Category: Community

The holiday season is a magical time in Kitchener-Waterloo, filled with festive lights, exciting events, and activities that bring families together. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the Christmas spirit in this beautiful region. Here are some of the best holiday activities to enjoy with your family in Kitchener-Waterloo in 2024.

1. Kitchener Christkindl Market

Dates: December 5-8, 2024
Kick off the holiday season at the Kitchener Christkindl Market, a beloved tradition inspired by the famous Christmas markets of Germany. Held at Kitchener City Hall, this market features over 90 vendors selling handmade gifts, crafts, and delicious treats. You can enjoy live music, traditional German food, and even watch blacksmith demonstrations. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with St. Nicholas and see the twinkling lights that transform the area into a winter wonderland.

🔔More event details.

2. Bingemans Gift of Lights

Dates: November 22, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Bingemans Gift of Lights is the largest drive-through holiday light display in Southwestern Ontario. This event is perfect for families looking to stay warm in the comfort of their car while enjoying over a kilometer of stunning light displays. With tunnels of lights, festive scenes, and synchronized music, it’s a must-see attraction. Make sure to book your tickets in advance as this popular event often sells out.

🔔More event details.

3. Waterloo Park Wonders of Winter

Dates: November 30, 2024 – January 4, 2025
The Wonders of Winter light display is a fantastic way to experience the holiday season. Located in Waterloo Park, this free event features over 100 colorful light displays. Families can stroll through the park, sip hot chocolate, and take in the sights. There are special event nights with wagon rides, live entertainment, and more, making it a magical experience for visitors of all ages.

🔔More event details.

4. The Cambridge Christmas Market

Dates: December 14-15, 2024
If you’re in the mood for more holiday shopping, head over to the Cambridge Christmas Market. Located at Cambridge City Hall, this market offers a wide variety of local artisans selling unique gifts, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats. The market also features live music, workshops for kids, and festive décor, creating a charming and cozy atmosphere for a family day out.

🔔More event details.

5. The St. Jacobs Sparkles Festival

Dates: November 14-17, 2024, November 21-24, 2024
St. Jacobs Village comes alive during the St. Jacobs Sparkles Festival. This annual event marks the start of the holiday shopping season and features festive lights, extended shopping hours, and street entertainment. Wander through the village’s quaint shops, which are filled with holiday decorations and unique gifts, and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere. It’s a great way to support local businesses while getting into the Christmas spirit.

🔔More event details.

6. Skating at Carl Zehr Square

Dates: Late November 2024 – February 2025 (weather permitting)
Outdoor skating is a quintessential winter activity, and Carl Zehr Square in front of Kitchener City Hall offers a beautiful setting for it. The rink is open daily (weather permitting) and is free for everyone to enjoy. At night, the area is lit up with holiday lights, creating a festive backdrop as you glide across the ice. Don’t forget to warm up with a hot chocolate from a nearby café afterward!

🔔More details.

7. Catch a Holiday-Themed Show at Theatres in Kitchener-Waterloo

Kitchener-Waterloo is home to several theatres that host special holiday shows each year. Whether it’s a classic play like A Christmas Carol at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse or a festive concert at the Centre In The Square, there’s always something special to watch. Check the local theatre schedules to find out what’s playing and plan a festive family night out.

• 🎫A Christmas Carol: The Panto – St. Jacobs Country Playhouse | November 28 – December 29, 2024
• 🎫Merry & Bright – Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre St. Jacobs | November 12 – December 29, 2024
• 🎫Swan Lake – Centre in the Square | December 7, 2024
• 🎫The Debaters Live on Tour: Holiday Special – Centre in the Square | December 12, 2024
• 🎫Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: A Celtic Family Christmas– Centre in the Square | December 19, 2024

8. KW Santa Claus Parade & Santa Run

Dates: November 16, 2024
The holiday floats will hit Weber Street for the annual KW Santa Claus parade, following the Santa Run. Bring your letters for Santa, donations for the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, toys to pass on to the Firefighters’ Knights of Columbus toy drive, and mitts, hats and warm clothing for the Region’s Paramedics to collect on behalf of Sanguen Health Centre.

🔔More event details.

9. Christmas Tree Farms and Winter Hikes

For families who enjoy the great outdoors, a visit to a local Christmas tree farm is a must. Cut down your own tree, take part in wagon rides, and enjoy seasonal treats. You can also explore the many trails and parks in the region for a winter hike. The crisp air, scenic views, and peaceful surroundings are perfect for a holiday outing.

