by Alex Kinsella | October 2025
November in Waterloo Region offers something for everyone. From laughter-filled comedy nights and magical train rides to handmade markets, concerts, and community parades, the month is packed with reasons to get out and explore.
Savour the flavours of the season at local food and drink festivals, discover unique gifts at artisan markets, or kick off the holidays with dazzling lights and a visit from Santa himself.
Whether you’re looking for music, theatre, family fun, or a spirited night out, November is brimming with events that capture the warmth and wonder of the season.
Under His Eye: The Gilead Experience | October 22 – November 6
You know the show, now explore the streets, buildings, and businesses of Cambridge that appeared as Gilead in the hit Hulu show, The Handmaid’s Tale. The City of Cambridge’s Under His Eye: The Gilead Experience is a self-guided tour and prop exhibit from the Emmy Award-winning show.
A Very Merry Market | November 1
Presented by Cherry Blossom Events and K-W Craft Shows, the A Very Merry Market at RIM Park’s Forbes Room is your chance to get your holiday shopping started early. Enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere, support local businesses, and make lasting memories with friends and family. Admission is $5.00 at the door.
Cambridge Mural Tour | November 1
Stroll Walking Tours invites you to explore the murals of Downtown Cambridge! The tour takes you on a casual walk to visit 15 colourful murals created in the past decade ranging from street-level to 4-story beauties. The stroll route follows paved surfaces on city sidewalks, through a few parking lots & along a river trail and is flexible to accommodate scooters and wheel chairs.
Dia De Los Muertos | November 1
Returning for its second year, Dia De Los Muertos is a day to honour and remember loved ones through music, food, art, and tradition. Presented by the Downtown Kitchener BIA in partnership with TLN Media Group, Dia De Los Muertos is your chance to explore the sounds, aromas, and flavours of latin culture right here in DTK!
Cambridge Wedding Expo! | November 2
Say “I do” to stress-free wedding planning at the Cambridge Wedding Expo! Whether you’re dreaming of a micro celebration, a grand gala, or a destination wedding, you’ll find everything you need to bring your vision to life. Meet local wedding pros, discover décor inspiration, browse formalwear, snap fun photos, and enjoy exclusive giveaways.
Fall Tasting Series at Langdon Hall | November 3
Experience an unforgettable evening at Langdon Hall as Sommelier and Italian wine specialist Mario Cagnetta guides you through the world of Barolo, Italy’s legendary “King of Wines.” This intimate tasting explores the rich history, distinctive terroir, and artistry behind one of the country’s most celebrated wine regions.
Animation Celebration 2 | November 6
Celebrate the art and imagination of animation at KW Creator’s Animation Celebration 2, a night dedicated to fans, creators, and everything animated. Enjoy two special screenings of the acclaimed film Paprika alongside a showcase of local animated works. Get there early to explore the fanart market, interactive lobby activities, and community exhibits that bring animation to life beyond the screen.
The United Way Ultimate Burger Battle | November 6
Hop aboard the big yellow bus for a night of flavour and friendly competition at the Ultimate Burger Battle Burger Crawl! You’ll tour four of Waterloo Region’s top restaurants, each serving up a signature slider as they vie for the title of Ultimate Burger Battle Champion. Enjoy stops at Blackshop Restaurant, Gator’s Tail Sports Bar, Canadian Brewhouse, and The Bruce Craft House, all while supporting United Way Waterloo Region. Tickets are $60 per person and include four mouth-watering sliders and an evening of great food, fun, and community spirit. Space is limited. Reserve your spot today!
Tom Green’s Stompin’ Comedy Tour | November 6
Canadian comedy legend Tom Green is coming back to Kitchener for a show at Centre in the Square! Known for his unpredictable MTV show and cult-classic films, Green continues to make us laugh with new projects and his new tour. You don’t want to miss this show!
Hops & High Notes: Opera at the Brewery | November 7
TWB Co-operative Brewing is your home for opera and amazing craft beer at Hops & High Notes: Opera at the Brewery. Entry is pay-what-you-can, with proceeds supporting Grand River Opera’s next production.
CPS Handmade Market | November 8
Discover one-of-a-kind creations at the CPS Handmade Market, happening from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Conestoga Public School. Explore 30 talented local vendors offering handmade fashion, jewellery, home décor, art, candles, soaps, pottery, macramé, and more. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts while supporting the community.
