New Year's Eve 2013 Kitchener Waterloo Ontario

 

Looking For Ways To Celebrate New Year's Eve?

Below is a list of family friendly New Year's Eve events, but if you are looking for something to do before the Dec 31st festivities be sure to visit our listing of Tim Hortons Free Skate Times in the KW area, or visit our post about December 2013 activities to get the info on some fun theatre productions and where to see the Christmas lights

New Year's Eve Kitchener

City Hall

Kitchener City Hall and Civic Square (200 King Street W) is the place to be as we feature a variety of activities, performers, food and more. Admission is free!
This year's festivities will bring you all the way back to the disco era... Dress up with your family and hit the ice rink for a night you won't forget, while you groove to a live performance by the one and only ABBAMANIA (the tribute band so authentic they often get mistaken for the real deal!)
And if that's not enough, the Man of 10,000 Sound Effects and star of films such as "Police Academy" and "Space Balls", MICHAEL WINSLOW, will be hosting the evening and cracking you up with his stand up comedy!

http://www.kitchenerevents.ca/en/whatson/New-Years-Eve.asp

Chicopee New Years Eve With Fireworks

(there is a cost for this one) http://www.discoverchicopee.com/index.php/events/info/new_years_eve_bash_fireworks/

 

New Year's Eve Waterloo

Waterloo Public Square

 

6pm – 10pm on December 31 for a spectacular family celebration to ring in 2014!

Enjoy:

· Free hot chocolate courtesy of Tim Hortons

· Free skating to today’s hottest music with lighting and special effects by Thunderstorm Productions

· Free kids activities including a Slime Station with Mad Science

· Free Ginger ale “champagne” toast for our 9pm early new year countdown

· And an amazing fireworks demonstration… did I mention, it is free too!

Waterloo Activity Centres

Free indoor public skating will be held at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex and RIM Park’s Manulife Financial Sportsplex from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. These events have been generously sponsored by Tim Hortons.

Free public swimming will also be offered at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex’s Swimplex from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

http://www.waterloo.ca/en/gettingactive/newyearseve.asp

New Year's Eve Cambridge

Hespler Arena

5pm-8pm

http://www.cambridge.ca/relatedDocs/2013%20family%20new%20years%20eve.pdf

If you know of any additional family friendly New Year's Eve Events be sure to post them in the comments!

Be sure to check back soon for our list of New Year's Levees for 2014!



Tim Hortons Free Skate Times In Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Brantford And Areas Close By December 2013 To January 2014

Free Skating Courtesy Of Tim Hortons
Source http://www.timhortons.com/ca/en/difference/free-skating.html
Arenas are listed Alphabetically for each community (not by date) so check each arena listed in your area as dates and times vary.

Kitchener / Waterloo
Capacity restrictions apply.
Activa Sportsplex - KMHA Alumni
January 03 1:15 pm - 4:15 pm

Activa Sportsplex - Patrick J Doherty
December 24 9:00 am - 11:00 am
December 31 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Grand River Arena
December 23 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
December 30 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Lions Arena
December 23 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
December 27 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
December 30 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
January 02 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
January 03 10:00 am - 11:00 am
January 04 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
January 05 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Sportsworld Arena
December 23 7:15 pm - 9:15 pm
December 30 7:15 pm - 9:15 pm
The Aud - Dom Cardillo Rink
December 29 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

The Aud - Kinsmen Rink
December 21 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
December 30 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

The Aud - Kiwanis Rink
December 23 3:15 pm - 5:15 pm

Moses Springer Community Centre
December 22 11:00 am - 12:50 pm
December 29 11:00 am - 12:50 pm
January 05 11:00 am - 12:50 pm

RIM Park
December 21 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
December 23 4:00 pm - 4:50 pm
December 31 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex
December 27 4:00 pm - 4:50 pm
December 28 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
December 31 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
January 03 4:00 pm - 4:50 pm

Cambridge
Capacity restrictions apply.
Dickson Centre
December 23 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
December 27 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
December 30 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
January 05 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Duncan McIntosh Arena
December 22 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
January 05 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Galt Arena
December 23 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
December 30 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
January 02 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Hespeler Arena #1
December 22 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
January 05 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Hespeler Arena #2
December 23 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
January 02 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Karl Homuth Arena
December 27 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
December 30 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
January 05 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Preston Auditorium
December 23 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
January 02 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Brantford And Brant County
Capacity restrictions apply.
Brant Sports Complex
December 23 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
December 24 9:30 am - 10:30 am
December 30 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
January 02 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Brantford And District Civic Centre
January 02 10:00 am - 11:30 am
January 03 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Burford Community Centre
December 23 10:00 am - 11:00 am
December 27 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
January 02 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

South Dumfries Community Centre
December 23 9:00 am - 10:00 am
December 30 9:00 am - 10:00 am
January 03 9:00 am - 10:00 am

Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre
December 23 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
January 02 10:00 am - 11:30 am
January 02 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
January 03 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Elmira And St Jacobs
Capacity restrictions apply.
Jim McLeod Arena
December 23 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
December 27 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
December 30 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
January 02 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
January 03 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

New Hamburg And Area
Capacity restrictions apply.
Wilmot Recreation Complex - Optimist Arena
December 24 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm
December 27 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
December 31 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm

Wilmot Recreation Complex - Schout Arena
January 02 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Listowel
Capacity restrictions apply.
Listowel Memorial Arena
December 23 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
December 29 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
December 31 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
January 02 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
January 03 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

The above listings are for FREE SKATING times in local areans. To see additional skate times please see our post WHERE TO SKATE IN THE KITCHENER WATERLOO AREA

Adventures In Accessibiltiy - Christmas Edition

We are thrilled to have partnered with Margaret and Dan Lajoie for our Adventures In Accessibility around the Kitchener Waterloo Area. You may recognize their names from their Van For Dan campaign. These posts are their take about family friendly venues that are accessibile for wheelchairs. Do you have questions about accessibility in the Kitchener Waterloo Area? Leave a comment at the bottom of this post and we will do our best to answer it for you.

