yorklands quarry. Learn its stories while surrounded by snow-covered trails. A lovely afternoon, and it’s free to attend.
Fun for the family
Family Sundays: Games – Make Sunday plans that work for everyone. Happening January 18, 2026, from 11:30 AM–8 PM at Four Fathers Brewing Co., 125 Guelph Avenue, Cambridge, ON, this family-friendly day blends games, good food, and casual time together in a laid-back brewery setting. Entry won’t cost you a thing!
Grand Harmony Chorus Open House – Celebrate music and community on January 23, 2026, 12–3 PM at 445 Anndale Road, Waterloo. The Grand Harmony Chorus invites singers of every skill level to join in a cappella fun, friendship, and laughter. A lovely musical experience with free admission.
LMT Presents: Heathers The Musical – Don’t miss this thrilling and hilarious adaptation of the cult classic film on January 23, 2026, 7:30–10 PM or on January 24, 2026, 1-3:30 PM at the Theatre Auditorium, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo. Satire, songs, and suspense await. Grab your tickets starting at CA$11.
Laurier Concerto Competition Finals – Tune in for an afternoon of incredible performances on January 23, 2026, 12–3 PM at Maureen Forrester Recital Hall, Waterloo! Top student musicians compete for soloist roles, showcasing skill, passion, and artistry. Bring your love of music because there’s no charge to attend this inspiring event.
Family Literacy Day Stay and Play – Bring the whole family on January 24, 2026, 10 AM–4 PM at Cambridge Public Library, all locations! Enjoy scavenger hunts, games, and foodie-themed activities. Pick up an activity booklet and borrow a few recipe books. All ages are welcome, and it’s free to attend!
Embracing Winter – Guided Nature Walk at Huron Natural Area – Explore the wonders of a winter landscape on January 24, 2026, 10–11:30 AM at Huron Natural Area, 801 Trillium Drive, Kitchener. Guided stops offer insight into seasonal nature practices. Fresh air, peaceful scenery, and connection await. All free to enjoy.
Free Drop-In Curling Workshop with Out on the Ice – Slide into a fun afternoon on January 24, 2026, 3–5 PM at KW Granite Curling Club, 99 Seagram Dr., Waterloo! This free workshop is perfect for newcomers, offering basics, laughs, and connection with fellow curling enthusiasts.
Visit Guelph, ON This Winter
Guelph, Ontario, known as the Royal City, has plenty to offer even in winter, from historic limestone architecture and scenic river trails to cozy museums and cultural hotspots. Explore trails like the Eramosa River Trail, learn local history at the Guelph Civic Museum, or take a winter stroll through Riverside Park’s snowy landscapes. Check this travel guide to plan your perfect winter visit to Guelph.
Exciting and new
Michaela Angemeer and Kitchener Queer Hangs – Poetry Writing Event – Celebrate words and connection on January 18, 2026, 2–4 PM at Whoopsie Daisy Drinks, Victoria Street South, #Unit1, Kitchener. Join Michaela for an engaging love poem writing session in a safe, inclusive setting. Cost to attend is CA$17.31.
Drag Lab – Celebrate local drag talent on January 18, 2026, 6–9 PM at AOK Craft Beer + Arcade, 165 King Street West, #Unit B03, Kitchener! Come enjoy a night of bold performances, laughter, and experimentation. Entry is CA$17.31.
Glue & Brew Presents: Make & Manifest – A Vision Boarding Workshop – Circle January 18, 2026, 12:30–3 PM at JTM Cake Studio & Cafe, 20 Park Hill Road East, #Unit 103, Cambridge. Enjoy a relaxed, creative afternoon mapping your goals and dreams for the year ahead. Entry is CA$27.18.
Lazy Sunday Bingo – Reserve January 18, 2026, 12–3 PM at Shake It Off Studio, Woodlawn Road East, Guelph, for a laid-back bingo session. Comfy clothes encouraged, laughter guaranteed, and a cozy Sunday afternoon awaits. Entry: CA$38.61.
