Our Community Matters
"Reach out, get involved, participate, help foster pride in our great community."
Helen McAuslan & Nadine Koppeser
Time to take a break, get involved and enjoy all of the great offerings that our wonderful community provides!
Great Food Sort Challenge 2018
Great Food Sort Challenge 2018 - Tuesday, October 16, 2018 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/great-food-sort-challenge-2018-registration-48004788615?aff=es2
The Great Food Sort Challenge, is an energetic corporate and community-based challenge where teams of 10 compete to see who can sort the most food, the fastest!
This awesome team-building event brings people together to help fight hunger in our community.
Challenge them to a "Sort Fight" by sharing this event!
The Great Food Sort Challenge has raised 263,493 meals for those in need of food assistance in our community. The goal this year is to raise 68,000 + meals!
Please visit the event page for an up-to-date listing of all teams participating.
Note: All team participants must be 15 years of age or older to participate.
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade - Monday, October 8, 2018
https://kwoktoberfestparade.oktoberfest.ca/
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is a not-for-profit festival committed to contributing to the social and economic vitality of Kitchener-Waterloo. It celebrates German heritage, food, music and is operated by 435 volunteers.
Hike for Heart 2018
Hike for Heart 2018 - Sunday September 16th, 2018 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
https://supportstmarys.ca/Events/Attend-an-Event/2018/Hike-for-Heart-2018
Those affected by heart disease understand very well the difficult journey the road to recovery can be - for the patient and their loved ones. Embracing the "new normal" takes strength of mind, body and spirit - each and every day.
St. Mary's Hike for Heart provides an opportunity to gather with individuals, families and St. Mary's staff who understand this shared experience. Together we acknowledge the measure of this resilience and celebrate the joy of recovery!
What We Can Do: An Evening In Support of Sanctuary Refugee Health Centre
An Evening in Support of Sanctuary Refugee Health Centre - Thursday, September 13th, 2018 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
If you have never visited the Perimeter Institute, here is your opportunity. On Thursday, September 13, the Perimeter Institute is hosting a dinner in support of Sanctuary Refugee Health Centre in Kitchener. After a tour of this unique facility, you can enjoy a cocktail followed by a three course meal prepared by Chef Ben Uniac and his team served in the delightful atmosphere of the 2nd floor Restaurant that is part of the Black Hole Bistro. You and your guests can relax and appreciate music from across the world as you dine. With coffee and dessert, the evening will conclude with an inspirational message from business colleague, Jim Estill CEO of Danby Appliances Inc. of Guelph.
Kitchener Blues Festival
Kitchener Blues Festival – August 9th - August 12th, 2018
https://kitchenerbluesfest.com/
You can enjoy World Class Blues performances in a great Urban Setting FREE!
Waterloo Park Summer Concert
Waterloo Concert Band – Sunday, July 15th, 2018 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Kitchener Concert Band – Sunday, July 22, 2018 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Flutes Galore – Sunday, July. 29, 2018 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
TBA – Sunday, August 5th, 2018 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Waterloo Concert Band – Sunday, August, 12th, 2018 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
https://www.therecord.com/events/8669359-715889-waterloo-park-summer-concerts/
Presented by the Waterloo Concert Band and the City of Waterloo; join us Sunday evenings at the Band Shell; bring a lawn chair; July 15: Waterloo Concert Band; July 22: Kitchener Concert Band; July 29: Flutes Galore; August 5: TBA; August 12: Waterloo Concert Band
February Potato Blitz
Don Cameron Potato Night – Friday, Jan. 26, 2018
Supermarket Blitz – Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018
Community Potato Lunch – Friday, Feb. 23, 2018
https://www.houseoffriendship.org/hof-happenings/february-potato-blitz/
Over twenty years ago, House of Friendship (HOF) Board Members decided to host a potato blitz in February to help meet the need for potatoes throughout the year in emergency food hampers and program meals. Today, the campaign raises potatoes and donations equivalent to 300,000 pounds of potatoes. Potatoes are used for hampers and meals, and donations are used to buy more potatoes.
Trek 4 Kids Hike and Bike
Saturday, May 5, 2018
https://www.houseoffriendship.org/hof-happenings/trek-4-kids-hike-and-bike/
Over ten years ago, Eric and Kevin Martin decided to trek the Bruce Trail. To make it more meaningful, they collected donations for House of Friendship’s (HOF) Summer Camp Sponsorship program to send kids from low income homes to summer camp. This inspired Trek 4 Kids hike and bike, an annual trek (run, walk, bike) in early May along the Iron Horse Trail through Kitchener.
Canstruction® - Food Bank of Waterloo Region
April 15 – 22 and May 6 – 13 at Conestoga Mall
https://www.thefoodbank.ca/event/canstruction/
Canstruction® is a unique, international event engaging designers, architects and engineers to use their talents to help those struggling with food insecurity. The event raises funds, food and awareness for local food banks. Competing organizations strengthen their team while gaining profile in the community. In Waterloo Region, Canstruction® has raised food and funds to provide more than 600,000 meals since 2008.
SHOPPERS LOVE. YOU. Run for Women
May 6, 2018
http://www.grhf.org/event/shoppers-love-you-run-for-women/
The event brings together friends and families for a scenic run and walk that supports women’s mental health programs at Grand River Hospital and celebrates women in our community.
