Discover what’s on this week across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph, from can’t-miss events to exciting local experiences.
Free events
Guelph Butter Tart Festival – Treat yourself on October 9, 2025, from 10 AM–6 PM at the University Centre, Reynolds Walk, University of Guelph. Indulge in endless varieties of Canada’s favourite dessert from local vendors—gooey, flaky, nutty, and more.
Student Recital: Winds, Brass & Percussion – Enjoy a free one-hour concert by Laurier music students, featuring solo performances across styles on winds, brass, and percussion. Happening Friday, October 10, 2025, 12–1 PM at Maureen Forrester Recital Hall, 75 University Ave. W., Waterloo.
Family Sunday – Enjoy an afternoon of creativity at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, 101 Queen St. North, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 1 PM – 4 PM. Explore art, spark conversations, and create your own works in the Community Access Space.
The Guelph Comedy Showcase – End your weekend with big laughs at the Raging Bull Dart Lounge & Banquet Hall, 84 Lewis Road, Guelph, on October 5, 2025, from 8–9:30 PM. A fun night of stand-up with pros and amateurs.
KW Central Art Walk – Explore local creativity during this annual studio tour and art sale in the Kitchener neighbourhood bounded by Park, Victoria, Weber, and Union streets on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 12 PM – 5 PM. Visit artists in their own studios and discover fine art, jewellery, and more.
CIBC Run For The Cure Guelph – Join the community on October 5, 2025, from 8 AM–1 PM at the University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph. Take part in this charity run/walk open to all ages, raising funds and awareness for breast cancer research and programs.
Roots and Routes w/ CTPA x UWATNA x LUTSA – A networking event with Tamil alumni panels, résumé critiques, LinkedIn headshots, and cross-faculty connections at University of Waterloo (E7), October 5, 2025, 4–9 PM.
Exciting and new
Oktoberfest 2025 at Habsburg Haus – Celebrate nine days of Bavarian tradition with music, dancing, food, and beer at the Alpine Club, 464 Maple Ave., Kitchener. October 10–19, 2025. Tickets: CA$17.31–27.96.
Afro-Caribbean Riddims: Fall Edition – Dance the night away at RARE Nightclub & Events Centre, 24 King Street North, Waterloo, on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 10 PM – 2 AM. Experience Afrobeats, Reggae, Dancehall, Amapiano, Soca, and Hip-Hop. Tickets from CA$22.63, with free entry for ladies before 11 PM.
Ian Andrews Band In Concert – Experience an electrifying afternoon of blues, jazz, funk, and RnB with Ian Andrews and his band at The Jazz Room, 59 King St. N., Waterloo. Sunday, October 5, 2025, 2–6 PM. General Admission – CA$25.00.
Concordia Club Oktoberfest 2025 – Enjoy a week of Bavarian tradition with music, German food, beer, and family activities at Concordia Club, 429 Ottawa St. S., Kitchener. October 10–18, 2025. Tickets: CA$13.39–32.36.
University Night Dance Party! – Dance the night away with west coast swing, country swing, line dancing, and more at Remix Swing, 92 King St. S., Waterloo. October 10, 2025, 8 PM. Free for university students (code UNI_NIGHT), CA$10 for non-students.
Mennonites in Kitchener-Waterloo: A Living Tradition
Kitchener-Waterloo is home to a community where history is still alive in everyday life. The Mennonites, with their deep roots in the region, continue to practice traditions that date back centuries. From the sight of horse-drawn buggies on rural roads to the fresh produce and handmade goods at local farmers’ markets, their presence shapes the character of the area in a way that feels both timeless and meaningful. Learning about their history and way of life provides a new perspective on how the past and present can coexist. If you’re curious about how this community continues to thrive, you can explore the full story of the Mennonites in Kitchener-Waterloo in this feature.
Fun for the Family
Kids in the Kitchen: Healthy Cooking with Chef Susan – Young chefs ages 8–11 can join Chef Susan at 300 King St. E, Kitchener, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10 AM – 12 PM for a fun, hands-on class making tasty, healthy recipes while learning essential kitchen skills. Tickets $45.
Miniature Food Workshop: Tiny Gourds – Create realistic miniature gourds from polymer clay with artist Kiana Simmons at Legacy Greens, 18 Ontario St. N., Kitchener, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, 10 AM–12 PM. Learn clay mixing, shaping, and detailing techniques, with all materials provided. Ages 10+. Tickets: CA$55.66.
Medicinal Plant Walk – Explore local wild plants and their healing properties with your family and friends. Led by Registered Herbalist Julia Lebedeva at Hillside Trails, Waterloo. October 8, 2025, 5–7 PM. General Admission CA$22.90.
WI LINC – October 2025 Lime – Join an afternoon of networking and active gaming at Activate Cambridge, 42 Pinebush Rd., on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 2–5 PM. Teams play interactive games, followed by light appetizers and refreshments. Tickets: Early Bird CA$20, Regular CA$22.90.
Discovering the Best of Kitchener, Ontario
Kitchener is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant arts and culture scene, checking out family-friendly attractions, or indulging in some of the best local eats, there’s always a new experience waiting. Outdoor enthusiasts will find beautiful parks and trails, while history buffs can dive into the city’s rich heritage. Food lovers, meanwhile, can enjoy a dining scene that blends comfort classics with bold new flavors. It’s a place where community spirit and creativity shine through in every corner. To get inspired for your next adventure, take a look at the top things to do in Kitchener in this guide.
Date nights
Harvest Moon Fall Formal – Join BoloTieLine’s queer community fall celebration at The Union, 124 Sydney St. S., Kitchener, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 6:30 PM – 10 PM. Enjoy line dancing, partner dances, and lessons in a fun vintage western theme. Tickets: Single – CA$20, Pair – CA$15 each, BIPOC – CA$15.
Canned Laughs – Stand-Up Comedy for the Local Food Bank – A night of comedy supporting the community food bank at Block Three Brewing Company, King St. N., St. Jacobs. October 11, 2025, 8–10 PM. Tickets: CA$22.
Caitlin Peluffo Live in Waterloo – NYC comedian Caitlin Peluffo (seen on Colbert, Corden, Comedy Central) headlines Room 47, 47 King St. N., Waterloo, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM. This show features opening acts and a night of bold, witty stand-up. Tickets: CA$33.28.
Crystal Quartz’s 20th Anniversary Grand Finale – Cambridge – Celebrate two decades of drag, circus acts, belly dance, live vocals, and surprise guests at Four Fathers Brewing Co., 125 Guelph Ave., Cambridge. Friday, October 10, 2025, 8–11 PM. Tickets: GA CA$31.59 | Early Bird CA$25.57 | VIP CA$37.61.