July is almost over! Are you enjoying the summer? Don’t miss the chance to participate in Ottawa’s summer festivals. The summer season is short! Here is a lineup of events and things to do to start planning your weekend!
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12 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. Ottawa Chamberfest
This is the largest chamber music festival in the world and one of the oldest festivals in Ottawa! This year it’s celebrating its 30th anniversary. Enjoy free and paid concerts taking place in beautiful venues in the capital. When: July 25 to Aug 8 Where: Various venues Details: https://www.chamberfest.com
2. Ratha Yatra Chariot Festival
Witness a majestic chariot as it embarks on a spiritual journey through the heart of the city, pulled by devotees and other enthusiasts! Live music, engaging activities for children, a meditation workshop, and a sumptuous vegetarian feast. FREE. When: Saturday July 27 at 11am Where: The parade starts at Templeton St. & Marlborough Ave. The festivities will continue at the Sandy Hill Community Centre, 250 Somerset St East, Ottawa. Details: On Facebook
3. Gatineau Brewfest
This event is all about 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 17-27 Where: Casino Lac-Leamy, 1 Blvd du Casino, Gatineau.
4. Chamberfest – Bring the Kids! SISU Ensemble
Engaging piano-vocal concert for kids and their families mixed with storytelling and movement. FREE but registration is requested. When: Saturday July 27 at 10:30am. Where: City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave W. Ottawa.
5. Chamberfest – Yoga with Anna Petersen & Raphael Weinroth-Browne.
Enjoy a morning of music-filled mindfulness on the gorgeous grounds of Ottawa City Hall. FREE but registration is required. When: Saturday July 27 at 9am. Where: 29 Lisgar St. Ottawa.
6. Capital Pop Up Cinema
Enjoy free outdoor movie screenings this weekend. FREE. 8:45pm approx. When: Friday July 26 at Sparks St: “Home Alone”. Saturday July 27 at Zibi on Albert Island: “Scott Pilgrim vs the World”.
7. Ottawa Redblacks vs Calgary Stampeders
Cheers for the Ottawa Redblacks as they battle the Calgary Stampeders in an exciting CFL football game! Tickets from $30. When: Friday, July 26, at 7:30 pm Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St Details: https://www.ottawaredblacks.com
8. Miguel de Armas
This renowned Cuban pianist will bring his Latin Fiesta to the canal. Listen to salsa, merengue and many other Latin hit songs on the canal showboat while cruising along the Rideau Canal. FREE. When: Saturday July 27 at 4:30pm Where: Find a spot to have a picnic along the canal between the NAC (1 Elgin St) and Lansdowne Park.
9. Company of Fools Macbeth
Join a theatrical rollercoaster of Macbeth under the setting sun at the park. 7pm. Pay what you can, suggested donation $20. Wednesday 24: At Nault Park. Vanier. Thursday 25: Greenboro Park. Greenboro. Friday 26: Patterson Creek, the Glebe. Saturday 27: New Edinburgh Park, New Edinburgh.
10. Social Tango Project
Experience the Social Tango Project, Buenos Aires’ finest. Enjoy an evening of tango, music, projections, and dance in an intimate setting. Tickets from $19. When: July 24-25, 7:30 pm. Where: Babs Asper Theatre, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa. Details: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/36329
11. Chinatown Bazaar
Experience Ottawa’s vibrant Chinatown at the Bazaar! Enjoy local crafts, artwork, and unique finds. Visit and support the community! FREE When: Sunday, July 28, 11 am – 5 pm Where: 687 Somerset St W, Ottawa Details: https://ottawachinatown.ca/bazaar/
12. Second Hand Stories Chicken Sanctuary
Discover Secondhand Stories Chicken Sanctuary’s open house at Rideau Lakes, with vegan vendors, book sales, live music, crafts, and chickens! Tickets $10 When: Saturday, July 27, 10 am – 4 pm. Where: Secondhand Stories Sanctuary, 21 Pegg Road, Lombardy Details: https://www.secondhandstories.ca/
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More things to do in Ottawa this weekend!
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
13. Ride the B-17 Flying Fortress
A one-of-a-kind collection of the rarest historical military planes in the world will be near you! Admission: $15 USD. Tuesday, July 23-28 from 9am-5pm. At Vintage Wings of Canada,1699 Rue Arthur-Fecteau, Gatineau.
14. Magic at the Manor
Get ready for 90 minutes of magic and mind-blowing mentalism with Michael Bourada! You will be watching the show and participating in the action. Michael Bourada has performed worldwide for over 20 years and now you can watch his incredible show. Tickets for $15. Wednesday, July 24, 8 pm. At 292 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
15. Wood Terrace Series
Spend your sunsets under the stars as inspirational artists share their musical visions of culture, identity and tradition! Admission: FREE. Every Tuesday and Wednesday night from Tuesday, July 23 to August 21. At the National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
16. Summer Sounds concert series at Andrew Haydon Park
Bring your lawn chair and enjoy an evening of music for all ages. FREE. Wednesday, July 24, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm. Andrew Haydon Park, 3127 Carling Avenue, Ottawa. Details: https://nepeanconcertband.com
17. Hilda’s Yard
It’s 1956, and the Flucks are relishing their freedom now that their 30-something children have finally left the nest. Suddenly their son flings himself over the garden fence on the run from the mob, followed by his sister who has just left her husband. As Hilda’s yard fills with unexpected guests, the stakes and the laughs grow in this heartwarming family comedy. Price: $14 to $30. July 24 – August 3. Wednesdays to Saturdays at 7:30 pm. Matinee: Sundays at 2:30 pm. At Ottawa Little Theatre, 400 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa.
