Use the map to check picnic areas, washrooms and parking.
Book a picnic area in Waterloo Park
Book a picnic shelter, area or gazebo for your event at Waterloo Park.
On this page:
Plan your picnic
Waterloo Park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Plan ahead before you book:
- pick your event date and group size
- book at least 5 days in advance – we don't accept less notice
- book up to 6 months ahead – starting January 13 for the following spring and summer
- allow more time for extras like food trucks — permits and insurance may take longer
- we do not allow inflatables in the park
New for 2026:
- you can only book 1 picnic area each day between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
- new capacity limits are in place – if your group is over the limit, park staff will cancel your booking
- parking is extremely limited – plan ahead and check your options on the map and parking page
BBQ rules for picnic areas
- you can use propane BBQs in all rented picnic areas, but not directly under gazebo roofs
- no charcoal BBQs – the open air fire bylaw doesn't allow them
View picnic areas on a map of Waterloo Park
Compare picnic areas and fees to find a space that fits your group.
Prices do not include HST or insurance.
Insurance is an extra fee based on the number of attendees. If you book online, HST and insurance are added automatically.
| Picnic area | Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cookhouse Picnic Area A |
$56.00 |
|
| Cookhouse Picnic Area B |
$56.00 |
|
| Farmhouse Picnic Area |
$56.00 |
|
| Hilltop Picnic Area |
$56.00 |
|
| Hilltop Picnic Shelter |
$116.50 |
|
| Harvest Tables |
$56.00 |
|
| West Gazebo |
$77.50 |
|
| East Gazebo |
$77.50 |
|
| Servery |
$190.00 |
|
Book a picnic area online if you already know your event details.
You’ll need to:
- have or create an ActiveWaterloo account
- know your event date and number of guests
- agree to the booking, insurance and permit rules
Pay by credit card. Your total will include all fees, insurance and taxes.
Use our event request form to start your booking, if you:
- want help confirming availability or choosing a location
- need support with permits, insurance, or equipment
- don’t have all the event details yet
Our team reviews requests within 2 business days and will contact you to confirm next steps.
Note: A booking is not guaranteed until we confirm you have a rental permit.
If you prefer to book by phone or have questions:
- contact the Facility Allocation and Bookings team (FAB) at fab@waterloo.ca or 519-884-5363.
If you book online, your total will include all fees, insurance and taxes.
If you're booking by phone or using the event form, you can pay:
- in person by cash, debit, credit or cheque payable to City of Waterloo
- over the phone by credit card: 519-884-5363
Check if you need a permit
You may need extra permits or insurance if your event includes:
- selling food, drinks or goods
- being open to the public
- serving food or alcohol
- tents or other structures
If you book online, we’ll confirm if you need permits or insurance. If you’re not sure, contact our booking team.
What needs a permit or insurance
Food and sales
- if you're selling food or items, you may need a Temporary Vendor's Licence
- if your event is open to the public and you're serving food, submit a Special Event Form to Public Health at least 30 days before your event
Alcohol
- serving alcohol requires a Special Occasion Permit or a licensed caterer
- you must schedule a site visit with city staff
- alcohol service also requires:
- extra insurance coverage
- people fencing around the licensed area
- compliance with the Municipal Alcohol Policy (PDF)
Pop-up tents
- tents 10x10 feet or smaller are allowed without a permit
- larger tents may require a building permit
Food trucks
- only allowed on the west side of Waterloo Park
- must confirm location with park staff
- must be licensed to operate in the City of Waterloo
Cancel your booking
To cancel a booking:
- cancel at least 30 days in advance for a refund
- no refunds for cancellations with less than 30 days’ notice, no-shows or bad weather
Contact us to cancel.
Contact us
For help with bookings, equipment or permits, contact the Facility Allocation and Bookings (FAB) team:
- email fab@waterloo.ca
- call 519-884-5363