Find out what’s happening this week across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph, including free events and standout local experiences.
Free events
Pumpkin Paint Night – Celebrate fall fun on October 21, 2025, from 4–6 PM at Chick-fil-A Kitchener, 200–225 Fairway Road South, Kitchener. Enjoy pumpkin painting, a costume contest, photo ops with the Chick-fil-A Cow, and festive treats in this free, family-friendly event.
Fall Bus Tour of Heritage Conservation Districts – On October 25, 2025, from 9:30 AM–3 PM, explore Kitchener’s St. Mary’s and Upper Doon districts with guides Warren Stauch and Sandra Parks. Departing from 54 Water St. South, Kitchener, this free bus tour offers historical insights, scenic views, and light refreshments while showcasing local heritage preservation.
Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat! – Enjoy a calm and inclusive Halloween celebration on October 25, 2025, from 10 AM–12 PM at Monarch House, 630 Weber St. North, 2nd Floor, Waterloo. Families can collect treats, meet friendly characters, and enjoy festive fun in a safe, sensory-considerate environment.
Student Recital: Classical Voice – Enjoy a free midday concert by Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Music on October 24, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM at the Maureen Forrester Recital Hall, 75 University Ave. W, Waterloo. This recital features Laurier’s talented music students performing classical vocal works.
Family Robo-ween Festival at Zebra Robotics – On October 25, 2025, from 11 AM–1 PM, join the Halloween fun at Zebra Robotics, 700 Strasburg Road #001, Kitchener. Families can enjoy spooky, hands-on robotics activities, creative challenges, and interactive tech fun designed to spark curiosity and imagination.
Interfaith Thanksgiving Party – Celebrate gratitude and unity on October 19, 2025, from 12:30–2:30 PM at Tapestry Hall, 74 Grand Avenue South, Cambridge. Enjoy an afternoon of fellowship, snacks, and interfaith connection as the community marks 25 years of Interfaith Grand River and 50 years of the Interfaith Community Breakfast.
Exciting and new
Teen Trick-or-Treat Bash – Celebrate Halloween at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum, 10 Huron Rd, Kitchener, on October 25, 2025, from 7–10 PM. Enjoy trick-or-treating, tarot readings, crafts, music, and a haunted ghost hunt in a charming historic village setting. Tickets: Teen $19.44, Adult $11.98.
Kitchener Comedy Classic (Produced by Jokers Canada) – Catch top Canadian comedians at the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts, 36 King St. W, on October 25, 2025, at 8 PM. Enjoy performances by Adam Christie, Cathy Boyd, Myles Anderson, and Aaron Arya. Ticket options: Early Bird (GA Seating) – CA$37.29, Regular Price (GA Seating) – CA$44.07, and Last Minute/Almost Sold Out (GA Seating) – CA$49.72.
A Bollywood Dance Party (Presented by Food Basics) – Celebrate Diwali with music, dance, and flavor on October 19, 2025, from 5 PM to 8 PM at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum, 10 Huron Rd, Kitchener. Enjoy electrifying performances by singer Nitin Sharma and his band, festive Bollywood beats, and delicious Indian street food. General Admission (18+) – CA$26.89; Child Admission (0–17) – Free.
Aerial Sound Bath – Autumn’s Embrace – Float in silk hammocks and unwind to the soothing sounds of crystal bowls, gongs, and other healing instruments at The Attic Yoga, 37 King St. W., Kitchener, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, 3–4 PM. This restorative session embraces autumn’s theme of release and renewal, offering deep relaxation and reflection. Tickets: General Admission – CA$59.27.
Wicked Moon – Halloween Belly Dance Showcase – Enjoy a mesmerizing night of dance and mystery at the Kitchener-Waterloo Little Theatre, 9 Princess St. E., Waterloo, on Friday, October 24, 2025, 7:30–9:30 PM. Experience haunting Halloween-inspired belly dance performances filled with rhythm and allure. Tickets: CA$27.96–CA$33.28.
A Nightmare on King Street 10: Brass Butterflies Halloween Party & Showcase – Experience thrilling pole, aerial, burlesque, and drag performances at Brass Butterflies, 60 Bathurst Dr., Units 14–15, Waterloo, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, 7:30–11 PM. Hosted by Sassy Ray, this Halloween event features a costume contest, games, vendors, and spooky fun. Tickets: CA$31.59.
A Food Lover’s Guide to Kitchener-Waterloo
Kitchener-Waterloo is a growing hotspot for food lovers, and this guide rounds up eight of the best places to satisfy every craving. From cozy brunch cafés to lively gastropubs and globally inspired eats, each stop offers its own unique flavor and atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something creative, these foodie spots promise great taste and local charm. Take a closer look at the full lineup of must-visit restaurants in this guide to Kitchener-Waterloo’s food scene.
Fun for the family
COS Presents Ghost the Musical – Experience the timeless love story live on stage at The Cambridge Arts Theatre, 47 Water St. S, Cambridge on October 25, 2025, at 2 PM. This stage adaptation of the Academy Award-winning film blends romance, suspense, and humor as Sam tries to protect Molly with the help of a quirky psychic. Adult – CA$38.95, Seniors/Youth – CA$33.59, Obstructed View – CA$28.25.
