Category: Events

2024 Summer Events in KW | Summer Activity Guide

Post author By cindycody
Post date May 6, 2024

Images of a saxaphone, a child riding on a parent's shoulders, and a sparkler.

Get ready to make the most of the sunshine and warmth because the 2024 summer season in Kitchener-Waterloo is bursting with excitement! From vibrant festivals to serene outdoor adventures, this Summer Activity Guide is your key to unlocking the best events in Kitchener-Waterloo. Whether you’re a local looking for new experiences or a visitor eager to dive into the heart of the community, this guide will navigate you through the hottest happenings in the region. Let’s dive in and discover the unforgettable summer events that await in our community!

Here’s a list of events you can check out in July and August. Click on an event to learn more.

Things to do in July

July 1 | Waterloo July 1 Community Picnic
July 1 | Canada Day in DTK
July 1 | Community Celebration in Ayr
July 3 | Downtown Kitchener Mile
July 4 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
July 5 | Sunset Sessions
July 8-12 | Brainworx: A Laurier Summer Experience
July 10 | Uptown Waterloo Campfire
July 11 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
July 11 | Movies in the Park
July 13 | Momma’s Cookout & Music Festival
July 14-21 | The 2nd Annual ENDURrun Sport 80km
July 15-19 | Brainworx: A Laurier Summer Experience
July 18 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
July 19 | Sunset Sessions
July 19-21 | Downtown Kitchener Ribfest & Craft Beer
July 19-21 | Sun Life Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival
July 20 | Cambridge Thrift & Vintage Walking Tour
July 21 | Run At Ribfest
July 22-26 | Brainworx: A Laurier Summer Experience
July 24 | Uptown Waterloo Campfire
July 24 – August 10 | Priscilla Queen of the Desert @ Hamilton Family Theatre Cambridge
July 25 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
July 25 | Movies in the Park
July 26 | Sunset Sessions
July 27 | Waycool Vintage Market
July 29-Aug 2 | Brainworx: A Laurier Summer Experience

Things to do in August

August 1 | The GrandWay 5K
August 1 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
August 2 | Sunset Sessions
August 7 | Uptown Waterloo Campfire
August 8 | Movies in the Park
August 8 – September 1 | Kiss Me, Kate @ St. Jacobs Country Playhouse
August 8 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
August 10 | Day of Play in Waterloo Park
August 11-18 | ENDURrun
August 15 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
August 15 | Movies in the Park
August 18 | Far East Asian Night Market
August 22-25 | Sun Life Waterloo Busker Carnival
August 22 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market
August 28 | Uptown Waterloo Campfire
August 29 | Run the Way
August 29 | Uptown Waterloo Night Market

Looking for more to do this Summer?

Check out Cool Summer Activities in Kitchener-Waterloo & Beyond
and Local Instagram Accounts You Need To Follow To Stay Up-To-Date on Local Events, News & More.

Chamber of Commerce’s International Women’s Day Charity Breakfast & Female Founder of the Month

Post author By cindycody
Post date March 25, 2024

Photos of women at a breakfast table and in a large room of people. Text reading: Chamber of Commerce's International Women's Day Charity Breakfast & Female Founder of the Month

We were so thrilled to take part in the Greater Kitchener and Waterloo Chamber of Commerce’s International Women’s Day breakfast which raised money for the Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo.

It was a lovely morning spent with strong and resilient women in the business community in Kitchener-Waterloo. We were so proud to have some many women from the Cindy Cody Team in attendance at such an inspiring event.

Members of the Cindy Cody Team at the Greater Kitchener and Waterloo Chamber of Commerce’s International Women’s Day breakfast.

More photos from the event

March Female Founder of the Month: Cindy Cody

Not only does the Chamber of Commerce put on great events and uplift the business community; it takes the time to celebrate individuals in Kitchener-Waterloo. In March, Cindy Cody was chosen to be the Female Founder of the Month.

Each month, The Chamber of Commerce announces a Female Founder and shares a video interview.

Cindy was able to share her story with the the Chamber of Commerce and their community. In it she talks about the business, highlights of her entrepreneurial journey, accomplishments, challenges, and much more.

Watch it here!

Community Events

Kitchener-Waterloo Winter Activity Guide

Post author By cindycody
Post date January 25, 2024

Welcome to the Winter Wonderland of Kitchener-Waterloo, where the frosty air is filled with excitement and the landscape transforms into a snowy spectacle. As the temperature drops, our region comes alive with a myriad of winter activities that cater to every taste and age group. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking the thrill of snow sports, or a family in search of kid-friendly adventures, Kitchener-Waterloo has something special for you. Join us on a journey through this winter wonderland, where you’ll discover the best in snow sports, festive events, scenic escapes, culinary delights, and much more. Embrace the chilly embrace of winter, and let Kitchener-Waterloo be your guide to making the most of this enchanting season.