3 Smiles Fundraiser
April 27, 2018
http://www.grhf.org/event/3-smiles-fundraiser/
3 Smiles Fundraiser is celebrating their 4th annual fundraising event on Friday April 27th. The event welcomes over 200 enthusiastic guests, and has raised over $49,700.00 to date for Grand River Hospital’s Mental Health Music Therapy Program. This years theme, “Denim & Diamonds”, will have your cheeks sore and belly laughing all night long. Guests will enjoy enticing hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, live music as well as a live and silent auction in support of Grand River Hospital Foundation.
Heart Month Event 2018
Tuesday February 27, 2018
http://www.supportstmarys.ca/heartmonth/
The Beat Goes On : Ensuring Equitable and Seamless Cardiac Care Across Waterloo Wellington
Learn how cardiac services will be expanded at St. Mary’s and beyond.
Get an update on advanced heart rhythm services coming next year
Hear how St. Mary’s is among top Canadian cardiac centres for patient outcomes.
She Shares 2018
Tuesday April 24, 2018
http://www.supportstmarys.ca/sheshares/
Speaker: David Chilton | Former “Dragon” on CBC TV’s Dragons’ Den and Bestselling Author of The Wealthy Barber
6th Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament
July 16th 2018
https://smilezonefoundation.akaraisin.com/Common/Event/Home.aspx?seid=13976&mid=8
On Monday, July 16, 2018, Smilezone Foundation will be hosting the 6th Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament at Rattlesnake Point Golf Club in Milton, Ontario.
Inspiring Women Event
Thursday September 22nd 2016
http://inspiringwomenevent.com/
This event is designed to motivate, inspire, connect and celebrate women in business, professionals, entrepreneurs and corporate leadership. Since its inception in 2006, over 6,000 women have participated in this unique day of learning, sharing experiences and information, acquiring new contacts, networking with peers and learning from the experts.
We will be hosting a Dress for Success Drive and ask attendees to donate business appropriate clothing, shoes, and accessories to help empower local women entering the workforce. Donations are accepted by The Green Door. Over 500 items of clothing were collected last year including dozens of shoes, purses and accessories! All donations are greatly appreciated - Thank You!
Fifth Annual Grape Escape Wine and Food Tasting - Fundraising & Charity
September 29, 2016
http://eventful.com/kitchener/events/grape-escape-2016
Fifth Annual Grape Escape Wine and Food Tasting in support of Monica Place for Pregnant and Parenting Youth and their Children. This upscale event is being held on Thursday, September 29, 2016 at the Victoria Park Pavilion, Kitchener You will experience a distinctive evening featuring the delectable tastings of eight local chefs paired with the finest wines. As our guests you will be entertained with live music, a silent auction and raffle. Join the conversation using #mpgrapescape View #mpgrapescape posts powered by Tagboard
A Blooming Affair Fashion Show
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
6:00 pm Boulevard of Boutiques & Cocktail Reception
7:30 pm Fashion Show in Bingeman’s Ballroom
http://abloomingaffair.oktoberfest.ca/about-lutherwood/
Oktoberfest celebrates beauty, fashion and style
Each year Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest celebrates beauty, fashion and style at the annual Blooming Affair Fashion show while showcasing the area’s leading independent retailers. For over 40 years, A Blooming Affair has been the fall fashion event in Waterloo Region; featuring exciting fall fashions.
A Blooming Affair consistently attracts over 900 attendees each year. With the combination of a hard-working committee of volunteers and consultation with local fashion experts, we present an entertaining fashion show, the opportunity for guests to shop at the trendy Boulevard of Boutiques, and have a chance to win a great selection of prizes and gifts.
A highlight of our show each year is our raffle, with proceeds benefiting a local charity. In 2016, Lutherwood has been selected to be our charitable partner. For more information on Lutherwood please visit, www.lutherwood.ca
February Potato Blitz
Don Cameron Potato Night – Friday, Jan. 26, 2018
Supermarket Blitz – Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018
Community Potato Lunch – Friday, Feb. 23, 2018
https://www.houseoffriendship.org/hof-happenings/february-potato-blitz/
Over twenty years ago, House of Friendship (HOF) Board Members decided to host a potato blitz in February to help meet the need for potatoes throughout the year in emergency food hampers and program meals. Today, the campaign raises potatoes and donations equivalent to 300,000 pounds of potatoes. Potatoes are used for hampers and meals, and donations are used to buy more potatoes.
Events that support our work in the community.
http://www.hospicewaterloo.ca/get-involved/events/
We all know of a friend, family member, co-worker or loved one who has been diagnosed with or lost their life to breast cancer. Help our community raise awareness and much needed funding by volunteering, sponsoring or participating in "CIBC's Run for the Cure". Together we can make a difference!
Together, Manulife and Whistle Bear Golf Club are proudly hosting the 2016 Manulife LPGA Classic, August 31st to September 4th 2016. Come out to cheer on your favorite LPGA golfer and to raise much needed funding for the St. Mary's General Hospital Foundation. It is a win-win situation for all. Support local charity, enjoy a fun day with friends and family and be amazed by these amazing female golf professionals. See you there!

Saturday September 17, 2016 - Doors Open of Waterloo Region
We live in an amazing community. FREE heritage and architecture tour. Discover the secret places of Waterloo Region!

Oktoberfest is an enormous tradition in the Kitchener-Waterloo Region. Check out all of the activites including fund raising events, family and cultural events, parade time and more!