Dig fresh music and food this summer in Waterloo Region

(News Release)

WATERLOO REGION, Ont. – This summer, head to the Waterloo Region to take part in a variety of different festivals and events celebrating the rich cultural and culinary heritage of the region.

“Most people know the Waterloo Region as the place to get incredible local food, but our cultural festivals and entertainment combine to make the region a tremendous place to visit this summer,” said Minto Schneider, General Manager of Waterloo Regional Tourism Marketing Corporation.

“From massive jazz festivals, to craft beer shows, to cultural celebrations, there is so much happening in the Waterloo Region this summer.”

The Sun Life Financial Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival takes place July 19-21 in Waterloo, Ont. and is known for bringing in some of the most talented upcoming jazz musicians in Canada and beyond. This free three day festival is celebrating its 21^st year and will have a special one night Open Streets UpTown Waterloo event on July 20^th when King St. closes and musicians fill the streets with music.

Ever see a caber toss in real life? At the Cambridge Highland Games, from July 20-21, you’ll have the chance to see that and much more at the Heavy Events, including the caber toss and hammer throw. Adding to the Scottish festival spectacle is the Highland Dance Competition, bands and pipers and new for this year, a War of 1812 reenactment.

“With so much happening in July in the Waterloo Region, you can spend the entire weekend just enjoying the different festivals and attractions while tasting the unique culinary options in between,” said Schneider.

Also taking place in July is the Downtown Kitchener Ribfest & Craft Beer Show, happening on July 19-21. With over a dozen different craft breweries in attendance, you’ll be sure to find something new at the festival where the little guys get a chance to shine. Not to be missed are the many “ribbers” and other food choices including veggie options for the non-meat eaters.

For even more food choices, the St. Jacob’s Farmers Market is a must see. Summer-time means fresh produce harvested from the fertile grounds of the Waterloo Region. On your visit to the area be sure to stock up on fresh produce and locally raised meat so you can bring the taste of the region back home.

The Waterloo Region is also home to Langdon Hall, voted the Best Hotel in Canada for a second year in a row by Conde Nast. The hotel’s restaurant further promotes the region’s focus on amazing fresh food with their restaurant led by the world renowned Grand Chef Jonathan Gushue. Every Friday, from June 28th to September 13th, Langdon Hall hosts their Friday Night Dinner Summer Barbeque Series. This intimate event pairs their favourite chefs, culinary personalities and winemakers with the best ingredients of the season to create a fun high-end BBQ event.

About the Waterloo Region

Waterloo Region is a unique area where unspoiled nature, booming high-tech industry, world-class arts and culture, bustling urban centres, renowned academic institutions, mouth-watering cuisine, and sports and leisure facilities collide! Comprised of the cities of Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo as well as the townships of North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot and Woolwich (Home of St. Jacobs Country), Waterloo Region is located just one hour west of Toronto.

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