Kitchener-Waterloo Winter Activity Guide

Snow Sports Extravaganza: Embrace the Chill with Thrilling Adventures

Skiing and Snowboarding Escapades

Check out the full-filled experiences Chicopee Ski & Summer Resort has to offer. Hit the slopes for some local skiing, snowboarding and tubing, and then head inside for a little après ski!

Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing Trails

With lots of local trails running throughout the region, snowshoeing is a great way to explore the area. Grand River Conservation has a list of the conservation areas that offer cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (when conditions allow).

Sledding and Tobogganing Hotspots

Tobogganing is a classic family winter activity. Every family has their favourite hills to slide down. These are the locations that are inspected by the City of Kitchener.

Remember to practice safe sledding!

Frosty Festivities: Winter Wonderland Events for All Ages

Outdoor Ice Skating Spectaculars

Not only are there great outdoor ice rinks in Downtown Kitchener and Uptown Waterloo, but with the help of many generous volunteers, Kitchener-Waterloo has a number of neighbourhood skating rinks you can enjoy as a family.

Check out Skate Night Date Night every Wednesday in January and February in the Waterloo Public Square!

Winter Festivals

Discover the magic of Winter at Winterloo on February 17. There are so many fun activities for the family!

Culinary Delights: Seasonal Flavors to Savor

Comfort Food and Hot Drinks

With so many amazing local restaurants, cafes and bakeries, there’s no shortage of delicious winter flavours. Check with your favourite spots to find out what’s new on their menu, and visit your go-to cafe to find out what seasonal drinks they’re offering.

Winter-themed Culinary Events

January 27- Uptown Waterloo Comfort Foot Crawl
Support the Food Bank of Waterloo Region and indulge in comfort foods from Uptown Waterloo restaurants.
February-March – DTK Travelers Tour
Each week, restaurants will showcase their unique cultural heritage and traditional dishes.

Nature’s Ice Sculptures: Discovering Frozen Landscapes

Snow & Ice Formations

Local snow sculptor, Matt Morris, literally brings the snow to life on his front lawn. Follow along on Instagram (or go for a stroll) to see his snowy creations, and learn how you can sculpt your own masterpiece. He’ll also be carving a giant snow sculpture during Winterloo.

Winter Hikes with Breathtaking Views

Explore all of the region’s parks and trails in the Winter. You may be familiar with your go-to Summer spots. So head out on a snow adventure and see how beautiful the region is under a snowy blanket.

Family Frolics: Kid-Friendly Winter Adventures

Snowman Building Contests

There’s lots of fun to be had without leaving your property. Get creative and host a snowman building contest.

Winter Wildlife Exploration

Whether you can see them or not, there are lots of critters scurrying around. Head outside and go on a hunt for their snowy pawprints

Cheer on the Rangers

Bundle up and head to the Aud to cheer on the Kitchener Rangers at one of their home games.

Now get out there and enjoy the Winter in Kitchener-Waterloo!

Tags community, family

Community Events Local Events

2023 Holiday Markets & Events in Waterloo Region

Post author By cindycody
Post date October 26, 2023

The holiday season is almost upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by attending some of the most exciting events of the year? From festive markets to dazzling light displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’re sharing all the details on the best holiday events happening in Waterloo Region (and surrounding area). So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your favorite holiday sweater, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!

🔔Holiday Parades

November 18 | KW Santa Claus Parade | Bring your letters to Santa for Canada Post to deliver, donate to the Food Bank of Waterloo, and help local Firefighters collecting for the Nights of Columbus Toy Drive.
November 18 | Cambridge Santa Claus Parade | Starting at 6:00pm, the parade will most onto Hespeler Road from Dunbar Road and will turn off Hespeler Road at Langs Drive.
November 25 | Elora Santa Claus Parade | Annual parade of lights.
December 2 | Elmira Santa Claus Parade | Downtown Elmira

🎁Festive Markets

November 4 | A Very Merry Market | Craft show and market at RIM park.
November 11-12 | Etsy Holiday Market | Shop from the very best on Etsy from Waterloo Region and surrounding areas.
November 12 | It’s A Christmas Market | 3rd Annual market. From food to fashion.
November 16-19 & 23-26 | St. Jacob’s Sparkles | Holiday shopping event amid thousands of twinkling lights in the village.
November 18 | Holiday Book fair & Market | Over 35 authors, publishers and local artists will take over two floors of theMUSEUM.
November 25 | Belmont Village Holiday Market | Find a wide array of holiday treasures, artisanal gifts and delectable treats. Plus Candlelight Yoga class.
November 25 | Wonderfully Made Holiday Handmade Market |A handmade local shopping experience. Shop local and purchase with a purpose.
November 25 | Heather & Holly Chistmas Market | Shop local and handmade favourites at St.
December 1-2 | Uptown Waterloo Winter Wonderland | Christmas Tree Lighting in the Square, Holiday Pop-Up Markets, live music, skating, Santa visit and more.
December 7-10 | Christkindl Market | The Christmas season is brought to life annually in towns and cities across Germany and other European cities during their outdoor holiday markets.
December 9-10 | Cambridge Christmas Market | Award-winning Christmas market. Almost 60 local artisans, crafters and makers.