Harvest Bowls 2025 – Enjoy an evening of soup, bread, and community at Harcourt Memorial United Church, 87 Dean Avenue, Guelph, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 5–7 PM. This annual fundraising event by Chalmers features locally made soups and breads, with ticket options that include a handcrafted bowl or a charitable donation receipt. Tickets: CA$54.58.
Halloween Zumbathon – Join Zumba Karen and friends for a Halloween-themed dance fitness party on October 19, 2025, from 2–4 PM at Mary Phelan Catholic School, 8 Bishop Ct, Guelph. Come in costume, enjoy raffles, photo ops, and contests—all while supporting the Canadian Cancer Society. Tickets: $27.96 or 2 for $40.
BATD Western Ontario – Celebrate the tradition of Highland dance at BATD Western Ontario on October 25, 2025, from 8 AM–5 PM at 289 College Ave W, Guelph. This full-day festival features dancers from across the region competing in various categories. Ticket options include General Admission – CA$6.66, Family Admission – CA$11.98, and competitor entries starting at CA$22.63.
Date nights
Laurier Chamber Orchestra Concert – Experience an evening of refined musicianship at the Maureen Forrester Recital Hall, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, on Friday, October 24, 2025, 7:30–9 PM. The concert features talented students, faculty, and guest artists from Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Music performing in small ensembles. Tickets: General – CA$32.00, Senior (65+) – CA$23.60, Students and Laurier staff – Free.
Meander Dinner – Enjoy an unforgettable evening of food, art, and technology at 74 Grand Ave S, Cambridge, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 6–9 PM. Hosted by Gaslight Events Company, this event features a gourmet three-course dinner and an immersive experience with Meander—Philip Beesley’s world-renowned living architecture sculpture. Tickets: CA$107.83.
Taste of Italy – Join Chef Rob at 300 King St E, Kitchener, on Friday, October 24, 2025, 6–8 PM, for an authentic Italian cooking experience. Learn to craft classic Italian dishes and make your own pasta before enjoying a delicious meal together. Tickets: $70.00 per person.
The Purge – All Ages Inside Rare Nightclub – Experience an night of music, lights, and dancing at RARE Nightclub & Events Centre, 24 King St N, Waterloo, on October 23, 2025, from 10 PM to 2:30 AM. Open to all ages, this high-energy event promises an unforgettable party atmosphere with top-tier sound and visuals. Tickets: Early Bird $22.63, Tier 1 $33.28, Tier 2 $43.93.
The Jailbirds w/ The Definitive & The Last Armada – Rock out on October 23, 2025, from 7–11:30 PM at Tabu Nightclub, 89 Macdonell St, Guelph. Enjoy high-voltage performances from The Jailbirds, The Definitive, and The Last Armada in this show. Tickets: $22.90 in advance or $25 at the door.
Country Greats Tribute Concert – Celebrate classic country hits on October 24, 2025, from 7–9 PM at Central Presbyterian Church, 7 Queens Square, Cambridge. Enjoy a nostalgic evening of live music honoring the golden era of country. Tickets: CA$27.96; children under 12 free.
Romantic Dining in Guelph: Where to Go for Date Night
Looking to impress your special someone or simply share a great meal together? Guelph has a range of romantic restaurants that set the perfect mood for date night. From intimate bistros with candlelit tables to elegant spots serving fine wines and locally sourced dishes, this list highlights the best places to unwind, connect, and enjoy great food. Each restaurant offers something a little different, making every date night memorable. Explore the full list of Guelph’s top date night restaurants in this feature.
Other notable events
Dickson & Bruce: History Meets Mystery Ep. 7 – Tale of the Bloodied Feather – Step into 1896 at the Kitchener Public Library, 85 Queen St. N, Kitchener on October 20, 2025, from 7 PM to 8:30 PM for this historical mystery film premiere by Wordscribe Productions. Follow Detective Dickson and Isabel Bruce as they unravel clues tied to Mennonite records and ancient tribal customs. General Admission – CA$22.99.
Disney Drag Bingo Brunch – Enjoy a magical Disney-themed drag brunch at Abe Erb, 15 King St. S., Waterloo, on Sunday, October 19, 2025, 12–3 PM. Expect dazzling performances, lively bingo games, and plenty of laughter in this event. Tickets: CA$17.31.
Comedy Show and Diwali Afterparty | Ashwyn Singh in Waterloo – Celebrate Diwali with laughter, music, and nostalgia at The Jazz Room, 59 King St N, Waterloo, on October 19, 2025, at 8 PM. Enjoy sharp, witty comedy and crowd interactions by Ashwyn Singh, followed by a soulful afterparty featuring Sufi tunes and desi throwbacks. Tickets: General Admission $30.92, Preferred Admission $42.87, VIP Front Row $54.83.
Glue & Brew: Cambridge Junk Journal Club – Unwind with creativity at JTM Cake Studio & Cafe, 20 Park Hill Rd E #103, Cambridge, on October 24, 2025, from 7–9 PM. Enjoy coffee, craft supplies, and exclusive event ephemera while decorating your own junk journal in a cozy, social setting. Tickets: $7.92.