Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest commenced its main festivities on Friday with the traditional keg-tapping ceremony, marking the official launch of the event. Renowned musician Steven Page and Oktoberfest board president Chef D were honored as this year’s keg tappers.
During the ceremony, Walter Ostanek, known as the Polka King, was awarded the King Charles Coronation Medal for his significant musical contributions and dedication to the Kitchener-Waterloo community. Ostanek, a Grammy Award-winning artist with over 50 albums, was recognized for his outstanding achievements.
Tracy Van Kalsbeek, the executive director of K-W Oktoberfest, highlighted the bustling activities in downtown Kitchener over the weekend, including the keg tapping, a beer garden, FARMtoberfest, DOGtoberfest on Gaukel Block, KIDtoberfest at city hall, and numerous vendors along King Street. Van Kalsbeek encouraged attendees to explore the free attractions at the Wilkommen Platz and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
The festival also features live music throughout the weekend, with performances by Walter Ostanek on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the Steven Page Trio on Friday night, The Watchmen on Saturday, and Jessie T and friends on Sunday evening.
The grand parade, scheduled for Monday at 9:30 a.m. in downtown Kitchener, will proceed along Weber Street to Waterloo, led by Canadian football legend and Toronto Argonauts general manager, Michael “Pinball” Clemons, serving as the official grand parade marshal.
K-W Oktoberfest stands out as the largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Munich, Germany, drawing visitors from near and far to partake in the cultural festivities.