Homemade Scottish Soup Tasting – Set aside January 20, 2026, 12–2 PM at 31 Kribs Street, Cambridge, for a relaxed afternoon of soup sampling. Warm bowls, a cozy atmosphere, and coffee, tea, and desserts await. Cost to enjoy this hearty experience is CA$15.
Guyote Ugly – Don’t miss January 22, 2026, 8–10:30 PM at Royal City Brewing & Beer Hall, 199 Victoria Road South, Guelph. Watch the playful, high-energy country-western burlesque spectacle with chaps, laughs, and music. Your spot is waiting for CA$26.65.
Taste of Italy Cooking Class – Hungry for an Italian adventure? Join Chef Rob January 23, 2026, 6–8 PM at 300 King St E, Kitchener, for a hands-on cooking class. Learn pasta, enjoy classic dishes, and indulge in a cozy group meal. A tasty evening for CA$70.
Glue & Brew: Cambridge Junk Journal Club – If you love putting memories, stickers, and little treasures in your journal, join us January 23, 2026, 7–9 PM at JTM Cake Studio & Cafe, 20 Park Hill Rd E, Cambridge. A fun, creative meetup over coffee awaits. Tickets CA$7.92.
Beauty Pro Social: Makeup Artists And Stylists – Saturday, January 24, 2026, 6–8 PM at Princess Cafe, 46 King St N, Waterloo, brings together the region’s stylists, barbers, and makeup artists. A friendly, creative space to share knowledge and make connections. Join the conversation for just CA$6.85.
Valentine’s Forever Flowers: Valentine’s Ceramic Workshop – Celebrate love with a creative twist on Saturday, January 24, 2026, 10:30 AM–12:30 PM at 300 King St E, Kitchener. Make beautiful ceramic “forever flowers” to treasure long after Valentine’s Day. Seats available for CA$60 each.
Date nights
Monday Night Trivia at St Louis Bar & Grill – Test your smarts and enjoy some laughs on January 19, 2026, 7:30 PM at St. Louis Bar & Grill, 202 Clair Road East, Guelph. A relaxed night for all trivia lovers. No cost to join, just bring your curiosity!
Tuesday Night Trivia at Kelsey’s in Cambridge – Bring your thinking caps and friends on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 7:30–9 PM at Kelsey’s, 525 Hespeler Road, Cambridge. Enjoy a relaxed night of Ontario’s #1 trivia game. Best of all, it’s free to join and fun for everyone!
Jack’s Tuesday Night Trivia – Sharpen your wits and join the fun on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 7:30 PM at Jack Astor’s Bar & Grill, 2960 Kingsway Drive, #15A, Kitchener. Test your trivia skills with friends and enjoy a relaxed night out. Entry is free for everyone!
Wine Wednesday – Shake off the week and settle into a laid-back night on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 9–11:30 PM at Hop House, 49 King Street North, Waterloo. It’s all about sipping wine, mingling casually, and enjoying the moment. Entry comes in at CA$12.19.
Rusty Nail Comedy PRO AM Night – Comedy nights feel better when they’re easygoing and close to home. Head to TWH Social at the Walper Hotel, King Street West, Kitchener, on January 21, 2026, from 7:30–10 PM for a lively PRO AM lineup. Admission costs CA$6.66.
The Basement Comedy Show – Kyle Patan – If your week needs a reset, this comedy show delivers. Join the laughs on January 22, 2026, from 8–10 PM at Rusty Nail Comedy Club, 1 King Street West, Kitchener, as Kyle Patan takes the stage. Admission is just CA$15.
A Quintessential Evening of Stories, Songs and Winter – A relaxed night of music and storytelling on January 22, 2026, from 7–9 PM at the Huether Hotel on King Street North in Waterloo. With 12+ songs and a simple story, it’s an easy winter treat. Tickets cost CA$25.57.
