An awesome weekend full of amazing events has arrived! You name it: fireworks, buskers, ribs and poutine and much more! Check out this post and share it with your friends. Do you know about any other weekend events? Share them in comments!
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14 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. Casino Lac-Leamy Fireworks
Enjoy major international-caliber pyro musical performances, culinary experiences, stunning artistic performances and multimedia art installations. Tickets from $16. You can also watch them from any point on the Ottawa shoreline, like Major’s Hill Park. Fireworks show at 9:15pm. When: July 31 and Aug 3, 7, 10, 14 and 17. Where: Canadian Museum of History grounds, Laurier St, Gatineau Details: feux.qc.ca
2. Ottawa International Buskerfest
Awesome world-class performers will entertain audiences of all ages. Free workshops, strolling performers and food vendors. FREE. When: August 2 to 5 Where: Sparks St. Details: ottawabuskerfestival.com
3. Capital Ribfest & Poutine
Come enjoy the best juicy ribs and poutine. Live music, games, bevvies and fun. FREE. When: August 2-5, 12-9pm. (Mon, 12-6pm) Where: City Hall, 110 Laurier St W. Details: capitalribfest.ca
4. 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
5. Capital Pop Up Cinema
Enjoy a free outdoor movie screening: ‘The wedding singer’ FREE. 8:45pm approx. When: Friday Aug 2 at 8:45pm Where: Beachwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave. Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema
6. 613 Flea
Shop from over 150 vendors featuring eclectic goods, handmade, antiques, vintage clothing, food and much more. FREE. When: Saturday Aug 3 from 10am to 4pm. Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne park, 1015 Bank St. Details: @613flea
7. Atletico Ottawa vs Cavalry FC
Cheer on Ottawa’s professional soccer team against Cavalry FC from Calgary. Tickets: When: Saturday Aug 3 at 7pm Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
8. Festival Pakistan
Come celebrate Pakistani culture and cuisine at the 4th annual Festival Pakistan. Shopping, traditional food, live music and the Kite & Mango Festival. FREE When: Saturday August 3, 11am-6pm. Where: Strathcona Park, 25 Range Rd, Ottawa Details: https://salampakistan.ca/?doing_wp_cron=1721663010.1427910327911376953125
9. Colonel By Days
Highlighting Ottawa’s rich history and the canal builder’s legacy at Colonel By Days. Live, guided tours, period costumes, and workshops. FREE. When: Saturday Aug 3-Monday Aug 5, various times. Where: Ottawa Locks Bytown Museum, 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa Details: https://ottawamuseumnetwork.ca/event/colonel-by-days/
10. Open Doors at Rideau Hall
Open Doors at Rideau Hall gives you a private or guided chance to explore the grounds, state rooms, gardens and greenhouses of the abode of the Governor General. FREE When: Saturday Aug 3- Monday Aug 5, 10am-4pm Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Dr, Ottawa Details: https://www.gg.ca/en/visit-us/rideau-hall/what-see-and-do/doors-open-rideau-hall
11. Summer Spirals
Going to class should always be as enriching as Summer Spirals makes it. Mixing Gyrokenisis, dance, breathwork and meditation, you will leave this session grounded, centered and energized. FREE. When: Saturday August 3, 10am Where: Peter A Herrndorf Place (NAC), 1 Elgin St, Ottawa Details: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/37099
12. Company of Fools: Macbeth
Something foolish this way comes as the Company of Fools presents Shakespeare’s Macbeth, with the twist of an all-female/non-binary cast. Tickets are pay-what-you-can ($20 suggested) When: Friday Aug 2 – Monday Aug 5 (and beyond), 7pm-8:30pm Where: Aug 2nd Alexander Grove (Stittsville), Aug 3rd Fairmont Park (Civic Hospital), Aug 5th Strathcona Park (Sandy Hill) Details: https://fools.ca/macbeth/
13. Glengarry Highland Games
Experience the rich heritage of Scotland at the Glengarry Highland Games! Enjoy over 60 pipe bands, 200 Highland dancers, and a variety of traditional sports and pageantry. Tickets: $30. Children 12 and under FREE. When: Friday Aug 2, 8am-2am. Saturday Aug 3, 8am-10pm. Where: 34 Fair St, Maxville Details: https://www.glengarryhighlandgames.com/
14. Festival Country du Grand Gatineau
Celebrate the 32nd edition of the Grand Gatineau Country Festival! Enjoy performances by over 40 country music artists on outdoor stages and indoors. Tickets: $26.85 & up When: Aug 1–4; Friday from 7pm, rest of the days from 1pm. Where: Father Arthur Guertin Center, 16 Rue Bériault, Gatineau Details: https://www.countrygatineau.com/
Contents
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
15. Don Juan
The year 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the successful musical Don Juan, written by Félix Gray, directed by Gilles Maheu (Notre Dame de Paris), and seen by more than 600,000 spectators around the world. The musical promises an unforgettable journey through the depths of love, betrayal, and redemption, with irresistible charm. July 31-Aug 2, 8 pm, August 3, 2pm & 8pm. Southam Hall, 1 Elgin Street Ottawa Canada. Tickets: $85.25-$144.25
16. 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.
