Ready for another exciting weekend?? Ottawa will be bursting with action with a massive garage sale, a series of races including a marathon, a food festival, a soccer game, shows and more! Check out this post and share it with your pals!
Enjoy!!
11 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. The Great Glebe Garage Sale
Love incredible bargains? Neighbors and Glebe merchants hold a huge sale that attracts thousands of people. This massive garage sale has happened once a year since 1986. Go early to get the good stuff. FREE. When: Saturday May 25; 8am-2pm. Where: The Glebe. Details: https://glebeca.ca/garage-sale-committee/
2. Ottawa Tamarack Race Weekend
This is a massive event of races that include a Kids marathon, a Family Run, 5K, 10K, a Half Marathon and a Marathon. PAID. Onsite registrations still available for 2K, 5K and 10K on Friday and Saturday. When: Saturday May 25 and Sunday May 26 (Marathon and Half Marathon). Where: All races start at the City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave W. Details: runottawa.ca
3. Kanata Rib Fest and Poutine
Enjoy juicy ribs, poutine, mac and cheese, corn dogs, churros, bevvy bar and live music. FREE. **The Kanata Fun Fair will be open on the same site and the same days. When: May 24-26; 12pm-7pm. Where: Community Hub Park, 400 March Road. Kanata. Details: On Facebook.
4. Atletico vs Forge FC
Cheer on Ottawa’s professional soccer team against Forge FC. Tickets from $22. When: Saturday May 25. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St
5. 45th Annual Traditional Pow Wow
Celebrating the start of the Pow Wow season with drummers, dancers, singers, traditional food, craft vendors and entertainment. FREE. When: May 25-26; 12pm-6pm. Where: Canadian Police College, 1 Sandridge Rd. Details: On Facebook
6. Six
Multiple award-winning musical in which the six wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power. PAID. When: May 21-26. Where: National Arts Centre, Southam Hall, 1 Elgin St. Details: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/34568
7. Jukebox Lunch Concerts
Combine music and your midday meal with this NAC Spring series, featuring a sensational Canadian artist each week. This Thursday: Lebanese Canadian singer and songwriter Jana Salameh. FREE. When: Thursday May 23 (weekly thereafter), from 12:10pm-1pm. Where: Peter A Herrndorf Place (NAC), 1 Elgin Street, OttawaDetails: https://nac-cna.ca/en/series/jukebox
8. Monster Spectacular
Hear the roar and come witness the stunts and power of the world’s most popular monster trucks. Tickets from $40. When: Saturday May 25 at 2pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa. Details: https://www.canadiantirecentre.com/event/monster-spectacular/
9. World Lindy Hop Day Celebration
Hop to it as the Ottawa Swing Dance Society presents World Lindy Hop Day with a live band, lessons and plenty of dancing. Tickets $20. When: Friday May 24, from 6:45pm-1:30am. Where: St Joseph’s Parish Basement Hall, 174 Wilbrod Street, Ottawa. Details: On Facebook.
10. Nepean Night Market
The grand re-opening of the Nepean Night Market, bringing amazing vendors, food trucks, music and family fun. FREE. When: Sunday May 26, from 5pm-9pm. Where: Mr Lube Parking Lot, 1442 Baseline Rd, Ottawa. Details: On Facebook
11. Capital Comic Book Convention
For the comic collectors and enthusiasts, a concentrated marketplace of comic books, graphic novels, and trade paperbacks. Tickets from $8. When: Sunday May 26, from 11am-4pm. Where: Gymnasium RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Dr, Ottawa. Details: https://capitalcomiccon.com/
More things to do this weekend in Ottawa!
Wednesday and Thursday
12. The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
Based on the best-selling book by Rick Riordan. As the half-blood son of a Greek god, Percy Jackson must find Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt to prove his innocence and prevent a war among the gods. Ticket prices: $22.50-$40. Wednesday May 22 to Sunday May 26. At Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe. 101 Centrepointe Drive, Ottawa.
13. Shop the Village
Experience Shop the Village with themed evenings offering something special for everyone. Enjoy live music and salsa dancing to get ready for summer. Celebrate happiness with wellness activities. Thurday May 23 and Thurday May 30. 5pm-8pm. At Westboro Village, Ottawa, Ontario.
14. Omid Djalili Presents: Namaste Live in Ottawa
The Persian Comedy Powerhouse delivers his critically acclaimed show, unleashing comedic vitriol on the state of the world. No government, tyrant, or audience member is spared. Tickets from $65. Thursday, May 23. 8pm-10pm. Canadian Museum of History, 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau.
