Another beautiful weekend awaits us ahead! Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy these amazing summer festivals and fun events happening in the capital. From cultural and food events, to sports, markets and a beer festival, there is a lot of things to do in Ottawa!!
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12 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. Lebanese Festival
One of the oldest summer events in Ottawa: live music performances, Middle Eastern food, a fair and midway, and tours inside the St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral (paid). Free entry before 5pm. General admission: $3. Family pass (4): $10. Children under 12: free. When: July 17-21. Wed-Fri: 4pm-11pm. Sat- Sun 11am-11pm. Where: Saint Elias Centre Conference and Banquet Facility, 750 Ridgewood Ave. Details: ottawalebanesefestiva
2. Ottawa Asian Fest at Lansdowne
Highlighting the very best in Asian culture and cuisine. Enjoy K-pop dancers, musicians, Dragon dance, and street foods chefs specializing in the most unique and trendy Asian dishes. FREE. When: July 19-21, Fri-Sat, 12pm-12am; Sun, 12pm-8pm. Where: Lansdowne Park. Details: https://www.tdplace.
3. Carivibe Reach the Beach
Enjoy the very best in Tropical Cuisine, Tropical Drinks, Tropical Ice Cream & Caribbean Comedy. All mixed with sweet Soca, Dancehall, Reggae and Afro vibes. Tickets: $14.64. When: July 19-21. Where: Petrie Island, 795 Tweddle Road, Orleans. Details: On Facebook.
4. Gatineau Brewfest
Showcasing the best craft beer producers and distilleries. Great vibes with concerts, music, food, a Ferris wheel and a big pool with floaties and pedalboats. Tickets: $21.95 and $28,95. When: July 17-24; 5pm-11pm. Where: Casino Lac Leamy, 1 Boulevard du Casino, Gatineau. Details: en.festibiere.ca
5. Salsa at City
Hall Join an enthusiastic team of instructors to learn how to dance Salsa and other Latin dance styles (bachata, kizomba, hustle, son cubano or zouk) and stay for fun social dancing afterwards. FREE. When: Wednesdays from 6:30pm to 10pm. Where: City Hall, 150 Laurier Ave W. Details: salsacityhall.com
6. Parkdale Market 100th Birthday Party
This iconic market is turning 100 years old and will celebrate with all the hallmarks of a birthday bash including over 60 vendors, DJ, photo booth, kid’s games, birthday cake, a magic show and balloons. FREE. When: Wednesday July 17 from 5pm to 9pm. Where: 366 Parkdale Avenue. Details: IG @parkdalepublicmarket
7. The Big Bounce Canada
More than your typical bouncy castle, the Big Bounce is the largest inflatable touring event in the world. Special 3 hour bouncing sessions for the little ones, families, and bigger kids too. Tickets from $30. When: Saturday July 13 – Sunday July 28, from 9am-10pm. Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd, Ottawa. Details: https://thebigbouncecanada.
8. Food and Kite Festival
Celebrate Indian culture with lots of joy, energy and kites. Admission: FREE. Kites and thread available to purchase on site. No personal kites allowed. Parking: $5/car. When: Saturday July 20, 9:30am onwards. Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Road, Ottawa. Details: https://gcaottawa.ca/
9. 613 Flea
Shop from over 150 vendors featuring eclectic goods, handmade, antiques, vintage clothing, food and much more. FREE. When: Saturday July 20; 10am-4pm. Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1015 Bank St. Details: IG @613flea
10. Ontario Parks Free Use Day
In celebration of Healthy Parks Healthy People Day, the public will have free admission to all Ontario provincial parks. Additional charges for facilities not included in day use such as camping, equipment rentals. When: Friday July 19 until 10pm. Where: All provincial parks across Ontario. Details: ontarioparks.ca
11. Redblacks vs Edmonton Elks
Come cheer on the Redblacks in their hunt for a win over their western rivals, the Edmonton Elks. Tickets from $30. When: Friday July 19 at 7pm. Where: TD Place (Landsdowne), 1015 Bank St, Ottawa. Details: https://www.
12. Atletico Ottawa vs Valour FC
Atletico Ottawa is bringing the honour as they take on Valour FC, at the special Legends & Heroes Night, celebrating some incredible people from the CHEO foundation. Tickets from $20. When: Sunday July 21 at 2pm. Where: TD Place (Landsdowne), 1015 Bank St, Ottawa. Details: https://
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
13. City Sounds Live
Experience outdoor musical performances in vibrant Ottawa neighbourhoods. Enjoy live music in Ogilvy Square. FREE. When: July 19, 5pm-7pm. Where: Ogilvy Square, 3 Nicholas Street, Ottawa.
14. Chef’s Table
World-class chefs will showcase a three-course menu with the most exquisite dishes accompanied by live music, providing you with a memorable summer evening. This year’s edition has different scheduled days, so if you haven’t had the chance to get your tickets, now is the time. Tickets cost $138.99 plus fees. For more tickets info, visit https://
15. Historic Cemetery Tour
Come to the Billings Estate National Historic Site and immerse yourself in a guided tour of the Settler’s Cemetery. Learn about the history of life, death, burial, and disease in 19th-century Gloucester. Tickets: $20.35 per person and prior registration is required. This event is for ages 16 and up. When: Thursdays, July 18 and August 22, from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm Where: 2100 Cabot St, ON K1H 6K1. For more information, https://ottawa.