With lots of Christmas Events and Holiday Festivities happening at this time of year, we thought it would be great to check in with Margaret and Dan about accessible events this winter.

Margaret had this to say....

Something my husband loves is that the artificial outdoor skating rink at Central Park in Preston (where Candyland takes place) it is fully accessible. He took our daughter for her first skate last year by her holding on behind him while he pulled her along. Plus, when he got cold he was able to sit in the van and watch the kids skate some more. The space between the rink and where we parked on King st was no more than the width of the sidewalk!
Another very accessible thing is the Santa at the Cambridge Centre mall has so much room that they can do a family picture with Santa without having to cut off the chair in the picture! Tons of space!
He doesn't generally do too many winter activities as we've either found them incredibly crowded or else they're outdoors.

Sensitive Santa

She also informed us about the Sensitive Santa event happening in Cambridge.
If you have a child that has difficulty mentally or physically, some times visiting Santa can be overwhelming for a family. Cambridge Inclusion Services has a way to assist with this.
Be sure to click the link to learn more about it and to pre-register for the Dec 15 event.


We hope this info is helpful to those in the Kitchener Waterloo area looking for accessible events. Do you have a great one to share? Post it in the comments and we'll make sure to pass the information on to Margaret and Dan!

Walking With Dinosaurs Contest From Our Friends At The Kitchener Market

Our friends at the Kitchener Market have provided a pass to this Saturday (Dec 14 2013) Morning's Advanced Screening of Walking With Dinosaurs The 3D Movie. Happening at Landmark Cinema (previously Empire Theatre) at The Boardwalk on Ira Needles Blvd at 10am
One of our lucky readers (and their 3 guests) will get to see this movie before it opens for release!

Enter To Win

If you win this pass will admit four to the screening (you and 3 others guests).
Enter to win our rafflecopter contest below (it may take a minute to load)

Please note this contest is open to Kitchener Waterloo residents only



a Rafflecopter giveaway

How To Support Local Families Over The Holiday Season In the Kitchener Waterloo Area

Looking For Ways To Support Local KW Families This Christmas Season?

It began with a tweet from my friend, and great community supporter Elle. She was inquiring about local charities collecting toys and clothing for children. I had mentioned that she connect with another fantastic community ambassador Meghan who does work with Family and Children's Services (recently with the CHYM FM Tree Of Hope)

In addition I came up with a list of places where local citizens in the Kitchener Waterloo area are able to help local families in need, and decided it would be great to share this list so we can all give back this holiday season.

1. Tonight (Dec 10 2013) is the Kitchener Rangers annual Teddy Bear Toss where toys are collected and distributed to local children.  In addition you can buy teddy bears on the spot tonight that are double bagged to ensure they won't get contaminated and those bears will go to children at the local hospitals
2. Anselma House (Moms & Kids escaping abuse) -link to wish list
3. Marillac Place (Young Moms with babies) -link to wish list
4. KOOL FM Tree of Angels (gift drop off)
5. 570 News Secret Santa (gift drop off)
6. The Record Books for Kids (new book drop off) scroll down on link to see info
7. The Salvation Army (also connected to many of the events listed above)
8. City Of Cambridge Tickets for Toys
9. Many local Church Groups
10. Many local service clubs

Please click the links above to contact the organizations to get full details about how to get them your donations.
I am sure there are many great charities and organizations that I have missed. If you know of one not on this list, please leave a comment with the contact info for them.

One person can really do a lot to help many.Which organizations do you support over the holidays? We'd love to hear about that too!

December 2013 Family Activities Christmas Events And Stuff To Do Over The Holidays

Thank-You!

First I would like to say thank-you to everyone who helped with My Movember and Giving Tuesday Campaigns. I appreciate your finacial generosity. Now I'm asking you to look through your wallets and junk drawers to find any coupons lying around that you won't be using! See why on the post Couponing For Those In Need

Have you been to a Christmas Parade yet this year? There are still plenty in the area. You can see the listing on the blog post Santa Claus Parades In The Kitchener Waterloo Area

December 2013 Blast!

The NORAD Tracks Santa site is live for 2013! http://www.noradsanta.org/

Nov 20-Dec 29
White Christmas @ St. Jacobs County Playhouse (by St Jacobs Market)
http://ow.ly/qF4hV

Nov 20-Dec 29
Peter Pan @ Dunfield Theatre Cambridge
http://ow.ly/qF4j8

Nov 29-Dec 14
The Secret Grove, A Traditional Christmas Pantomime
https://www.facebook.com/events/223222337849436

Theatre for Young Audiences series, which will feature productions of The Velveteen Rabbit (Dec 4-7) and Pinocchio (March 12-14) Full details at http://www.registrytheatre.com/.

Wonders Of Winter Begins At Waterloo Park

http://www.wondersofwinter.ca/

Tim Hortons Free Skate Times http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.ca/2013/12/tim-hortons-free-skate-times-in.html

Dec 5
Tree Of Hope Radiothon @ Fairview Mall
5am-6pm
http://www.facswaterloo.org/html/TreeofHopeHome.html

Christmas Fantasy in Victoria Park Kitchener
4:45pm-6:45pm
http://www.kitchenerevents.ca/en/whatson/ChristmasFantasy.asp

Dec 5-8
Christkindl Market
http://www.christkindl.ca/

Dec 6

Family Storytime And Craft

A joint program with Home Child Care. All Ages.