Kitchener-Waterloo offers a variety of festive activities that can make the holiday season unforgettable for your family. Whether you prefer the warmth of indoor events or the charm of outdoor displays, there’s something for everyone. Make the most of the season by exploring these local attractions, and don’t forget to share your experiences with friends and family.

Happy Holidays! 🎄

It’s spooky season so let’s dive into the eerie and mysterious side of Kitchener-Waterloo. As the leaves turn and the nights grow longer, there’s no better time to explore the spine-chilling tales and haunted histories lurking within our community.

From century-old landmarks whispering with voices of the past to grand Victorian mansions with shadowy secrets, Waterloo Region is rich with ghostly legends that are sure to send shivers down your spine. Whether you’re a brave homebuyer with a taste for the supernatural or simply a curious reader, join us as we uncover the spookiest listings and the stories behind them.

Continue reading as we tour some of the most infamous haunted houses in Kitchener-Waterloo, sharing the chilling tales that make these properties unique. We’ll also look at the local legends that have become part of our region’s folklore, adding an extra layer of intrigue to these already fascinating properties.

Waterloo County Jail

The Waterloo County Jail sits at 73 Queen St North and was in use from its construction in 1852 until 1978. Today the building houses a courthouse as well as office space, but in 1940 it was the site of Reginald White’s execution. White had been convicted of “a most cowardly crime” – the murder of his employer, an elderly farmer named John Milroy, as well as Milroy’s sister Annie. In a dispute over money, White had taken an axe to both the Milroys.

After his execution, and with no-one to claim his body, White was supposedly buried in the jail yard. A 1986 archaeological survey turned up the other bodies known to be buried there, but mysteriously, White’s was never found. The location of his body remains unknown to this day…  

– Kitchener Public Library

Joseph Schneider House

Now a popular museum, the Joseph Schneider House is the oldest, still-standing building in Kitchener, built in 1840. Apart from the restored artifacts that are arranged in the multiple buildings, the house has quite an interesting resident. The phantom seamstress can be seen working away in the upstairs bedroom and also in the attic of the house.  

Nestled just on the outskirts of downtown Kitchener, stepping foot on the property takes you back to the earlier days of the city and although there were other areas of the house that seemed eerie, I couldn’t take my eyes away from the small attic windows. Despite not being able to have a run-in with the seamstress, the feeling of being watched never stopped for a second. Maybe it was her, or maybe it was a neighbourhood watch.  

– The Cord

300 Traynor Avenue, Kitchener

Located in the Vanier neighbourhood of Kitchener, 300 Traynor Avenue is a complex of 44 townhouses. In the 1980s, one of the townhouse residents was somewhat otherworldly. Strange occurrences were reported by a number of tenants, especially in Units 18 and 25.

The “bath taps suddenly turning on full blast, tea towels flying out from the rack when all the windows are closed, footsteps on the stairway, and the sounds of cats lapping milk when there are no cats” as well as “feelings of sudden fear, of being held… by arms that don’t exist, and the appearance of apparitions.” (KW Record 15-09-1981) led some residents to move out early. One resident reported “something was holding her and she couldn’t move” until a neighbour grabbed her. (There was nothing to be seen holding her, of course.) (KW Record, 11-09-1981). Another resident reported he had “seen shadows of a man cross his room when he was the only one home.” 

Despite these disturbing reports, other tenants took a brighter view of their ghostly visitor, describing the presence – whatever it may be – as a “good neighbour.”   

– Kitchener Public Library

Castle Killbride, Baden

One legend alleges the ghost of a young Livingston boy cousin haunts the premises. He was said to have been playing in the cupola when he accidentally fell down the stairs and met his demise.

Since then, some visitors have claimed to hear the sounds of steps going up the same staircase, giggling, and a small voice saying it wants to play.

– BlogTO

Disappearing Hitchhiker

A story of a recurring disappearing hitchhiker in Waterloo Region was published in 1933 in the Niagara Falls Evening Review.

Aged Optimist Does Magic Disappearance Trick Again

Western Ontario motorists amazed when hitch-hiker vanishes

FROM BACK SEAT

KITCHENER, Ont, June 19– (CP)

Here’s another story of the mysterious old man who, when picked up on the road, converses for a while and then diappears mysteriously from the back seat as the car pelts along at 50 to 55 miles an hour.

A Waterloo motorist swore it happened. Another at Galt became angry when friends doubted the story. A Kitchener lawyer, now tells the tale.

