Happy Oktoberfest!
Oktoberfest is Wundarbar! But you already knew that.
We’ve been celebrating our German heritage now for 50 years making Kitchener-Waterloo the second largest Oktoberfest celebration, next to the original fest held in Germany.
Here is a list of only a few of the activities and events happening over the next 9 days, October 5th-13th.
October 5th – 7th – Rogers Hometown Hockey
Rogers Hometown Hockey returns to Kitchener for the 50th Anniversary of KW Oktoberfest. This free celebration at Kitchener City Hall (Carl Zehr Square) features autograph signings from NHL alumni Darcy Tucker, Nik Antropov and Darryl Sittler. Plus, local celebrities, live entertainment and hockey themed activities for the whole family. Don’t miss the outdoor viewing party Sunday night as the Chicago Blackhawks host the Toronto Maple Leafs.
October 5th – Opening Ceremonies
It’s a lunch time tradition that can’t be missed. The Opening Ceremonies of KW Oktoberfest begin at 11:15am and features the annual keg tapping, German dance performances, festive music, food and drink. Plus, local dignitaries, the newly crowned Miss Oktoberfest and everyone’s favourite Onkel Hans. Bring out the family and help ring in the 50th edition of KW Oktoberfest.
October 5th – Kitchener Rangers Oktoberfest Game and Commemorative Jersey Auction
Special for this year’s 50th Anniversary, the Kitchener Rangers have unveiled commemorative jersey’s that will be worn and auctioned off in support of The Food Bank of Waterloo Region. For more details, visit kitchenerrangers.com
October 5th & 6th – Craftoberfest
According to the organizers this event will be “wacky and delicious”. It’s the second year now for Craftoberfest. The upper level of the Market is will be filled with local art, local foods, and unique German and harvest-inspired craft beer and cider from across the province.
October 9th – 5K Fun Run
Everyone talks about needing exercise after Thanksgiving, but why not before? Sign up for the 5K Fun Run that begins bright an early, approximately 7:55am at St. Anne’s School near the Aud. Run for Fun! Run for Sport! Run because you Care! Proceeds support Big Brother Big Sisters Waterloo Region.
October 8th – Thanksgiving Day Parade
Who doesn’t love a parade, especially Canada’s largest Thanksgiving Day parade? This year will be extra special as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of KW Oktoberfest filled with fancy floats, performers, dance groups, bands and festival ambassadors’ including Onkel Hans, Tante Frieda, Ziggy unt Zaggy Steiner and Miss Oktoberfest. The route begins at the corner of Weber and Frederick and runs along Weber until it hits Bridgeport Road in Waterloo. Parade begins at 8:30am.
October 5th – 13th – Festhallen
There are countless ways you can celebrate Oktoberfest, including Festhallen. Some of our favourites include Schwaben Club, Hubertushaus, and, Concordia Club. Dress up in a traditional lederhosen and dirndl, put a feather in your hat and enjoy a night of traditional food, beer, music and dancing. Prost!