Register online at www.kpl.org, one week before the program. FREE

Fri. Dec. 6, from 10:00 – 11:30 am, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

Dec 6-14
The Sounds of Christmas
is an uplifting musical journey through all things Christmas. Featuring harmony singing, toe tapping instrumentals, and multiple styles of dance. In support of KidsAbility.
Dates: December 6, 2013 evening December 7, 2013 matinee and evening December 8, 2013 matinee December 13, 2013 matinee and evening December 14, 2013 matinee and evening
(I don't know if there is a cost to attend or if it's by donation, as that info is not listed onf the event page)
https://www.facebook.com/events/362583567178583/

Dec 6-8
Bethany Christmas Pagent
Live Nativity
http://www.bethanypageant.com/

DEC 7
Breakfast with Santa @ Kitchener Market
December 7
9am - 10:30 a.m.
Includes breakfast and a craft. Limited spaces available. Cost: $5 a ticket or $15 for a family of 4 ($5 per additional child)
Purchase your tickets at the Kitchener Market office.
Wilson Education Resource Centre Event
Take A Kid To The Bookstore Day
http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.ca/2013/11/wilson-education-resource-centre.html

Family Favorites Cineplex $2.50 Movie - Polar Express http://www.cineplex.com/Events/FamilyFavourites/Home.aspx

Candyland in Cambridge
10am-5pm
Central Park
http://www.cambridge.ca/relatedDocs/2013candyland.pdf

Family Holiday Event @ Westmount Dignity Memorial
Noon-4pm
Santa Photos, Crafts and Snacks
Bring Food Bank Donations
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153586974645093&set=a.356259135092.352889.655735092&type=1&theater

Come out to Our Free Family Event at the Shops at Waterloo Town Square.
1pm-3pm
Visit with Santa, See Five the Magician and Drop off your Stocking!
http://www.stuffinstockings.ca/index.php/donate/ideas-and-guidelines/46-content/85-elves-at-play

34th Annual Hespeler Santa Claus Parade
Saturday, December 7^th, 2013
34th Annual Hespeler Santa Claus Parade
12 noon
Santa will be giving out candy to the kids after the parade at the Scout House (located in Forbes Park).
Location: Queen St. (Hespeler section of Cambridge)
Contact: Visit http://www.hespelersantaclausparade.ca

Clair Hills Retirments Centre
2pm to 4pm
Winter Wonderland Come to enjoy our AnnualWinter Wonderland Event-Sleigh Rides,Christmas Carollers,Festive Treatsand a visit from Santa!
http://www.clairhillsretirement.com/upcoming-events.php?ID=466
_____________________
Dec 8
Christmas Village In Kitchener

The Potje Christmas Village Open House will be Sunday December 8 from 11:01 a.m. to 4:59 p.m. This is a fundraiser for the  Olivet Food Cupboard (a small donation would be appreciated).  The Village has 75 buildings, 400 characters, 600 trees, a working tram and a working railroad.  We are at 52 Randerson Avenue (one block off Ottawa Street by the Kitchener Auditorium).

Cambridge
Central Park Skating and LightsBring your skates to enjoy the synthetic ice skating rink for 'any weather' family fun, and enjoy the lights in the park.
December 8-15, 2013
Helmets are recommended
Children must be supervised
http://www.cambridge.ca/community_services/christmas_in_cambridge


Dec 9

Minecraft Madness

Drop by the library to play the game, meet other players and share strategies.

Ages 10 – 15. Newbies welcome.
Register online at www.kpl.org.

Mondays at 7:00 – 8:30 pm, Dec. 9 – Jan. 27, Main Library, 85 Queen St North, Kitchener

Holiday Cards
Pop-Ups with LED lights – fun and festive! Ages 5 – 12.
Register online at www.kpl.org, one week before the program. FREE
Tues. Dec. 10 at 6:30 pm, Pioneer Park Library, 150 Pioneer Dr, Kitchener

Christmas Sing-along with Erick Traplin

Bells are ringin’ and toes are tappin.’ Bring the entire family!

Free tickets available one week before the program. FREE

Tues. Dec. 10 at 7:00 pm, Main Library, 85 Queen St North, Kitchener

For more Christmas In Cambridge Events
http://www.cambridge.ca/community_services/christmas_in_cambridge

Dec 14

Family gingerbread house decorating @Kitchener Market
December 14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Come join us for festive family fun! Decorate gingerbread together and take away your sweet treat when you leave. Santa visits too! Register online for free.

 

Holiday Book Bows

Make bows out of recycled books. We provide the supplies (and holiday music!)

Ages 10 – 18. FREE

Sat. Dec. 14 at 2:00 pm, Grand River Stanley Park Library, 175 Indian Rd, Kitchener

 

Creative Writing Club

Bring a pencil, a notebook and your imagination! Grades 3 – 6.

Register online at www.kpl.org, one week before the program. FREE

Sat. Dec. 14 at 2:30 pm, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

 

Dec 17

Kids' Hop and Kids' Art with special visits from Santa @ Kitchener Market
December 17, 11 a.m. – noon – Kids’ Hop
Bring your kids to dance up a storm with a free concert by Erick Traplin.

 

Dec 17-19

Peter Pan by the KW Youth Theatre

Tuesday December 17th, 6:00pm

Wednesday December 18th, 8:30pm

Thursday December 19th, 6:00pm

All performances take place at The Registry Theatre (122 Frederick St., Kitchener).

http://kwyouththeatre.com/Contact.php

Dec 18

Story Wonderland

In the lane, snow is glistening… holiday tales for ages 2 – 5. FREE

Wed. Dec. 18 at 9:45 am, Kitchener Market, 300 King St East

 

Jingle Babies

A special holiday program for babies (0 – 23 months) & their caregivers. FREE

Wed. Dec. 18 at 10:00 am, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

Wed. Dec. 18 at 10:30 am, Pioneer Park Library, 150 Pioneer Dr, Kitchener

Wed. Dec. 18 at 11:00 am, Kitchener Market, 300 King St East

 

Dec 19

Kids' Hop and Kids' Art with special visits from Santa @ Kitchener Market

December 19, 11 a.m. – noon – Kids’ Art
Join Art Innovators to make a special Christmas project with Erick Traplin

 

Jingle Babies

A special holiday program for babies (0 – 23 months) & their caregivers. FREE

Thurs. Dec. 19 at 10:00 am, Forest Heights Library, 251 Fischer-Hallman Rd, Kitchener

Thurs. Dec. 19 at 11:00 am, Grand River Stanley Park Library, 175 Indian Rd, Kitchener 

 

 

Celebrate the Season

Holiday stories, songs and crafts for all Ages. FREE
Thurs. Dec. 19 at 6:30 pm, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

Thurs. Dec. 19 at 10:30 am, Pioneer Park Library, 150 Pioneer Dr, Kitchener

Dec 20

Crazy for Christmas

Games, stories and crafts to celebrate our holiday cheer! Ages 5 – 9.

