A person in casual clothing performs break dancing on an outdoor stage in Waterloo Public Square, with people sitting on red chairs watching in the background.
An individual is drawing caricatures at an outdoor event with several people observing around.

Open Streets

Celebrate the livable cities movement with music, art, games and community in a car-free space.

  • → Saturday, June 12
  • → noon to 6 p.m.
  • → Waterloo Public Square and Willis Way
  • → free and family-friendly

Getting here and parking

Best ways to get here:

Get directions to Waterloo Public Square


Check the weather

Open Streets is weather dependent. If there is rain or severe weather, the event will be cancelled. 

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


What's happening

A person breakdancing on an outdoor stage, bending down with one leg raised and an audience of people energetically observing.

Live music and dance battles

Watch local artists and the talented KW Breakers crew light up the stage in Waterloo Public Square. Stay tuned for the full performance schedule. 

People browsing vendors booths on a city street under a blue sky.

Art market

Discover handmade goods and one-of-a-kind finds from local artists, crafters, and makers on Willis Way.

An artist sketches a person's portrait on a canvas at an outdoor event.

Interactive art activities

Stop by on Willis Way to get the perfect keepsake from the day.

Stay tuned for more details.

Child draws with chalk at a bustling street event with people playing various outdoor games in the background.

Community chalk art

Join in on a colourful mandala chalk art activity in Waterloo Public Square. Add your creativity and help build a beautiful community masterpiece.

Child play with giant  blue game of 'Guess Who' in outdoor urban area.

Giant games

Have fun playing inside the inflatable sports zone provided by the Broken Ice Company! This high-energy attraction brings friendly competition and excitement. Kids can test their skills playing mini basketball, football, and tic tac toe inside a safe, enclosed inflatable arena.

Group of people using various music equipment and microphones stand under a tent titled '@CreateWaterloo' on sunny day.

Live DJ sets

Head over to Willis Way and groove to live music by our local DJ.


What to bring

Pack these items to enjoy the event:

  • hat and sunscreen
  • reusable water bottle – water fountain available
  • cash – some vendors may not accept card payments 

Find a washroom

Find nearby washrooms:

Both washrooms:

  • are open daily until 10 p.m.
  • are gender neutral
  • are wheelchair accessible
  • have an adult change table (no sling provided)
  • have accessible water fountains and bottle filling stations
  • include tactile maps and indicators

Apply to be a vendor

Applications to participate in next years art market will open in 2027. 

Learn more on the Artist and maker resources page.


Sponsorship

Open Streets draws thousands of attendees to uptown Waterloo each year. 

Contact festivals@waterloo.ca to learn more and get our sponsorship guide.


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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