Summer festivals return: what’s happening this weekend in the Waterloo region?

If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, look no further than Waterloo Region.

Many annual festivals are making their triumphant return.

Below you will find an overview of the activities you can undertake:

AFRO FESTIVAL

The region’s largest celebration of African heritage will take place on Saturday in Waterloo Park.

The event lasts from 12:00 to 20:00 and features performances of traditional drums, Afrobeat music and cultural dance.

The event is completely free to attend, accessible and suitable for the whole family.

The festival was created by the African Womens Alliance of Waterloo Region, a non-profit organization that supports new families settling in Waterloo Region.

KITCHENER RIBFEST AND CRAFT BEER SHOW

Come hungry – and thirsty!

This weekend marks the return of one of Kitchener’s most popular festivals: the Kitchener Ribfest and Craft Beer Show.

It takes place all weekend in Victoria Park and is free to enter. It runs from 12pm to 10pm on Saturday and from 12pm to 6pm on Sunday.

In addition to a delicious barbecue, there will be a wide selection of Ontario craft beers, entertainment and even a play area for the kids.

Donations are being accepted to the Waterloo Region Food Bank.

Since 2008, more than $100,000 and 17,000 pounds of food have been raised for the food bank.

SOLAR LIFE UPTOWN WATERLOO JAZZ FESTIVAL

The 31st Sun Life Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival kicked off on Friday and runs through Saturday and Sunday.

This event features free live concerts featuring all genres of jazz at 100 Regina Street South.

On Friday there were performances by Canadian singer-songwriter Laila Biali.

On Saturday, Cuban-Canadian jazz pianist Hilario Duran will take the stage – and show off his award-winning composition skills on the piano. His performance is scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

On Saturday the program starts at 12:30 with the youth jazz ensemble. After that a different artist will perform every hour and a half until the end of the day.

On Sunday, the Canadian jazz collective Septet, which received a Juno nomination in 2024, will perform.

The event has been taking place since 1999.