University Food Tour | November 8
Taste your way through Waterloo’s vibrant university district with Stroll Walking Tour’s University Food Tour. From sweet treats to savoury bites, you’ll enjoy tastings across eight to nine locally owned eateries while meeting the passionate chefs and entrepreneurs behind them. Along the way, learn about the neighbourhood’s rich history and transformation over the past decade.
Kitchener Public Library presents Shad | November 8
For one night only, KPL’s Central Library transforms into an intimate concert venue for an unforgettable after-hours performance featuring Juno Award-winning rapper Shad. This all-ages, licensed event offers a rare chance to experience Shad’s thought-provoking lyricism and magnetic stage presence up close.
Tequila Expo | November 8
Enjoy tacos, music, and lucha libre wrestling at Bingeman’s Tequila Expo on November 8. It’s the expo’s fifth year, and they’re back with tequila and mezcal tastings, artisan vendors, and live lucha libre wrestling.
The Eric Johnston “UnforgettaBULL” Comedy Tour Live | November 8
Award winning comedian, actor, emcee, and #1 best selling author Eric Johnston is coming to Block 3 Brewing in St. Jacobs. From stories about being raised by a professional wrestler, to jokes about thriving and surviving in his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario, Johnston’s comedy is both outrageous and relatable, and will leave you begging for more laughs!
St. Jacobs Sparkles | November 13-16 and 20–23
Discover the unique shops and eateries of the Village of St. Jacobs during Village Sparkles. Each weekend features holiday festivities and entertainment for the whole family. We hear Santa might make a couple of early stops on Sunday mornings.
Christmas Cheerlight Charter | November 13 – December 23
All aboard the Christmas Cheerlight Charter! Waterloo County Railroad invites you to a spirited evening adventure where guests of all ages help restore the magic of the holidays by completing joyful challenges and collecting stamps in your Merry Mission Passport. It’s an immersive journey that includes a visit from Santa, festive music, and a special memento to commemorate your holiday mission.
The Debaters – 20th Anniversary Holiday Special | November 13
Celebrate two decades of laughter as The Debaters bring their hit CBC Radio show to Centre in the Square! Hosted by Steve Patterson, this festive evening features two hilarious debates and side-splitting stand-up from some of his favourite comedic “elves.” Join fellow fans for a night of quick wit, questionable facts, and classic Canadian humour.
Feast for the Senses 19 | November 13
Feast for the Senses 19 at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery presents an inspired evening of culinary artistry and cultural storytelling. Chef Aicha Smith-Belghaba, founder of Esha’s Eats, blends her Mohawk and Algerian heritage into contemporary Indigenous cuisine rooted in food sovereignty and community. Guests will enjoy a tapas-style tasting menu with drink pairings inspired by current art exhibitions, offering a unique fusion of flavor and creativity.
PickleFest 2025 | November 14
Get ready for a dill-icious night at PickleFest 2025! Hosted at THEMUSEUM, this fan-favourite event celebrates all things pickled with creative dishes from local restaurants and refreshing brews from nearby breweries.
Merry Mission Dayliner | November 15 – December 21
The elves at Santa’s Workshop need your help to save Christmas, and only a train full of merry passengers can restore the Christmas spirit. Waterloo County Railroad’s Merry Mission Dayliner is a 60-minute heritage train ride that brings the magic of the holidays to life! It’s the perfect outing for young adventurers and the young-at-heart.
KW Santa Claus Parade | November 15
Santa Claus comes to town during the KW Santa Claus Parade! The fun kicks off with the Santa Run at 9:45am, with the parade starting from the corner of Frederick and Weber streets in Kitchener. Kids – bring your letters to Santa for Canada Post to deliver! In the spirit of the season of giving, you can donate to the Food Bank of Waterloo, and help your local Firefighters who will be collecting for the Knights of Columbus’ Toy Drive along the parade route. Also this year, bring new mitts, hats, and warm clothing for the Region’s Paramedics to collect on behalf of Sanguen Health Centre.
Cambridge Santa Claus Parade 2025 | November 15
Kick off the holiday season with the Cambridge Santa Claus Parade, a beloved community tradition now celebrating over 50 years of festive spirit! This enchanting nighttime parade fills the streets with twinkling lights, dazzling floats, marching bands, and the magic of the season.