He was driving along when he met the old man with the patriarchal beard. The car stopped. The old man got in the back seat.

“Well,’ the driver said, “times are pretty tough on you, eh?”

“They are,” the old man replied. “But the depression’s over, mark my words. It ended on June 7.”

The driver cruckled. “You seem to know”

No answer from the rear seat.

“I say,” repeated the driver in a louder tone. “You seem to know.”

Still no reply. The driver looked around. The rear seat was empty.

– Kitchener Public Library

Anna Mitchell-Hedges

The story of Anna Mitchell-Hedges and the crystal skull is one of the more recent legends in Waterloo Region.

Anna’s father, Frederick, was an archeologist in Belize. Accompanying her father to a dig in Belize, Mitchell-Hedges found and kept a crystal skull she discovered. Once she returned to Kitchener, she started showing it to family and friends and soon discovered the skull had healing powers.

The skull was on display at Frederick Street Mall in the 1990s, drawing big crowds before Mitchell-Hedges moved to England.

“There’s a lot of folklore around the skull,” said Rickert-Hall.

“The mall was packed and people came out to see it. It was really something to behold. To me personally, it just looked like a glass skull,” said Rickert-Hall. “Even in folklore, stories take on a life of their own. The reputation of this skull was so powerful that so many people came out to see it.” 

– Waterloo Chronicle

Thomas Lacey Seances

Thomas Lacey immigrated to Canada in 1923, and worked as an engineer. From the 1920s-1960s Lacey acted as a medium – a channel for spirits to communicate with the living during a séance. Some of Lacey’s séances, undertaken in the home of Otto Smith at 362 Frederick St in Kitchener, were recorded and are now held in the University of Waterloo archive. These séances at various times involved philosophical discussions, visits by spirits of friends and family, and occasions when spirits were helped to “cross the veil.” Those at the seances reported experiences of apports, automatic writing, and materializations. Lacey was also well-known for his use of a spirit trumpet in his seances. 

You can hear more about Thomas Lacey, including audio clips from the seances, in the Ghost of Thomas Lacey podcast. 

– Kitchener Public Library

Homer Watson

Another famous Kitchener spiritualist is artist Homer Watson, who tried many different means, including seances, to contact his wife Roxanne after her death. He held many of these seances in his home – now the Homer Watson House & Gallery.   

This is not the only otherworldly connection for this house, however. Homer’s sister Phoebe Watson (an accomplished artist in her own right) – has been sighted many times as an apparition at the gallery. She has been seen carrying art down a stairway, observing an art class, or even sometimes speaking to gallery visitors (Waterloo Region Record 29-10-2011).  

– Kitchener Public Library

Homer Watson Park

This legend dates back many years and is referenced in John Robert Colombo’s book, Mysteries of Ontario. Legend has it, there is a spring where the “tragic deaths of an Attiwandron maiden and a Tionontati warrior” occurred. They met at the Oromoncto Spring and were ill-fatedly slain by the Haudenosaunee.

Steep drops and the ground being littered with slippery, wet leaves did not make it easy finding the ruins and the spring. It was far creepier navigating in the dark, and the possibility of running into any modern day forbidden lovers was all that was on my mind. Although unrecorded, there have been sightings of the young Indigenous woman crying, walking along the banks of the Grand River. If you are planning on further investigating this haunting, bring extra layers as the temperature drops significantly out of the blue.

– The Cord

More Haunted Buildings

While most stories are based around a specific person, there are legends about buildings, particularly the older ones, in the region.

For example, Kitchener Collegiate Institute, which opened in 1855 as the Berlin grammar school, is known for ghostly sightings.

The sightings, [Joanna] Rickert-Hall said, crop up usually as construction projects are being completed. Every new extension brought out a new ghost sighting.

In Cambridge, at Galt Collegiate Institute (GCI), it is said that soldiers who graduated and died in service in the First World War returned to the school to haunt it. Founded in 1852, GCI is one of the oldest operational high schools in Canada.

“Some former students have said that at different times, in a hallway, people can be alone and they’ll hear voices down the hallway. Or there will be a flash of light and they’ll see movement out of the corner of their eyes,” said Rickert-Hall.

– Waterloo Chronicle

Haunted New Hamburg

Many residents hear footsteps and voices in other rooms when they are home alone, but one owner, on Waterloo Street, got to meet the source of the noises.

“In 1983, this woman was rocking her daughter to sleep and an apparition of a seven-year-old girl sat next to her and said she was ‘not OK.’ The woman put her arm around her for comfort and the girl decided ‘everything was OK and she should go because she was loved,’” recounted Voisin.

