The “Barnshell” in Waterloo Park

Following the demolition of the old Waterloo Park Bandshell and while the City updates its Waterloo Park Plan, we will be hosting our Community Bandfest and Music in the Park Summer Concert Series at the temporary Eby Farm “Barnshell” location. This naturally-sloped and well-shaded spot is located not far from the site of the original Waterloo Park Bandshell. We are grateful to the City of Waterloo’s Parks, Forestry, and Cemetery Services for these excellent accommodations.

Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket, and enjoy a snack from the Park Inn.

Getting to the “Barnshell” (for visiting bands, and audience members too)

The Barnshell is easily accessible on foot, by bicycle, or via the ION LRT (Laurier-Waterloo Park stop). 

It is adjacent to the Laurel / Trans Canada Trail following the route of Waterloo Park’s Central Promenade.

Vehicular access to the Barnshell (for load-in / out, drop-off, pick-up) is via the Young Street entrance to the Park off Albert Street, or at the Seagram Drive entrance to the Park near the Laurier-Waterloo Park ION Station. The gates at the Drop off Points ⊗ may be opened to bring equipment closer to the site. Because of the volume of pedestrian traffic and the proximity of popular playgrounds, only one vehicle can go beyond the gates at a time, and “spotters” are required to ensure everyone’s safety. Use your vehicle’s flashers to enhance visibility.

We recommend carpooling if driving to Waterloo Park. There is very little parking near the Park Inn in the Young Lot. Additional (but still limited) free automobile parking can be found:

• off Seagram Drive (adjacent to the ION stop)
• off Father David Bauer Drive (Bauer Lot, near Rec Complex & Erb Lot, near Erb Street)
• off Central Street (just inside the Park)
• near the West Side Ball Diamonds (entrance off Westmount Road)
• University of Waterloo Lot C (daily pay parking, via AMP mobile pay app)
• Printable Parking Guide (PDF)

A new footbridge connects the West Side of the Park to the East Side, crossing Laurel Creek and the LRT tracks near the head of Silver Lake, close to the Barnshell.

In general, the longer you’re staying, the further away you should be prepared to park.  Please Do Not Park on the Grass or Roadway.