43 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | Sept 5-8

Latin and electronic music festivals, air shows, markets, football, comics and much more are in store in Ottawa this weekend!! Don’t miss out! Do you know about any other things to do? Share them! and share this post with your buddies!

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15 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa 

1. Latin Sparks Festival

One of the hottest events of the summer in Ottawa. Expect performances, Salsa classes, live music, a dance battle (new), food vendors, and the best vibe! There will be official pre and after parties. Tickets: $49.90, or $39.90/person when buying two. When: Saturday Sept 7, 3pm-11pm. Where: Lebreton Flats. Details: latinsparks.ca

Photo: Latinsparks.ca

2. Aero Gatineau-Ottawa

Enjoy amazing performances by the Canadian Snowbirds, the US Thunderbirds and British Red Arrows. Meet the pilots and visit the aircraft on display. Kids zone for the little ones and an arcade for the older ones. Tickets from $24.99. When: Sept 6-8. Fri 5pm-9pm. Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. Where: Gatineau-Ottawa executive airport, on Highway 50. Details: aerogatineauottawa.com

3. Vegans Who Snack Food + Art Festival

Over 60 food vendors and drink vendors offering vegan treats. Also local artists and makers offering vegan goods. Live music in the park. Dogs on-leash welcomed. FREE. When: Sept 6, 5pm-9pm (Rain date Sept 7). Where: 366 Parkdale Ave. Details: IG @veganswhosnack

4. Riverside Festival

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, electrifying music, and mesmerizing light shows. This is considered the 2nd largest electronic music festival in Quebec. Tickets: $87.61. When: Sept 6-8. Where: Canadian Museum of History. Details: festivalriverside.ca

Photo: festivalriverside.ca

5. Afrofestival Ottawa 2024

This music and arts festival showcases the best of African culture and entertainment in Ottawa. There will be local and international artists, food vendors, children’s activities and fashion shows. FREE. (Limited free tickets on Eventbrite). Regular ticket: $30. When: September 7-8, 1pm-11pm. Where: Mooney’s Bay, 2960 Riverside Drive. Details: https://www.afrofestivalottawa.ca/

6. Ottawa Comiccon

More than 300 exhibitor booths. Enjoy a shopping experience like no other: original artwork, video games, T-shirts, comics, graphic novels, toys, statues, replicas and more collector items. The Exhibition Hall showcases artists and products from entertainment genres like: Sci-fi, Horror, Anime, Gaming, etc. Tickets from $35. When: Sept 6-8. Fri, 2pm-8:30pm. Sat 9am-7pm. Sun 9:30am-5pm. Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Drive. Details: https://ottawacomiccon.com

Photo: ottawacomiccon.com

7. Ganesh Mahotsav

Celebrate the biggest Ganeshotsav in Ottawa with Bappa, welcoming him with all the vigor and enthusiasm of India at Ottawa Ka Raja! FREE. When: Sept 7-9, 10am-10pm. Where: Mosaic Convention Centre, 3750 North Bowesville Road, Ottawa, Details: https://www.ganeshutsav.ca/

8. Beechfest

Grab your friends and family and join the annual street party from St-Charles Street to Marier Avenue with live music, shows, arts, crafts, food, and more! FREE. When: Saturday, Sept 7, 3pm-9pm. Where: 140 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa. Details: https://www.vanier-association.com/en/event/beechfest/

9. Bug Day

Explore insects at Bug Day: expeditions, insect cuisine, cockroach races, crafts, expert demos, and more at Canada’s largest insect collection. FREE. When: Saturday Sept 7, 9am-4pm. Where: 960 Carling Avenue, Ottawa. Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/324040030702463/

10. 15th Anniversary Open House

Celebrate 15 years at Shenkman Arts Centre with live music, local talent, surprise guests, and delicious treats from local companies. FREE. When: Sunday Sept 8, 11am. Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa. Details: https://shenkmanarts.ca/en

11. Redblacks vs Toronto Argonauts

Cheers for the Ottawa Redblacks as they battle the Toronto Argonauts in an exciting CFL football game! Tickets from $25. When: Saturday Sept 07, 1pm. Where: The Stadium at TD Place, Ottawa. Details:  https://www.ottawaredblacks.com/

12. Metcalfe Night Market

Come with your friends and family. There will be live entertainment, lots of dinner choices, and many local artisans and producers! FREE. When: Thursday, Sep 5, 5pm-8pm. Where: Metcalfe Fairgrounds, 2821 8th Line Road, Metcalfe, Details: https://www.metcalfefm.com/

13. Capital Pop Up Cinema

Bringing families and friends together to experience classic movies under stars. Admission: FREE. Friday, September 6 at 8pm. At Churchill Seniors Recreation Centre, 345 Richmond Rd, Ottawa

 14. BeYoUtiful Women`s Expo

The BeYOUtiful Women’s Expo celebrates women, featuring vendors and speakers focused on health, wellness, beauty, empowerment, and personal growth. Admission: $5 early bird or $10 at door. Saturday, September 7 from 10am-4pm. At Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd, Orléans.

15. Beechwood’s Annual Historical Tour

Learn firsthand about incredible people and how they shaped history performed by the Ottawa School of Theatre. Admission: FREE. Sunday, September 8 from 2-4pm. At The Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave, Vanier.