Register online at www.kpl.org, one week before the program. FREE

Fri. Dec. 20 at 10:30 am, Pioneer Park Library, 150 Pioneer Dr, Kitchener

Little Ray’s Reptile Zoo

For young scientists & animal fans! All Ages.

Free tickets available one week before the program.

Fri. Dec. 20 at 10:00 am, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

Fri. Dec. 20 at 2:30 pm, Grand River Stanley Park Library, 175 Indian Rd, Kitchener

 

Dec 21

Kids in the Kitchen: Santa treats and reindeer eats @ Kitchener Market
December 21, 10 a.m. - noon
Come to the Marketplace to make a special treat to leave Santa and his reindeer.
&
Christmas market
December 21, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Make a festive craft! Be sure to visit the market to pick up all of your holiday entertaining needs. Carolers will celebrate the Christmas spirit with beautiful holiday songs.

 

Dec 23

Unsilent Night In Cambridge

http://www.cambridge.ca/community_services/phil_klines_unsilent_night

Dec 31

New Year's Eve Kitchener

City Hall
Kitchener City Hall and Civic Square (200 King Street W) is the place to be as we feature a variety of activities, performers, food and more. Admission is free!
This year's festivities will bring you all the way back to the disco era... Dress up with your family and hit the ice rink for a night you won't forget, while you groove to a live performance by the one and only ABBAMANIA (the tribute band so authentic they often get mistaken for the real deal!)
And if that's not enough, the Man of 10,000 Sound Effects and star of films such as "Police Academy" and "Space Balls", MICHAEL WINSLOW, will be hosting the evening and cracking you up with his stand up comedy!

http://www.kitchenerevents.ca/en/whatson/New-Years-Eve.asp
 

 

New Year's Eve Waterloo Public Square

6pm – 10pm on December 31 for a spectacular family celebration to ring in 2014!

Enjoy:

· Free hot chocolate courtesy of Tim Hortons

· Free skating to today’s hottest music with lighting and special effects by Thunderstorm Productions

· Free kids activities including a Slime Station with Mad Science

· Free Ginger ale “champagne” toast for our 9pm early new year countdown

· And an amazing fireworks demonstration… did I mention, it is free too!

Free indoor public skating will be held at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex and RIM Park’s Manulife Financial Sportsplex from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. These events have been generously sponsored by Tim Hortons.

Free public swimming will also be offered at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex’s Swimplex from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

http://www.waterloo.ca/en/gettingactive/newyearseve.asp
 

Family New Year's Eve Party Cambridge

Hespler Arena

5pm-8pm

http://www.cambridge.ca/relatedDocs/2013%20family%20new%20years%20eve.pdf

Chicopee New Years Eve With Fireworks

(there is a cost for this one) http://www.discoverchicopee.com/index.php/events/info/new_years_eve_bash_fireworks/

Have You Joined Our Fun Stuff To Do Facebook Group?????https://www.facebook.com/groups/2369595749/

 

Have An Event?

If you have a family friendly free or low cost event happening let us know about it! Email fostermcdonald@rogers.com with Stuff To Do in the subject line.

See what happened when Yogurty's Invited us to theirs

Coupon Collection For Those In Need

Couponing For Good

This past Friday (November 29 2013) I saw this Facebook posting from Bob Minhas

Today I sit in a car with my Mother as we watch her home and business being ravaged by fire.

I sit here unsure what to say to her. To everyone asking about it. To the police investigating it. To the news agency looking for a quote.

I sit here in silence beside her without the strength and fortitude a good Son should give his Mother during this time. And in a sad way ... This feels like the only place right now for me to turn.

Tell me what I should be doing right now. And how do I make this better for her? And if you can ... please save a prayer for her tonight.

Since then I have been trying to think of a way to help.  Being that this happened in Barrie and I am in KW I wanted to find a way to lend a hand.

After much thought it dawned on me that a have lots of coupons that expire on December 31st 2013 and if I do than I know several others will have lots of soon to be expired coupons as well.  With the cash donations and grocery gift cards they are receiving, I know that coupons can help the donations go even farther. If you have coupons that you are willing to part with please visit the facebook event page
https://www.facebook.com/events/240813586081484/?source=1
and we will make sure that they get to Bob's family in hopes to help those displaced by fire.

Thank-you for your generosity

Giving Tuesday and My Movember 2013

What Will You Be Giving On Giving Tuesday?

You hear a lot about Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but have you heard about the new Canadian day of giving? This year Giving Tuesday will be held Tuesday December 3 2013.  You can learn more about it by visiting GivingTuesday.ca

What Will I Be Giving On Giving Tuesday?

I am partnering with Giving Tuesday and I want to do what I can to partner with you and your Giving Tuesday idea as well. Take a look at the video below and then post a link to what you will be doing for Giving Tuesday in the link-up at the end of this post.



Link Up For Giving Tuesday

 Post a link to what you will be doing for #GivingTuesdayCA in the link-up. Here are a few ideas

• It could be a post of an organization you care a lot about 
• Perhaps a pic of you volunteering
• Maybe a fundraising project you are involved in
• Or list your name and donation to My Movember Crowdfund(raising) project

Remember even the smallest acts count in a big way!

