OK – the calendar says summer is still a little more than five weeks away. But the May long weekend marks the unofficial start to summer for most people, and it’s a great time to get out and celebrate in Waterloo Region!
There are lots of events happening indoors and out this weekend. Whether you’re looking for ways to be active, or to kick back and relax, here are some suggestions to inspire your long weekend adventures in Waterloo Region!
Fireworks
Victoria Day Weekend in New Dundee
Head to the New Dundee Community Centre on Sunday, May 18th, 2025, for an evening of spectacular fireworks, food, and fun. The festivities begin at 4:30 with the fireworks beginning at dusk.
Things To Do
KW Vintage Fest
Get ready for two unforgettable days of vintage vibes, upcycled fashion, and unlimited nostalgia. Located in the heart of Uptown Waterloo, Vintage Fest is back for its 3rd year, and this year is bigger, bolder, and groovier than ever. Hosted in collaboration with the Uptown Waterloo BIA, this festival is your ultimate long weekend destination.
For the May Long Weekend we will transform The Uptown Parkade into a stacked market of vintage vendors, live music, classic cars and more. A rooftop roller disco meets vintage market! KWFamous Vintage Fest brings top vendors, live music, & DIY vibes to May long weekend. Come for the finds, stay for the fun.
WEFTFest Fibre Arts Festival
Prepare to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and craftsmanship as WEFTFest proudly presents its 3rd annual Fibre Arts Festival in St. Jacobs WEFTFest is your opportunity to take in the Quilt of Belonging that portrays the rich cultural legacies of all the First Peoples in Canada and every nation of the world at the dawn of the new Millennium.
African Lion Safari
Get closer than you ever imagined to over 1,000 exotic birds and animals at African Lion Safari! The gates are open for the season from 9 am – 5 pm daily all long weekend.
Ride the Heritage Hopper with Waterloo Central Railway
Travel back in time for an authentic heritage train ride through Woolwich Township and Waterloo Regions’ famous Mennonite farm country on Waterloo Central Railway’s historic rail line that has been in service since the 1880s.
Saturday Market Cooking Experience at the Kitchener Market
Join the Kitchener Market on Saturday, May 17th to gather local ingredients and cook a delicious 3 course meal. The group will be using local produce and meats to cook and array of different dishes. This class includes a spring salad, cream of Asparagus soup and chicken dish including skills on how to make stock and debone a chicken.
KW Kennel Club All Breeds Championship Dog Shows
Agility trials, obedience trials and more await at this All Breeds dog show at The Aud!
Victoria Day Fun & Games
Join the Waterloo Region Museum on the holiday Monday for a museum-wide scavenger hunt where you can explore their galleries. Get your adrenaline pumping with Competitive Relay Races — race against friends and family for bragging rights! Enjoy classic Board Games and outdoor fun with Patio Games that will keep you entertained all day long.
Camping at Bingemans
Camping on the May long weekend is a must for many! Bingemans provides a great camping option where you feel like you’re surrounded by nature, but you’re actually within minutes of big city amenities!
Whether you’re a camper or a more of a ‘glamper’, Bingemans has you covered – their luxury containers provide the most unique experience camping has to offer!
Farmers’ Markets
There’s lots of locally sourced food for your long weekend barbeque and get togethers at our local farmers’ markets!
Soak up the sun on a Patio!
And finally – area patios are starting to open for the summer! Wondering where to find them? Pick your city, and start exploring!
