Historic and scenic Waterloo County is steeped in tradition yet thoroughly modern. Explore charming villages and experience the rich smells and tastes of Canada's largest Farmers' Market. For shoppers there are plenty of quaint shops, boutiques, craft stores and outlet mall.
Day 1 – Arrive evening Kitchener-Waterloo for our 4 night stay, St. Jacob's Inn or similiar
Day 2 – Time to wander the famous St. Jacob's Farmers' Market to try apple fritter or freshly made pretzel as you browse numerous vendors. Late morning witness Great Beer Barrel Race, help yourself to sample of pancake breakfast, and visit local shops. Afternoon is in Oktoberfest Bavarian Village. Time to rest before going to Festhalle tonight with its live band and entertainment to enjoy taste of Gemuetlichkeit as we "Ein Prosit" and participate in polk and chicken dance. (B, S)
Day 3 – Mennonite countryside tour learning about unique way of life in Canada plus enjoy the fall foliage. Time to explore village of St. Jacob's with its many boutiques and craft shops. Reserved seating this afternoon for performance at Drayton Theatre. (B, D)
Day 4 – Reserved grandstand seating for Thanksgiving Day Parade with as many as 18 bands, numerous floats and course Onkel Hans. Lunch at Wings of Paradise followed by walk among the butterflies. Afternoon visit to British boyhood home of Canada's longest serving Prime Minister, William Lyon MacKenzie King, all decorated in Canadian version of Thanksgiving. Evening with traditional Canadian Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. (B L D)
Day 5 – Option to visit Toronto or Niagara Falls before continuing with onward journey this morning from Kitchener-Waterloo (B)