🎄Light Displays

November 16-19 & 23-26 | St. Jacob’s Sparkles | Holiday shopping event amid thousands of twinkling lights in the village.
November 25 – January 1 | Wonders of Winter | Over 120 colourful and fund displays in Waterloo Park.
November 25 | Elora Santa Claus Parade | Annual parade of lights.
TBD | Christmas Fantasy | A festive display of lights in Victoria Park.
December 1 | Uptown Waterloo Winter Wonderland Tree Lighting Wonderland | Christmas Tree Lighting in the Square, Holiday Pop-Up Markets, live music, skating, Santa visit and more.
December 7 | Chanukah in the Square | Kick off the Chanukah holiday as the giant menorah is lit.

🕎The More the Merrier🎵

November 18 | Santa Pur-suit | Starts at 9:15, right before the KW Santa Claus Parade
November 23-December 31 | Cambridge Winterfest | A month long festival that features many great events the community has come to know and love.
November 24, 25, 30 & December 1, 2 | The Sounds of Christmas | A multi-performer musical journey through the many styles of Christmas music in support of Kidsability.
December 22 | Stars on Ice: A Special Holiday Performance | Elvis Stojko is hosting a holiday celebration with a guest lists that includes the best and most popular figure skaters in the world.

Tags holidays

Community Events

Celebrate the Harvest Season In Kitchener-Waterloo

Post author By cindycody
Post date September 19, 2023

Are you looking to really embrace the season with some festival fall activities? As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s no better time to indulge in some seasonal fun. From pumpkin carving to apple picking, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the harvest season in Kitchener-Waterloo.

Fall Events & Activities You Won’t Want To Miss

To help you make the most of the season, we’ve compiled a guide with seasonal activities in the area, fun projects you can do at home, and key event dates. Whatever your preference, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of this time of year.

Seasonal Activities in Kitchener-Waterloo

There’s no shortage of things to do in the fall, but here’s a list of some local highlights that will help you make the most of the wonders of Autumn.

Hike or bike on one of the many local trails to see nature’s art gallery a.k.a. the lovely fall foliage.
Search for the perfect pumpkin at a local pumpkin patch. Here are some options in and around Waterloo Region:
- Benjamin Tree Farm – This farm features a 15,000-square-foot playground for the kids, plus a market and more. *New for 2023* is the Frightening Forest Tractor Ride!
- Snyder’s Farm – Pumpkins, campfires, baked goods & beyond. General admission includes: petting zoo, jumping pillow, jump pad, giant peddle cart track, private play ships, tree fort, hayride, haunted houses, corn maze & more!
- Fall Harvest Farm – A huge selection of pumpkins, gourds & more.
- Good Family Farm – They grow over 100 varieties of squash, pumpkins and gourds.
Apple picking at Downey’s Apple Farm.
Enjoy a 2-hour guided Country Tour by antique tractor and wagon through some of the region’s most beautiful farmland
If you’re looking for something a little spookier, Bingeman’s Screampark has 6 terrifying haunted attractions.
Visit one of the many local farmers markets for some seasonal treats.
Visit a Fall Fair! Here’s a great list of Fall Fairs across Ontario, featuring Fairs in Cambridge, Fergus and London.

Autumn Events

Indulge in harvest festivities this year. Here are a few dates you’ll want to add to your fall calendar.

Wellesley Apple Butter & Cheese Festival | September 30. List of events & activities here.
Thanksgiving Day Parade | October 9. See the route here
Oktoberfest | September 25-October 11. From concerts to Festhallen celebrations, there’s a whole calendar of events! Opening Ceremony and Keg Tapping Ceremony takes place on October 6.
St. Jacobs Pumpkin Parade | October 28. A great opportunity to wear costumes and get a free pumpkin. Details here.

Feeling Festive at Home

Embrace the cozy hygge vibes. Fall is an excellent season for creative crafts, cozy gatherings, and warm spiced treats. Here are some fun activities you can do at home!

Pumpkin carving
A cozy bonfire with friends
Get creative and make your own Halloween costumes
Hunt for the most beautiful leaves
Bake an apple or pumpkin pie
Try making your own hot spiced apple cider
Make butternut squash soup
Go on a nature scavenger hunt in the backyard
Bob for apples
Make candy or caramel apples
Cozy up by the fireplace
Stage your own family fall photo shoot

Looking for more Fall Fun outside of Kitchener-Waterloo?

Check out this blog for 10 Fantastic Fall Activities in Ontario

Cindy Cody Team - Fun Fall Activities For Your Family

Community Events

2023 Spring Events in Kitchener-Waterloo

Post author By cindycody
Post date March 23, 2023

After a snowy Winter, it’s so refreshing to get outside to enjoy all that our community has to offer. There’s lots going on in Kitchener-Waterloo this Spring. Here are a few things you can add to your Spring to do list!

Click on the 🔗 to get more details about each event