Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is set to begin its main festivities with the official keg-tapping ceremony this Friday. The festival has already hosted events during the past two weekends, but the keg tapping on Friday marks the official commencement. This year, musician Steven Page and Oktoberfest board president Chef D had the honor of being the official keg tappers.
During the ceremony, Walter Ostanek, known as the Polka King, was awarded a King Charles Coronation Medal in recognition of his significant contributions to music and the Kitchener-Waterloo community. With over 50 albums and a Grammy Award under his belt, Ostanek’s musical achievements were celebrated.
Tracy Van Kalsbeek, executive director of K-W Oktoberfest, highlighted the bustling activities taking place in downtown Kitchener over the weekend. The festivities include the keg tapping, a beer garden, FARMtoberfest, DOGtoberfest on Gaukel Block, KIDtoberfest inside city hall, and numerous vendors lining King Street. Van Kalsbeek encouraged attendees to explore the offerings at Wilkommen Platz, emphasizing that all downtown events are free.
Throughout the weekend, live music performances are scheduled, featuring Walter Ostanek on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the Steven Page Trio on Friday night, The Watchmen on Saturday evening, and Jessie T and friends on Sunday night.
The grand parade is set for Monday, commencing at 9:30 a.m. in downtown Kitchener and proceeding along Weber Street to Waterloo. Michael “Pinball” Clemons, Canadian football legend and current general manager of the Toronto Argonauts, will lead the parade as the official grand parade marshal.
K-W Oktoberfest proudly stands as the largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Munich, Germany, attracting a diverse audience to partake in the cultural festivities and traditions.