Kate's 5 fun things to do in and around Waterloo region: July 5 to 7
Expect a warm, sunny weekend with the chance of showers in and around Waterloo region — so a good weekend to grab an umbrella, sunscreen and water bottle while you're out and about.
Friday at 7 p.m., take in one of the Sunset Sessions in Vogelsang Green in downtown Kitchener. The artists remain a surprise until showtime and there's also an after party at a local bar or restaurant (this week it's Sugar Run).
On Sunday, fill up at the King Streatery Food Truck Festival near the Kitchener Market. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and along with the food trucks, there will be live music and family-friendly activities. The event benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Waterloo Region.
The Kitchener Panthers have just one game this weekend and it's at home on Sunday at 5:15 p.m. when they host the London Majors.
The Guelph Royals will be in Hamilton Friday night, then have two home games over the weekend. Saturday they host the Hamilton Cardinals at 7:30 p.m. and the Barrie Baycats come to town Sunday at 7:30 p.m.
If you feel like going for a bit of a drive, the Kincardine Scottish Festival is also on all weekend.
If you do need to drive, here are some local gas prices:
The Good Games
9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday
9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
University of Guelph
The Good Games combines various sports — everything from beach volleyball to axe throwing to dodgeball to teqball — with a festival vibe — family fun zone, craft market and a DJ dance party.
The weekend is jam packed with different competitions, workshops, shows and family fun on campus. Enjoy the hands-on aspects of some activities or simply sit and watch the athletes compete and cheer them on.
Cherry Festival
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday
Cherry Park, 84 Strange St., Kitchener
This family event in the Cherry Park neighbourhood of the city includes live music, dance performances and a live wrestling show.
Rides and activities also include the Cherry Train, carousel swing ride, mini putt, rock climbing, fun house maze, Connect 4, basketball, free dino bouncy castle and artificial ice rink, so bring your skates.
Pavilion Summer Concert Series: The Tradition Band
2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
Outdoor stage at Elora Centre for the Arts
This free concert features The Tradition and they'll play songs from artists like Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Willie Nelson, and other country music stars.
People are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair, and arrive early to get a good spot. While the concert is free, donations will be accepted for the performers. There will also be a cash-only snack bar.
Sensory Saturday
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday
Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery
KWAG holds this event, which is "designed for neurodiverse visitors, including visitors on the autism spectrum, people with sensory processing needs, or those wanting a more sensory-friendly experience."
People who attend are able to move and make noise while exploring the exhibitions with lower light and volume levels.
The sensory environment is also open, which includes liquid tile, textures, and lights.
The Ward One Acts
8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday
Guelph Little Theatre
This annual festival of one-act plays pairs directors with emerging playwrights. The three plays being featured this year are:
Fractures by E. Russell-Trione, directed by Rosalind Slater.
Gracie and the Goddess by F. Brugnano, directed by Jennifer Tiffin.
Jam by G. R. Newsham, directed by Christena Jackson.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.