Culture days

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.


Saturday, September 26

Pop Up Performances Around Downtown

Enjoy a series of surprising and delightful performances throughout the city.

Beatles Rooftop Concert Tribute

  • Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 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.

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

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

Ontario Culture Days is a not‑for‑profit organization dedicated to celebrating the artists and cultural groups that enrich communities across the province. 

The Ontario Culture Days Festival is a free, province‑wide celebration of arts, culture, and heritage held each fall. Working with organizers from all artistic disciplines, the festival invites people of all ages to take part in creative experiences throughout Ontario. 

Culture Days lives at the local level. From small hamlets to large cities, we support community organizers through resources, networking, and promotion—strengthening the cultural sector and showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of Ontario’s arts and culture.