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President's Message

Willkommen to Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest…Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival Experience!

Celebrating our 43rd year, this festival evolved from a 200 year old German tradition. Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is the second largest Bavarian festival in the world and the third most recognized event brand in Canada, sharing the stage only with the great Calgary Stampede and the Québec Winter Carnival. Our unique celebration of German-Canadian culture is a tribute to our community, and one that exemplifies an appreciation and acceptance of all the cultures that make up this great country.

The foundation for this authentic festival experience is the Spirit of Gemütlichkeit – good times, good music, good food, good friendships. You and a few hundred thousand of our closest friends from around the world are invited to join us annually for nine days of tradition and celebration. At Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest you will experience the warmth and hospitality of our community, the fun and fellowship of our festival, and the very best of our German heritage, food, music, and entertainment.

Year-around, 500 volunteers, and many partner organizations, work passionately to ensure we create the ultimate Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest experience for you at Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival. You can enjoy over 40 different Family & Cultural Events, take in one of our 18 unique Festhallen, or celebrate with family and friends at the annual Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade.

On behalf of our community, our partners, and our incredible team of Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest volunteers and staff, I invite you to share in the Spirit of Gemütlichkeit with us and look forward to hosting you, your friends and family in October 2011.

Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest ist… Wunderbar!

Vic Degutis
President, 2011 – 2012
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest