From craft cocktail bars to live music venues, discover the best entertainment and nightlife in Waterloo, Kitchener, and Cambridge.
Written by
Famelee Waterloo
Published: Monday, December 22, 2025
Updated: Tuesday, December 30, 2025
The tri-cities come alive after dark. Whether you're looking for craft cocktails, live music, or a dance floor, here's your guide to nightlife in Waterloo Region.
Uptown Waterloo
Craft Bars & Lounges
The Attic
Second-floor lounge with craft cocktails and intimate vibes.
Bobby O'Brien's
Irish pub with extensive whiskey selection and live music.
Wildcraft Eatery
Pizza and cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
McCabe's Irish Pub
Authentic Irish pub with patio and live entertainment.
Late Night
Chainsaw
Uptown's go-to for late-night dancing and events.
The Hive
Electronic music and DJ nights.
Downtown Kitchener
Cocktail Bars
Grand Trunk Saloon
Whiskey bar with classic cocktails and steakhouse vibes.
TWH Social
Hip bar with craft cocktails and rotating menu.
Live Music
Maxwell's Concerts & Events
The region's premier live music venue. National touring acts and local favourites.
Harmony Lunch
Eclectic music programming in an unlikely setting.
The Starlight
Historic theatre hosting concerts and events.
Breweries & Taprooms
Descendants Beer & Beverage Co.
Hip taproom in the warehouse district. Food truck partnerships and events.
Waterloo Brewing
Canada's original craft brewery with tours and tastings.
Arabella Park Beer Bar
Curated craft beer selection in a cozy setting.
Late Night
Beta Nightclub
Electronic music and DJ culture.
Dallas Nightclub
Country and mainstream dance floor.
Cambridge
Pubs & Bars
The Cambridge Mill
Upscale dining with a bar area overlooking the Grand River.
The Whistle Stop
Local favourite with good food and beer selection.
Cambridge Arms
English-style pub with cask ales.
Craft Breweries (Evening Vibes)
Grand River Brewing (Cambridge)
Heritage brewery with tours and riverside patio.
Rural Roots Brewing (Elmira)
Farm brewery experience.
Willibald Farm Distillery (Ayr)
Distillery with cocktail lounge and events.
Block Three Brewing (St. Jacobs)
Craft beer and wood-fired pizza in a charming village.
Comedy
Yuk Yuk's (Kitchener)
National comedy chain with touring and local comedians.
Comedy nights at various venues throughout the region.
Gaming & Entertainment
The Games On Tap
Board game cafe and bar.
Rec Room
Entertainment complex with games, food, and drinks.
Pinball parlours and arcade bars have popped up around the region.
Casino
Elements Casino Grand River
Slots, tables, entertainment, and dining.
LGBTQ+ Friendly
The region's LGBTQ+ scene is centered around annual Pride events, with most Uptown and Downtown venues being welcoming spaces.
Live Theatre & Shows
Centre In The Square
Broadway shows, comedy, and concerts.
St. Jacobs Country Playhouse
Professional theatre year-round.
Tips for Nightlife
Waterloo Region's nightlife proves there's plenty of fun to be had outside the big city. Whether you're after craft cocktails, live bands, or just a great local pub, you'll find your spot here.
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