The same house had a nasty, bloodlike stain on the floor that could not be scrubbed away and would occasionally move locations.

At the Waterlot, owners Leslie and Gord Elkeer nicknamed their ghostly visitor “Roger the Dodger” because he liked to steal things from the office and have them turn up later. Roger also had a penchant for locking people in the upstairs bathroom or blue room. Behind the Waterlot, legend has it that a makeshift cemetery was dug for victims of the 1832 cholera outbreak. In the 1960s, during infrastructure construction, human bones were found and reburied on site.

Over on Wilmot Street, a decommissioned cemetery was not entirely cleared of remains. Over the years, headstones have occasionally surfaced in the river behind it and human skulls were found during later construction.

Across the road from that burial ground, homeowners experience doors slamming, lights coming on at night, and an intermittent aroma of cherry pipe tobacco — the brand that the owners’ grandfather used to smoke. When the current owners’ grandchildren were younger, the kids would have conversations with an empty living room chair that belonged to the pipe smoker who had died in the house.

Local hotels and bed and breakfasts seem to be a favourite haunt. In one room of an establishment, a spiritualist claimed to have seen an early 1900s, female servant who couldn’t leave because she had ‘things to do.’ A resident corroborated the story, saying she never sets her alarm clock as a woman with a gentle voice whispers, ‘It’s time to get up’ at the appropriate hour.

Across town, innkeepers report toilets flushing on their own and doors slamming. An elderly visitor, who happened to be a descendant of the original owners, screamed when she walked into the dining room, having seen her long-dead grandmother walking in with a silver, serving tray. Another chilly visitor at the inn was spiritually tucked into bed one morning with the message, ‘You’ll be warmer now, dear.’

On Jacob Street, the spirits have an appetite. After caring for a relative until her passing, a woman took a short vacation to re-energize. On her return, she opened the door to the wafts of apple pies baking. Later on, the smell of popcorn surrounded a favourite chair of a deceased grandmother, exactly where she often watched TV and snacked. Tobacco smells and a radio playing could also be heard from the cellar where the grandfather used to smoke and tinker on equipment while listening to music.

– New Hamburg Independent

If you’re not too spooked by those local legends, here is another blog you might be interested in during the season of chills and thrills. Give your guests a frightful delight with tasteful Halloween decor

Welcome to Waterloo Region, a region where history comes alive through its well-preserved landmarks and vibrant heritage. Nestled in the heart of southwestern Ontario, Kitchener-Waterloo is more than just a hub for innovation and technology; it’s a treasure trove of historical sites that tell the story of its rich past. From charming 19th-century architecture to significant cultural monuments, this twin-city region offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of Canadian society. Join us as we explore some of the most fascinating historical places in Kitchener-Waterloo and surrounding areas, where every corner has a story to tell and every visit feels like a journey back in time. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, there’s something here to captivate and inspire you.

Properties that gain a heritage designation offer architectural, historic and contextual significance to the community. Here’s a closer look at some of these properties in our region and resources to help you find them.

Heritage Properties in Kitchener

Previously known as Berlin, Kitchener saw its first buildings being built by 1800. Since those days, there have been 133 properties designated as heritage properties. There are also four heritage districts: St. Mary’s, Upper Doon, Victoria Park and Civic Centre.

Interested in taking a Victoria Park Historical Walking Tour?

There’s a free guide from the City of Kitchener. View it here.

Some of the properties you can learn about include:

The Boathouse.

This historic landmark in Kitchener has seen many days since Victoria Park opened in 1896. From the original wood structure to a two-storey brick building built in 1929, this building has held many purposes; boat storage, concession stand, change room, restaurant, music venue… just to name a few.

Read more about the Boathouses’s history here.

25 Joseph Street, Kitchener.

Like some other properties, the Victoria Street Public School has been renovated and repurposed as residential units. Built in 1911, the Victoria Park Historical Walking Tour describes this property as ” a local example of the Edwardian Classical style (popular in Ontario from 1900-1930)”

Heritage Properties in Waterloo

There are 41 properties in Waterloo with heritage designation, each with a plaque.

Interested in taking a walking tour?

You can explore the Mary Allen neighbourhood to learn about the unique homes and original residents, and then take the MacGregor Albert Heritage District walking tour.

Here are some historic buildings you may recognize.

40 Albert Street, Waterloo.

You may recognize this building from Uptown Waterloo. Located near the current Waterloo Public Library Main Branch, it was the first public library in Waterloo (built between 1903 and 1905).

