What an interesting lineup of events Ottawa has in store for us this weekend! The Greek Fest, the grand finale of the fireworks competition, a halal ribfest, and much more! Check out this post and don’t forget to share with your buddies.
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Elevate Your Weekends
15 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. Ottawa Greek Fest
Celebrating Greek heritage and food. Live music, dance performances, multicultural night, church tours, Greek language lessons. FREE. When: Aug 15-18 and Aug 23-25. Where: 1315 Prince of Wales Drive. Details:
https://www.ottawagreekfest.com/
2. Les Grand Feux du Casino Grand Finale
Don’t miss the grand finale of this amazing fireworks competition! Tickets $16 and $7.50. You can also watch the fireworks for free from any point on the Ottawa shoreline like Major’s Hill Park. Fireworks show TONIGHT: United Kingdom. Saturday: Grand Finale. When: Aug 14 and 17. At 9:15pm. Where: Canadian Museum of History grounds, Laurier St. Gatineau. Details:
feux.qc.ca
3. Halal Ribfest
Featuring 100% Halal BBQ, delicious street food, a pop-up market, live entertainment, kids fun zone and so much more. Tickets from $4,71. When: Aug 16-18, Fri 2pm-10pm. Sat-Sun 12pm-10pm.Where: Lansdowne park, 450 Queen Elizabeth Drive. Details: halalribfest.com
4. Capital Fair
A lot of entertainment for the whole family: music acts, kids zone, shows and performances, an agriculture tent and a midway. Tickets: $12 and $6. Children under 5 are free. When: Aug 16-25. Where: 4837 Albion Road (Rideau Carleton Casino). Details: capitalfair.ca
5. Capital Pride
A series of activities and events showcasing diversity and inclusivity. This weekend: Family picnic (Aug 18, 11am-2pm, Hintonburg park) and Wake-Up Ottawa Kikiball (Aug 18, 4pm-10pm, Bronson Centre). Both FREE. Also Capital Pride Pageant, Aug 17. (paid). Details: capitalpride.ca
6. Band Concerts on Parliament Hill
The Band of the Ceremonial Guard marches from the Cartier Square Drill Hall to Parliament Hill along Elgin St (weather permitting) and gives a 30-minute concert. There is level access through the Parliament Hill gates but standing only (no seats). FREE admission. When: Daily, 10am-10:30am until Aug 21. Where: Parliament Hill
7. Ottawa Kosher BBQ Cook-Off & Festival
Teams from across the community will compete in various grilling and smoking categories. There will be a kids’ play area, games, street performers, and a Kosher Food Court serving smoked brisket sandwiches. A craft beer garden and samples from competing teams are available for attendees. FREE. When: Sunday Aug 18, 11am-4pm. Where: 111 Lamplighters Drive. Details:
http://www.theotc.org/bbq
8. Pump Day
Fight fire with family fun, at the Bytown Fire Brigade Historical Society’s Pump Day, featuring a large display of Antique Fire trucks and equipment, food trucks, and a live pumping demo . FREE (donations accepted). When: Saturday Aug 17, from 10am -4pm. Where: 2880 Sheffield Road, Ottawa. Details: https://www.bytownfire.ca/event-details/pump-day-2024
9. Capital Pop Up Cinema
Take to the stars with a movie under the stars as Capital Pop Up Cinema shows the 1986 Disney classic Flight of the Navigator. FREE. When: Friday Aug 16 at 8pm. Where: Churchill Seniors Centre (Westboro), 345 Richmond Rd, Ottawa. Details: https://www.capitalpopupcinema.com/flightofthenavigator
10. Cirque du Soleil Echo
World renowned Cirque de Soleil returns to the capital with ECHO, a story of the balance between people, animals and the world we share. Visuals and acrobatics galore. Tickets from $88. When: Friday Aug 16 – Sunday Sept 22, various times. Where: The Big Top, Place des Festival ZIBI, 60 rue Jos-Montferrand, Gatineau. Details: https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/echo
11. Avril Lavigne
It’s not Complicated, Sk8ter Boi. Come welcome home Ottawa’s own pop princess Avril Lavigne as her Greatest Hits tour rolls into town. Tickets from $75. When: Wednesday Aug 14 at 7pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa. Details: https://www.canadiantirecentre.com/event/avril-lavigne/
12. Company of Fools – Macbeth
Immerse yourself in the spellbinding tale of ambition, power, and fate as the highly anticipated production of Macbeth bewitches parks across Ottawa this summer. Pay what you can. When: Wednesday Aug 14 – Tuesday Aug 20 (and beyond). Wednesday Aug 14: Owl Park (Hunt Club), 215 Owl Dr, Ottawa Thursday Aug 15: Tanglewood Park (Nepean), 30 Woodfield Dr, Nepean Friday Aug 16: Hintonburg Park (Hintonburg), 49 Fairmont Ave, Ottawa Saturday Aug 17: Walter Baker Park (Kanata), 100 Charlie Rogers Place, Stittsville Monday Aug 19: Champlain Park (Old Ottawa West), 140 Carleton Ave, Ottawa Tuesday Aug 20: Centennial Park (Manotick), 5572 Dr Leach Drive, Manotick
