by Christine Wilson | April 2025
The heat is on for a summer packed with culture, music, food, and celebration across Waterloo Region. Travel the world at home with events like the K-W Multicultural Festival, Cambridge Scottish Festival; groove to some new sounds at the Kitchener Blues Festival and Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival; feast on delicious eats at Ribfest and Momma’s Cookout; and celebrate all things love at tri-Pride Summerfest. Here’s what’s happening in June, July, and August in Waterloo Region.
June
tri-Pride Summerfest
Celebrate love and diversity at tri-Pride Summerfest, a colourful expression of pride and inclusivity in Waterloo Region. This joy-filled festival brings together the LGBTQ+ community and allies for a day of live music, a variety of vendors, and captivating shows by local drag performers and musical artists.
Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Festival
Take a journey across the globe this summer at the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Festival in Victoria Park. It’s a vibrant celebration of the region’s rich diversity with international cuisine, live music and dance performances, and arts and crafts. This long-time local favourite allows you to experience cultures from around the world—right in the heart of your community!
July
Cambridge Scottish Festival
Hear the hum of bagpipes and feel the spirit of Scotland at the Cambridge Scottish Festival, a weekend chock full of Highland games, piping and drumming competitions, and Highland dance performances. Held at Churchill Park, the event also features a Friday night concert showcasing Celtic music, bringing lively Scottish traditions to Waterloo Region.
Kultrún World Music Festival
Join a dance party set to the tune of global sounds at the Kultrún World Music Festival, Waterloo Region’s largest outdoor celebration of world music. This free and family-friendly festival, produced by Neruda Arts, unites top international talent to celebrate diversity through music, workshops, and global cuisine in Waterloo Park.
Afrovibes Festival
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours and rhythms of African culture at AfroVibes—a free event celebrating the richness of African and diasporic culture. Come with an appetite and discover diverse culinary experiences, and feel the beat of lively music and dance performances. Games, workshops, and a curated selection of stylish vendors are also on the agenda.
Downtown Kitchener Ribfest & Craft Beer Show
Indulge in a feast of flavors at the Downtown Kitchener Ribfest & Craft Beer Show in Victoria Park. This event offers mouth-watering barbecued ribs and chicken paired with an impressive selection of Ontario craft beers, ciders, and cocktails. With live entertainment and a Kids Fun Zone, it’s a weekend of delicious food and family fun.
Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival
The smooth sounds of jazz take over Uptown Waterloo at the Sun Life Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival. This free, three-day festival showcases a stellar lineup of local and international jazz artists, creating a sophisticated outdoor music experience. Whether you’re a longtime jazz fan or just love live music, this festival is a must-attend in Waterloo Region.
Momma’s Cookout & Music Festival
Celebrate food, culture, and community at Momma’s Cookout & Music Festival. With a variety of food vendors, live music performances, and cultural activities, it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in delicious eats, explore unique products, and experience the vibrant diversity of the region.
August
Caribana Ignite
Bringing the high-energy vibes of Toronto’s Caribana to Waterloo Region, Caribana Ignite is an exciting summer celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and food. Held in August, this festival promises vibrant performances, delicious Caribbean cuisine, and a lively atmosphere that keeps the party going all night long.
Kitchener Blues Festival
Over four days in August, Downtown Kitchener comes alive with the soulful sounds of the Kitchener Blues Festival. This free, multi-stage festival showcases local, national, and international blues artists, making it a must-visit for all music lovers. With jam sessions, workshops, and unforgettable performances, it’s a true blues experience and a cherished local event.
Moparfest
Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss Moparfest, Canada’s largest all-Mopar car show, happening in New Hamburg. Featuring over 1,500 classic and modern Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles, this festival includes a massive swap meet, vendor displays, and fun activities suitable for the whole family. It’s the ultimate event for car lovers of all ages.
Waterloo Busker Carnival
For one weekend in August, Uptown Waterloo transforms into a stage for world-class street performers at the Waterloo Busker Carnival. Expect jaw-dropping acrobatics, hilarious comedy acts, and awe-inspiring magic tricks from international buskers. With food vendors and a kid-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to say so long to the summer holidays with your loved ones.
Cambridge Ribfest & Craft Beer Show
Fire up your taste buds at the Cambridge Ribfest & Craft Beer Show, a delicious weekend of slow-cooked ribs and local craft brews. This festival features award-winning rib teams, refreshing Ontario craft beers, and live entertainment—what better way is there to spend a summer day!
Note: Event dates and details are subject to change. Please visit the official event websites for the most up-to-date information.