Kitchener-Waterloo

Kate's 5 fun things to do in and around Waterloo region: Dec. 20 to 22

This weekend, there are some last-minute markets, lots of music, crafting and a solstice fire event along with hockey and basketball.

Cheer on local hockey and basketball teams or take in one of many concerts

JJ Wilde performs
JJ Wilde is home for the holidays with a special concert Saturday night at Maxwell's in Waterloo. She'll perform with guests Conor Gains and Tinyhorse. (CBC Music)

For those planning to walk around local neighbourhoods to check out holiday lights, bundle up because it's going to be a chilly weekend in Waterloo region, Guelph and Wellington County.

There's a Holiday Hangout at Counterpoint Brewing in Kitchener Friday evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Timothy Wilford will sing classic holiday tunes and families can get a picture with Santa.

On Saturday, Festivus will be held at Short Finger Brewing in Kitchener. The Seinfeld episode explaining Festivus will be aired at 6 p.m., followed by feats of strength at 7 p.m. The airing of grievances can take place all day.

West Coast Swing Dance is holding a free class and holiday social Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Remix Swing in Waterloo. No partner or experience is required. Bring a dish to share with the group (and provide a recipe so everyone knows what they're eating).

The Kitchener Rangers are home Friday night and will host the Ottawa 67s at The Aud.

The Guelph Storm are also home Friday night, facing the Soo Greyhounds.

The K-W Titans basketball team will take on the Jamestown Jackals Sunday at The Aud. This game also includes a toy drive and a visit from Santa. 

If you're driving, here are some local gas prices:

JJ Wilde — Home for the Holidays concert

Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Maxwell's, Waterloo

Local rock singer JJ Wilde will perform with guests Conor Gains and Tinyhorse. Tickets required.

Other music:

Winter Solstice Fire Ceremony

Saturday, 2 p.m.

St. Brigid's Villa, Ignatius Jesuit Centre, Guelph

There will be a circle around a fire to sing songs and honour the darkness on the day with the shortest amount of sunlight.

People who attend are asked to bring a mug, a drum or rattle and a small offering for the altar.

Wintry Crafternoons

Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Schneider Haus, Kitchener

Visit the museum to take part in some family-friendly crafting. The crafternoon activities are included in the cost of admission.

If you can't make it this weekend, this same event runs next weekend and the first weekend in January.

All Hallows' Queer Market 

Friday 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

44 Gaukel St., Kitchener

There will be more than 25 queer vendors at this last-minute market and organizers say dressing up is highly encouraged.

Other markets

The winter artisan market will be at the Kitchener Market Saturday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will also be face painting, candy floss, warm cider, carolers and photo opportunities.

Milk and Cookies Christmas Market will be held at Button Factory Arts in Waterloo on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There's also a last minute market at TWB Brewing in Kitchener on Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kate Bueckert

Content producer

Kate has been covering issues in southern Ontario for more than 20 years. She is currently the content producer for CBC Kitchener-Waterloo. Email: kate.bueckert@cbc.ca