Discover what’s happening this week across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph, from must-see events to unique local experiences.
Free events
Oktoberfest in Berlin – Celebrate Oktoberfest at Woodside National Historic Site, 528 Wellington St N, Kitchener, on October 18, 2025, from 11 AM–5 PM. Enjoy Victorian-era games, historic tours, and food and drinks from local vendors. Outdoor activities are free; regular admission applies for house entry.
Guided Nature Walk – Steckle Woods – Enjoy a relaxing morning walk through Steckle Woods, 215 Southwood Dr., Kitchener, on October 17, 2025, from 10–11:30 AM. Explore scenic trails, learn about the local environment, and connect with nature.
Film Screening: FORAGERS – Watch Foragers at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, 101 Queen St. N, Kitchener, on October 16, 2025, from 7–9 PM. The event includes a talk on green colonialism by Dr. Ghada Sasa, plus food and items from Olivehaven and Salaam Cola for purchase.
Milkweed Paper Making – Join a free hands-on workshop at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, 101 Queen St. North, on October 18, 2025, from 1–5 PM. Learn sustainable papermaking with milkweed pulp, seeds, and botanicals, and take home your own eco-friendly handmade paper.
Forest Bathing – Huron Natural Area – Relax and reconnect with nature at 801 Trillium Dr., Kitchener, on October 18, 2025, from 10 AM–12 PM. Join a free guided walk led by a certified Nature Therapy Guide for a calming, mindful experience in the Huron Natural Area.
Exciting and new
Emo Night Halloween Edition – Get your eyeliner and costume ready for a spooky throwback at Revel Cider, 62 Dawson Rd., Guelph, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 6 PM – 10 PM. Sing along to 2000s emo hits, meet fellow fans, and relive the era with hauntingly fun vibes. Admission: CA$17.31.
Advocis Golden Triangle: Oktoberfest Social Event – Celebrate Oktoberfest at the Concordia Club, 429 Ottawa St. S., Kitchener, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 6 PM – 10 PM. Join financial advisors and planners for a night of authentic Bavarian food, lively entertainment, and meaningful networking in a festive atmosphere. Admission: CA$53.99.
Bedazzle a Book with The Book Loft St. Jacobs 2 – Get creative at The Book Loft, 4 Hachborn St. W., Unit 1A, St. Jacobs, on October 18, 2025, from 7–10 PM. Decorate and personalize your favorite book with rhinestones, glue, and sparkle while enjoying light refreshments and good company. Tickets: Bring your own book – CA$49.26, Book provided – CA$70.56.
Oktoberfest with Walter Ostanek at Four Fathers Brewing Co. – Join the King of Polka for a lively Oktoberfest celebration at Four Fathers Brewing Co., 125 Guelph Ave., Cambridge, on October 16, 2025, from 8 PM–11:59 PM. Enjoy live music, schnitzel, pretzels, and craft beer, plus a free 12oz pour with your $31.59 ticket.
A Taste of Spain at La Lola
If you’re craving authentic Spanish cuisine, La Lola in Kitchener-Waterloo brings the vibrant flavors of Spain right to your table. This cozy spot captures the warmth and spirit of Spanish dining with dishes made for sharing, from perfectly cooked paellas to rich tapas and flavorful churros. The atmosphere is relaxed yet elegant, making it a great choice for both casual dinners and special nights out. Every meal here feels like a quick getaway to the Mediterranean, filled with color, flavor, and passion. You can learn more about the full dining experience at La Lola in this feature.
Fun for the family
Great Canadian ButterTart Fest – Paris – Indulge in Canada’s favorite treat at the Paris Fairgrounds, 139 Silver St., Brant, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11 AM – 4 PM. Enjoy thousands of butter tarts, food trucks, a beer patio, maple goodies, artisan vendors, and fun fall activities for all ages. Admission: Ages 10+ is $6, Ages 3–9 is $2, Ages 2 & under free.
