50 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | Sept 19-22

A new lineup of beloved summer events are coming up this weekend in Ottawa! Don’t miss the chance to enjoy them along with the nice weather, thanks to Mother Nature!

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

1. One World Bazaar

Celebrating 20 years of this international shopping experience. Shop for one-of-a-kind products and enjoy live music, food, lawn games, dancers, and musicians from different cultural backgrounds. Every weekend there is something different! FREE. When: Sept 19-Nov 17, Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd, Manotick. Details: oneworldbazaar.ca

Picture: oneworldbazaar.ca

2. Taste of Wellington

Get a TASTE of what makes this neighbourhood so unique. Sidewalk sales, food samples (for a fee or by donation), demos, an outdoor roller disco, aerial circus shows, kid’s activities (three bouncy castles) and music! FREE. When: Saturday Sept 21, 10am-4pm. Where: Wellington St West from Island Park to Breezehill. Details: wellingtonwest.ca

3. Canada Army Run

Thousands of people will run, walk or roll in support of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) through these virtual and in-person events: 5K, 10K, 21K. The race routes pass by some of Ottawa’s main landmarks like Parliament Hill, War Memorial, National Gallery of Canada, Rideau Hall, and Beechwood Cemetery. A canon is used as a starter’s pistol. When: Sunday Sept 22 from 8am. Where: Starting line: City Hall, 110 Ave W. Details: armyrun.ca

Picture: armyrun.ca

4. Cranium Festival

Free outdoor music, dance, and vibes. Come to Ogilvy Square (between Joey Rideau and The Clocktower Pub on Rideau street) for a day of dance battles, DJ’s, live R&B and Hip-hop, food, pop-up market and street performers (Saturday Sept 21). There are other paid events including a pre and after party. When: Sept 19-22. Where: Four different locations. Details: craniumfestival.com

Picture: craniumfestival.com

5. Redblacks vs Montreal Alouettes

Cheer on Ottawa’s football team when it clashes against the Montreal Alouettes. Tickets from $37.50. When: Saturday Sept 21 at 3pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St. Details: IG @cflredblacks

6. Atletico Ottawa vs Pacific FC

Ottawa’s professional soccer team will face Pacific FC. Don’t miss the Franco-Ontarian celebration in this home match for the Canadian Premier League. Tickets from $20. When: Sunday Sept 22 at 2pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St. Details: IG @atletiottawa

7. 67’s vs North Bay Battalion

Cheer on Ottawa’s junior hockey team against North Bay Battalion in this preseason game. FREE to attend! Grab your free tickets before they’re gone! When: Friday Sept 20 at 7pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St. Details: tdplace.ca

8. Orleans Oktoberfest

Enjoy this German fall tradition with bands, DJ, games, prizes and German inspired food. Two sessions. Tickets are $38.61. Your ticket gives you access to the biergarten, one free beer, one free pretzel, and one free t-shirt. When: Saturday Sept 21, 12pm-11pm. Where: Orleans Brewing Co. 4380 Innes Road.Details: At Eventbrite

9. Frightfest

Get ready for an adventure at FrightFest, Canada’s premier haunted attraction hosted by Saunders Farm. Experience multiple terrifying haunted houses, thrilling street performances, delicious food, and refreshing cider. With spooky attractions like the Haunted Hayride and Barn of Terror, it’s a Halloween event you won’t forget! Tickets: $49.90-$59. Not recommended for children under 12.  Saturday, Sept 21 to Thursday, October 31. At Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd A, Ottawa.

10. The Real Bread Festival

Celebrate the city’s finest independent bakeries and their delicious, additive-free creations. Discover a wide variety of artisanal bread, from tangy sourdoughs to light baguettes, along with coffee, preserves, and more. Enjoy mouthwatering samples, freshly baked goods, and a refreshing drink. Tickets at $11.98. Sunday, Sept 22 from 10 am to 4 pm. At Almanac Urban Mill & Bakery, 5510 Canotek Road #Unit 9 Ottawa.

11. Harvest Market

Don’t miss this annual event filled with crafters, makers, artists, farmers, and food. Up to 120 vendors. When: Saturday Sept 21, 9am-3pm. Where: The Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Rd. Details: IG @cumberlandfarmmarket

12. Tour de Gatineau

Come cheer on the world’s top women cyclists! This event will make its grand return to downtown Hull, for the first time since 2015. The professional women’s races will kick off with the individual time trial on Friday, September 20, followed by the road race on Saturday, September 21. The event will conclude with a criterium on Sunday, September 22. These UCI races, the only ones of this level for women in North America, offer a unique opportunity for athletes to compete in Canada. Details: IG @tourdegatineau

13. Art Walk Ottawa 2024

An outdoor conversation and gallery crawl presented by the National gallery of Canada, the Ottawa Art Gallery and the Byward District Authority. Artwalk kicks off at the National Gallery of Canada on the steps of the outdoor amphitheatre. Journalist Lucy Van Oldenbarneveld will interview Indigenous artist and prestigious Sobey Award nominee, Nico Williams. Following the interview, participants will go on a walking tour of independent galleries in the ByWard Market, concluding with a reception and tour of the Ottawa Art Gallery. Tickets $25. Saturday Sept 21 starting at 2pm.