Perreolandia – Mamasita (KW’s Biggest Latin Party) – Bring the heat to Friday, January 23, 2026, from 10 PM–2 AM at RARE Nightclub & Events Centre, 24 King Street North, Waterloo. Expect bold rhythms, packed dance floors, and top DJs from Colombia and Brazil. Admission is from CA$11.98.
Babes & Brews Speed Dating – A fun, low-pressure night out on Friday, January 23, 2026, from 7–9 PM at TWB Brewing, 300 Mill Street, Kitchener. Perfect for ages 35–48, it’s about meeting new people over great beer and easy laughs. The cost to join is CA$45.
Rusty Nail Comedy Friday TWH Social: Juliana Rodrigues – Start the weekend with smart, feel-good comedy on January 23, 2026, from 7:30–10 PM at TWH Social, 1 King Street West, Kitchener. It’s an intimate room, big laughs, and a relaxed crowd. Your seat costs CA$22.63.
Tri City Improv Presents – Live Improv Comedy at the Albion! – Saturday night laughs await on January 24, 2026, from 8–9:30 PM at The Albion, Guelph. Watch talented improvisers build comedy moments straight from crowd ideas, keeping things light, playful, and unpredictable. Enjoy the show for CA$11.98.
Lavender Fizz ALL STARS – 2SLGBTQIA+, Women, Non-Binary Comedy – Looking for laughs with heart? Join the fun on January 24, 2026, from 7–10 PM at The Hawk’s Nest, Fred Nichols Campus Centre, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo for an uplifting comedy showcase. Enjoy the night at no cost.
The Flying Dutchment 2026 – A simple invite to a great night awaits on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Wave Maker Craft Brewery in Cambridge. Come ready to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere.
Explore Mennonite Life in Kitchener‑Waterloo
Explore the rich history and culture of the Mennonite community in Kitchener‑Waterloo, from their early settlement in the 1800s to modern traditions. Learn about their farming roots, simple lifestyle, horse-drawn buggies, and artisanal crafts. Visit St. Jacobs Market and local attractions to experience their heritage firsthand. Check this guide to understand the Mennonite way of life and how it shapes the KW region today.
Other notable events
The Art of Surrender – Workshop – Experience a hands-on Sunday workshop on January 18, 2026, 4–6 PM at Café Clementina, 17 Benton Street, Kitchener, designed to help you embrace change and unlock your potential. Tickets cost CA$22.90.
Starting a Small Business in Cambridge – Kickstart your entrepreneurial journey on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 5:30–6:30 PM at Galt Collective 2.0, 20 Hobson St, Cambridge. Experts from the City of Cambridge and Waterloo Region will share tips to help you thrive. Attendance? Absolutely free.
Discover What Your Gold & Silver Are Worth – Curious about the value of your gold and silver? Stop by Evergreen Seniors Community Centre, 683 Woolwich Street, Guelph on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 10 AM–3:30 PM for a complimentary evaluation by MINTY. Best part? It’s completely free.
Friday Flicks Travel Show: Hungary and Romania – Travel the world without leaving Waterloo! Join us on Friday, January 23, 2026, 1:30–3 PM at Community Pavilion, 101 Father David Bauer Dr., Waterloo for inspiring stories, photos, and light refreshments. Admission is just $2.25 per person.
Pinch Cabaret #46 – Don’t miss KW’s monthly performance lab on Saturday, January 24, 2026, 8–11 PM at Hepcat Swing Dance Studio, 42 Erb Street East, #e 117, Waterloo. Expect surprises, laughter, and artistry galore! Entry is from $6.85, making this a night to remember.
Healing Movement (A Community Impact Dance Workshop) – Move, reflect, and connect on Saturday, January 24, 2026, 1–4 PM at Remix Swing, 92 King Street S, Waterloo. This community dance workshop celebrates life, remembrance, and healing through motion. Sign up for $38.61 and share in this supportive space.