Oil and gas aren't a culture, but these events are.
TL;WR for May 13 through May 19 2025
What to do.
Tuesday, May 13
Waterloo Public Library has an Open Mic Poetry Night from 6:30 to 8 pm at the main library.
Over at the Eastside Branch, WPL and Words Worth Books presents a discussion with Catherine Bush and Amanda Leduc. They’ll be talking about their new books, Skin by Catherine Bush and Wild Life by Amanda Leduc.
Are you a scientist, engineer, or builder working where deep tech meets entrepreneurship? Check out the Hard Tech Happy Hour at Arabella Park Beer Bar hosted by Cole Van Vlack, Aggie Branczyk, and Deb RoyChowdhury. 7 to 9 pm.
Wednesday, May 14
Kitchener Public Library presents KPL Green - Exploring Natural Areas Management in Kitchener, an engaging presentation that explores key considerations for the management of natural areas in Kitchener. This session will highlight important aspects to consider in preserving and enhancing the city's green spaces, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant environment for all residents. 7 pm at Central Branch.
Good Co. Productions presents Matt Burkhart with Brock Mattsson - Live at The Boathouse. Doors at 7, music at 8.
Thursday, May 15
UW’s Science in the City series continues with a session on aging with Professors Tejal Patel and Ben Thompson. Even better, enjoy the session on aging with some slow cooked brisket because it’s happening at The Lancaster Smokehouse. Mmmm. Brisket.
Textile and The Creek Collective are joining forces to celebrate the book launch of Poetry in Place: Poetry & Environmental Hope in a Southern Ontario Bioregion. Eight local authors—including Fitsum Areguy, Janice Jo Lee, Tanis MacDonald, Geoff Martin, Mariam Pirbhai, and others—will read from their contributions to this anthology. Books available for purchase by cash or e-transfer. The free event will run Thurs. May 15 at Waterloo Public Library's Eastside Branch, 6:30–8:00pm. Please register here.
The UW Art Gallery has an opening reception for UW Fine Arts MFA Thesis Two: Paige Smith | Azadeh Pirazimian from 5 to 8 pm.
Wave Maker Craft Brewery has music bingo at 7:30 pm.
Friday, May 16
Celebrate the rich tapestry of fibre arts at WEFTFest! This four-day festival features the stunning Quilt of Belonging, artisan vendors, workshops, and the Artistic Apparel Fashion Show. Immerse yourself in creativity and craftsmanship at St. George’s Hall in Waterloo.
Our friends Tri City Improv are taking their show on the road to Guelph. Check them out at the The Albion (49 Norfolk Street) starting at 8 pm.
Rusty Nail Comedy has headliner Manolis Zontanos live at TWH Social at 7:30 pm.
Saturday, May 17
Step back in time at Vintage Fest! Hosted by KWFamous, this two-day event transforms the parkade in Uptown Waterloo into a haven for vintage lovers, featuring over 120 vendors, live music, classic cars, and more. Don’t miss the nostalgia and unique finds!
Huge News: The TOGETHER WE'RE BOISTEROUS comedy & variety show this Saturday, May 17 is going to feature a darn-tootin sword swallower on tour from Vancouver! Plus improv, stand up, and musical comedy from
Neil E. Dee - Sword Swallower
Grace Carruthers - Stand Up & Musical Comedian
Zack Mason - Writer & Storyteller
Peter Holmes & Maddie Gritzan - Improvisers
Ben Gorodetsky - Host, Improviser & Storyteller
TWB Brewing at 7 pm. Sliding scale tickets | $11-$33
Sunday, May 18
Celebrate the start of baseball season as the Kitchener Panthers take on the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers at Jack Couch Park. Grab your cap and glove and cheer on the home team at this classic summer pastime.
Celebrate the May Long Weekend at the New Dundee Community Fireworks event at the New Dundee Community Centre. There’ll be a kids midway, live music, food trucks, and more! Starts at 4:30 pm.
If you missed the last one, you’ve got another chance. (Harleen had a great write up on the last Long Weekend Bar Crawl). The Long Weekend Band Crawl volume XII is this weekend with nineteen bands across five venues!
Monday, May 19
The Princess Cinema has a screening of Malcolm X to celebrate his 100th birthday. Screening is at 7 pm.
Ways to get involved.
The Community Support Connections 50/50 is back! Get your tickets now to support its mission providing Nutrition, Physical Health, Social Wellbeing, and Help at Home to seniors in our community.
What to read.
‘I don’t know how people manage to hit trains. It just boggles my mind’ (Bill Doucet, The Record)