13. Ottawa Valley Roller Derby
Roll on in to catch the final double header match of the Ottawa Valley Roller Derby season, including the house league championship. Double the hits, double the fun. Tickets $15. When: Saturday Aug 17 at 6pm. Where: St Laurent Complex, 525 Cote Street, Ottawa. Details: https://ottawavalleyrollerderby.com/
14. Paranormal Cirque
Step into the beyond at the Paranormal Cirque, a macabre mix of circus, theatre, and cabaret, with a layer of the supernatural and horror on top. Adults only. Tickets from $35. When: Aug 15-25, various times. Where: St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St Laurent Blvd,Ottawa. Details: https://paranormalcirque.com/
15. MilkUP Ontario
The #MilkUPCowntyFair is a county fair inspired experience that celebrates Ontario dairy with delicious eats including cheesy corn dogs, creamy ice cream, classic mac & cheese, and many more. Admission: FREE (post them on social media). Friday, August 9-18 from 5-9pm on weekdays and 3-8pm on weekends. At Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa.
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday
16. Lansdowne Park Movie Nights
Enjoy movie nights on Thursday or Friday evenings at sunset at Lansdowne Park. This Thursday: Detective Pikachu. FREE. When: Thursday August 15 at 8:30pm Where: Lansdowne Park South Court. Details: oldottawasouth.ca
17. Meet & Greet with Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse
Meet and greet with the one and only Gabby, who will be bringing a few cat-tastic activity books to share! FREE. When: Thursday, August 15, 11am-3pm. At Tanger Outlets Ottawa, 8555 Campeau Drive.
18. SoulRhythms
Let your soul shine as we travel throughout Africa & The Caribbean on an exciting journey through movement & dance. This soul-inspiring and energizing 1-hour group session will connect your mind, body, spirit (and hips) to the infectious celebratory rhythms of Africa & The Caribbean. The class is designed for all ages and dance levels. FREE. When: Thursday, August 15, August 22, 6 pm-7 pm. At the National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street.
Friday
19. City Sounds
Immerse yourself in live music at various Ottawa neighborhoods! This time with performances by Quata Quataand Lisa Yacé. FREE. When: Friday, August 16, 5pm-7pm. Where: Ogilvy Square, 3 Nicholas Street, Ottawa
20. Come From Away
Experience the global phenomenon Come From Away, a heartwarming musical that tells the true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small Newfoundland town that welcomed them after 9/11. Tickets: Starting at $120 USD. Ages: 10+. When: August 16-17, 7:30pm. Where: Babs Asper Theatre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
21. Ottawa Scripture Marathon
The first ever Scripture Marathon, bringing the Word of God to the streets of Ottawa. Over the course of 20 hours, 100 readers and groups from various churches, denominations, and community groups will read through the entire New Testament beginning with a launch party reading of Matthew’s Gospel Friday night and culminating in a worship event reading of Revelation on Sunday evening. Sign up as a reader or just come to Connect Centre as a listener. FREE. When: Friday, August 16, 6 pm-9 pm, Saturday, August 17, 9 am-9 pm; Sunday, August 18, 1pm-6pm. At Ottawa Connect Centre, 816 Bank Street.
22. Vankleek Hill Fair
Celebrate the 180th Fair Opening exploring the artisan exhibits, enjoy pony rides and demolition derby. Watch a sheep shearing demonstration, monster truck show, heavy horse line classes and enjoy live music and thrilling competitions. Tickets: weekend pass – $55, one day pass – $20-$25. Children under 36″ – free admission, rides not included. Thursday, August 15, 4 pm-11 pm; Friday, August 16 and Saturday, August 17, 9 am-11 pm; Sunday, August 18, 9 am-8 pm. At Vankleek Hill, 92 Main Street West.
Saturday
23. Swing in the Hill
Bring your best dancing shoes and swing your body to the best hits of the 1920s, ’30s & ’40s. All levels are welcome to share the best moves together! Don’t forget your snacks, hat, and water bottle. FREE. When: Saturday Aug 17 from 1pm to 5:30pm. Where: Parliament Hill Centre Block, ON K1A.
