Goat Fest 2026

Goat Fest returns to Kitchener on October 3, 2026, bringing together some of Canada’s best hot sauce makers, craft breweries, food vendors and live entertainment for one seriously flavour-packed day.

Held at Kitchener’s Concordia Club and kicking off Oktoberfest season in Waterloo Region, Goat Fest features more than 30 hot sauce makers including Canada's largest selction from the hit YouTuber series Hot Ones, 15+ craft beverage comapnies, incredible food, Caesar bar, spicy eating challenges and plenty of opportunities to taste something new.

This year’s festival also welcomes legendary pepper breeder Smokin’ Ed Currie, creator of the Carolina Reaper and Pepper X®, alongside special guests from the world of hot sauce and spice.

The daytime festival is family friendly, with wrestling, kids activities, Touch-a-Truck and more. In the evening, Goat Fest becomes a 19+ celebration featuring live music headlined by 4 x Juno nomintaed band, The Blue Stones, craft beer, food and festival experiences.

Come hungry, bring your heat tolerance and experience one of Waterloo Region’s most unique food festivals as we kick off Oktoberfest!