54 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | Aug 22-25

 
A great variety of festivals and events are coming up this weekend, and many of these are food festivals that you will want to experience! Check out this post and share it with your friends! Have an awesome weekend!
 
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15 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa

1. Indian Food Festival

This is the first Indian food festival in Ottawa and it promises to take you on an exciting culinary adventure showcasing a vibrant array of flavors from the diverse regions of India. FREE.
When: Aug 23-25. Fri-Sat 12-10pm. Sun 12-3pm.
Where: Clarke Fields Park, Nepean.
Details: IG @indianfoodfestival
 


2. Ottawa Greek Festival

Celebrating Greek heritage and food. Live music, dance performances, multicultural night, church tours, Greek language lessons. FREE.
When: Aug 23-25. Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm. Sun 12-10pm.
Where: 1315 Prince of Wales Drive.
Details: https://www.ottawagreekfest.com/
 


3. Capital Pride Parade

Over 200 groups, and more than 10,000 marchers, come together to march on downtown Ottawa streets in celebration of inclusivity. FREE. *Post-Parade Party from 2pm to 10pm at TD Main Stage.
When: Sunday Aug 25, 1pm-4pm
Where: The parade starts at Elgin St and Laurier Ave.
Details: capitalpride.ca
 
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. Nostalgia Music Festival

Featuring professional tribute bands, and a customized environment to recreate the sights, sounds and all-around good vibes of the 70s, 80s and 90’s. Tickets: $60, $75. Children 12 and under free when accompanied by a ticket holder parent.
When: Aug 21-25. Wed-Fri 4:30-11pm. Sat-Sun 3-11pm.
Where: Lebreton Flats
Details: nostalgiafestival.ca

6. Stittsville Sweet Corn Festival

This is the Third Annual Cornfest! Featuring fresh corn on the cob from local growers. There will be many booths dedicated to Corn, including corn relish, popcorn, corn dogs, corn decor, corn bread, corn salsa and more corn! Special live music throughout the afternoon and 50/50 draws and door prizes. FREE.
When: Saturday Aug 24, 10am-3pm.
Where: 1469 Stittsville Main St
Details: On Facebook
 


7. Salvadoran Festival of La Pupusa

Celebrate the independence of El Salvador with Salvadoran and Latin American gastronomy, art, culture, and sport. FREE.
When: Saturday Aug 24, 8am-6pm
Where: Brewer Park, 100 Brewer Way, Ottawa
Details: https://www.facebook.com/ASCORCAN/

8. 613 Flea

Shop from over 150 vendors featuring eclectic goods, handmade, antiques, vintage clothing, food and much more. FREE.
When: Saturday Aug 24
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park
Details: IG @613flea

9. Capital Pop Up Cinema: Mamma Mia

Enjoy free outdoor movie screenings and experience a special evening like no other on Sparks Street. This weekend: Mamma Mia. FREE
When: Friday Aug 23 at dusk (Around 8pm)
Where: Sparks Street on block 2 between Metcalf and O’Connor
Details: https://www.capitalpopupcinema.com/mammamia

10. Ottawa Redblacks vs BC Lions

Cheers for the Ottawa Redblacks as they battle the BC Lions in an exciting CFL football game! Tickets from $30.
When: Saturday, Aug 24, 7pm
Where: The Stadium at TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
Details: https://www.ottawaredblacks.com/

11. Ottawa Craft Beer Week

Explore Ottawa’s vibrant craft beer scene with a diverse lineup of events, brewery tours, tastings, prizes, and more. For a full list of participating breweries and additional details, visit OCBW’s website or Instagram page! August 23-30.
Details here: https://www.ottawacraftbeerweek.ca/

12. Navan Market

Connect with the community and discover over 200 small businesses at Ottawa’s largest Farmers Market in Navan! FREE
When: Sunday, Aug 25, 10am-3pm
Where: Fairgrounds at 1279 Colonial Road
Details: On Facebook

13. Kanata Dance & Music Festival

Celebrate multiculturalism in Kanata! Enjoy music, dance, global cuisine, and family-friendly activities. FREE
When: Sunday Aug 25, 11am-7pm
Where: Walter Baker Park, 67 Charlie Rogers Pl, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook

14. Chinatown Night Bazaar

Explore Ottawa Chinatown Bazaar and support local businesses, discover unique crafts, and contribute to community vibrancy! FREE.
When: Sunday Aug 25, 11am-5pm
Where: 687 Somerset St W, Ottawa
Details: https://ottawachinatown.ca/bazaar/

15. Company of Fools: Macbeth

Prepare to be utterly enchanted by this tale of murder and betrayal with a foolish twist: Macbeth. Admission: Pay what you can ($20 suggested donation). August 21-24 at 7pm. At various locations across Ottawa.
 