Friday
15. Social Rollerskating Quad Session
Get ready for a fun Friday evening on eight wheels! All levels and skating styles are welcome. While the Social Rollerskating Quad doesn’t offer formal lessons, there are plenty of opportunities to watch and learn, perfect for becoming a pro on the track. Tickets sales start at $9.31 on Eventbrite. Every Friday at 9pm, starting from May 24 until August 30. At 1125 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6.
16. Queer Mega Market
The Market returns in pop-up form, featuring the work of over 50 fabulous local Queer artisans and artists. FREE. When: Friday May 24, from 5pm-9pm. Where: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 290 Lisgar St, Ottawa.
17. Just Voices Spring Concert
Enjoy a musical evening and celebrate 20 years of melodies of protest, hope, and peace for the planet. With treats, a silent auction, and the presence of guest artist Tito Medina, this event promises to fill your soul and ears. Ticket sales are available at $20 or pay what you can on Eventbrite. Tickets can also be purchased at the door (cash only). Friday, May 24 at 7pm. At 30 Cleary Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 4A1.
18. Rock en español by UNO
Immerse yourself in rock music while enjoying the performances of Latin artists filling the stage with the best of music. Experience the raw energy and passion of Spanish-language rock as they bring iconic hits from bands like Soda Stereo and Héroes del Silencio, letting your inner rock persona out for one night. Tickets are available for $20 on Eventbrite or at the door. When: Friday, May 24 at 9pm at The Brass Monkey: 250 Greenbank, Ottawa, ON K2H 8X4.
19. Unapologetically Tranquil Korean Tea Experience
The KCC invites you to an unapologetically tranquil journey into Korean tea culture. Join a workshop featuring Darye, the traditional Korean tea ceremony, and a tasting of three types of Korean tea paired with traditional desserts. Hosted by renowned tea sommelier Soo Park from Toronto, this experience honors centuries-old practices of preparing and serving tea. Tickets are free but registrations are no longer being accepted. Friday May 24 from 5pm to 8pm. KCC Canada Multipurpose Hall 101-150 Elgin St, Ottawa
Saturday
20. Destination Brazil
Enjoy an in-person musical journey through Brazil’s vibrant and diverse sounds with Luciano. Designed for ages 3-8, this 40-minute performance combines original songs and traditional rhythms with stories that highlight the cultural influences from Africa, Europe, and Native traditions. Saturday May 25. Performances (in English): 11am and 1:30pm. Performance (in French): 3pm. Babs Asper Theatre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
21. Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Mammoth Book Sale
Announcing the Mammoth Book Sale for 2024. Come on down this Saturday and every 4th Saturday of the month for great prices on gently used books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, and more. Cash, credit, and debit accepted. Beginning Saturday May 25 from 10am- 2pm. James Bartleman Center, 100 Tallwood Drive, Ottawa
22. Bunnypalooza
Hop on down for a bunny extravaganza with vendors, rescues, and fun activities! The first 150 attendees will receive grab bags. Tickets are $10 per person or $15 per family. Saturday May 25 2024 from 11am – 4pm. Ron Kolbus Centre at Britannia Beach, 104 Greenview Avenue, Ottawa.
23. SOS: The Abba Experience
SOS – The ABBA Experience is thrilled to perform at Rideau Carleton Casino. This sensational 10-piece band recreates ABBA’s music almost note for note from the original albums, with powerful vocals, harmonies, elaborate costumes, and rich instrumental backing. Tickets are sold out, join the waitlist at https://www.rideaucarletoncasino.com/. Must be 19+. Saturday May 25 at 8pm. Rideau Carleton Casino 4837 Albion Road Ottawa.
24. Ottawa Drone Day
An annual global celebration of drone, community and experimental sounds. Did you know that a drone is a harmonic or monophonic effect where a note or chord is continuously sounded throughout most or all of a musical piece? Performers include: 16:9, Andy Slater, Anjeline de Dios, LSD Trio, and other artists. Group drone at 6pm. Entry and workshop participation is PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN. Saturday May 25; 1pm-9pm, at Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 290 Lisgar St.
25. Loonaucracy – An Art Show
Over 20 original paintings by Scott Ferguson, light+sonic experience. Food and drinks available for purchase. FREE admission. At Avant-Garde Bar, 135 Besserer St, Ottawa.
