Make A November To Remember!
Even as things cool down, Waterloo Region heats up with community gatherings, arts, sports, and culture all month long. Whether you’re new to the neighbourhood or thinking of putting down roots, these events are perfect for getting to know your surroundings and your neighbors.
Festivals, Markets & Cultural Celebrations
Día de los Muertos in Downtown Kitchener - November 1, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Join in at the Kitchener Market and Carl Zehr Square for live music, cultural performances, face painting, food vendors, and more. It’s a free, family-friendly celebration of remembrance and art.
Winter Artisan Market @ the Kitchener Market
Kicks off with a night market on Thursday, November 21 (5–10 p.m.), then continues on Saturdays from Nov. 23 to Dec. 21 (7 a.m.–2 p.m.). Expect local artisans, food & drink, performances, workshops, and seasonal cheer.
PickleFest 2025 - November 14, 6–11 p.m. @ THEMUSEUM
A fun, quirky evening for pickle lovers - enjoy pickle‑inspired dishes, local brew samples, games, activities and more. (19+ event)
Catch a Rangers Game + Other Fun
Kitchener Rangers Hockey
Watching a Rangers game is one of the region’s classic fall/winter traditions. Their home games are often scheduled on Fridays or Sundays throughout the season.
(Check the official Rangers schedule closer to your dates to see which matchups are in November.)
Friday Flicks
Many municipalities host “Friday Flicks” - free or low‑cost outdoor or indoor film nights - especially during colder months. These are great community gathering moments. Explore Japan November 7th with Japan: Tokyo to Hiroshima and check out Luxembourg, Luxembourg November 21st!
KW Santa Claus Parade - November 15
A classic community parade with floats, marching bands and Santa himself. Perfect for families and kicking off the festive season.
Just Outside of Town
St. Jacobs Sparkles (St. Jacobs) - November 13-16 & November 20-23
The village of St. Jacobs is transformed into a glowing holiday village with thousands of twinkling lights, late-night shopping, horse and trolley rides, carollers, and a festive atmosphere.
WinterLights (St. Marys) - 5:00 to 11:00 pm from November 14 to January 1
Check out Milt Dunnell Field in St. Marys, where over 100 sparkling light displays transform the park into a winter wonderland. Stroll or drive through twinkling scenes and soak up some small-town holiday charm. The event runs nightly from mid-November through New Year’s - free to attend, donations welcome.
Winter Wander‑land (Stratford) - November 29 & 30
Celebrate the season at Stratford’s Winter Wander-land in Market Square! Enjoy the Polar Express train ride, cozy firepits, carollers, festive photo ops, and visits with Santa. Explore downtown shops and cafés as the streets sparkle with holiday cheer - a free, family-friendly kickoff to winter magic.
From festive lights to local markets, Waterloo Region and its neighbouring towns truly shine as the temperature drops. Whether you’re exploring a new cultural celebration, cheering on the Rangers, or sipping cider at a winter market, November offers countless ways to stay warm through community connection. So bundle up, head out, and make the most of the season!