Santa Claus Parades In The Kitchener Waterloo Area 2013

Santa Claus Parades In The Kitchener Waterloo Area For 2013

 

Note: Many of my times and dates are different than what are listed on the CTV KITCHENER site and THE RECORD Site which is why I included the links for the info I posted. If you can confirm that a listing is incorrect please post it in the comments along with the source of info where you have confirmed it from. We want to ensure all the families in this area are able to be at the parades on the correct times and dates.

Nov 16

• Santa Claus Parade - Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 10 am.Uptown Waterloo to Downtown Kitchener http://lionsclubofkitchener.com/?page_id=28 A great viewing spot is at the Kitchener Market. They are having a SANTA PARADE PARTY

• Ingersoll: Nov. 16, starting at 11 a.m https://www.facebook.com/touringersoll#!/photo.php?fbid=707154369315166&set=a.117341551629787.11866.109362769094332&type=1

• Tillsonburg: Nov. 16, starting at 2 p.m. http://www.tillsonburg.ca/home/tabid/715/ctl/viewdetail/mid/7460/itemid/1262/d/20131116/Santa-Claus-Parade.aspx
 

• The 2013 Cambridge Santa Claus Parade is SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16th at 6:00 p.m. on Hespeler Rd http://www.cambridgesantaparade.com/

Nov 17

• Guelph Santa Claus Parade 1:30pm http://downtownguelph.com/cms/documents/Parade_Route_2013_General_Public.pdf

Upcoming Parades Include

 

Nov 24 

Tavistock: Nov. 24, starting at 1 p.m. http://www.tavistock.on.ca/events.html

Stratford: Nov. 24, starting at 4:45 p.m. http://www.visitperth.ca/one_event.php?ID=6794

Puslinch: Nov. 24, starting at 2pm http://twp.puslinch.on.ca/

Nov 30

Arthur: Nov. 30, starting at 7 p.m. http://www.wellington-north.com/whats-on/event-details.aspx?id=ab38fb99-6bc1-420f-8d30-ac180959f0f5

Ayr: Nov. 30, starting at 1 p.m. http://www.northdumfries.ca/en/thingstodo/FestivalsandEvents.asp

Harriston: Nov. 30, starting at 3:30 p.m. http://www.town.minto.on.ca/page/events?id=545

Elora: Nov. 30, starting at 6 p.m. http://elora.info/events/the-elora-lions-club-santa-claus-parade/

Brantford: Nov. 30, starting at 6 p.m. http://www.jcibrantford.ca/projectdetails.asp?id=154

Flamborough Nov 30 starting at 6:30pm http://www.flamboroughsantaclausparade.com/

Listowel: Nov. 30, starting at 7 p.m. http://www.visitperth.ca/one_event.php?ID=6689

Clifford: Nov. 30, starting at 7 p.m. http://www.town.minto.on.ca/page/events?id=544

Dec 1

New Hamburg: Dec. 1, starting at 6 p.m. http://www.newhamburg.ca/listingDetails.php?New-Hamburg-Santa-Claus-Parade-95

Dec 4

Elmira: Dec. 4, starting at 10 a.m. http://www.wrps.on.ca/volunteers/ceremonial-police-band/performance-schedule

Dec 6

Drayton: Dec. 6, starting at 7 p.m. http://www.mapleton.ca/event-calendar.html?view=main

Mitchell: Dec. 6, starting (time not listed) http://mitchellbia.ca/

Dec 7

Cambridge (Hespeler): Dec. 7 Noon http://www.hespelersantaclausparade.ca

Baden: Dec. 1, starting at 1 p.m. http://www.badenoutlook.com/PDFs/Calendar_2013.pdf

Moorefield: Dec 7 1pm http://www.mapleton.ca/event-calendar.html?view=main

Fergus: Dec. 7, starting at 1:30 p.m. http://www.centrewellington.ca/newsandevents/Pages/Event-Search.aspx

Palmerston: Dec. 7, starting at 7 p.m. http://www.town.minto.on.ca/page/events?id=54

Dec 13

Wellsley: Dec. 13, starting at 6:45pm http://www.whatsupstclements.com/

Dec 14

Shakespeare: Dec. 14, starting at 1 p.m. http://www.visitperth.ca/events.php

Attwood: Dec. 14, starting at 6:30pm http://www.visitperth.ca/events.php

Dec 21

St. Clements: Dec. 21, starting at 1 p.m. http://www.whatsupstclements.com/

Although I wrote this years ago it's still valid. Please remember Parade Etiquette

If you know of any additional Santa Claus Parades, Or Any Additional Info About These Parades Please List Them In The Comments And We Will Get The Added.

Find The 2013 Santa Claus Parades Near Kitchener Waterloo

 

Jesse Labelle And The Big Picture Project Heads To Waterloo Ontario

Seeing The Big Picture

Last month I had the opportunity to see Jesse Labelle speak on a social etiquette panel put together by my friend Neil Hedley.  It was a panel about kindness in the social sphere and what I referred to as GUT CHECK MOMENT at Blissdom Canada. 

That panel made such an impact on the bloggers in attendance that all you need to Google is Jesse Labelle Blissdom Canada and you will get pages of sites listing each person's perspective of what went on during that panel. Jesse Labelle spoke about the trolls online and how he deals with that kind of situation. The statement that he made that stuck with the majority of us was

 

"You can really fight hate with love"

 

After the event I learned that Jesse meant these words when I started to see info pop up about The Big Picture Project and how it ws founded by Jesse Labelle in 2008, The Big Picture Project is a not-for-profit organization that strives to raise awareness and support for The Sirua Aulo Academy in Transmara, Kenya.

 

This month Jesse Labelle will be performing in Waterloo at Maxwell's Music House in support of The Big Picture project. Tickets are just $10 in advance on Ticketscene.ca and 

 

All proceeds go towards raising awareness and funds to support The Sirua Aulo Academy in Transmara, Kenya.

