Celebrate 75 years of The Aud at a community open house

The Kitchener Memorial Auditorium (The Aud) is inviting residents to celebrate 75 years of community memories at a special open house on Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. 

The free event is part of The Aud's 75th anniversary celebrations and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of Kitchener's most iconic community spaces. Since opening its doors in 1951, The Aud has welcomed generations of residents through sporting events, trades shows, concerts, community gatherings and milestone moments that have helped shape the community. 

"The Aud has been bringing people together for 75 years, and this open house is an opportunity for residents to celebrate that legacy while experiencing the facility in a new way," said Ally Samms, Manager of the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. "Whether you've been attending events here for decades or you're visiting for the first time, we hope the community will join us in marking this important milestone." 

During the open house, visitors can take part in a self-guided tour featuring five unique stops throughout the facility. Guests will receive a passport and can collect stamps at each location as they explore different areas of the building and learn more about its history and operations. 

Those who complete all five stops will unlock a special photo opportunity with the Memorial Cup, one of the most recognized trophies in Canadian junior hockey. 

The event will also feature a free community skate, complimentary popcorn and opportunities to go in areas of The Aud that many visitors do not typically get to experience. No registration is required. 

Earlier this year, The Aud officially marked the 75th anniversary of its opening. Built as a memorial to local men and women who served in the Second World War, the facility has remained a cornerstone of community life for generations, serving as home to the Kitchener Rangers and hosting countless sporting, cultural and entertainment events. 

As The Aud continues to evolve and welcome new generations of visitors, the anniversary serves as an opportunity to reflect on its history, celebrate its impact and look ahead to its future as one of Kitchener's premier gathering places.