18. Greely Legion Country Music Festival
Greely Legion’s 12th annual music festival for country music lovers! Admission: $10-30 (day pass) and $65-75 (weekend pass). Thursday, July 25-27 from 1-10pm (6-10pm on Thursday). At Greely & District Legion, 8021 Mitch Owens Road, Ottawa.
19. Ottawa Titans Baseball Club
Get into the holiday spirit as we celebrate the off-season holidays with special Holiday-themed jerseys and post-game fireworks! Admission: $12-16. Friday, July 26 at 6:30pm. At Ottawa Titans Baseball Club, 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa.
20. Pub Royal: The COWBOY FRINGANTS Musical Comedy
7 actors/singers playing the charismatic PUB ROYAL characters, 7 dancers performing to the lively music, and 6 circus artists will amaze you with their talents! Admission: Starting at $63. July 25, 26, 27 at 8pm (plus a 2pm show on the 27th). At Southam Hall, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
21. The Chef’s Table
The Chef’s Table is a farm-to-table feast with menus curated by Canadian chefs and musical entertainment. Presented by the Ontario Festival of Small Halls, in collaboration with the National Arts Centre’s Resident Chefs Program. Ticket price $138.99. July 25–27 from 6 pm to 9pm. At 1 Elgin, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
22. Dief the Chief October 62
It’s October 1962. Relive the heart-stopping story of the Cuban Missile Crisis through the eyes of Canada’s 13th Prime Minister, John “Dief the Chief” Diefenbaker. Travel with “Dief the Chief” through the Diefenbunker into the War Cabinet Room as he and the world watch the USA and USSR face off in history’s closest brush with nuclear war. Hear in his own words how “Dief the Chief’s” rocky relationship with President John F. Kennedy played an extraordinary role in Canadian and American relations and how each influenced the other’s policies. Ticket price: $55. Friday, July 26 & Saturday, July 27, at 6:30. At the Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa, Ontario.
23. Almonte Craft Beer Festival
Spend a delightful evening sampling craft beers and fine wines from local breweries and wineries, all while enjoying live music from talented local bands. There will also be food vendors on-site to complement your drinks. It’s the perfect blend of great tastes, wonderful sounds, and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night out! This event is for +19. Tickets for $25. Friday, July 26, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. At Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte, ON.
24. The Commissionaires Ottawa Open
If you are a fan of golf, make sure not to miss the second annual Commissionaires Ottawa Open PGA TOUR Canada tournament taking place in Ottawa this week! Tickets from $20 to $300. From Monday, July 22, to Sunday July 28. At 109 Royal Troon Ln – Dunrobin, ON
Saturday
25. Magic and Mystery Laugha-Cadabra
An incredible afternoon of magic and laughter with Toronto’s performing magician couple Aaron and Caroline, who have performed all over Canada, and been on Canada’s Got Talent. Their show includes stage illusions, sleight of hand magic, flashy magic, and a whole lot of fun. This show is for the whole family. Ticket price: $20.63 to $33.25. Saturday July 27 at 12:30 pm. Venue: Richcraft Theatre, 245 Centrum Blvd, Orléans.
26. Mud Girl Run
Get ready for an all inclusive, 5km (about 3 miles) race, consisting of 17+ obstacles to overcome. Whether you are by yourself or in a team, the course is committed to testing your strength, endurance and above all, your spirit. There is no timing and no obligation to complete all the obstacles. The sole purpose of having fun and having a great experience. Tickets $10 – $60. Saturday July 27. Festival opens at 7:45 am. At Wesley Clover Park, 401 Corkstown Rd, Nepean.
27. Egyptian Day
Celebrating Egyptian Heritage Month of Ontario. Come to explore Egyptian music from ancient Egypt to folkloric music, modern, and underground; Egyptian food and drinks, traditional wear and clothing, and the culture of modern Egypt. Saturday July 27 from noon to 8pm, at Tanglewood Hillside Community Association, 30 Woodfield Dr, Nepean.
28. Mystical Haven Wellness Fair
Find psychics, mediums, tarot readings, crystals, Reiki, energy healers, wellness products and more. Goody bags for first 50 attendees. FREE admission. Saturday July 27 from 10am to 3pm. Walter Baker Sports Center, 100 Malvern Drive.
29. Bridge Street Summerfest
Prepare to be amazed by a diverse range of artisans, makers, crafters, vintage & thrift resellers, pop-ups, and remarkable local businesses. Admission: FREE. Saturday, July 27 from 10am-3pm. At Bridge Street, 170 Bridge Street, Carleton Place.
Sunday
30. Chamberfest – Adaptive Concert: A Taste of Paris
Blending the music of Widor, Damase, Saint-Saëns, and Bizet with comparisons of French cuisine and musical ingredients. FREE but registration is required. Sunday July 28 at 1:30pm at Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa.
31. 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. Sunday, July 28, 9:30 am to 4 pm. Where: Whitehouse Perennials, 594 Rae Road, Almonte.
Other recurring events
32. Salsa at City Hall
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
33. 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.
34. 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.
35. 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.
36. 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.
37. 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.
38. 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
39. 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
40. 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.
41. Storytime at Rideau Hall
Visitors are invited to settle in under the Reading Tent near the Visitor Centre to read books and participate in fun literacy activities. Thursdays and Fridays until August 9 from 1pm to 3pm. At Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive.
42. 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.
43. 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).
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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
49. 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.
50. 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.
Enjoy!!