Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish all Canadians a very happy Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, which begins on October 7 and goes until October 15. I am proud to say that Kitchener-Waterloo is home to North America's largest Bavarian festival.
Since 1969 the festival has grown from a one day event with one festhalle to a 9 day event with 17 beer halls and 40 family and cultural events that are renowned all over the world, and attract well over 700,000 participants every year.
Music, dancing and, of course, beer will be enjoyed by all. Fashion shows, yo-yo demonstrations, marching bands and rocktoberfest are just a few of the events that will be held. On Monday, October 10 join us for the Thanksgiving Day parade. This year we are proud to have the Prairie Oyster band join us in our celebration on October 14. This group has won many awards, including six Junos and 11 Canadian Country Music Awards and are sure to provide us with some great entertainment.
I invite all hon. members and indeed all Canadians to join us this Oktoberfest and come enjoy the festival.