And here it is, folks: the last long weekend of summer. After this weekend, the children head back to school. Colours will change on the trees. I won't get mad at people who want to drink pumpkin-spiced beverages.

It was a good summer though, wasn't it? So many fun events.

Long weekends can be a sleepy time in terms of events, but there are a few things to check out if you're staying close to home this weekend.

It also looks like it's going to be a good weekend with the forecast calling for moderate temperatures and a mix of sun and cloud right through to Monday.

There are art market duels in uptown Waterloo Friday night, Elora's shops will be open late on Saturday and there's an open mic at Blackwing Coffee Bar on Sunday in Cambridge.

Or you can check out the following five fun events. Whatever you decide to do, enjoy your weekend!

Kitchener Rangers vs. North Bay Battalion

7 p.m. puck drop on Friday, Aug. 30

The Aud, 400 East Ave., Kitchener

If you can believe it, pre-season hockey gets underway for the Kitchener Rangers Friday night when they face the North Bay Battalion.

Can't make it for Friday night's game? The Rangers will host the Saginaw Spirit Saturday at 7 p.m. and the Peterborough Petes Sunday at 2 p.m.

Before the game on Sunday, the Rangers will host their annual Fan Fest and barbecue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet players, enjoy some lunch and check out the inflatables as well as the rides.

Kitchener Panthers vs. Barrie Baycats

7 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 1

Jack Couch Park at The Aud, 400 East Ave., Kitchener

Just as hockey is starting, baseball playoffs are at their peak.

The Panthers will catch up with the Baycats this weekend in the Intercounty Baseball League finals.

On Thursday night, they fell two games behind to the Baycats.

This weekend will be their chance to tie up the series. The next game is Saturday in Barrie at 7 p.m., then the Panthers are back in front of the hometown crowd Sunday at 7 p.m.

A 519 Hip-Hop Showcase

7:30 p.m. to midnight, Saturday, Aug. 31

Harmony Lunch, 90 King St. N., Waterloo

This show will include live sets from Palmreader (who will be celebrating a birthday), Emerson, SteveDave, Leaf Grizzly and Ennsey. It will be hosted by Otis Morris.

The Oliver and Co. Improv Show

8 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31

Silence, 46 Essex St., Guelph

Take in some improv from the talented Oliver Pavia — son of CBC KW's Joe Pavia — and Katy Warren who will be joined by a few special guests. You never know what will happen.

Harry Potter Escape Room

1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31

Idea Exchange Hespeler, 5 Tannery St. E., Cambridge

Puzzle your way through this escape room themed on beloved young wizard Harry Potter. Sign up at the library to guarantee yourself a spot.