Gift of Lights | November 21 – January 3, 2026
Experience the magic and wonder of the Region’s most spectacular and dazzling light displays this holiday season. Bask in the beauty and wonderment of Gift of Lights; a drive through experience, featuring a breathtaking 40 foot twinkly LED tree, over 300 animated and static light displays and light tunnels. A portion of sales from each car admission will be donated to the Waterloo Region Health Network Foundation.
Santa’s Nightcap – Festive Spirits Flyer | November 21, 22, 28, and 29
Check out Waterloo County Railroad’s Santa’s Nightcap, a 19+ holiday train experience that proves Christmas magic isn’t just for kids! Enjoy an evening of laughter, festive drinks, and merry mischief as you and your friends take on mini-missions to help revive the Christmas Spirit. Group discounts available.
Wonderfully Made Holiday Market | November 21–22
Celebrate the season at the Wonderfully Made Holiday Market, a two-day handmade and local shopping experience at Catalyst137. Browse unique, artisan-made gifts perfect for everyone on your list and feel good knowing you’re supporting local creators. Enjoy free admission, free parking, and free swag bags for the first 50 guests each day.
CKPC Holiday Train | November 21
The 2025 CPKC Holiday Train will be stopping in Cambridge at 4:15PM and in Ayr at 5:30PM on Friday, November 21. The headline performer for both stops will be Smash Mouth with Kitchener’s own JJ Wilde will also performing at both stops. Aside from spreading holiday cheer, the CPKC Holiday Train’s main mission is to collect donations for local food banks. All donations stay in the communities where they were made.
KWLT Presents God of Carnage by Yasmina Reza | November 21 – December 7
When two boys get into a playground scuffle, their parents meet to resolve the matter like adults—at least, that’s the plan. As tensions rise and facades crumble, polite conversation gives way to chaos in God of Carnage, Yasmina Reza’s biting dark comedy translated by Christopher Hampton.
Savio Joseph: Wonderstruck | November 22
Prepare to be amazed at Wonderstruck, a mind-bending evening of magic and mystery starring Canada’s Got Talent finalist Savio Joseph. Wonderstruck blends illusion, storytelling, and audience interaction to create an unforgettable night where you don’t just watch the show, you become part of it.
Paint Your Pet at the KW Humane Society | November 24
Unleash your creativity for a great cause at Paint Your Pet with the Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society! Create your own 12×16 portrait of your furry (or feathered!) friend. No art experience required. Each participant receives a custom traceable outline made from a photo of their pet, making it easy and fun for all skill levels.
Soweto Gospel Choir: PEACE | November 26
Experience pure joy and soul-stirring harmony as the Soweto Gospel Choir returns to North America with their powerful new concert, PEACE. The multi-Grammy and Emmy Award-winning ensemble blends South African freedom songs, traditional spirituals, and timeless classics from artists like Aretha Franklin, Leonard Cohen, Peter Gabriel, and Kate Bush.
Sounds of Christmas | November 27, 28, and 29
The Sounds of Christmas returns this holiday season for its eleventh year of Christmas-themed music, from traditional favourites to country and gospel. You’ll enjoy harmony singing, lively instrumentals, and a mix of dance performances. Proceeds from the event support KidsAbility.
Music and Lights in the Village | November 28
Gather in Hespeler Village to celebrate the festive holiday season. Enjoy the festive holiday lights and tree lighting, food, musical entertainment, crafts and more! A full schedule of entertainment is available on the website.
Nightmare Before Wrestling 2 | November 29
Step into the ring for a night of electrifying action at Nightmare Before Wrestling 2 at The Union in Kitchener! Presented by Off The Ropes Studio, this all-ages live event brings together the region’s top wrestlers for the thrilling season finale of 2025.
Herrle’s Christmas Market | November 29
Be part of the very first Christmas Holiday Market at Herrle’s Country Farm Market! As a family-oriented business that cherishes community traditions, they are excited to bring the festive spirit to their farm. This inaugural event will showcase local artisans, vendors, and holiday cheer in a beautiful rustic farm setting.
**To find more events happening in Waterloo Region, check out the
Explore Waterloo Region Events Calendar!**