26. The Herb Garden Spring Market
Enjoy shopping, gardens, and spring flowers at The Herb Garden Spring Market in Almonte. Sip warm coffee while exploring handcrafted treasures and treats. FREE. Saturday, May 25. 10am-3pm. At The Herb Garden, 3840 Old Almonte Rd., Almonte.
27. The Franktown Lilac Festival
Come to the annual Franktown Lilac Festival in Beckwith Township, the Lilac Capital of Ontario! Start with a hearty breakfast hosted by the Beckwith Township Irish Football Team, then enjoy a children’s bike parade, a magic show by Michael Bourada, a Highland dancing demonstration by Victoria Nichols School of Highland Dance, and live music by Jamie McMunn and Friends. Don’t miss the children’s bike decorating contest and historical horse-drawn wagon rides down Lilac Lane. Saturday May 25 from 8am. Centennial Hall 152 Church St., Franktown – Beckwith Township
Sunday
28. Mind Altering Festival
Stimulate your senses at this year’s celebration of local art, culture, community, and psychedelics. Tickets from $22.63. Sunday. May 26, 4pm-10pm. At 67 Nicholas Street Ottawa.
29. Ottawa Guitar Show
Explore a variety of musical gear from different exhibitors. Suitable for beginners, professionals, and collectors. Buy, sell, and trade. Sunday May 26 10am-3pm. At Jim Durrell Recreation Centre, 1265 Walkley Road, Ottawa.
Other recurring Ottawa events
30. Zumba on the Hill
Come, dance, and enjoy the Zumba Party at Parliament Hill with certified instructors. FREE. When: Sunday May 26, 4pm-5:15pm Where: Parliament Hill Details: https://www.facebook.com/ZumbaontheHill
31. Pirate Life Ottawa
An immersive, family pirate adventure. Climb aboard a ship and sail in search of a treasure at Mooney’s Bay. From May to October. Tickets are $45, $40 or $35. Children 3 and under are free. At 588 Hog’s Back Road, Ottawa.
32. Summer at the Farm
The farm offers a glimpse into the past of what a family farm would have been like in the late 1800’s as well as how they farm today. Visit the animals. They have sheep, cows, rabbits, goats, horses, a donkey, alpacas, pigs, chickens, ducks and geese. May 18 to October 27 (from Thursday to Sunday), from 9am to 4pm. Admission – $11.50 + hst, Children under 1 – free. The Farmer’s market season will begin Saturday May 18 from 9am to 2pm (free parking and no admission to shop). At 670 Cedarview Rd. Ottawa, ON.
33. NCC Weekend Bikedays
The NCC will close three parkways to vehicles on the weekends for the active use of the public whether it is biking, roller skating, walking, jogging, or pushing a stroller. When: Weekends (including holiday Mondays) between May 11 and Oct 14. From 8am. Where: Kichi Sibi Mikan, George Etienne Cartier Parkway and Queen Elizabeth Driveway. Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/events/weekend-bikedays
34. Outdoor Public Market
Come explore the Market, filled with artisanal goods, food makers, and retailers. FREE. Open everyday. At Byward Market Square and George St, Ottawa.
35. Metcalfe Farmers Market
Over 45 vendors offering all products locally made, grown or created by the vendors. FREE. Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. Where: Metcalfe Fairgrounds, 2821 8th Line Rd, Metcalfe.
36. Lansdowne Market
Shop from over 75 vendors offering the finest local produce, baked goods, pantry essentials, crafts, hot meals, and much more. Pets are allowed. Every Sunday from 9am to 3pm. At the Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way.
37. Arboretum Hill Club Workout
Join the AHC for a workout at the Arboretum. All ages, all levels. Fridays at 6:29 am. FREE. Dogs welcome. Take the Prince of Wales roundabout to the Friends of the Farm parking lot. Lots of FREE parking (but please stay out of the reserved Agriculture Canada spots).
38. Bug Adventure
Experience the world as bugs do. Live exhibition of various insects, arachnids, and millipedes. There are interactive surprises around every corner. Tickets: $22, $24, $29.50. March 15 to Oct 14. At the Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St. Ottawa.
39. Wolves: Shapeshifters in a changing world
Learn about the evolution of these fascinating animals through videos, museum specimens, cultural stories, and vivid photographs by Canadian photographer Michelle Valberg, a recent recipient of the Order of Canada. Activities for kids. March 2 to Sept 2, 2024. At the Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St. Ottawa.