More things to do in Ottawa this weekend

Thursday and Friday

16. Twilight Cinema

Enjoy outdoor film screenings under the stars, to watch with family or friends. Admission: $5 (Adult). Thursday, September 5 from 8:15-10:30pm. At Square Old Chelsea, 248 Chem. Old Chelsea, Chelsea, QC.

17. Bougie Birch Dreamcatcher Workshop

Delve into the significance of dreamcatchers in indigenous cultures and engage in open discussions about indigenous lived experiences. Workshops take 1.5 – 2 hours and are suitable for ages 8 years and up. All materials are provided as part of your registration. Ticket price $45.19. Thursday, Sept 5, 7 pm & 9:30 pm. At Adaawe Indigenous Business Hub, 338 Somerset St. West Ottawa.

18. Sophie Hayes LIVE COMEDY album recording! Presented by Howl & Roar Records

Sophie was once named Ottawa’s Favourite Comedian by Faces Magazine, and has performed in the finals of the Mike McDonald Summer Comedy Competition. She has taken her act to stages across Canada. Ticket price $20. Thursday, Sept 5, from 7pm to 11pm. At Café Dekcuf, 221 Rideau Street, Ottawa.

19. Light at Night Kayaking

Join in for an enchanting “Light at Night” kayaking experience in downtown Ottawa. Admission: $79. Friday, September 6 and Saturday, September 14 from 7-9pm. At Rideau Canal, Linden Terrace, Ottawa.

20. Candlelight Concerts

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations. Age requirement 8 years or older. Ticket price: $58-$76. At the Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave. Tribute to Fleetwood Mac: Thursday, Sept 5, 6:30pm & 8:45pm

21. Fall Fun at the Farm

Pumpkins, Corn Maze & Wagon Rides. Fun for all the family! General Admission $11.50 + HST. Sept 5 to Oct 27. Opens Thursday to Sunday from 9am to 4pm. At  670 Cedarview Rd., Ottawa, ON.

22. Renfrew Fair

Entertainment and Beer Garden in the Armouries. Ticket price Adults (13+) – $15, Kids (6-12)-$10, FREE Admission for children 6 and under. Sept 5-8, Opens at 9am. At 115 Veterans Memorial Blvd. Renfrew, Ontario.

23. Almonte Fair

Come out to see the traditional fair exhibits in the Agricultural Hall, check out the farm education stalls, and pet or pigeon shows, and join the horseshoe tournament or children’s games! Admission: $30. Friday, September 6-8 from 2-10pm. At Almonte Agricultural Fairgrounds, 195 Water Street, Almonte.

Saturday

24. Urban Art Collective Saturday Themed Markets

Get ready for the second Antique & Vintage Market, as part of the Saturday-themed markets organized by the Urban Art Collective. You’ll discover all sorts of vintage treasures, from clothing to kitchenware and tools. Don’t miss out on this awesome market and find something amazing to start your fall season. Admission for this event is FREE. Saturday, September 7, from 12 to 5 pm. At 1088 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON.

25. Candlelight Concerts

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations. Age requirement 8 years or older. Ticket price: $58-$76. At the Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave. Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons: Saturday, Sept 7, 6:30pm & 8:45pm.

26. Almonte 29th Annual Fibrefest

Come out to the friendly town of Almonte. Local guilds will demonstrate spinning, knitting, weaving, rug hooking, lacemaking, smocking and quilting. Vendors include finished fibre goods and other textile – related supplies from across the province, as well as quilt shops and alpaca farms. General Admission $5 per day, which gives you access to the two sites. Saturday Sept 7 from 10am to 5pm and Sunday, Sept 8 from 10am to 4pm. Hosted at two locations: the Almonte Community Centre, 182 Bridge St. & the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum – 3 Rosamond St. E, Almonte, ON.

Sunday

27. Le Burgers Week Ottawa
 
Toss the hotdogs aside as Le Burgers week comes to the Capital. Experience how various local restaurants put their own take on what a burger can be and vote on your favourite. Expect more than just a patty and a bun. Price varies per creation/restaurant. When: Sunday Sept 1–Sunday Sept 8. Where: Various restaurants, Ottawa Details: https://leburgerweek.com/en

28. Festival of Flavors

Celebrate the harvest at the Festival of Flavours! This vibrant event is a must-attend for food enthusiasts and families, offering incredible food from talented local producers. Savour the rich flavours of the season as you explore a diverse selection of gourmet foods, fresh produce, and artisanal treats. FREE Admission. Sunday, September 8, from 10 am to 4 pm. At Vankleek Hill, ON.

Other recurring events in Ottawa

29. 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
 
30. 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.
 
31. “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.
 
32. 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/
 
33. 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

34. 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.
 
35. 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.

36. 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.

37. 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.
 
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. 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
 
40. 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.
 
41. 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.

42. 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.

43. 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!                

One thought on “43 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | Sept 5-8

  1. I host Ottawa’s Bitcoin Basics meetup once a month. This month, we’re having an informal pub night at the Glebe Central Pub on September 11th.

    It’s a chance to learn about an interesting new technology, ask questions, and meet people who work in the space. Everyone is welcome, and our meetups are always 100% free (just tip your server well).

    https://meetu.ps/e/Nq4VF/YlwdZ/i

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