Sun Life Waterloo Busker Carnival

Event Description

Since 1989, the Sun Life Waterloo Busker Carnival has been bringing world-class street performers to Uptown Waterloo for four unforgettable days each August. From acrobats and contortionists to comedians and fire acts, these international performers keep crowds laughing, gasping, and cheering. But the fun doesn’t stop there! The carnival also offers special events, free workshops, thrilling midway rides, Artist Alley with local artisans, and a feast of food trucks. With free admission, it’s open to everyone, making it a truly inclusive celebration. So come out, join the fun, and get ready to be amazed!

The Sun Life Waterloo Busker Carnival is a long-standing, 4-day international street performers festival in Uptown Waterloo, drawing around 50,000 attendees annually and heading into its 37th year. Here, world-class buskers—including jugglers, acrobats, contortionists, comedians, fire acts, and musicians—gather crowds, perform incredible acts, and then “pass the hat.” Many of our buskers have trained at prestigious circus schools or Cirque du Soleil, with performers from Canada, the U.S., Ireland, Australia, Mexico, Estonia, and England to name a few.

With over 64 scheduled performances across the weekend, plus roaming entertainers, free workshops, midway rides, and Artist Alley, the carnival offers something for everyone. Uniquely, the festival is accessible to all—attendees watch the show and decide what to pay based on what they can give, making it possible for everyone to enjoy high-quality entertainment regardless of financial means. Entirely volunteer-driven, the event brings the community together in an inclusive atmosphere, creating a true celebration of summer’s end for attendees of all ages.

Location of the Waterloo Public Square event