24. Pride Night Market
Celebrate the vibrancy of the 2SLGBTQ+ community at the Pride Night Market! Support local queer and trans vendors as they showcase their unique crafts and businesses. When: Saturday August 17, 5pm–9pm. Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa
25. Myth, Lore & Stories of Wonder
Join Odyssey Theatre for Myth, Lore & Stories of Wonder, an enchanting arts fair in Strathcona Park. Experience theatre, dance, storytelling, and art as the park transforms into a world of myths and wonder. This unique event will feature captivating performances, interactive workshops, and over 40 talented artists. Admission: Pay-What-You-Can. When: Friday, August 16, 7pm–9pm. Saturday, August 17, 10am–9pm. Sunday, August 18, 10am–6pm. Where: Strathcona Park, 25 Range Rd, Ottawa.
26. Furry Friend Market
This weekend’s edition of the Urban Art Collective offers everything for your beloved furry friend so get your wish list and your shopping bag to get the best products to spoil and care for your pet. FREE. When: Saturday Aug 17 from 12pm to 5pm. Where: 1088 Somerset St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3C7.
27. Pride Glide Roller Party
Come celebrate pride week in four wheels, lights, music and a unique vibe while supporting the Algonquin Students’ Association Food Cupboard. Tickets available on Eventbrite starting at $15. When: Saturday, Aug 17. All ages session runs from 5pm till 19:30pm and adults session runs from 20:30pm till 11pm. Where: 1525 Princess Patricia Way, ON K1S5J3.
28. 5K Foam Fest
Join the world’s biggest foam party with live DJ music, mud pits, the world’s largest inflatable waterslide and of course, lots of foam. This is an all-fun challenge for both beginners and experienced runners. All the obstacles are optional and the course should be enjoyed at your own pace. Tickets price start at $69.99 and pre-registration is required. When: Saturday Aug 17 from 8am to 5pm. Where: 4565 Dunning Rd, Navan, ON K4B 1J1.
29. Doors Open – Cornwall and SDG counties
Get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most unique and historic buildings and places in Cornwall and SDG Counties during Doors Open! Many of the participating locations are open to the public on both days however some sites will only be open for one day, or for specific hours. FREE. When: Saturday, August 17 and Sunday, August 18, 2024, 10 am-4pm. Where: various locations in Cornwall and SDG Counties.
30. Russell Agricultural Fair
Come celebrate agricultural roots while spending a fun traditional fair day. With milking demonstrations, a talent show, antique exhibitions and outdoor games and more, the Russell Fair promises an unforgettable day for everyone. Tickets start at $6. When: Saturday Aug 17 and Sunday Aug 18 starting at 9am. Where: 1076 Concession St, Russell, ON K4R 1E8.
Sunday
31. The Great Indian Carnival
Experience the inaugural Great Indian Carnival with a full day of fun for the whole family! Enjoy games, live performances, a DJ, dance, food stalls, and more. FREE. When: Sunday Aug 18, 11am–7pm. Where: Vincent Massey Park, Ottawa.
Next week
32. Full Moon Yoga
Join Julia and Ottawa’s yogi community for a refreshing moonlit yoga session under the Sturgeon Full Moon in Aquarius. Enjoy gentle flows and deep stretches, perfect for all levels. FREE. Embrace the emotional freedom of this lunar cycle. When: Monday August 19, 9pm–10pm. Where: Lansdowne Park, Ottawa.
33. Dueling Pianos
Come on select days throughout the summer for Ottawa’s Dueling Pianos and delight in the musical talents of Tyler Kealey, Dave Kalil and Todd Huckabone. Admission:$15. Tuesday, August 20 and 27; 7pm-10pm. At Ironstone Grill, 320 Terry Fox Drive, Ottawa.
Other recurring events in Ottawa
34. 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.
35. 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/
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. 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
38. 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.
39. 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.
40. 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.
41. 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
42. 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.
43. 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.
ca/booking-calendar/. When: Every Saturday and Sunday. Where: 538 River Rd, ON K1V 1E9
44. St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival – Play On! A Shakespeare Inspired Mixtape
Enjoy professional outdoor theatre with the St. Lawrence River as a backdrop. Featuring a witty, entertaining, cabaret of pop music and Shakespearean text, bringing together a wide-range of songs from a variety of eras and genres, including The Beatles, Taylor Swift, Elton John, Prince, and more. Tickets: $26-$38. FREE for children 14 and under. When: August 13-17, 2024. Where: Banks of the St Lawrence river. Note: Rain venue will be at St. Andrew’s Church, 425 Centre St, Prescott. ON.
45. 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
46. 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).
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. 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.
50. 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.
51. 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
52. 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.
53. 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!!
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