Oktoberfest in Kitchener Waterloo – Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival!

Oktoberfest is just around the corner!

Where can you go to experience North America’s Greatest Bavarian Festival and the second-largest Oktoberfest in the world? Well, you don’t have to travel too far if you already live in the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

This year the nine-day festival, which celebrates German heritage, food, music and festivities, kicks off on October 7^th with the official tapping of the keg at Kitchener City Hall and runs until October 15^th.

Founded in 1969, this annual not-for-profit Bavarian festival attracts an estimated 750,000-1,000,000 visitors every year looking to celebrate in 17 festival venues (festhallen) and attend one or more of the 40 family and cultural events.

As well as the economic boost the festival gives the local economy during the international festival, over $1.5 million is raised each year by the not-for-profit organizations associated with Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, one of the top three most recognized event brands in Canada.

Top 10 Things to Do at Oktoberfest

1. Join President Alfred Lowrick as he taps the keg at the festival’s Official Opening Ceremonies!
2. Visit one of the 17 exciting festhallen to experience some Gemuetlichkeit!
3. Enjoy floats, performers and bands in Canada’s largest Thanksgiving Day Parade!
4. Check out at least one of the 40 Family & Cultural Events – there’s something for everyone in the family!
5. Stop by Willkommen Platz for tasty treats and live entertainment!
6. Look for the festival ambassadors at events. Onkel Hans, Tante Frieda, Ziggy unt Zaggy Steiner and Miss Oktoberfest would love to meet you!
7. Participate in one of the great sporting events – the Oktoberfest Golf Experience, the 5K Fun Run or the Tour de Hans 100K or 50K Cycle Race!
8. Visit the Official Retail Store for an authentic German stein, traditional Bavarian clothing, souvenirs, tickets and much more!
9. Explore the sights of Waterloo Region. Don’t miss the amazing Farmers’ Markets!
10. Mark your calendar for Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest 2017!

For more information about Oktoberfest events, visit www.oktoberfest.ca