When you think of fall in Waterloo Region, what comes to mind? For us, it’s all about the Thanksgiving, pumpkin patches, Oktoberfest events, hayrides, corn mazes, farm-fresh baked goods, campfires, haunting Halloween fun, beautiful hiking trails, and, of course, that crisp sweater weather! Which is why we put together a list of our favourite fall activities to do in the KWC – CHECK EM’ OUT! 

St. Jacob’s Village

Located just outside of Waterloo, Ontario, along the Conestoga River, the Village of St. Jacobs is filled with authentic sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and incredible one-of-a-kind shopping, that are sure to re-inspire the soul. You can even sign up for several events this fall happening in the St. Jacob’s Village! Continue reading to find out what’s coming:

Polka and Play

St. Jacob’s Village is hosting the first ever Polka and Play on Saturday, October 12 from 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM – featuring the WunderWagen! To learn more, click here.

Pumpkin Palooza

On Saturday, October 26, you won’t want to miss St. Jacob’s Pumpkin Palooza! The village comes alive with the spirit of the season, and it’s going to be a hauntingly good time!

Here’s what to expect:

Please note: you can pick up a free FREE pumpkin at Block Three Brewing, Spoil the Dog Bakery or Creative Landscape, that are generously donated by Benjamin Tree Farm to participate in The KING STREET PUMPKIN WALK & TRICK OR TREAT. Plus, don’t miss the chance to enter to win a costume or pumpkin contest! Click here to learn more!

Fall Fun at Snyder’s Family Farm

Daytime Activities

If you’re looking to spend a fun day out with the kids, this one’s for you! Take a visit to the Snyder’s Family Farm where you can spend the day at the NEW Fun Farm Play Area which includes hayrides, pirate ships, a petting zoo, pedal carts, jumping pillows, a corn maze, and a haunted house! Make a day of it by visiting their licensed patio and bakery where you can enjoy fresh pizza, nachos and popcorn. We recommend trying a freshly baked butter tart while you’re there – you won’t regret it! Click here to book now.

Nighttime Activities

Experience a fall campfire with the family at Snyder’s Family Farm! Why spend those crisp and clear autumn nights inside? Grab your cozy sweater and enjoy your own private pod with your friends and family, and sit around a warm fire. Your evening will consist of great company and roasting the s’mores and hot dogs provided by Snyder’s Family Farm. If that doesn’t satisfy you, you can order more delicious items from The Sweets and Spirits Bar. Click here to book now.

Kinderfest Fall Fair

On Saturday, October 5, from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Bingemans is hosting the Waterloo Region’s second annual fall festival! It’s not a fair without carnival rides and inflatables, so hop on a few rides with your kids and let your inner child out. Get creative and participate in pumpkin cookie decorating or have your face painted! Try the spread of fall treats and drinks while you’re there and end your evening off at the open-fire s’mores roasting station. To learn more, click here.


Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest

This year’s Oktoberfest celebrations will be one to remember! Bring out the lederhosen and dirndl to get your festival on at one of our Region’s Festhallens this year. Click here to read our full blog on ActivaLearn to find out more about Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest!

Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Parade:

Date: Monday, October 14, 9:30 AM

Location: The parade travels up Weber Street and finishes at the Bridgeport Road, at the corner of Weber and Bridgeport, around noon.

Don’t forget to support one of the most important events at this year’s Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade in Downtown Kitchener by helping Onkel Hans stuff a bus with non-perishable food items, or bringing cash to donate in support of the Food Bank of Waterloo Region. Click here to learn more.

Fun-Filled Fall Family Fiesta at McDougall Cottage

Date: Monday, October 21, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: McDougall Cottage Historic Site, 89 Grand Avenue South, Cambridge

Check out McDougall Cottage’s Fun-Filled Fall Family Fiesta! Join them for a day of games, crafts, treats, and all things autumn. Costumes are encouraged, but no pressure if they’re not your thing! Click here to learn more.

An Inspector Calls

Date: October 9th – 27th

Location: St Jacobs Country Playhouse, 40 Benjamin Rd. E, Waterloo

St. Jacobs is presenting a seasonal whodunit, “An Inspector Calls”.

“When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigation into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives, causing the guests to question their own consciences, with shocking consequences.“

Click here to get your tickets today!

Bingemans Screampark

Date: September 27 – October 27

Location: Bingemans, 425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener

Dare to face your fears at Bingemans Screampark! With all-new exhibits, this year’s attractions are designed to leave guests shaking in fright. Explore all six attractions: The Twisted Woods, The Crypt of Terror, Gateway to Hell, No Man’s Land, The Blood Bar, and the Slaughter Shed. Each one is sure to haunt your dreams long after you’ve escaped… if you can. Click here to learn more.

 

Top hiking trails in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge

Explore Local Trails

The fall season is one of the best times of the year to go for a hike. There’s truly nothing better than heading outside on a crisp fall day to see the leaves change firsthand. Lucky for us, the Waterloo Region is traced with so many beautiful trails to explore! Check out our top hiking trails blogs (part 1 and part 2) to plan your next outdoor adventure!

 

Get Social With Us

Did we miss your favourite fall activity? Let us know! Send us a direct message or a photo of your favourite spot to @builtbyactiva on Instagram or Facebook for a chance to be featured on our social pages!

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