16. Dance at Zibi
Every Thursday starting July 18 and until August 15, dance groups from across the region will be showing off their moves and inviting the public to join them on the dance floor in a series of dance nights ranging from K-pop and street dance to Latin folk, house and tango. The Free all-ages dance lessons will take place in the open air from 6pm to 8pm on Albert Island behind the War Museum. This Thursday July 18: K-pop dance by Synaptik Dance Crew.
17. Kemptville Live Musical Festival
Kemptville will be alive with the sound of music with artists such as the Sam Roberts Band, Burton Cummings, and Glass Tiger playing the Live Musical Festival. Tickets from $80, kids under 12 FREE. When: Wednesday July 17 – Sunday July 21, various times. Where: Kemptville College, 830 Prescott Street, Kemptville. Details: https://www.
18. Stewart Park Festival
Enjoy three days of free music by the water at Stewart Park in downtown heritage Perth. The Stewart Park Festival celebrates community with music, great food, and amazing vendors. Tickets: FREE/by Donation. When: July 19-21. Where: Stewart Park, Perth, Ontario. Details: https://www.
19. St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival
Enjoy professional outdoor theatre with the St. Lawrence River as a backdrop. Featuring “The Tempest” and “She Stoops to Conquer.” Tickets: $26-$38. FREE for children. When: July 17– August 10, 2024. Where: Kinsmen Amphitheatre, 101 Water St W, Prescott, ON.
20. Bloomfest Garden art show & Sale
Wander beautiful display gardens to be surprised and delighted by the creative works of 21 very talented artists. Discover that special piece of garden art to complement your outdoor space. Don’t forget to visit a daylily field which will be in full bloom. FREE. Saturday, July 20 – Sunday, July 28, 9:30 am to 5 pm; Sundays until 4 pm. Where: Whitehouse Perennials, 594 Rae Road, Almonte.
Saturday
21. Ottawa Blackjacks vs Niagara River Lions
The Blackjacks will battle away on the court as they try to tame the mighty River Lions of Niagara. Tickets from $35. When: Saturday July 20 at 7pm. Where: TD Place (Landsdowne), 1015 Bank St, Ottawa. Details: https://www.
22. Lock and Paddle
At the Lock and Paddle, set sail with a flotilla flash mob of colourful canoes and kayaks travelling from Hartwells lock to Hog’s Back. All skill levels welcome for some floating fun. FREE. When: Saturday July 20 at 2pm. Where: Hartwells Lock, 901 Hartwell’s Locks Lane, Ottawa. Details: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-
23. About the Swifties
Experience the ultimate Taylor Swift tribute night with All About the Swifties! Dance to hits like “We Are Never Getting Back Together,” “Blank Space,” and “You Belong With Me,” performed live by Carla Sacco. Her high-energy show and powerful vocals will make this an unforgettable night for any Swiftie. Must be 19+. Tickets: $25.57 – $31.59. When: Saturday, July 20, 8pm. Where: Rideau Carleton Casino, 4837 Albion Road, Ottawa.
24. Ottawa Beatlemania with The Liverpool 4
Experience The Liverpool 4, Canada’s Tribute to The Beatles, in a high-energy live performance spanning all eras of The Beatles’ career. With nearly two decades of shows across North America, including Maple Leaf Gardens and Massey Hall, The Liverpool 4 delivers impeccable musicianship and showmanship. Sing, dance, and relive Beatles magic with this two-act show, featuring a 20-minute intermission. Tickets: $50.00. When: Saturday, July 20, 8pm. Where: Harold Shenkman Hall, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa. Tickets: https://shenkmanarts.
25. LeFLOFRANCO
Ottawa artist LeFLOFRANCO offers high-vibration rap filled with emotional lyrics, aiming to elevate the hip-hop scene with his “multicolored urban pop” style. His music blends modern HipHop, TRAP, Electro, and Caribbean sounds, reflecting his Haitian roots. FLO’s lyrics explore various themes and emotions, resonating with both Anglophone and Francophone audiences. FREE. When: Saturday, July 20. 4:30pm. Where: Along The Rideau Canal, Ottawa.
26. Company of Fools: Macbeth
Join a theatrical rollercoaster of Macbeth under the setting sun! Taste a classic Shakespearean recipe for disaster with some sneaky plotting, a sprinkle of murder, sword fights and supernatural spookiness. Saturday, July 20, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. At Beechwood Cemetery (Manor Park). Pay what you can, suggested donation $20.
27. Friends of the Ottawa Library Mammoth Book Sale
Discover tables of terrific and gently used books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs and more at bargain prices. Browse a variety of genres including Fiction, Non-Fiction, Lifestyle, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Biography, Children’s and more. This month thousands of CDs are available at blowout prices – three CDs for just $5. There’s something for everyone! FREE. Saturday, July 20, 10 am–2 pm. At James Bartleman Center, 100 Tallwood Drive, Ottawa.
