Mark your calendar for Cambridge’s 50+ Active Living Fair

The City of Cambridge’s annual 50+ Active Living Fair returns to Hespeler Arena on Thursday, October 1, bringing together community programs, local services and friendly inspiration for adults 50+ and the people who support them. 

The free afternoon event is a chance to try something new, meet local exhibitors, explore wellness and recreation opportunities, and learn about resources that can help older adults stay active, connected and informed. Visitors can stop by the Cambridge Mobile Food Market, take part in a creative activity with the Cambridge Public Library, enjoy a free skate, try lawn bowling, visit the Region of Waterloo Public Health Neighbourhood Bus, and connect with City older adult services and community partners. 

The day begins at 12 p.m. with a registered lunch and keynote by The Ontario Caregiver Organization. Emily Ayenew, Regional Lead for Western Ontario, will introduce the caregiving journey and share free programs, services and resources available to caregivers across the province. People interested in attending must register in advance as seating is limited for this portion of the event. 

Two additional afternoon workshops will offer practical guidance for planning ahead and living independently. At 1:30 p.m., lawyer Max Shiffman of Matlow, Miller, Cummins, Thrasher LLP will present “Legacy Planning Essentials,” reviewing wills, powers of attorney and common estate planning mistakes. At 3 p.m., Robyn Jackson, Direct Funding Resource Coordinator with Independent Living Waterloo Region, will lead “From Passenger to Driver Seat: Living Independently as You Age with the Direct Funding Program,” an interactive session exploring aging in place and how eligible adults with physical disabilities can gain greater choice and control by self-managing their personal care supports. 

Throughout the afternoon, visitors can drop in to learn about programs, activities and services for adults 50+, connect with community organizations, exhibitors and City staff, take part in demos and activities, and come away with new ideas, helpful resources and a few more reasons to stay connected. 

Event details: 

Thursday, October 1, 2026 

Hespeler Arena – Beehive Hall, 640 Ellis Road West 

Free admission and parking 

Schedule: 

• 12 p.m. registered lunch and keynote | Registration required, limited seating 

• 1–4 p.m. 50+ Active Living Fair | Drop-in 

• 1:30 p.m. “Legacy Planning Essentials” with Max Shiffman, lawyer, Matlow, Miller, Cummins, Thrasher LLP 

• 3 p.m. “From Passenger to Driver Seat: Living Independently as You Age with the Direct Funding Program” with Robyn Jackson, Direct Funding Resource Coordinator, Independent Living Waterloo Region