17. Fields of Gold
Step into a golden wonderland at Fields of Gold, where expansive sunflower fields offer stunning views and perfect selfie spots. Pick your own fresh sunflowers and explore the U-Pick flower patch featuring dahlias, zinnias, and more. Tickets: $15. Child: $10. U-Pick: $35. Wednesday to Sunday, on now until Aug 25, 10am to 5pm. At Fields of Gold, 17650 Strathmore Road, Monkland, North Stormont.
18. Psychic & Wellness Fair
Explore a range of mystical and wellness experiences from top psychics, mediums, astrologers, and healers. Enjoy aura photography, rune reading, tea leaf and palm readings, plus beautiful crystals and handmade jewelry. Tickets: $10. Children 12 and under FREE. August 1-4. Thursday: 2pm-10pm. Friday: 2pm-10pm. Saturday: 11am-10pm. Sunday: 11am-6pm. At Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa
19. U-pick flowers & sunflowers at Green Corners Farm
Visit a local farm and wander through the flower field and create your own freshly picked bouquet! You can choose from sunflowers, snapdragons, zinnias, marigolds and more. Come with your family, friends and pets, enjoy seasonal blooming and have a small picnic in a dedicated area. Friday through Monday, 9am-11:30am and 4pm-6:30pm. At 1259 Yorks Corners Road. Tickets: $4.42–$22.12, kids under 5 – FREE. Details: https://greencorners.ca/shop/u-pick-bouquets/
20. Public Archeological Digs
Supervised digs where you can learn hands-on about the pre-contact history of the region and help to recover artifacts. Members of the NCC Archaeology Program will guide the digs and the local archaeologist will run a flintknapping demonstration. Don’t forget your closed-toe shoes, gloves, long pants and sunscreen! FREE. July 31-August 3, drop by anytime between 9am and 5pm. At Leamy Lake Park, Leamy Lake Pkwy, Gatineau. Flintknapping demonstration (Learn about how stone tools were made): Friday Aug 2 and Monday, Aug 26, 10am-2pm Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/events/public-archaeological-digs
Saturday
21. Crush: The Bonjovi Experience
Authentic musical renditions of Bon Jovi’s greatest hits like ‘Wanted Dead or Alive’ and ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’. Hear the legendary sounds of Bon Jovi with Crush, a Bon Jovi Experience like no other! +19. Tickets: $25.57-$31.59 incl tax. Saturday, Aug 3, 8 pm-11pm. At Rideau Carleton Casino, 4837 Albion Road.
22. Major League Quad
Experience the thrilling finale of the 2024 MLQ as the Ottawa Black Bears go head-to-head with the Boston Forge this weekend. Pay what you can with a minimum of $5. Get your tickets at https://mlquadball.ticketleap.com/. When: Saturday, August 3 from 2pm till 5pm. Where: 140 Main St, Ottawa, ON K1S 5P4.
23. Urban Art Collective Saturday Themed Markets
For those who enjoy markets, make sure not to overlook the Saturday themed markets! Explore this weekend’s Antique & Vintage Market to discover a variety of unique treasures while showing support for local businesses. FREE. When: Saturday, August 3 from 12pm to 5pm. Where: 1088 Somerset St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3C7.
Sunday
24. 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.
25. 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
26. 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.
Monday
27. Bring the Kids!
Enjoy a classic and chamber music recital brought to you by the National Arts Centre. Kids’ presence is encouraged as the concerts are tailored-made for short attention spans so you all can spend a musical magic moment together. FREE. When: Monday, August 5 at 12pm. Where: 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON K1P.
28. Meet & Greet with Sesame Street
Come to meet Elmo, Abby, and the remarkable Cookie Monster this long weekend and enjoy a variety of engaging activities like face painting, games, and treats with your little ones. The Sesame Street crew will be waiting for you at Tanger Outlet! FREE. When: Monday, August 5 from 11am to 3pm. Where: 8555 Campeau Drive, Ottawa.
Other recurring events in Ottawa
29. 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.
30. Money in 10 Questions: Kids Edition
Discover the basics of money and personal finance in a fun, play-based exhibition designed for kids. Explore interactive displays and activities that teach financial literacy in an engaging way. FREE. On now until November 24. 7 days a week. 10am-5pm. At Bank of Canada Museum, 30 Bank Street, Ottawa.
31. Ottawa Titans Baseball Club
Catch professional baseball games at the Ottawa Stadium. The Ottawa Titans Baseball Club competes in the Eastern Conference of the Frontier League, featuring 15 teams from Ontario, Québec, and the U.S. northeast. Meet the team’s mascot, Cappy, and enjoy a fun day with fellow sports fans! Tickets: $12 to $16. At 300 Coventry Road, Ottawa. More info on the schedule: https://ottawatitans.com/
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. 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.
34. 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.
35. 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.
36. 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
37. 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.
38. 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.
39. 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).
40. 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.
41. 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.
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.
Enjoy!!