28. Pints in the park
Manor Park’s Favourite outdoor community event returns for its 5th year! BEER. FOOD. MUSIC. A family-friendly event that features amazing local breweries, restaurants and makers in Ottawa. This year Rief Winery is also on site with wine for all the non-beer drinkers! Non-alcoholic drinks, freezies, ice cream, pop, etc, are also available for sale. FREE admission. Saturday, July 20, 2 pm-7 pm. At Manor Park Community Center, 100 Thornwood Road.
29. Outerbridge Magic: Mysteries of the Keyhole House
The perfect combination of magic and mystery will provide you with a unique night where you won’t believe what your eyes are seeing. Ted & Marion Outerbridge, Masters of Illusion, have toured all over the world, mesmerizing crowds with their magic, and now it’s your turn to step into their world. Tickets start at $26.78 on Eventbrite. When: Saturday, July 20 at 7:30 pm. Where: 175 Bridge Street, Carleton Place, K7C 2V8
30. See the Bees at Gees Bees
Learn the inner workings of a beehive while getting a closer approach to bees. If you feel adventurous, you can don special bee jackets and hold a frame of bees! This event is recommended for ages 6+. Tickets cost $5 plus tax. Registration is needed through https://www.geesbees.
Sunday
31. Salsa Sundays
Join this free weekly dance class taught by instructors from the University of Ottawa’s Salsa Club. No partner needed. The instructors will have you feeling the Latin spirit in no time! Sundays from June 9 to September 1 from 3pm to 5pm. At George Street Plaza, 55 Byward Market Square.
32. July Sunburst Market
Bask in the summertime bliss where the essence of the season unfolds in a treasure trove of delights. Bring your friends and family (even those of the furry variety) to enjoy a day of blissful discoveries of local vendors along with enticing door prizes. FREE. Sunday, July 21, 10 am – 3 pm. At Shenkman Arts Center 245 Centrum Blvd, Orléans. 4. Full Moon Yoga The night sky, summer breeze, and an experienced yoga instructor will make you feel like you’re touching the stars through gentle movements, postures, and stretching while getting into a flow state. This event is FREE. When: Sunday, July 21 at 9 pm. Where: 1000 Exhibition Way, ON K1S 5J3
Other recurring events in Ottawa
34. Relief of the Sentries Watch this ceremonial event in which four sentries are led by a bagpiper and two escorts to their posts at Sussex Gate and the front of the Governor General’s residence. They are dressed in full scarlet tunics and bearskin caps. FREE. When: Sat-Sun incl holiday Mondays; 10am-5pm on the hour. Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive Details: gg.ca
35. Zumba on the Hill
Come, dance, and enjoy the Zumba Party at Parliament Hill with certified instructors. FREE. When: Sundays, 4pm-5:15pm Where: Parliament Hill Details: https://www.facebook.com/ZumbaontheHill
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. Ottawa.
37. Nepean Night Market
Bringing amazing vendors, food trucks, music and family fun. FREE. Every Sunday from 5pm-9pm. At Mr Lube Parking Lot, 1442 Baseline Rd, Ottawa. Details: On Facebook.
38. ByWard Night Market
Be serenaded by the Cinq a Sept ByWard Concert Series on select Thursdays nights at George St. Plaza while you shop, eat and discover some of Ottawa’s most awesome artisans and creators. June 27 – August 29, from 5pm to 9pm. At 55 Byward Market Square, William Street (between George and York).
39. Wellness in Westboro
Join the Wellness Community of Westboro and nurture your soul and body with a variety of fitness classes guided by professional instructors. From kickboxing and strength classes to restorative Pilates and mindfulness meditation, the Westboro Village encourages all participants to stay active while having fun! Cost: $10 minimum per class. All proceeds will go to the Churchill Alternative School playground renewal. When: every Saturday until August 31 from 10 am to 11 am. Where: Lions Park at 294 Elmgrove Ave. Ottawa.
40. 2nd annual Ottawa Bagelshop Musicfest
Check out the second annual Ottawa BagelShop MusicFest this summer! Enjoy the performances of 40 local talented musicians while you shop. The show is FREE. The event will be taking place every Wednesday and Sunday at 2:30pm until August 11. At 1321 Wellington Street West. Ottawa.
41. Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park
Spend a delightful day in nature at the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park, where you can explore stunning sculptures in a multi-cultural, multi-religious, and multi-generational Canadian Institution. Tickets from $7 to $60, Kids under 10 years old free. The Sanctuary will be open every weekend until October. At 3468 Old Montreal Road Cumberland, Ottawa.
42. Hintonburg Night Market
You can pick up local eats, treats and all things handmade. Be entertained by local musicians, buskers and entertainers. Starting May 30, every Thursday night from 5pm to 10pm. 1088 Somerset St. W. Ottawa.
43. 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.
44. 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. Ottawa. Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/events/weekend-bikedays
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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).
Enjoy!!