Welcome to Waterloo! As you settle in for the new year, some of you may be wondering what the city you now call home has to offer. You will soon learn that Waterloo is the perfect combination of new and old. While we move forward as metropolis known for technology and innovation, we still remain rooted in small town values. Many festivals and events around the city provide unique and homey experiences full of one of a kind food and memories.
This week you can partake in the Stratford Fall festival, where you can take in several horse shows, a demolition derby, birds of prey demonstrations, a battle of the bands competition, take a spin on mid-way rides, and eat all the deep fried delicacies fall fairs have to offer. If you’re interested in something a little closer to home, visit the international gem of St. Jacobs.
If you don’t have your own transportation, not a problem! A historical train leaves from the Waterloo Station on 10 Father David Bauer Drive, next to the Rec Center, beginning at 10:25, and every two hours until 2:25pm. The short twenty minute train ride takes you through the streets of Waterloo out to the beautiful nature that surrounds the city. As you step off the train, you are welcomed into the controlled chaos that is the Waterloo Farmers Market. Renowned as the world’s largest, the Farmers Market is full of things to sample.
Known for its vast amount of produce and food, it is a cheap and healthy way to shop for those first time grocery shoppers to get an experience, and everything on their list. From fresh squeezed juice to unrivaled baked goods, the food is second to none. A flea market and floor of vendors offers a unique shopping opportunity to find that perfect antique or little trinket. Take the time to just walk around and take in a place that only Waterloo has to offer.
As the weekend approaches, some of you may be preparing for a first date. Wow your date with a cruise. A dinner cruise down the Grand River offers an incredibly scenic and romantic night, along with a great meal and entertainment.
If you’re more interested in an experience rather than meal, skip the mundane movie dinner combination and explore the Butterfly Conservatory of Cambridge. A beautiful greenhouse garden filled with thousands of butterflies is a perfect setting and memory for a first date.
Waterloo has so much to offer, but if you aren’t ready to explore just yet don’t overlook the opportunities of our amazing campus. Clubs offer amazing opportunities. Don’t be a victim of the “engineers have no time” myth, “or I’ll try it next semester” promise. Get involved now. Create and adjust to your routine now. It is true that we do the greatest amount of learning outside of the classroom, so take advantage and explore your campus and city and see what Waterloo has to teach you.
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