2026 BITE BY BITE

A celebration of the culinary creativity and passion that embodies Downtown Kitchener!

Get ready, DTK! BITE BY BITE is returning for its second year on Sunday, April 12th, 2026 and this year will be even bigger and tastier than the last.

After a smash-hit debut, we are reigniting the competitive spirit and taking over the Crowne Plaza Hotel once again to deliver the ultimate food festival experience. We’re securing 15+ restaurants from Downtown Kitchener to bring you a delicious array of samples.

This isn’t just a food festival; it’s an interactive competition where YOU are the judge.

Upon arrival, you'll receive a passport that grants you access to sample a "bite" from each participating business, whether Sweet, Savoury, or both! After tasting your way through the venue, vote for your favourites to help decide who takes home the "People's Choice" awards. This year, we're doing things a bit differently, with 2 separate tasting times (12-3 pm or 5-8 pm) and higher compensation for our participating small businesses.

BITE BY BITE is more than a competition, it’s a celebration of community. Come embrace DTK’s diverse culinary landscape and find your new favourite dining spot.

The prizes are as follows:

· People’s choice - Best Savoury Award

· Judge's choice – Best Savoury Award

· People’s choice – Best Sweet Award

· Judge's choice – Best Sweet Award

*Drinks are not included

Alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks are available for an additional cost, organized by The Crowne Plaza Hotel.

In addition to the food & drinks, there will be live music, entertainment & more!

There are two event times:

• Afternoon Session 12-3 pm
• Evening Session 5-8 pm
• Voting closes at 7:30 pm.
• Winners are announced in the evening session at 7:45 pm.

For more updates, follow @dtkitchener on Instagram or Facebook

*Tickets are not available at the door