Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival.The not-for-profit organization was founded in 1969 by a group of volunteers committed to contributing to the social and economic vitality of Kitchener and Waterloo, Canada.Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest annually provides $21.8 million of economic benefit to the community, while not-for-profit organizations associated with the festival raise funds each year for their causes. Hosted in the twin cities because of the strong German heritage, Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest celebrates German food, music, fashion, and more! The nine-day festival runs every October and is operated by six year-round full-time staff, over 450 volunteers, and 1,300 community and service club volunteers. Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is one of the top three most recognized event brands in Canada.