More things to do in Ottawa this weekend

Wednesday and Thursday

16. 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.
 
17. 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 $73. Premiere Night: Thursday Aug 22. Until Sunday Sept 22, various times. Where: The Big Top, Place des Festival ZIBI, 60 rue Jos-Montferrand, Gatineau. Details: https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/echo

18. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time

Fifteen-year-old Christopher is brilliant but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured beyond the end of his block, but now he is determined to uncover who killed his neighbour’s dog. His relentless detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a frightening journey that turns his world upside-down. Based on the best-selling novel, the play has won multiple Tony and Olivier Awards including Best Play in London and New York. Adults $30, 60+ $26, Students $14. August 21 to September 7, Wednesdays to Saturdays at 7:30pm. Matinee Sundays at 2:30pm. At Ottawa Little Theatre, 400 King Edward Ave, Ottawa.

19. 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 22, 6 pm-7 pm. At the National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street.
 
20. 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 22-25, various times. Where:  St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St Laurent Blvd,Ottawa. Details:  https://paranormalcirque.com/

21. “Sizzling Hot” Art Show

The Art Hub provides a place for art lovers to view unique pieces like paintings, photography, sculpture, fibre art, jewellery, pottery, and various art products for gifts. Admission: FREE. From Wednesday, August 21 to September 29 from 10am-7pm. At Arts Carleton Place Art Hub Gallery, 50 Bennett St., Unit 1, Carleton Place, Ottawa.

Saturday

22. City Sounds Live

City Sounds Live is a traveling music festival presented in partnership with BIAs and co-curators in various neighbourhoods around Ottawa offering free, family-friendly concerts. Saturday August 24 from 5pm to 7pm. Featuring Opartheeb and Dhrubo. At 35 Fitzgerald Road, Lot 101. Nepean.

23. Under the Stars

Experience an unforgettable night of live music under the stars! This weekend’s lineup features incredible performances by artists such as Growing Fires, Victor Complex, Loch Nisse Monster, and Maeley. Whether you’re a fan of indie rock, alternative, or just love live music, this event has something for everyone. All ages are welcome; 19+ with photo ID required for alcohol purchases. When: Saturday, August 24 at 7pm. At Club SAW, 67 Nicholas Street. Tickets starting at $15 plus tax available for purchase at https://www.ticketweb.ca/event/growing-fires-victor-complex-loch-club-saw.

24. The Bells Corners Summer Bash

A family-friendly festival with a variety of attractions. The Kids Zone will feature face painting, bouncy castles, and engaging performances by Louis Mercier and the World’s Greatest Balloon artist. Little Ray’s Reptiles will captivate audiences with their live shows, perfect for curious young minds.  The Cavanagh Stage lineup includes top-notch performances from Derek McKinley (Sing Song Party Time), Fana Soro, Amanda Fox, Dhrubo, Opartheeb, Chip Greene, and Bonecat. Throughout the day, strolling performers including Luciano the Stilt Walker, Jean-Guy Beaudry the Unicycler, and Yoshi the Juggler will delight and entertain. Saturday, Aug 24, from 11am to 8pm, at 35 Fitzgerald Road in Bells Corners.

25. National Capital Pride Run

The National Capital Pride Run is an all ages, all-level event with a 2.5 km walk or a 5 km run option. Admission: $20-25. Saturday, August 24 at 10am. At Riverain Park, North River Road, Ottawa.

26. Monster Trucks All Out

Enjoy watching these massive trucks compete in events such as motocross, tractor pulling and freestyle tricks. Adults $35, Children $20, Children ages 2 & under get in free so long as they sit on an adult’s lap. Saturday, August 24 from 10am to 2pm. At Camp Fairgrounds, 3790 Carp Road.

