Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, is home to the second-largest Oktoberfest celebration in the world, after Munich. This Canadian city attracts over 700,000 visitors annually and will be hosting its 56th event this year from September 27 to October 17. The celebration includes traditional German activities such as accordion-led polka dancing, biergartens, food trucks, market vendors, and a giant bell Glockenspiel. The event offers a Canadian twist on the German traditions, providing a unique experience for attendees.
For those attending Oktoberfest with their furry friends, the Gaukel Block pedestrian artery in Downtown Kitchener will host “DOGtoberfest” on October 12-13. Professional trainers will attempt to teach old dogs new tricks, and there will be pack walks and a Sniffscape pop-up experience. Additionally, there will be a “KIDtoberfest” event at Kitchener City Hall Rotunda for children to learn about Bavarian activities. Admission to both events is free, offering entertainment for all members of the family.
The Goat Fest 2024 in Kitchener-Waterloo is a hot sauce and craft beer festival inspired by Sean Evens and his YouTube series “Hot Ones.” The event will feature over 30 hot sauce options from Canada and beyond, as well as craft beer, food trucks, and live music from the Canadian party band The 99s. The festival will take place at Concordia Club on Ottawa Street South on September 28 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. General admission tickets start at around $13, offering a spicy and flavorful experience for attendees.
In addition to the Oktoberfest celebrations, Canada also has its own Thanksgiving celebration, which falls on the second Monday in October. This year, Thanksgiving will be on October 14, and a celebratory parade will take place on Weber Street featuring giant inflatable figures and festivities from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The parade offers a festive and family-friendly way to celebrate the holiday among the Oktoberfest events happening in the city.
As part of the Oktoberfest celebrations, Damenfest Breakfast is a networking event for women featuring speakers and local luminaries from the business and arts communities. The event will take place on Friday, October 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Walper Hotel in Downtown Kitchener. Attendees are encouraged to wear their fanciest dirndl and enjoy a morning of networking and empowerment. Tickets for the event will go on sale soon, offering a unique opportunity for women to connect and celebrate during Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, offers a unique blend of traditional German festivities with Canadian flair. From accordion-led polka dancing and biergartens to hot sauce tastings and craft beer festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the 56th annual celebration. Whether attending with furry friends, family, or colleagues, Oktoberfest in K-W provides a vibrant and diverse experience for all attendees.