227 King Street South, Waterloo.

If you’re driving down King Street from Uptown Waterloo, just before you pass Grand River Hospital, you’ve likely seen this building. Before it was the Sun Life Canada headquarters, it was the head office of the Mutual Life Assurance Co.

Heritage Properties in Cambridge

Cambridge is home to three Heritage Conservation Districts: Blair Village, Dickson Hill and Main Street.

Interested in taking a walking tour?

You can explore Cambridge’s historic downtown and learn about many of the buildings using this guide.

Main Street.

At the corner of Main Street and Ainslie Street you’ll be able to see this property that has seen different businesses and different buildings.

56 Dickson Street.

What you may know now as the Cambridge Fire Hall Museum and Education Centre was once a fully operating fire hall with horse-draw fire engines. The Old Galt Fire Hall was a functioning fire hall from 1898-1979.

More historic places to explore in Waterloo Region!

Here is a list of historic places in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo. You’ll be amazed which properties you pass by on a regular basis. Take some time to learn about them so you can truly appreciate their history the next time you walk by.

There is no shortage of great parks in Kitchener-Waterloo, and if you’re an avid park-goer, you may have noticed some recent updates to some of the parks in the area.

Here’s a look at some of the new and recently updated parks in Kitchener-Waterloo. Plus, continue reading to see how you can learn about the progress of other park projects and how you can get involved.

Waterloo Park

Waterloo Park has gone through quite the makeover. The Silver Lake renovation reconfigured the shoreline, build a boardwalk, and added a beachy area for families to hang out.

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A post shared by Friends of Waterloo Park (@ourwaterloopark)

The playground in Waterloo Park, Eby Farm Playground, was rebuilt and is now Waterloo’s first accessible playground.

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A post shared by Friends of Waterloo Park (@ourwaterloopark)

Alexandra Park

An expansion of Alexandra Park (just steps away from Uptown Waterloo) was completed in June 2023. The updated park features a picnic area, plenty of seating, a lawn area, bike racks, lots of greenery, art, and a fun play area constructed from natural materials.

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A post shared by Uptown Waterloo Neighbouthood Association (@info.uptown.west)

More Innovative Playgrounds in Kitchener-Waterloo

One of the companies bringing inspiring playgrounds to life in the area is Earth Scape Play. Here’s a list of one-of-a-kind playgrounds they have installed over the years. (Click on each name to see photos of the playgrounds).

• Westmount Sports Park
• Gildner Green
• Millen Woods P.S.
• Huron Natural Area
• Empire P.S.

Local Park Updates

If you’re wondering about the progress of a park project near you, check out Engage Waterloo Region. You can see where each project is in its lifecycle, read updates, see design concepts and more. You can also get involved by sharing your ideas and feedback on a variety of issues, including Parks.

Current featured projects you can view:

• Reimagining Westwood Park
• RBJ Schlegal Park
• Shape the Future of Prospect Park
• A new design for Alpine Park
• Renaturalizing Shoemaker Greenway Park
• Survivor Garden in Victoria Park

Finding cool things to do in the Summer is not a problem when you live in Kitchener-Waterloo. Not only are there always lots of great local events going on (festivals, concepts, markets & more), but there is so much to do just beyond the Region’s borders.

Maybe you’ve heard of these events and activities, or maybe they’re new to you. But either way, there are endless options for you this Summer.

Here are some unique activities in Kitchener-Waterloo and beyond. To help you out, we’ve sorted these awesome activities for:

• Thrill-seekers
• Foodies
• Creatives
• Everyone!

Keep an eye out for the 📍to see activities that are in or close to Waterloo Region.

Activities for Thrill-Seekers

• Explore a cave – Here are 14 caves in Ontario.
• 📍Make a Big Splash at Bingemans. This water park has thrilling slides & more for the whole family.
• Treetop trekking is a great aerial adventure. If you love being one with nature (and up off the ground), check out this list of spots for swinging, ziplining, and climbing in the treetops.
• If you’re really into heights (and are feeling brave) consider the CN tower EdgeWalk
• Walk on a suspension bridge – Here’s a list of some bridges in Ontario.
• Explore from a new perspective. Take a helicopter ride and soar the skies above some of the most beautiful areas in Ontario. Learn more here.
• 📍Okay, so lazy river tubing isn’t high-speed, but it’s still a great way to explore. Find out how you can go Tubing on the Grand.