27. Afro Caribbean Fireworks Boat Party Ottawa

Experience an unforgettable evening of dance and celebration with the thrill of Afro-Caribbean beats on the Ottawa River. Admission: $35. Saturday, August 24 from 9:30pm-12:30am. At Paula D, 160 Laurier St Gatineau, Quebec.
 
28. Osgoode Township Museum Activity Day

Join Osgoode Township Museum and experience history at the August activity day. Among the activities: Scavenger Hunt; Garden Sketching “Art Hunt”; Explore the Garden and Grounds, Visit the Permanent Gallery and Barn and Meet the 100th Grenadiers, a war of 1812 Reenactment Regiment. $5 per participant. Saturday August 24 from 10am to 4pm. At Osgoode Township Museum, 7814 Lawrence Street.
 
29. Festival of the Wild Child
 
This year’s theme is “Be a Wild Child. Roar Against Climate Change”. Full of amazing nature experiences including guided nature walks, a storybook trail, and unique workshops. Admission: FREE. Saturday, August 24 from 10am-4pm. At High Lonesome Nature Reserve, 867 Carbine Rd., Pakenham, ON.
 
30. North Lanark Highland Games

Celebrate the Scottish culture and heritage of the Ottawa Valley at the 39th annual North Lanark Highland Games in Almonte, ON. The Games offer a traditional format and size attracting about 3,000 visitors. Twenty pipe bands, a hundred dancers and champion heavyweight athletes combine to present what is recognized as one of the Ottawa Valley´s premier summer events. Adult $20, Children Free. Saturday August 24 from 8am to 6pm. At Almonte Fairgrounds, 195 Water St. Almonte, ON.
 
Sunday
 
31. Ottawa Gee Gees vs Western Mustang Men’s Football

University of Ottawa Gee-Gees football returns for their first game of the season. Admission: $20 for adults and $15 for students. Sunday, August 25 at 1pm. At The Stadium at TD place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa.
 
32. NORCECA Men’s Final 6 Volleyball Tournament

Calling all volleyball fans! Join us for the NORCECA Final 6 and cheer on your favorite team in this thrilling tournament. Canada’s next-generation talent will face off against teams from the USA, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic in a heated competition. Ticket prices starting at $16.
When: Sunday, August 25, from 12pm to 5pm. At Centre Slush Puppie, 500 Bd de la Cité, Gatineau, QC J8T 0H4. Details: https://volleyball.ca/en/competitions/2024-norceca-men-s-final-6-tournament
 
33. Discovery Sundays

Explore the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum with hands-on experiences featuring heritage breed farm animals, a sheep shearing demo, and fun farm-inspired activities for kids. Plus, discover the evolution of rail travel and enjoy an interactive demonstration of large-scale model locomotives by the Ottawa Valley Live Steamers and Model Engineers. Ticket prices: Family – $22.49 (2 adults and accompanying children) Adult – $8.88, Child – $6.28. When: Sunday, August 25 from 11am to 3pm. At Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Road.
 
34. Meat and Grease Ottawa

If you love cars, live music, and food, then you can’t miss this thrilling car show featuring classic and sports cars. Meat and Grease Ottawa aims to provide you an unforgettable day while supporting raising funds for CHEO Hospital. Prizes, a 50/50 draw, and a silent auction with fantastic items will complement this fun experience. Door fee (Includes 1 raffle ticket): $10. When: Sunday, August 25 from 12 to 4pm. At 1231 Ne

35. Manotick Soapbox Derby

The 12th Annual Allan Haan Manotick Soapbox Derby is back to provide you and your kids a day full of fun! Whether you’re bringing your own homemade soapbox cart to join the race or simply cheering on the racers, there’s plenty to enjoy. The event features activities, music, and a barbecue lunch, perfect for a picnic together after the excitement of the hill. FREE. Note: A $15 fee per participant is required to enter the race. When: Sunday, August 25. The race kicks off at 9am, followed by the picnic at 11:30am. At 5572 Doctor Leach Dr, Manotick, ON K4M 1C8. For more details, visit: https://www.manotickvca.org/soapboxderby
 

Next week

36. 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

37. 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-Sept 1, 2pm, 7:30pm. Where: Babs Asper Theatre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa

38. 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.
 
39. 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/
 
40. 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.
 
41. 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

42. 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.
 
43. 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.
 
44. 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
 
45. 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
 
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.
 
54. 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!

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