14. Art Shows

Visit the Art Lending of Ottawa to see a diverse collection of affordable artworks from over forty local juried artists. Explore a range of mediums including oils, acrylics, watercolours, and more. Limited wall space means each piece is uniquely featured. FREE Admission. Saturday, Sept 21, from 10am to 4pm. At Jim Durrell Recreation Centre, 1265 Walkley Road, Ottawa.

More things to do in Ottawa

HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEKEND

15. El Bautizo de Ottawa (Ottawa’s baptism)

Suáh, the best Latin party in Toronto (@SuahTO) and Montreal (@Suah_MTL) is coming this Friday to Ottawa for the first time! And it’s promising to baptize Ottawa to remove its original sin of being boring! Headlining the event will be Jay Ramis (@jayramis) and Kemil Zavala (@kemildj) Don’t miss an awesome rumba!!

When: Friday Sept 20 at 10pm. Where: The Hudson, 158 Rideau St #1/2. 

Secure your tickets here: https://bit.ly/el-bautizo-20sept

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

16. Harvest A Feast of Fall

An exciting culinary event celebrating Ottawa’s vibrant food scene. The event features award-winning chefs and artisanal beverage producers. You can enjoy farm-to-table inspired dishes crafted from local ingredients that highlight the best of the fall harvest. Sip on locally sourced beverages and indulge in delicious food prepared by top chefs. Tickets at $125. Wednesday, September 18, at 6 pm. At Ottawa Art Gallery, 10 Daly Avenue, Ottawa.

17. Twilight Cinema

Enjoy watching an outdoor film with family and friends. Ticket price $5, FREE for children 12 and under. (The profits will be donated to the Maison des Collines). Wednesday Sept 18 at 8:15 pm. Terrasse du Square, 248 Old Chelsea, Chelsea, Québec.

18. Ottawa Wine Auction

Whether you are a beginner, a collector, or a connoisseur, this evening is a unique opportunity to discover exceptional vintages and immerse yourself in the realm of fine wines. The annual Music and Beyond Wine Auction promises to be a most exciting event. Friday Sept 20, at 6 pm. Embassy of France, 42 Sussex Dr.

19. Main Event 2024

The Main Event returns to Old Ottawa East! Join us Friday Sept 20 for a 6pm kid’s pizza party and movie at Old Town Hall Community Centre (61 Main Street), or an 8pm family movie night at Springhurst Park. On Saturday September 21 celebrate with your friends and neighbours with activities and entertainment from 10am to 3pm beside the Grande Allée (185 Main Street) including live performances from local bands, face-painting, a kid’s fun zone, BBQ and more! Details at: https://www.ottawaeastcag.ca/main-event-2024

20. Ottawa Latin Jazz Conference

This is the chance to witness an extraordinary fusion of rhythm and melody as the incredible talents of local, national, and international artists are highlighted to bring this dynamic genre to life. Admission: $25. Friday, September 20th-22nd, at various times depending on the day. At Forth Stage, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa.

21. An evening of classical Tarab

A celebration of classical Arabic music. Experience an extraordinary musical evening that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, featuring the finest songs from across the Arab world. Ticket price – $49. Friday Sept 20, 2024, 7:30 pm. The Gladstone, 910 Gladstone Avenue.

22. Fall Volunteer Expo

Volunteer Expo is a live in-person event where potential volunteers can connect one-on-one with local charities and not-for-profits representatives to learn more about how they can help. Admission: FREE. Friday, September 20 from 3-6pm. At Hall A, Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean.

23. Richmond Fair

The fair offers a venue for those in the community to showcase their arts, crafts, livestock, produce, and much more! Kids 6 and younger are FREE. Child (Ages 7-12) $5, Adult (Ages 13+) $15. Sept 19–22. Gate hours: Thu 19 – 4pm, Fri 20 – 10 am, Sat 21 & Sun 22 – 9 am. At Richmond Agricultural Society, 6107 Perth St.

Saturday

24. Oktoberfest at the Tavern

Get ready, Ottawa! Oktoberfest is coming to the Taverns to enjoy German delights, hearty brews, and the lively sounds of The Polka Brats. Make your reservation on their website. Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22 from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm. At 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa.

