Square Peg Winter Pop-up set to showcase local business in the heart of downtown

Downtown Kitchener shoppers can look forward to discovering a new lineup of local retailers this holiday season as the Square Peg Winter Pop-up returns to City Hall’s doorstep. 

Beginning in November, Square Peg, the City of Kitchener’s retail incubator space at 220 King St. W., will be transformed into a bustling holiday marketplace featuring local products, handmade goods, and emerging brands. From November 16, 2026, to January 1, 2027, visitors will find a fresh and festive shopping experience throughout the holiday season. 

The pop-up supports local entrepreneurship while contributing to a vibrant downtown experience during the holiday season. The initiative provides emerging retailers with an opportunity to test new concepts, reach new customers and gain experience operating in one of Kitchener’s busiest commercial areas. Each participating business will activate its own dedicated nook within the space, alongside several other retailers, creating a vibrant marketplace featuring a variety of local products and brands. 

The City of Kitchener offers the Winter Pop-up to help local businesses grow while creating a unique shopping experience that attracts residents and visitors to downtown Kitchener during the holiday season.  

Interested retailers can apply online until September 30, 2026 using the City of Kitchener’s application form. Additional information and eligibility criteria is available within the form to help retailers prepare their application. 

For more information on everything there is to experience in Downtown Kitchener, contact downtown@kitchener.ca or visit DowntownKitchener.ca.   

About Square Peg 

Square Peg is a high-visibility, community-focused pop-up retail space in downtown Kitchener that gives  independent retailers and emerging entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase their products, test new concepts and connect with customers in a real storefront environment.