About the Carnival - Sun Life Waterloo Busker Carnival

Entertaining families in the Waterloo Region since 1989.

The Sun Life Waterloo Busker Carnival is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven carnival that has been entertaining families in the Waterloo Region since 1989. From acrobats, to contortion, comedy and fire breathers, the carnival brings the best international artists in the world to UpTown Waterloo for four days.

Be prepared to laugh and be amazed. Take some time to stop at our vendors to enjoy some international foods and do some shopping. Take in some of your favourite shows, try your hand at the midway games and don’t forget a ride on our famous ferris wheel with amazing views. There’s fun for the whole family.

How much does it cost? Admission to the carnival is free. The artists make their living by the tips they receive. While they receive some travel assistance they are not paid by the carnival. After each show, the artists will “pass the hat” for your tips and donations. If you enjoyed the show, please contribute an amount that you can afford as a thank you. How much you tip is up to you.

Acrobatics

Contortionists

Comedy

Fire breathers

The Carnival throughout the years

The spirit, spontaneity and creative energy of the Carnival is captured each year by world-renown illustrator Sue Todd who currently resides in Toronto, Ontario. Her artwork sets the tone for each year’s distinct performers with no two pieces or years being exactly alike. When viewed together, Sue’s artwork over the years offers a consistent visual narrative of our history.

Sue’s work was first featured on the 1995 cover of the Carnival program and continues to be a main feature each year. Sue notes a special fondness for Waterloo where she met her husband.

For more information or to order prints, visit her website at www.suetodd.com.