Welcome back to our Social Series! As the flowers bloom and the air warms, Waterloo Region bursts into life with a number of spring-themed events. From cultural festivals to scenic outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone this season. Discover what’s happening in our community this May – with a special focus on Mother’s Day and the May 24 long weekend!
Explore everything St. Jacobs has to offer
St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market: This bustling market is the heart of St. Jacobs. Find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious treats directly from local vendors. It’s a great way to shop for local goods while meeting the passionate people responsible for creating them. The market is open every Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Explore the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market further.
St. Jacobs Art Walk
If you’re looking for a walk through town that you won’t forget, the St. Jacobs Art Walk offers a look at local art and culture in the town’s authentic village setting. This walk is a great opportunity to appreciate and support the community’s vibrant arts scene while enjoying St. Jacobs’ charms. Find out more about the St. Jacobs’ Art Walk.
Local Eateries and Cafés
Whether you’re craving a coffee from Eco Cafe, a tasty brunch, or gourmet pastries, St. Jacobs has something delicious. Enjoy the village’s charm and diverse food options in its cafes and restaurants.
Unique Shopping Experiences
Explore the unique shopping opportunities that St. Jacobs’ has to offer. With boutiques like Red Coral, La Creme and Xclusive Elements, you can find everything from handcrafted jewelry and stylish apparel to bespoke home decor and artisan gifts. These shops are treasure troves for those seeking special items that reflect the creative spirit of the Region. Whether you’re searching for a perfect gift or something special for your home, the shops in St. Jacobs provide a shopping experience as unique as their products.
Mother’s Day Weekend:
St. Jacob’s Floral Workshop, Mother’s Day: Add a personal touch to your Mother’s Day celebrations by attending a special Floral Workshop at St. Jacobs Market. Under the guidance of professional florists, participants will create their own beautiful floral arrangements. This workshop is perfect for craft enthusiasts aiming for a handmade gift. More details and registration.
Blackshop Restaurant & Wine Bar: Take mom to a brunch at the Blackshop Restaurant & Wine Bar, located on Hespler Road in Cambridge. The resturaunt’s executive chef has curated a special Mother’s Day menu to help you spoil all the incredible women in your life. Click here to preview the menu.
Mother’s Day Mindfulness with Iman Grewal: Focus on self-care with a special mindfulness workshop led by Iman Grewal. Engage in meditation, breathwork, and bath bomb making to bring some much-needed relaxation to this year’s Mother’s Day. Click here for full details.
Mother’s Day Brunch at Langdon Hall: Langdon Hall offers a luxurious Mother’s Day Brunch featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Indulge in seasonal salads, glazed vegetables, roasted meats, and decadent desserts. Click here to book a time.
Special Events and Activities:
WEFTFest: Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of fibre arts with this 10-day festival in St. Jacobs. Attend quilting displays, art shows, and engaging workshops. And don’t forget to give yourself a few moments of relaxation in the Tea Room amidst the festival hustle. Visit the WEFTFest website here.
Spring Plant Sale and EcoMarket: Kick off your gardening season at the 2024 Spring Plant Sale and EcoMarket on Saturday, May 11th in Cambridge. You will discover a variety of plants, herbs, and eco-friendly products to enhance your garden while supporting local vendors and artisans. Click here to learn more.
Grand River Film Festival Movie Day: Stop by to watch the festival’s Shorts out on the Big Screen in the Gaslight District (the largest of it’s kind in Canada) on May 11th from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Click here to learn more.
Downtown Kitchener Art Walk: Immerse yourself in the rich art scene of downtown Kitchener with a guided walking tour of stunning murals and public sculptures. Learn about the stories behind these installations and the creativity of local artists. Click here to learn more.
Engage in Creative and Fun Workshops
Lee Valley Tools Workshop: Get hands-on at Lee Valley Tools in Waterloo on Saturday, May 18th, to create your own charcuterie board. This workshop is a great opportunity to learn a new skill while creating something functional and beautiful. If you’re interested in experiencing this workshop firsthand, you can sign up here.
The Little Theatre BIG Comedy Fundraiser and Pride Pickleball Fundraising Tournament: Watch a great selection of local comedians or participate in a pickleball tournament to support community arts and LGBTQ+ initiatives. These events offer fun ways to contribute to causes important to the Waterloo Region. Interested in joining the pickleball action? Secure your spot by registering for the tournament.
DIY Embroidery Design Talk: Shannon Quickly, local textile artists, hosts a DIY Embroidery Design talk, where she will share her design process. Taking place on May 18th, from 12 -1 p.m. in St. Jacobs, the talk will introduce attendees to seven different methods for transferring designs onto fabric – allowing you to create your own unique embroidery patterns. Don’t miss out – get your tickets now.
Felt Ornament Workshop for Spring: Attendees will create a nature-inspired embroidered felt ornament using laser-cut felt leaves and flowers in this hands-on workshop. Learn basic embroidery stitches and explore simple techniques for hand-embroidered lettering. Get your tickets now!
May 24 Long Weekend:
KULTRÚN WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL Fundraiser: Celebrate cultural diversity and global music at the Kultrun World Music Festival fundraiser. Enjoy performances from artists around the world and support this event that brings international sounds to the heart of Waterloo Region. Click here to learn more.
New Dundee Community Fireworks: What better way to celebrate a holiday than with fireworks? The New Dundee Community Centre is hosting a firework show on May 19th, in addition to bands, food trucks, and local vendors at 1028 Queen Street in New Dundee. Free for all attendees, make sure you stop by to connect with your community and see the spectacle in-person. Visit Facebook page.
May Long Weekend Family Fun Fest: Those looking for a day of family activities, homemade ice cream, lawn games, and more should stop by the May Long Weekend Family Fun Fest. Taking place on May 20, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum. Also available is the museum’s newest exhibit, “AI: Your Mind & The Machine”. For more information, click here.
Get Social With Us
This May, whether you’re exploring markets, enjoying local eats, or participating in cultural festivities, Waterloo Region offers countless ways to make the most of the spring season. What are your plans for this amazing time of year? Let us know! Reach out on our social platforms like Instagram or Facebook at @builtbyactiva and share your spring adventures!
Remember, this is just a snapshot of what’s happening in the Waterloo Region this May. For more detailed information, make sure to check out local event listings and plan your visit accordingly. To learn more about Activa, check out our inspiration page!