Kitchener's Christkindl Market turns 30 in December, and the city is marking it with the new Christkindl Entertainment Series: 10 days of live music, family activities and holiday traditions from December 3 to 13, 2026. The city announced the program on November 2, saying the expanded schedule combines long-time favourites with new ticketed experiences.

What is the Christkindl Entertainment Series?

The market began in 1997 as a volunteer-run Christmas celebration and has grown into one of Waterloo Region's busiest events, drawing more than 100,000 visitors a year from across Ontario, according to the City of Kitchener. This year's edition stretches to 10 days with free programming and entertainment for all ages.

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The series opens December 3 with 30th Anniversary Opening Ceremonies at Carl Zehr Square. Nightly headline performances and special events will be paired with various regional acts, including local singers, dance troupes, choirs, and community-based artists.

Why you should go

  • Free entertainment most days. The city says a full schedule of free programming runs alongside the headline shows, including acts such as The Golden Keys, a holiday jukebox set featuring Pulse X, a hoedown night, a dueling pianos show and a Jersey Nights performance.
  • Something new for the anniversary. Ticketed add-ons include a royal-themed pancake breakfast, a brunch, an Eagles tribute holiday show, an East Coast kitchen party with Signal Hill and a disco party.
  • Local talent on show. The lineup is built around performers from Waterloo Region, giving visitors a look at the musicians, dancers and cultural groups that shape the area's holiday traditions.
  • Three decades of tradition. Visitors who have gone for years will find familiar features alongside the new events, and first-timers get a 10-day window to fit a visit around work or school.

What to know before you go

The series runs December 3 to 13 at Carl Zehr Square in downtown Kitchener, with the opening ceremonies on the first day. Free programming is part of the schedule, but the new experiences listed above are ticketed. The city's announcement did not give ticket prices or show times, so check the City of Kitchener's website or contact the organizer before booking. Mayor Berry Vrbanovic said the series puts a focus on the performers who help create the market's holiday atmosphere each year.

FAQ

When is the Christkindl Entertainment Series?

It runs from December 3 to 13, 2026, opening with 30th Anniversary Opening Ceremonies at Carl Zehr Square in Kitchener.

How much are tickets?

Much of the entertainment is free, according to the city. Prices for the new ticketed experiences were not included in the announcement, so check with the City of Kitchener.