As the sun shines brightly over the Waterloo region this weekend, residents can look forward to a variety of engaging activities and events, making it a perfect time to celebrate Mother’s Day and enjoy the beautiful weather. From fishing and gardening to cultural festivals and music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Starting with a special note for anglers, Ontario is hosting licence-free fishing days on Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, 2025. This initiative allows fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines without the usual licensing requirements, encouraging families to enjoy the great outdoors.
On Saturday, May 10, the much-anticipated Kitchener in Bloom event will kick off from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sprout Community Garden, located next to the Stanley Park Community Centre at 505 Franklin St. N. This community celebration features free seedlings, garden-themed crafts for kids, and a Love My Hood lemonade stand, along with prizes and giveaways. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to get involved in gardening and enjoy the vibrant spring atmosphere.
Also happening on Saturday is the K-W Gem and Mineral Show, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Aud in Kitchener. This event promises hands-on activities for children, along with an impressive display of rocks, minerals, fossils, and meteorites. Kids can even participate in a gem dig and uncover a fossil fish, making it a fun and educational experience for young explorers.
Meanwhile, in Guelph, the Royal City Durga Puja is organizing a Holi and Tulip Festival on Saturday, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Ken Danby Public School, 525 Grange Rd. This colorful festival will feature tulip-themed decorations, live painting, a photo booth, food and vendor stalls, and lively music, celebrating the arrival of spring in a culturally rich way.
For those looking to support mental health initiatives, Cambridge Moves for Mental Health will take place on Saturday as well. Participants can sign in at 10:30 a.m. at the Cambridge Civic Square, with activities kicking off around 11 a.m. This event aims to raise awareness and support for mental health, encouraging community involvement.
Additionally, the Galt Horticultural Society will hold its annual plant sale on Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. at Ferguson Cottage, 25 Grand Ave. S. in Cambridge. This sale is a great opportunity for gardening enthusiasts to pick up some unique plants while supporting local horticultural efforts.
In the realm of sports, the Kitchener Panthers will be playing a pre-season game in Toronto on Sunday, May 11, 2025. Although they won’t be at home, fans can still cheer them on from afar.
On Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Region of Waterloo International Airport will host the Girls Can Fly event, a free family affair organized by the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre. This event features tours, flight simulators, and various exhibits showcasing aircraft, along with hands-on activities for aspiring aviators. Although registration for free flights is full, there will be plenty of activities for families to enjoy.
For pop culture enthusiasts, Poyo Fest is set to take place on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Gaukel Block in downtown Kitchener. This celebration of Kirby, the beloved pink character from Nintendo games, will feature vendors showcasing artwork, plush toys, and accessories. Attendees can also participate in Kirby’s Stardash Battle, a fashion show, and food-themed games, making it a delightful event for fans of all ages.
On Sunday, May 11, the Songs for a Healing City event will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, 54 Benton St., Kitchener. This unique “walk and sing” event, led by the Menno Singers, will involve walking through downtown Kitchener, stopping at various sites to discuss efforts aimed at helping those struggling with homelessness and affordable housing. Participants will respond to these discussions through song, culminating in a social-justice themed concert at the church at 3 p.m. Attendance is by donation, making it an accessible event for everyone.
For those interested in nature, a spring plant identification walk will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Huron Natural Area in Kitchener. Led by the Red Osier Guild, this event will explore native and non-native species through an Indigenous lens, discussing the challenges facing green spaces. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, hats, and bring water.
As Emergency Preparedness Week concludes, local residents can also attend open houses to learn more about community services, including police and waste management, providing valuable insights into local operations.
This weekend is packed with opportunities for community engagement, cultural celebration, and family fun. As the region gears up for Mother’s Day, residents are encouraged to take advantage of the beautiful weather and participate in these enriching events.
With so much happening, it’s a perfect time to gather family and friends, enjoy the outdoors, and celebrate the spirit of community. Whether it’s fishing, gardening, or attending a festival, there’s no shortage of activities to create lasting memories this weekend in the Waterloo region.
