K-W Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off in downtown Kitchener (7 photos)

The long weekend Oktoberfest celebrations will end on a high note as the K-W Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day Parade takes over the streets in downtown Kitchener. 

During the event volunteers will be collecting non-perishable food items and cash donations for the Onkel Hans Food Drive.

For the 50th anniversary of the K-W Oktoberfest, volunteers are aiming to raise 50,000 meals for the Region's Food Bank.

Residents can also donate online here to support the drive.