Free and Nearly Free Activities in Waterloo Region

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There’s no need to break the bank to enjoy what Waterloo Region has to offer! 

Here’s a list of free or nearly free activities to help you make the most of your time in the region this winter. 

Outdoor Fun

  • Outdoor Skating Rinks
    The cities of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo all have outdoor rinks where you can lace up your skates and enjoy some outdoor fun.
    (Insider Tip: Head to Waterloo Public Square every Wednesday in January and February for Skate Night, Date Night –  a fun evening filled with outdoor skating, a live DJ, and hot drinks to warm you up!)

  • Tobogganing at McLennan Park
    Locals know that McLennan Park in Kitchener is one of the best tobogganing hills in the region! As one of the tallest and steepest hills in all of Waterloo Region, this is a family favourite.

  • Old Post Office Digital Light Show
    In 2018, the City of Cambridge installed a digital projection system to display light shows on the façade of the Old Post Office building. The shows are changed up seasonally: the Winter digital light show runs Thursday – Sunday nights every half hour from 7:30-9 PM.
    (Insider Tip: Enjoy the show from the comfort of your car – there’s a parking lot right across from the Old Post Office. That way you can tune your car radio to 92.5 FM to listen to the music that has been choreographed with the show!)

  • Take a Self-Guided Walk
    Discover unique and selfie-worthy spaces in Waterloo Region’s cities and townships by heading out on a walking tour.
    Take an interactive tour of locations where film projects have taken place in Cambridge (including The Handmaid’s Tale). Kitchener offers the DTK Art Walk – highlighting art installations and murals in downtown Kitchener. The townships of North Dumfries, Wilmot and Woolwich also offers walking and driving tours that help you discover hidden and historic gems throughout the region!

  • Explore Local Parks and Trails 
    Waterloo Region is connected by a series of urban and rural trails that are enjoyed by walkers, hikers, joggers, cyclists, mountain bikers, cross country skiers and snow shoers.
    Wondering where to begin? This list of trails and parks in Waterloo Region is a great place to start!
    (Insider Tip: Look for the #WiseOldOak on the Health Valley Trail – a hidden local gem! Carved by carpenter Dustin Quill, you’ll find him closer to the Waterloo end of the trail.)

Indoor Affordable Fun

  • Galleries and Museums
    The following galleries and museums offer free admission, so check out their current exhibitions!

    – the Earth Sciences Museum at the University of Waterloo (don’t miss the Dino Pit!)
    Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery
    – the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery
    Homer Watson House and Gallery
    Cambridge Art Galleries
    City of Waterloo Museum

  • Visit Local Markets
    The St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market (Canada’s largest year-round market), the Cambridge Farmers’ Market and the Kitchener Market all operate year-round and are all great places to explore and to meet local producers. They also offer great programming – check their Event Calendars to see what’s coming up!

  • DTK Travellers Tour
    Experience the flavours of the world at the DTK Travellers Tour! This free, family-friendly event celebrates food, music, and traditions from around the globe. Taking place over four Sundays in February and March, this event will transform the Kitchener Public Library into a vibrant space featuring complimentary food samples from Downtown Kitchener restaurants, live performances, and activities for all ages. Find out what planned for each Sunday on the Travellers Tour website.

  • Big Screen Tuesdays at the Gaslight District
    Each Tuesday from January to May, the Gaslight District invites you to take in a free movie on the big screen in Tapestry Hall! While a concession stand will be available to purchase snacks, you can also bring in your own food and beverages. Note: you’re asked to BYOC – Bring Your Own Chairs. Check the Event Calendar to find out what’s playing each week.
    (Insider Tip: Each of these indoor screenings will begin with and end with a FREE “Meander” show! Meander – located in Tapestry Hall – is the largest permanent living architecture sculpture in the world. Its meshwork spheres, billowing cloud canopies and water-like formations react to your movements with sounds, light and movements of its own as it constantly adapts and learns from its audience. BTW – you don’t have to attend the screening to come out and view the Meander show.)

SEE WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN WATERLOO REGION. CHECK OUT THE LOCAL BUZZ!

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