Items listed below are required to be completed before taking over the outdoor space.
- Completed Gaukel Block Vision
- Temporary Business License
- Liability Insurance
- Signed Gaukel Block Terms and Conditions
- Pay Fees
Gaukel Block
On this page:
About
Downtown Kitchener’s newest (and dare we say coolest) gathering place, the Gaukel Block, launched May 2023 with a vision to support programming as varied and vibrant as our DTK community. It is ideal for creative collaborators who are rich with ideas! Gaukel Block is the connecting artery between Victoria Park and Carl Zehr Square, now with inviting places to stop along the way. Gather, shop, take in the art, enjoy the vibe, or kick back in DTK’s living room.
In addition to picnic tables, swing tables, benches, Edison-bulb lighting, gorgeous murals by 17 local artists, over-sized planters and signage listing upcoming events, the Gaukel Block event infrastructure includes upcycled shipping containers with roll up doors, a multi-use platform, tables and chairs, tents, and access to power.
Gaukel Block is built to be flexible! Events can take over the street, the lot, or the whole footprint for small to mid-sized gatherings and performances. Events and programs actively run between May and October. Visit or book an activation today!
Hosting an event at Gaukel Block is great way to build community and add vibrancy to your city!
Want to learn more? Check out the Calendar for Gaukel Block events and more!
Interested in getting involved in Gaukel Block? Email Downtown@kitchener.ca
Become an Organizer
Outlined below is some important information that will guide you through the process of joining our community organizer network. Use this checklist to ensure you've completed all necessary steps to become an event host! The DTK team will support you every step of the way, offering guidance and assistance to ensure a smooth onboarding process.
Ready to bring your vision to life at Gaukel Block?
Items listed below are minimum requirements while when booking Gaukel Block.
- One-two day commitment.
- Maximum of six hours event hours.
- Organizers are responsible for providing staff or volunteers, maintaining the space, and managing the event.
- Comply with all Terms & conditions outlined in permits.
1. Where can shoppers park?
Gaukel Block event attendees have several parking options in DTK.
FREE Parking
- There are more than 300 free two-hour on-street parking spaces in downtown Kitchener.
- Free 15-minute parking pickup locations on King Street
- Free parking after 5 p.m. and all day Saturday and Sunday in municipal surface parking lots
For more information visit, Parking - City of Kitchener
2. Does Gaukel Block have Wi-Fi?
Public Wi-fi is accessible at Gaukel Block.
3. What fees are there for using the space?
- One day rental rates are $250 per day or $350 for two days. Payment is due before move-in. Credit and debit are accepted, and fees can be paid in person or online.
- Temporary Business Licenses have a fee of $220.00. Application and fee payment are processed online.
4. Can I sell food?
Yes, the sale of pre-packaged food is permissible if goods are produced in a Public Health inspected kitchen, but cooking or preparing food on-site is strictly regulated.
5. Can I sell or serve alcohol?
Alcohol is permitted only with the appropriate licensing. If your event involves alcohol, you must secure the necessary permits prior to the event. For more information, contact licencing@kitchener.ca.