 

For $10 you will get to see a concert with local musicians as well as an acoustic performance by Jesse Labelle, all while helping this very worthy cause. See you there!

Please note this is a 19+ event

 

For more information visit MaxwellsMusicHouse.ca where you can learn about this and other upcoming shows. Below are some of Jesse Labelle's music videos. Have a listen and then get your tickets before they are gone!

 

 



November, Movember, Holiday and Christmas Events In Kitchener Waterloo 2013

There are still a few days left to enter to win tickets to DELIVERY MAN at Conestoga Mall Galaxy Theatre
http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.ca/2013/10/win-pair-of-passes-to-see-delivery-man.html

MOVEMBER KIDS KW

This Saturday, the 9th is our Movember Kids KW event at Kitchener Market's Kids In The Kitchen. Come by this FREE event from 10am to Noon at the Upper Marketplace/Cooking School area!

You can read more details here

http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.ca/2013/08/movember-kids-kw-2013-at-kitchener.html

 

Unable to attend? You can learn more about MY MOVEMBER PLAN here http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.ca/2013/10/movember-crowdfundraising-crowdfunding.html

Below is a list of ongoing KPL programs, scroll down for additional activities and events in the KW area as well

 

KPL PROGRAMS

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS

KPL Kids’ Club

Free stories and crafts for all ages.

Saturdays from 9:00 am – 11:00 am, Kitchener Market, 300 King St East

 

Little Music Makers

Shake, rattle, and roll! Ages 3 – 5.

Register online at kpl.org or call 519-743-3558. FREE

Tues. at 2:00 pm, Nov. 5 – 26, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

Little Illustrator

Let’s create some masterpieces! Ages 3 ½ to 5 years.

Register online at kpl.org or call 519-748-2740. FREE

Wed. at 2:30 pm, Nov. 6 – 27, Pioneer Park Library, 150 Pioneer Dr, Kitchener

Homework Help for French Immersion

Our bilingual volunteers can help you with your school work. Grades 1 – 6. FREE

Thursdays, from 4:00 to 5:30 pm, Forest Heights Library, 251 Fischer-Hallman Rd, Kitchener

LEGO Block Party

We provide the LEGO, you provide the imagination. Ages 5 – 12.

Register online at kpl.org or call the host library. FREE

Thurs. at 6:30 pm, Nov. 7 – 28, Grand River Stanley Park Library, 175 Indian Rd, Kitchener

It’s a Snow Day!

Celebrate the 2013 Let’s Read book with us. All ages.

Register online at kpl.org or call the host library. FREE

Fri. Nov. 8 at 10:00 am, Kitchener Market, 300 King St East, Kitchener

Sat. Nov. 9 at 10:30 am, Pioneer Park Library, 150 Pioneer Dr, Kitchener

Sat. Nov. 23 at 10:00 am, Forest Heights Library, 251 Fischer-Hallman Rd, Kitchener

Sat. Nov. 23 at 10:30 am, Grand River Stanley Park Library, 175 Indian Rd, Kitchener

Sat. Nov. 30 at 10:30 am, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

 

NOVEMBER BLAST

Nov 9

Free all ages movie night on November 9^th, 6pm at Victoria Hills Community Centre, 10 Chopin Dr, Kitchener. The movie will be 'Epic'There will be snacks for sale at a low cost to help support the Learn, English, Make Friends Program.

 

Nov 10

Free Skate

Moses Springer on Sun from 11am-12:50pm.

https://twitter.com/citywaterloo/status/399265151225839616

 

K-W Silver Stars
Region Of Waterloo Museum (DOON)

Start Date Sunday, November 10, 2013

End Date Sunday, November 10, 2013

Time 2 p.m.

The KW Silver Stars present "Edwardian Entertainment" featuring songs and poems from 1900 to 1920.
Come and listen to the songs that you know and would love to sing along to. Comedy and camaraderie abound.
Tickets are $15 - available at the Downtown Community Centre
35B Weber Street West, Kitchener 519-. 741-2501.

 

Nov 11

Rememberance Day Parade

Remembrance Day Parade, starts at 10:30am.
The Parade will start from Young St. along King St. to Fredrick St. then to The Cenotaph, (Downtown Kitchener)

http://kitchener.ca/en/Calendar/Details.aspx?Id=934f8b17-482c-4fbf-8ffe-cb2c5740fd03

 

Nov 14

Squiggles to Grins - FREE art program every Thursday (beginning in September)

Every Thursday from 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Art Innovators will be hosting Squiggles to Grins at the Kitchener Market – a program for children and their parents. Participate in a fun, unique, hands-on creative art experience!

FREE!

 

St Jacob's Sparkles

Nov 14-21

 

Hop aboard a free Horse-drawn Trolley that will shuttle you between shops:

• Thursday 4:30 - 8:30 pm
• Friday 3:30 - 7:30 pm
• Saturday 1 - 5 pm

Listen for your favourite carols from wandering Victorian Carolers:

• Thursday 5 - 8 pm
• Sunday 1:30 - 4:30 pm

See the new St. Jacobs & Aberfoyle Model Railway

• Open Saturday & Sunday 10 am - 5 pm
• See admission fee and other information here

 

Nov 14

TEEN PROGRAMS

Book of the Month Club

For teens ages 12 – 18. Register online at kpl.org. FREE

The False Princeby Jennifer A. Nielsen, Thurs. Nov. 14 at 4:00 pm, Kitchener Market, 300 King St East

 

 

Nov 16

2 Santa Claus Parades today in The Region Of Waterloo

• Santa Claus Parade - Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 10 am.Uptown Waterloo to Downtown Kitchener http://lionsclubofkitchener.com/?page_id=28 

• The 2013 Cambridge Santa Claus Parade is SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16th at 6:00 p.m. on Hespeler Rd http://www.cambridgesantaparade.com/
 

 

Nov 16

Start Date:	Saturday, November 16, 2013 10:00 AM
End Date:	Saturday, November 16, 2013 1:00 PM
Title:	Santa Parade Party!
Category:	Community event
Address:	300 King Street East
Contact:	Michele McBride-Roach
Phone:	519-741-2200 ext. 5221
Email:	info@kitchenermarket.ca
Details:	It's cold outside but warm and toasty in the market, so come on in for a mug of hot chocolate and some cookies to warm you up! Also, expect a visit from Santa himself!

