Onkel Hans &
Friends
Who is that big, lovable orange guy you’ve seen around the Festival? Onkel Hans is the Official Mascot of Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest and our Goodwill Ambassador. As the mascot, you will see his smiling face on buttons, pins, t-shirts, brochures, steins and other souvenirs!
Created in 1974, Onkel Hans has come to symbolize the spirit of the Festival, with his jolly disposition and a warm smile for everyone he meets.
During Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, Onkel Hans is sure to make an appearance at each of the Festhallen and the many Family & Cultural Events in the region. He even appears ‘larger than life’ in the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade. He keeps busy throughout the remainder of the year, visiting special events to spread happiness and cheer. As a representative of the Kitchener-Waterloo community, Onkel Hans has attended the Calgary Stampede, the Molson Indy, Quebec Winter Carnival and the Bavarian Festival in Frankenmuth, Michigan.
Although he’s busy during Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, Onkel Hans always has time to stop for a smile, a handshake, or even a photo – he looks forward to welcoming you!
Tante Frieda joins Onkel Hans each year! Thirty years ago, Frieda left Kitchener-Waterloo to spread the spirit of Gemütlichkeit throughout the world. After a lengthy long distance relationship, Tante Frieda returned to the loves of her life, Onkel Hans and Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival – and now she is here to stay! Look for Tante Frieda at select Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest events. She would love to meet you too!
Request Onkel Hans to attend your event!
Onkel Hans is proudly sponsored by Heffner Toyota!
Onkel Hans Safety Series – Brought to you by Heffner Toyota
Onkel Hans Safety Series: Helmet Safety
Why use helmets? Because protecting your head means protecting your brain! Today’s focus is on bike helmets:
👉 By law, cyclists under 18 must wear an approved helmet. For children 16 and under, parents and guardians are responsible for making sure they wear one.
✅ Fit Matters: A helmet only works if it fits properly. Remember the 2–1 rule: The edge of the helmet should sit 2 fingers above the eyebrows. Only 1 finger should fit between the chin and the strap. Always check that your child’s helmet is in good condition, free from cracks, and hasn’t passed its expiry date.
🧼 Helmet Care: Take care of your helmet so it can take care of you. Store in a cool, dry place. Inspect before every ride. Replace if damaged or over 5 years old. Clean with mild soap and water—no harsh chemicals! Keeping your helmet in top shape keeps kids safe while they ride.
🚴♂️ Learn more at biawwlidzonkidz.com
Onkel Hans Safety Series: Online Safety
The internet is an amazing place to learn, play, and connect but it’s important to stay safe while online.
👉 Think Before You Share: Once something is posted, it’s almost impossible to take back. Be careful with personal details like your address, school, or phone number.
👉 Protect Your Privacy: Use strong passwords, don’t share them with anyone (except a parent or guardian), and always log out when you’re done.
👉 Be Kind Online: Treat others with respect. If you see bullying or something that doesn’t feel right, tell a trusted adult right away.
👉 Stay Alert: Not everyone online is who they say they are. Never agree to meet someone in person without talking to a parent or guardian first. The WRPS reminds us that staying safe online is just as important as staying safe on the road or at play. Together, we can help kids have fun and explore the digital world safely!🔗 Learn more tips at: wrps.ca/learn/essential-internet-safety-guidelines-parents-and-children
Onkel Hans Safety Series: If You Get Lost
Crowded events, busy streets, or unfamiliar places can sometimes cause children to become separated from their parents or guardians. Here are some important safety tips to help:
👉 Know Their Info: Make sure children know their full name, a parent or guardian’s name, and a phone number they can call.
👉 Have a Meeting Spot: When visiting large events or public spaces, choose a clear meeting place in case anyone gets separated.
👉 Seek Safe Help: Teach kids to look for a police officer, security guard, or another parent with children if they need help.
👉 Stay Put: Remind children that if they realize they’re lost, it’s safest to stay where they are until a trusted adult arrives.
WRPS encourages families to talk about “what to do if we get separated” so kids feel prepared and confident.
🔗 Learn more tips at: wrps.ca/learn/street-proofing-tips-help-keep-children-safe
Oktoberfest Ambassador
We’re looking for the next Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Ambassadors!
Open to folks aged 19 – 29 living within 40km of Waterloo Region, the Ambassador holds a prominent team role with K-W Oktoberfest; partaking in public speaking, media appearances, social media account management, Oktoberfest Cares initiatives and so much more.
Proudly Sponsored By:
