Who needs to travel to Germany for an Oktoberfest experience if you can have it all right at home? You’ll want to head to Kitchener-Waterloo this October as it will transform into a Bavarian village for three full days. From outdoor vendors to a keg tapping ceremony, here’s what to know about the experience.
Starting Oct. 10, downtown Kitchener will whisk you away to the streets of Germany for a European experience like no other.
Along King Street from Queen Street to Kitchener City Hall, you can enjoy the city’s take on a Bavarian village, fully stocked with food vendors serving up authentic German cuisine, a local vendors market, a Biergarten and even a sing-along experience in front of the Circle K Main Stage.
It’s all part of Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival. The 57th annual Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest runs from Sept. 26 to Oct. 18, 2025. Events will be held at multiple locations across the city. Whether you’re there for the lively polkas, Bavarian dishes, or family-friendly fun, the entertainment feels almost endless.
German Clubs and local partners are hosting events, and some require tickets. So if you’re looking to jump right into all the action, check out the list online.
But as for this outdoor extravaganza, it’s free to attend.
Though there’s lots to do and see throughout the weekend-long festival, you don’t want to miss out on the official Keg tapping ceremony. It’s taking place on Oct. 10 at noon, with a pre-show at 11:30 a.m.
The festival starts at 11 a.m., all three days, with the Biergarten and Main Stage hours ending at 10 p.m., the outdoor vendor market ending at 7 p.m., and the indoor vendor market at 5 p.m.
Looks like a weekend trip is in order!
Oktoberfest – Willkommen Platz
When: Sept. 26, 2025, to Oct. 18, 2025
Time: Starts at 11 a.m. on all three days
Where: Carl Zehr Square — 200 King St. W., along King Street from Queen Street to Kitchener City Hall
Cost: Free
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