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5th birthday celebrations for ION across Waterloo Region

Jun 26, 2024

5th birthday celebrations for ION across Waterloo Region

June 21, 2024 marked five years since ION light rail service began in Waterloo Region. Grand River Transit celebrated the anniversary with free rides for everyone across the transit system on June 22 and 23.

A 5th birthday party for ION spanned different locations in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo featured live music, face painting, balloon creations, outdoor games, giveaways, food trucks and more.

GRT also held the “Great ION Puzzle Quest” on June 22, sending participants along the ION line to find clues, solve puzzles, and earn prizes.

People play games near an ION station for the LRT's 5th anniversary.
Crowd of people gathered outside for ION's 5th anniversary.
Ryder the GRT mascot greets visitors at ION's 5th anniversary.
A performer hangs from red cloth for ION's 5th anniversary.
Crowd of people gathered outside for ION's 5th anniversary.
A performer holds a hoop at ION's 5th anniversary.
A child holds a model train at ION's 5th anniversary.
A child holds a model train at ION's 5th anniversary.
Crowd of people gathered outside for ION's 5th anniversary.

The decision to build a light rail transit system has had a transformative impact on our community, with major impacts on how our cities developed and how people get around.

On July 4, people are welcomed to a free screening of the ION documentary “Growing Up: The Story of ION Light Rail in Waterloo Region.” The show starts 7 p.m. at the Kitchener Public Library’s central branch. Watch the trailer here: