World-Class Performers Are Back!
Bring the whole family to Uptown Waterloo from August 27–30 for street shows you won’t forget. See acrobats, comedy, fire acts and so much more!
Meet the Performers
Plan
Your Visit
Explore the full 4-day schedule, including daily circle act lineups. Everything you need to plan your time at the carnival — all in one place.
View the Schedule
Food, Vendors
& Midway Fun
Take a break between shows to grab some carnival food, shop from local vendors, and enjoy the midway rides. There’s something fun around every corner!
Explore What’s On Site
Title Sponsor
— The FUN Starts In —
Title Sponsor
— The FUN Starts In —
World-Class Performers
Stay tuned! Our 2026 performer lineup will be revealed in the spring.
Acrobatics
Witness gravity-defying displays of balance, agility, and control.
Comedy
Laugh out loud as comedy collides with jaw-dropping circus stunts.
Fire
Feel the heat. Blazing fire. Daring acts. Pure adrenaline.
Installations
Immerse yourself in creative corners where art, fun, and interaction collide.
Special Events
🎪 Get a Sneak Peek!
Catch a highlight from this year’s lineup featuring NorthFIRE Circus, Dr. Draw, and the Strange Parade. This preview gives you just a taste of the excitement we have in store for you!
Special Events
🎪 Get a Sneak Peek!
Catch a highlight from this year’s lineup featuring NorthFIRE Circus, Dr. Draw, and the Strange Parade.
This preview gives you just a taste of the excitement we have in store.
Festival and Events Ontario
Top 100 Festival
Reader's Choice
Diamond Winner
Reader's Choice
Gold Winner
Reader's Choice
Platinum Winner
Help Us
Get to the Next Round
Votes close October 17! We need your vote. Look for us in Arts, Culture & Entertainment and select Best Local Event, Best Local Festival, and Best Family Activities.
$250 Gift Card
Giveaway
We're giving away (6) $250 gift certificates during the Carnival on Thursday, August 21, 2025 to be used at any of the participating businesses in Uptown Waterloo.
READY TO PLAN YOUR
CARNIVAL VISIT? 🎪
View the full performer lineup, event schedule, site map & more.
A special thank you to the Waterloo Region Record for designing this year’s digital program!
Sponsors
Our sponsors’ incredible generosity enables us to bring you the Sun Life Waterloo Busker Carnival. Thank you for supporting street performing as an entertainment form and for making Waterloo a hub for amazing entertainment!
Government Funders
Thank you to our Government Funders who provide valuable assistance.
