Community Impact
Enriching our Community
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is committed to supporting the cultural, economic and social vitality of Waterloo Region.
Economic Impact
According to a third-party economic impact study done in 2022, Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest generated over $5.4 million in economic benefit to Waterloo Region. This included:
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Over $6.8 million in tourism spending
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Over $4 million spent by local residents at concessions and restaurants during the Festival
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Over $1.9 million in tax revenue generated
full-year jobs
Equivalent of 59 full-year jobs supported by the Festival
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest remains deeply committed to strengthening the local economy and supporting the tourism sector across Waterloo Region and Southwestern Ontario. Although the pandemic significantly challenged both our Festival and the broader tourism industry, it also reinforced the importance of our role. Today, we continue to champion local businesses, drive economic activity and explore new and meaningful ways to connect with our community and welcome visitors.
Our Volunteers
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is a community-owned Festival, supported by the hard work and dedication of over 300 year-round volunteers. Some of our Oktoberfest family have been a part of the organization since its inception in 1969. We welcome anyone who shares our love for this community and wants to participate in a hands-on volunteer experience.
Local Talent
As part of our commitment to strengthening the local economy, Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest places strong emphasis on partnering with artists, musicians and creative talent from across our community. We make it a priority to hire local performers, collaborate with local event producers and videographers, and tap into homegrown technical expertise to help bring our Festival experiences to life. If you’re a local business interested in working with the Festival, we would love to chat!
Artists and Entertainers
We’re searching for dynamic artists and entertainers to bring their energy and talent to our multiple stages throughout the Festival! Whether you’re a musician or performance artist or group, we’d love to hear from you.
And if you happen to have a polka tune in your back pocket… even better! 🎶😉
