Aerial view of a large outdoor gathering in Waterloo park with people seated on the grass and vendors spread across the area.
Outdoor community event in Waterloo park with people gathered around giant games and a stage in the background.
A large crowd gathers in a park for an outdoor event with a large stage and musicians performing in the background.
A large outdoor event with people spread across a grassy field in Waterloo Park with a stage in the background.

July 1 Community Picnic

Join us for live performances, local artists, food trucks and an LED drone show at our annual July 1 community picnic.

  • → Thursday, July 1
  • → 4 to 10 p.m.
  • → Waterloo Park, Hilltop Picnic Area
  • → free and family-friendly

Getting here and parking

Best ways to get to Waterloo Park:

There is NO parking available at the event, and the Westmount Road park entrance will be closed to public vehicles on July 1.

Get directions to Waterloo Park


Check the weather

The July 1 Community Picnic is weather dependent. If there is a possibility of rain or severe weather, the event may be cancelled.

For more updates, check this page or follow Create Waterloo on Instagram or Facebook.

What's happening

Musicians and singers perform under stage lights at an outdoor concert, with a crowd watching.

Main stage performances

Enjoy live music and performances from talented local artists throughout the afternoon.

Person stands at food truck window that is decorated with the Canadian flag.

Food trucks

Treat yourself to a variety of tasty eats and refreshing drinks from local food trucks.

A group of people play a giant game of chess in Waterloo Park on sunny day.

Giant games

Head to the lower soccer field with friends and family to play a variety of life-sized outdoor games by Spiniko— perfect for all ages.

An outdoor event with people walking down a road along rows of white tents by green trees.

4 to 9 p.m.

Art market

Discover unique pieces and handmade goods from local artists and support the creative talent from your community. 

Marching band in yellow shirts performing on a field during the July 1 Community Picnic event.

4 to 9 p.m.

Community fair

Connect with local non-profits from across Waterloo Region through interactive activities, and discover how you can get involved in your community.

A night scene of an LED drone show above a large outdoor stage and crowd illuminated by lights.

10 p.m.

Drone show

Look up and watch an LED drone light up the sky for a one-of-a-kind performance by North Star Drone Shows.


What to bring

Pack these items to enjoy the event:

  • reusable water bottles – water refill station available
  • picnic blankets or camping chairs
  • snacks and beverages – no alcohol
  • sunscreen and bug spray
  • cash – some vendors also accept debit and credit
  • flashlight – help guide your way at the end of the night
  • clothing and footwear to enjoy and cool off in the nearby splashpad

Remember:

  • stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade
  • NO fireworks
  • NO alcohol
  • NO personal drones – if public drones are operated during the drone show at 10 p.m., the show will be cancelled

Find a washroom

Waterloo Park nearby washrooms:

  • located inside the picnic shelter and lower gravel parking lot, near the baseball diamonds
  • wheelchair accessible
  • soap and water available

First aid and security

If you have an emergency at the event, find the first aid and security teams located at the tent booths beside the main stage.


How to get involved

Watch for opportunities to be a part of next year's event.

Applications will reopen in 2027 for:

  • art market vendors
  • community organizations
  • event volunteers

Sponsorship

The July 1 Community Picnic draws over 20,000 attendees. Contact festivals@waterloo.ca for our sponsorship guide.

Funded by the Government of Canada. Financé par le gouvernement du Canada.


Photography notice

Photos and videos may be taken during this event and used by the City of Waterloo in print and digital communications, including the city's website, social media channels and promotional materials.
 
By attending this public event, you consent to the City of Waterloo using your image and voice in print and digital communications. If you do not wish to appear in photos or videos, please speak with city staff at the event or contact festivals@waterloo.ca.

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