Fun-Filled Fall Family Fiesta at McDougall Cottage – Celebrate autumn at McDougall Cottage, 89 Grand Ave. S, Cambridge, on October 18, 2025, from 11 AM–3:30 PM. Enjoy games, crafts, treats, pumpkin bowling, scavenger hunts, and a special exhibit. Costumes welcome! Adults $7.53, kids (3+) $13.54.
CHIAROSCURO – A Double Bill Concert of Hindustani Music in Kitchener – Immerse in a captivating evening of Indian classical music at the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts, 36 King St. W, Kitchener, on October 12, 2025, from 4 PM–7:30 PM. Tickets: General $22.90, Premium $29.32.
Waterloo County 2025 Quilt Exhibit – Discover hundreds of stunning quilts at the Manulife Sportsplex, 2001 University Ave. E, Waterloo, on October 17, 2025, from 10 AM–5 PM. Enjoy vendor booths, a members’ boutique, a small quilt draw, door prizes, and a cozy tea room. Admission: $10.
Classic Dining at Charcoal Steak House
Charcoal Steak House has long been a favorite for locals looking for a memorable meal in Kitchener. Known for its perfectly grilled steaks, hearty portions, and timeless atmosphere, this restaurant combines classic cooking with refined presentation. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply indulging in a well-deserved night out, every dish is prepared with care and attention to flavor. From tender cuts of steak to expertly paired wines, it’s the kind of dining that never goes out of style. Get the full review of Charcoal Steak House and what makes it a local staple in this post.
Date nights
Back to the Future GNS Party – Dance the night away at The Canadian Brewhouse, 2960 Kingsway Dr., Unit P004, Kitchener, on Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 10:30 PM – 2 AM. Enjoy the best hits from the late ’90s to today at this throwback party full of great music and nostalgic vibes. Admission: CA$17.55.
Perreolandia – Latin Long Weekend Sunday – Turn up the heat at Crown Bar & Social, 56 King St. N., Waterloo, on October 12, 2025, from 10 PM – 2 AM. Dance to the hottest Latin beats, enjoy vibrant energy, and celebrate the long weekend fiesta-style! Tickets: Limited Early Bird – CA$11.98, 2-for-1 – CA$22.63, Advanced – CA$17.31.
Guelph Poetry Slam – Experience the power of words at Which Craft, 91 Wyndham St. N., Guelph, on October 18, 2025, at 8:30 PM. Enjoy a night of spoken word, open mic performances, and a featured guest poet. Tickets: Audience – CA$17.31, Slam Poet Sign-up – CA$11.98, Open Mic Sign-up – CA$11.98.
The Office Trivia Night – Head to Coop Wicked Chicken, 350 Hespeler Rd. #1, Cambridge, on October 17, 2025, from 7:30–10 PM for a hilarious night of trivia inspired by The Office. Dress as your favorite character, join themed games, and compete for the ultimate Dundie Award. Tables: 2 guests – CA$44, 4 guests – CA$88, 6 guests – CA$132, 8 guests – CA$172, add-on tickets – CA$22.
Euchre for Shelter – Head to Edelweiss Tavern, 600 Doon Village Rd, Kitchener, on October 17, 2025, from 6:45 PM–11 PM for a lively night of cards supporting local shelters. Enjoy friendly competition, a mid-tournament buffet, and great company—all for a meaningful cause. Tickets: $50.
The Almost Hip – 35th Anniversary @ DALLAS (Closing Night of Oktoberfest) – Rock out with Canada’s longest-running Tragically Hip tribute band at Dallas Night Club, 312 King St. W, Kitchener, on October 18, 2025, from 7:30–11 PM. Celebrate Oktoberfest’s closing night with classic hits, great vibes, and unforgettable energy. Tickets: $17.55.
Tommy Youngsteen Presents: The Very Best of Creedence Clearwater Revival – Rock out at THEMUSEUM, 10 King St. W, Kitchener, on October 17, 2025, from 6–10 PM. Enjoy a powerhouse tribute to CCR’s greatest hits by top Toronto musicians. Tickets: $55.