Explore Kitchener's Arts & Entertainment Scene
Dates: September 25 to 27
Join the City of Kitchener for a FREE weekend celebrating music, art, and creativity throughout downtown Kitchener.
Friday, September 25
Music Under the Stars
- Time: 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Location: Carl Zehr Square
Kick off the weekend with powerhouse country duo Amanda & James, known for their shimmering harmonies, heartfelt storytelling, glittery boots, and undeniable onstage chemistry. Their high energy yet intimate outdoor performance showcases the duo's rise alongside other exciting talents from Kitchener's vibrant local music scene.
Joining the lineup is special guest and emerging country-music artist Chris Clark, best known for his authentic sound and engaging presence. With a mix of classic country roots and a modern edge, his storytelling and warm vocals add even more depth and energy to the night.
Saturday, September 26
Pop Up Performances Around Downtown
Enjoy a series of surprising and delightful performances throughout the city.
Beatles Rooftop Concert Tribute
- Time: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Location: Yeti Cafe, 14 Eby Street North, Kitchener
A playful homage to The Beatles' legendary rooftop concert while exploring the Kitchener Market area.
Live In The Rotunda: Grand River Opera
- Time: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Location: City Hall Rotunda
Join Grand River Opera for a fun, interactive demonstration of the steps involved in learning operatic music, and how GRO soloists combine the many facets of pitch, rhythm, voice, language, acting and expression into their performances.
Opera & Orchestral Showcase
- Time: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Location: Gaukel Block & 44 Gaukel
Experience the sounds of opera and orchestral music as downtown spaces are transformed into unique performance venues.
Sunday, September 27
Live In The Rotunda: KW Symphony Brass Quintet
- Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Location: City Hall Rotunda
Experience the brilliance of brass with Live in the Rotunda: KW Symphony Brass Quintet at Kitchener City Hall. This dynamic ensemble from the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony brings together the bold, rich sounds of trumpet, horn, trombone, and tuba in a performance that is both powerful and refined.
Arts Hub Open House & Street Level Creativity
- Time: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Location: Gaukel Block & 44 Gaukel
Explore downtown Kitchener's creative community during an open house at 44 Gaukel, featuring studio tours and opportunities to meet artists from a wide range of disciplines.
Activities at Gaukel Block:
- Live mural painting
- Showcase of emerging musicians
- Interactive monster mashup activity inspired by the Beasting booklet
- Free copies of the Beasting booklet available for participants
More Culture Days Highlights in Kitchener
Additional Ontario Culture Days events taking place before and after the featured weekend include:
- Q&A sessions and walk-and-talks with local visual artists
- The unveiling of a special new public art installation by 2025 Kitchener Artist-in-Residence Tara Cooper
