If you have been enjoying Ottawa’s events in May so far, check out this list of events and mark them on your calendar for June. These are the most high-profile events in June and you won’t want to miss them! My recommendation: start planning and saving the dates. In many cases, booking is required even if the event is free.
1. Doors Open Ottawa
The 21st anniversary of this, the largest architectural and heritage celebration in Ottawa. It allows residents and tourists to discover our city by exploring a wide range of buildings, which are not usually open to the public. Book in advance a free entry ticket to the building of your preference.
When and where: Jun 3-4 at different venues.
Details: heritageottawa.org
2. Chinatown Night Market
From your local favorites to out-of-town vendors, and with loads of street pedlars, immerse yourself in a truly exotic experience in Ottawa. There will also be a wide variety of multicultural performances, dragon and lion dances, martial arts, live music and some instrument performances never seen before.
When and where: Jun 2-4 at Chinatown, Sommerset Street West between Bronson Ave and Bell St.
Details: ottawachinatown.ca
3. Italian Week
This is a classic in Ottawa: a whole week dedicated to celebrating Italian heritage and culture. There will be paid masterclasses, a paid Italian picnic, a free workshop for kids, a market, free movie screening, and a free bike race for all ages and levels. Jun 9-18
When and where: Jun 8-18 at Preston St and other venues.
Details: italianweekottawa.ca
4. Korean Week
Korea will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its relationship with Canada with a whole week of awesome events: K-pop performances, Taekwondo displays, traditional dances, movie screenings, and a special fan meet and greet event with Kingdom’s cast. Registration for this event starts May 15th at noon.
When and where: Jun 9-15 at Lansdowne Park and other venues.
Details: canada.korean-culture.org/en
5. Escapade Music Festival
One of the most popular events of the summer, this is an annual electronic dance music festival which features some of the top musicians in the electronic dance music industry. The event is already sold out.
When and where: Jun 23-25 at Lansdowne Park
Details: escapademf.com
6. Ottawa Jazz Festival
This 40-year old festival is one of the most anticipated musical showcases of the summer in Ottawa. It highlights some 300 talented Canadian artists in the lineup each year. There will be a Free Block Party on Jun 25 and Jun 26.
When and where: Jun 23-30 at Confederation Park, Marion Dewar Plaza at the City Hall and other venues.
Details: ottawajazzfestival.com
7. Summer Solstice Festival
This is another well-known festival which will take place at Màdahòki Farm. It will offer an authentic cultural experience from an Indigenous perspective, culinary experiences, an Indigenous marketplace, workshops, a pow wow and much more! FREE admission.
When and where: Jun 21-26 at Màdahòki Farm: 4420 West Hunt Club Road, Ottawa.
Details: summersolsticefestivals.ca
8. City of Om
What started as a yoga festival has evolved into the largest health and wellness festival in Ottawa. Two days of over 35 classes of yoga for all levels and ages, alongside other wellness activities like dance, painting, and meditation. Free events for kids accompanied by an adult.
When and where: Jun 2-3 at Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank Street.
Details: cityofom.com
Which events will you go to?
Take care!