Activities for Foodies

• 📍The Stratford Chocolate Trail is a self-guided tour that will introduce you to unique treats.
• The Oxford Country Cheese Trail is a self-guided route. Follow the trail to check out factory tours with cheesemakers, museums, delicious menus and more.
• The Apple Pie Trail is a trail that will take you through Southern Georgian Bay. It will help you discover lots of culinary, drinks and outdoor experiences in that region.
• While we’re on the topic of tours, there’s also the Butter Tart Tour in the Kawarthas.

Activities for Creatives

• 📍Take in a play at the Stratford Festival.
• 📍Stroll along the Waterloo Art Walk, an outdoor exhibit featuring 24 local artsists.

Activities for Everyone!

• Spend some time in field of lavender. Take in the sights and the scents at one of these Ontario lavender farms.
• 📍Visit donkeys and miles in Sanctuary in Puslinch at the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada.
• 📍Socialize with baby goats at the Perth Farmhouse.

Want to learn more about local events and activities? Check out this blog!

Social media is a great way to stay connected with your community and to hear about local events. There are lots of account with dedicated creators sharing content unique to Kitchener-Waterloo. Whether you’re interested in local events, local businesses, great deals, fun activities, amazing people, and so much more, you’ll be able to find it! Here are some local Instagram accounts that are a great follow for anyone living in the KW area.

@curatedkw

“Waterloo Region’s top resource for food, deals & fun stuff”
31.1K followers

Curated KW posts local events (a rundown of weekly/ weekend events), updates about restaurant menus and places you should try, fun local activities and more.

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A post shared by ✨ Curated Kitchener-Waterloo ✨ (@curatedkw)

@kwfamous

“All things KW”
1171K followers

This accounts coins itself as a place to learn about events and community shenanigans… plus they have their own merch honouring local establishments.

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A post shared by KWFamous (@kwfamous)

@kwkiddos

“Spotlighting events, deals, and activities for you and your kiddos around the KW area”
2,623 followers

This is a great resource if you find yourself constantly looking for family activity ideas. It highlights weekend events, parks & trails, camps and more.

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@thingstodosinkw

“Things to do in Kitchener-Waterloo. Arts & Culture | Festivals | Events | Food | Nature”
7,477 followers

It’s right there in the title – find things to do in KW.

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@kwkrising

“A bit of #KitchenerWaterloo (and world news) in your pocket”
2,623 followers

On this account’s feed, you’ll find curated local news headlines.

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A post shared by KW RISING 🏙↗️ (@kwrising)

@explorewaterlooregion

“Official tourism organization for Waterloo Region”
20.4K followers

Local buzz, events, things to do in the Region… what more could you want? Learn about local news, businesses, people, and see some amazing photos of Waterloo Region.

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A post shared by Explore Waterloo Region (@explorewaterlooregion)

@dtkitchener

“Highlighting the people, places and good stuff in #DowntownKitchener. This is our community: #DTKlove”
27.6K followers

This account shares all about the epicenter of innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship in Kitchener. Learn about events in downtown Kitchener, see highlighted downtown businesses, and discover unique features of the downtown core.

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@uptownwaterloo

“Come on up! 🛍 Diverse shopping 🍽 Critically-acclaimed dining 💅 Top-notch services 🎭 Spectacular arts & culture and so much more!”
22.1K followers

This is the Uptown Waterloo BIA’s account, showcasing the fantastic festival programming in the Waterloo Public Square, plus highlighting the businesses and views in Uptown Waterloo.

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@create_waterloo

“The City of Waterloo’s official Arts & Culture feed. Find out about public events, calls for artists & more!”
9,173 followers

This is a great account to follow if you’re interested in art, events, or are an artist.

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@regionofwaterloo

“The official account of the Region Municipality of Waterloo. News, services and more from your Regional government”
10.2K followers

Hear it from the source! This official account shares news and programming you may be interested in as a resident of Waterloo Region.

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A post shared by Regional Municipality of Waterloo (@regionofwaterloo)

Other official government & city accounts you can follow include:

• @cityofkitchener
• @cityofwaterloo
• @kitchenerlibrary
• @waterloolibrary

Looking for more local accounts to follow? Here are some ideas to help you find accounts to follow.

• Look up your favourite local events
• Discover what your favourite organizations are posting about
• Follow your favourite local businesses (Plus it’s a free way to support them. They’ll really appreciate it)
• Follow local hashtags
• Check out your Explore page

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Follow @cindycodyteam for real estate tips, our latest listings, coming soon properties, market updates, events & more.