FREE MOVIE
Join us on the morning of Saturday November 16 at all Cineplex Entertainment theatres for Community Day in support of the Canadian Olympic Foundation. Doors open at 8:30 am with a great selection of FREE movies beginning at 9:00am. Plus, enjoy a regular popcorn, regular fountain drink and selected candy for only 2 DOLLARS each with 100% of the proceeds donated to the Canadian Olympic Foundation! http://www.pinterest.com/pin/43699058858223333/

Saturday November 16, 2013

http://www.royalcitymodelrailroaders.com/

Royal City Model Railroaders

Home Layout Tour

A self guided tour of Guelph area model railroads.Several local model railroaders have agreed to open their home layouts to the public.Most Layouts will be open from 10:00am to 5:00pm

Annual free open house of Guelph model railroaders.

 

Nov 17

Guelph Santa Claus Parade 1:30pm http://downtownguelph.com/cms/documents/Parade_Route_2013_General_Public.pdf

Nov 19 Erick Traplin @ Kitchener Market Kids Hop

Kids’ HopBring your little ones to the Kitchener Market every Tuesday from 11a.m.-noon for a fabulous, fun-filled morning! Be prepared for a high-energy, hopping good time at these FREE weekly children’s events as our performers entertain your tots!

Nov 19

Food Trucks @ The Family Centre Parking lot on Hanson Ave 11am-2pm

https://www.facebook.com/events/581800635238842/?ref=22

Nov 20
PARENTS NIGHT OUT!!!!
Enjoy a charity concert for $10 @ Maxwell's Music House!
http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.ca/2013/11/jesse-labelle-and-big-picture-project.html
We'll see you there! Get your tickets before they are gone!

 

Nov 20-Dec 22
White Christmas @ St. Jacobs County Playhouse (by St Jacobs Market)
http://ow.ly/qF4hV

Nov 20-Dec 22
Peter Pan @ Dunfield Theatre Cambridge
http://ow.ly/qF4j8

Nov 21

Family Storytime and Craft

Register online at kpl.org or call the host library. FREE

Thurs. Nov. 21, 10:00 – 11:30 am, Country Hills Library, 1500 Block Line Rd, Kitchener

Squiggles to Grins - FREE art program every Thursday (beginning in September)

Every Thursday from 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Art Innovators will be hosting Squiggles to Grins at the Kitchener Market – a program for children and their parents. Participate in a fun, unique, hands-on creative art experience!

FREE!

Nov 22

Family Storytime at Kingsdale Community Centre
Sing! Read! Play! For children ages 2 and up and their caregivers. FREE

Fri. Nov. 22 at 10:00 am, Kingsdale Community Centre, 80 Wilson Ave, Kitchener

 

Homeschooler Village Christmas

Region Of Waterloo Museum (DOON)

Start Date Friday, November 22, 2013

End Date Friday, November 22, 2013

Time 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Come and explore how various cultural groups celebrated Christmas in rural Waterloo County in 1914.
Step back in time to experience the sights and sounds of an early 20th century Christmas in Doon Heritage Village.
$5 per child. All teaching parents are free, children under five are free.
http://www.waterlooregionmuseum.com/upcoming-events/2013---november/a-village-christmas-for-homeschoolers-(1).aspx
 

 

Free Carriage Rides Downtown Kitchener 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm

(Every Friday from Nov 22-Dec20

http://kitchenerdowntown.com/event/free-carriage-rides-downtown-kitchener-2/2013-11-29/

 

Nov 23
Family Favorites Cineplex $2.50 Movie - Barney http://www.cineplex.com/Events/FamilyFavourites/Home.aspx
 

Mother-Daughter Book Club

For girls in Grades 4 – 6 and their moms.

Register online at kpl.org or call 519-896-1736.

Sat. Nov. 23 at 11:00 am, Grand River Stanley Park Library, 175 Indian Rd, Kitchener

Christmas In Belmont Village
10am-5pm
http://www.thebelmontvillage.ca/upcoming-event/

Kinderconcert
10am and 11am
Conrad Centre (Downtown Kitchener)
$13 adult, $11 child http://kwsymphony.ca/2013_14/kinder/kin1.php

Tree Of Hope In Fairview Mall Kick Off
10am-2pm
http://www.facswaterloo.org/html/TreeofHopeHome.html and be sure to enter the colouring contest found here http://www.facswaterloo.org/html/TOH/colouringpage.pdf

Nov 26  @ Kitchener Market Kids Hop

Kids’ HopBring your little ones to the Kitchener Market every Tuesday from 11a.m.-noon for a fabulous, fun-filled morning! Be prepared for a high-energy, hopping good time at these FREE weekly children’s events as our performers entertain your tots!

Nov 28

Squiggles to Grins - FREE art program every Thursday (beginning in September)

Every Thursday from 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Art Innovators will be hosting Squiggles to Grins at the Kitchener Market – a program for children and their parents. Participate in a fun, unique, hands-on creative art experience!

FREE!

 

Nov 29

Free Carriage Rides Downtown Kitchener 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm

(Every Friday from Nov 22-Dec20

http://kitchenerdowntown.com/event/free-carriage-rides-downtown-kitchener-2/2013-11-29/

 

Nov 30

Santa Breakfast at Steckle Farm

8am-11am

http://www.stecklehomestead.ca/upcoming-events/

$10 per person http://www.stecklehomestead.ca/event-registrations/

Family Favorites Cineplex $2.50 Movie - How To Train Your Dragon http://www.cineplex.com/Events/FamilyFavourites/Home.aspx

“Transformation Station: Make & Create @ WPL”. All the details are here: http://www.wpl.ca/2013/11/wpl-transformation-station-sat-nov-30/
All ages makerspace extravaganza! Lot’s to do for everyone.
 

