Grab lunch for a cause at Kitchener's annual Grillefest

The City of Kitchener is inviting the community to enjoy lunch for a good cause at Grillefest on Friday, October 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of Kitchener City Hall. For more than 20 years, the City's annual Oktoberfest fundraiser has brought together residents, City staff and members of Council to share a meal, celebrate community spirit and support the Food Bank of Waterloo Region. 

Each year, Grillefest serves more than 1,500 sausage lunches, helping raise funds and collect food donations that support local families experiencing food insecurity. In 2025, the event raised nearly $5,000 for the Food Bank. Combined with non-perishable food donations, this supported over 9,800 meals for local families in need. The event has become a longstanding community tradition that demonstrates the generosity of Kitchener residents and the collective impact of coming together for a common cause. 

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, October 9 in front of Kitchener City Hall, councillors and City staff will cook up traditional sausages served to you on a fresh bun and accompanied by a cold drink and cookies, all for only a minimum donation of $5. All proceeds from the lunch support the Food Bank of Waterloo Region. 

Community members are also encouraged to bring dry and canned food donations, which can be dropped off at the event or in advance at the donation box located in the City Hall Rotunda. 

The event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors: Piller's Fine Foods, Grainharvest Breadhouse, Zehr's and Costco Kitchener.  

More information is available at Kitchener.ca/Grillefest