25. The Great New Edinburgh Garage Sale

The IODE Laurentian Chapter will be offering quality clothes, accessories, jewelry and treasures in the MacKay Church Hall. Come and enjoy refreshments and home baking while you shop or take some goodies home to enjoy later. Saturday September 21 from 8am to noon.

26. Walk for Dementia

Come together with the community for the Walk for Dementia hosted by The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County in recognition of World Alzheimer’s Day. This special event, running for over 28 years, features a 1 km walk, delicious food, live music, and fun activities for all ages, as it is a family-friendly affair. Please consider setting a fundraising goal during the registration process. Saturday September 21, from 10 am to 1 pm. At 2327 St. Laurent Boulevard, Ottawa.

27. Celebration of Chilean Independence Day

Don’t miss the highly anticipated Celebration of Chilean Independence Day with the Chilean Association of Ottawa! Join the Chilean community from Ottawa and Gatineau for a day of lively music, traditional games, and more. Feel free to bring your own food or a dish to share as we celebrate together. It’s a vibrant event you won’t want to miss! FREE Admission. Please confirm your attendance by emailing the address published on their social media. Saturday September 21, at 12 pm. At Vincent Massey Park F/S1, Heron Rd, Ottawa.

28. Choir Choir Choir!

Choir! Choir! Choir! is a fully interactive, participatory show that turns the audience into performers who get to laugh, dance, and sing their hearts out with hundreds of other music lovers. Admission: $15-56. Saturday, September 21st at 2pm & 8pm. At Southam Hall, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.

29. Autumn Treasures Market

Step into the Autumn Treasures Market where entry is free, door prizes await, and our local vendors present a cornucopia of delights. Admission: FREE. Saturday, September 21st, from 10am-3pm. At Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa.

30. Ottawa Flower Market

Your local farmer-florists are bringing an array of beautiful blooms from the Ottawa Valley to the Parkdale Public Market. Admission: FREE. Saturday, September 21st, from 9am-1pm. At Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa.

31. Pumpkinfest

Get ready to cultivate memories! A celebration of Autumn splendour: pumpkins, wagon rides, live shows, mazes and so much more! Children 2 and under are FREE. General Admission $29. PumpkinFest runs weekends starting September 21 to October 31. From 10 am–5 pm. Choose your arrival time slot (30 min window). Saunders Farm – 7893, Bleeks Rd. A, Ottawa, ON.

Sunday

32. Gem mineral and jewellery show & sale

A celebration of gemstones, minerals, and fossils! Explore a variety of vendors offering unique jewellery, crystals, beads, carvings, and equipment. The event also features exciting displays, live demonstrations, hands-on activities, and gemstone identification. Tickets at $8, FREE for children of 12 years old and younger. Saturday, September 21, from 10 am to 6 pm, and Sunday, September 22 from 10 am to 5 pm. At Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa.

33. Arts and Crafts Market

Come and show your support to our local Francophone and Francophile artists and craftspeople with light refreshments, coffee, and delicious popcorn provided by Distinctive Bathrooms & Kitchens. Admission: FREE. Sunday, September 22nd at 10am. At Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa.

34. Ukrainian Fest Lanark County

Enjoy a fun-filled day for the whole family, with plenty of free entertainment and activities for kids, including games, creative workshops, and relay races. Attendees can also enjoy delicious Ukrainian food, vibrant music and dances, unique photo zones, and even a dumpling-eating contest! Sunday Sept 22 from noon to 6pm. At River Side Beach Park, Carleton Place. Details: uflc.ca

Next week

35. Operatic Revelry

The next edition of Operatic Revelry invites you to explore the mysteries of death, dreams, and the supernatural through captivating operatic and art song performances. In this “From The Beyond” edition, prepare for haunting melodies and supernatural themes that will transport you to the edge of the unknown. Tickets: $12 online/$15 at the door. When: Wednesday, Sept 25 from 8pm to 11pm. Where: The Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street Details: https://www.instagram.com/operaticrevelry/

Other recurring events in Ottawa

36. Cirque du Soleil Echo (Last weekend)
 
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. 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
 
37. Fall Fun on the Farm
 
Autumn is in the air around the farm! Corn Maze, Wagon Rides, Scarecrows, Pumpkins. Ticket price $11.50 All Ages. September 5–October 27, from 9am to 4pm. The Log Farm – 670 Cedarview Rd., Ottawa.
 
38. “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.
 
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. 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

41. 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.
 
42. 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.

43. 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.

44. 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.
 
45. 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.
 
46. 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
 
47. 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.
 
48. 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.
 
49. 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.
 
50. 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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