Wonders Of Winter Begins At Waterloo Park

http://www.wondersofwinter.ca/

 

 

Theatre for Young Audiences series, which will feature productions of The Velveteen Rabbit (Dec 4-7) and Pinocchio (March 12-14), along with our Saturday Morning Cartoon Parties (Nov 30 and April 12). Full details at http://www.registrytheatre.com/.

 

Upcoming In Dec

 

Dec 1

CP HOLIDAY TRAIN

 

Cambridge (Galt)	4:15 pm	Former Galt Station, 10 Malcolm St.	The Claytones & Brothers Dube
Ayr	5:30 pm	CP railway crossing at Inglis St.	The Claytones & Brothers Dube

http://www.cpr.ca/en/in-your-community/holiday-train/schedule/Pages/canada.aspx

 

LostAndFound Theatre Christmas Show

Region Of Waterloo Museum (DOON)

Start Date Sunday, December 1, 2013

End Date Sunday, December 1, 2013

Time Two Shows! 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Join us for a Lost&Found Christmas! Enjoy holiday stories and poetry, maybe a song or two. Brought to you by Lost&Found Theatre, Waterloo Region's professional theatre ensemble.

http://www.waterlooregionmuseum.com/upcoming-events/2013--december/lost--found-christmas.aspx

 

AND

Celebrity Christmas Readings

Start Date Sunday, December 1, 2013

End Date Sunday, December 1, 2013

Time 7:30 p.m.

Launch the Christmas season and celebrate this festive time of year with celebrity readings of classic Christmas stories!

Tickets are $10 per person and can be ordered at 519-748-1914. Seating limited. Advance tickets only. Proceeds will benefit The Food Bank of Waterloo Region http://www.waterlooregionmuseum.com/upcoming-events/2013--december/a-christmas-reading.aspx

 

Kitchener Market Kids Hop Schedule Tues from 11am-Noon

• December 3: Erick Traplin
• December 10: Peter Shaw and Friends
• December 17: Erick Traplin
• December 19: Erick Traplin

Dec 5
Christmas Fantasy in Victoria Park Kitchener
4:45pm-6:45pm
http://www.kitchenerevents.ca/en/whatson/ChristmasFantasy.asp


Dec 5-8
Christkindl Market
http://www.christkindl.ca/

Dec 6-14
The Sounds of Christmas
is an uplifting musical journey through all things Christmas. Featuring harmony singing, toe tapping instrumentals, and multiple styles of dance. In support of KidsAbility.
Dates: December 6, 2013 evening December 7, 2013 matinee and evening December 8, 2013 matinee December 13, 2013 matinee and evening December 14, 2013 matinee and evening
(I don't know if there is a cost to attend or if it's by donation, as that info is not listed onf the event page)
https://www.facebook.com/events/362583567178583/

Dec 6-8
Bethany Christmas Pagent
Live Nativity
http://www.bethanypageant.com/

DEC 7
Wilson Education Resource Centre Event
http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.ca/2013/11/wilson-education-resource-centre.html

Family Favorites Cineplex $2.50 Movie - Polar Express http://www.cineplex.com/Events/FamilyFavourites/Home.aspx

34th Annual Hespeler Santa Claus Parade

Saturday, December 7^th, 2013
34th Annual Hespeler Santa Claus Parade
12 noon
Santa will be giving out candy to the kids after the parade at the Scout House (located in Forbes Park).
Location: Queen St. (Hespeler section of Cambridge)
Contact: Visit http://www.hespelersantaclausparade.ca

For more Christmas In Cambridge Events
http://www.cambridge.ca/community_services/christmas_in_cambridge

 

Peter Pan by the KW Youth Theatre

Tuesday December 17th, 6:00pm

Wednesday December 18th, 8:30pm

Thursday December 19th, 6:00pm

All performances take place at The Registry Theatre (122 Frederick St., Kitchener).

http://kwyouththeatre.com/Contact.php

Celebrate Christmas in the market!

Let us help you get into the Christmas spirit at the Kitchener Market with these fun family events!

Breakfast with Santa

December 7, 9 - 10:30 a.m.
Includes breakfast and a craft. Limited spaces available. Cost: $5 a ticket or $15 for a family of 4 ($5 per additional child)
Purchase your tickets at the Kitchener Market office.

Family gingerbread house decorating

December 14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Come join us for festive family fun! Decorate gingerbread together and take away your sweet treat when you leave. Santa visits too! Register online for free.

Kids' Hop and Kids' Art with special visits from Santa

December 17, 11 a.m. – noon – Kids’ Hop
Bring your kids to dance up a storm with a free concert by Erick Traplin.
December 19, 11 a.m. – noon – Kids’ Art
Join Art Innovators to make a special Christmas project with Erick Traplin.

Kids in the Kitchen: Santa treats and reindeer eats

December 21, 10 a.m. - noon
Come to the Marketplace to make a special treat to leave Santa and his reindeer.

Christmas market

December 21, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Make a festive craft! Be sure to visit the market to pick up all of your holiday entertaining needs. Carolers will celebrate the Christmas spirit with beautiful holiday songs.

 

Have You Joined Our Fun Stuff To Do Facebook Group?????
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2369595749/
once you have make sure to RSVP for OUR MOVEMBER KIDS KW EVENT!!!!!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1411355459076762/

Have An Event?

If you have a family friendly free or low cost event happening let us know about it! Email fostermcdonald@rogers.com with Stuff To Do in the subject line.

See what happened when Yogurty's Invited us to theirs