44 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | Oct 3-6

A sunny weekend is coming! Let’s enjoy this nice weather while we still can!! There are many things to do and see in Ottawa this weekend! Check out this post and tell me where you will be heading to.

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

1. Fall Rhapsody

October is the best month to enjoy the fall colours. Take de free NCC shuttle to visit the most popular places in Gatineau Park. The shuttle will run every 20 minutes from Ottawa to Gatineau only on the weekends. FREE. When: Oct 5-27 from 9:10am. Where: Boarding point is Pindigen Park on Wellington St with Booth St. Details: ncc-cnn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park-shuttle

fall foliage

2. Ottawa Fire Truck Pull

Watch how teams of 10 people try to pull a 10-tonne fire truck along 100 feet. They will compete to see who can pull the truck the fastest, raise the most money for a good cause, and demonstrate the most team spirit. This is a fun fundraiser event for Ottawa Epilepsy. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 5 from 2pm. Where: Aberdeen Plaza, Lansdowne Park, 1000 Exhibition Way. Details: https://www.ottawafiretruckpull.com/

people pulling a fire truck in ottawa

3. One World Bazaar

Enjoy Indonesian Cultural Weekend at the bazaar. From Gamelan music, food, traditional dancers and an Embassy info booth (only Saturday and Sunday). FREE. When: Oct 4-6, 10am-5pm. Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd, Manotick. Details: oneworldbazaar.ca

4. Annual Butterfly Show

This show by the Department of Biology at Carleton University is turning 25 years old. It features over 1,000 butterflies that arrive in at least three separate shipments, representing 41 different species worldwide. FREE. ** The event is sold out. There are waitlists on Eventbrite. When: Oct 5-13. Where: Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive. Details: https://carleton.ca/biology/annual-butterfly-show/

Photo: Carleton University (Department of Biology)

5. Byward Oktoberfest

Showcasing the traditions of Oktoberfest with dance, music, food and locally crafted beers. Tickets: $13.54. When: Oct 4-5. Where: Lowertown Brewery, 73 York St. Details: On Eventbrite.

6. Metcalfe Fair

Entertainment for the whole family: a midway, pet show, horse shows, sheep show, demolition derby, wrestling, antique displays, DJ, and much more. Tickets: $5, $10, $15. When: Oct 3-6. Where: 2821 8th Line Rd, Metcalfe. Details: metcalfefair.com

Photo: Metcalfe Fair

7. 613 Flea

Shop from over 150 vendors with a great variety of products: clothing, decor, art, jewelry, food, etc. Well-socialized dogs are allowed. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 5, 10am-3pm. Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park.

8. Senators vs Montreal Canadians

Feel the excitement as the home team battles the Montreal Canadiens in a thrilling NHL matchup! Tickets from $37. When: Saturday Oct 5, 7pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa. Details: https://www.nhl.com/senators/

9. Spooktacular Craft Market

Come shop from over 50 local artists and makers. FREE. When: Sunday, Oct 6, 10:30am – 3pm. Where: Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Avenue, Ottawa Details: https://www.instagram.com/squarelemon_ottawa/

10. Capital Pop Up Cinema

Experience live music and classic films at our season finale! This weekend: Creature from the Black Lagoon! FREE. When:  Saturday Oct 5, 6:30pm. Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Av, Ottawa. Details: https://www.capitalpopupcinema.com/schedule

11. Panda Game

Ottawa’s university football rivalry is back! Secure your seats to watch the Gee-Gees take on the Ravens in this can’t-miss game! Tickets from $49. When: Sunday Oct 6, 12pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St. Details: https://teams.geegees.ca/tradition/pandagame

12. Ibero-American Book Fair in Canada

Celebrate Latin American and Iberian literature! Explore new books and connect with the literary community. FREE. When: Saturday, Oct 5, 10am. Where: Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa. Details: https://www.filibrocanada.com/english.html

13. 67’s vs North Bay Battalion

Get ready for thrilling OHL hockey action as the home team faces their rivals-don’t miss out! Tickets from $25. When: Saturday Oct 5, 3pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St. Details: http://www.ottawa67s.com/

14. Estee Lauder Warehouse Sale

For the first time ever in Ottawa, take advantage of amazing prizes of your favorite brands such as MAC, Clinique, Too Faced, Glamglow & More! ** Children under the age of 10 should not attend this event. FREE. When: Oct 3–6, Thu-Fri, 9am–7:30pm, Sat-Sunday, 9am–5:30pm. Where: EY Centre – Hall 4, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa.

15. Fall Rummage Sale

St. Andrew’s Ottawa is holding its annual Rummage Sale to benefit those in need in our downtown community. Saturday Oct 5, from 10am to 1pm. FREE Entrance. At 82 Kent Street, Ottawa.

16. Munster Harvest Fest

Have an amazing day with family and friends, there will be different activities for both kids and adults such as: Pie eating contest, Homecraft competitions, fundraising bake sale, pumpkin and apple launching, silent auction, vendor market, live music and much more! Saturday Oct 5, from 11am to 4pm. At Munster Park, 2886 Munster Rd, Ottawa.

More things to do in Ottawa this weekend

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

17. SubDevision Theatre Festival

Ottawa’s most exciting immersive and site-specific theatre event, SubDevision, is back! SubDevision is a group of artists known for creating unconventional performances staged throughout different areas of the building. Guests can choose to watch as many or as few pieces as they like during the evening. The main party hub will be a gathering space where audiences can sign up for shows, enjoy live entertainment, and socialize. Tickets from $10 to $60. Wednesday, Oct 2 to Friday, Oct 4, from 7pm to 10:30pm.  At Ottawa Art Gallery, 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, Ottawa.

18. Parkdale Night Market

Almost at the end of the Parkdale Night Market season, take some time to enjoy a fun weeknight. It’s the perfect place to explore handcrafted goods and savour delicious food. Discover new producers and growers offering unique products and fresh experiences. FREE admission. Wednesday, Oct 2 from 5pm to 9pm. At 366 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa.

19. Behind the Screams Haunted House

Thrill-seekers and horror aficionados! Welcome to “Behind the Screams,” Andi Kryste’s interactive Haunted House presented by 1D Studios, where the ordinary conga line haunts are left in the dust. From Sept 19 to Nov 3. Ticket price $26.99-$36.11. Hours: Thursday, 6pm–11pm; Friday 6pm–1am; Saturday 12pm–1am; Sunday 12pm–10pm. At 2935 Conroy Rd. Ottawa.

20. Minoshkite Indigenous Music & Arts Festival

Minoshkite, which translates to “music to the ears” in Algonquin is a vibrant festival featuring youth programming, local artisans, and a chance to connect with Indigenous culture. Admission: FREE. Thursday, Oct 3 at 7pm. At Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Avenue, Ottawa.

21. The Hunchback of Notre Dame

From the well-known literary genius Victor Hugo, 9th hour is pleased to present The Hunchback of Notre-Dame with a contemporary twist and unique theatrical style that highlights the story’s ongoing relevance for today. Different dates from October 3 to October 13. Thursday October 3 at 7:30 pm, Saturday October 5 and Sunday October 6, at 2:30 pm. Studio at Centrepointe Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Dr., Nepean.

22. Studio Space Ottawa Open Studio + Art Sale

This weekend marks the 5th Anniversary of Studio Space Ottawa, a non-profit arts-service organization. To celebrate, they will be hosting an Open Studio + Art Sale featuring 40 artists.  Enjoy an artsy and calm atmosphere with potters, printmakers, painters, and more. This event is open to all ages and admission is FREE. Friday, Oct 4 from 6pm to 9pm and Saturday, Oct 5 from 12pm to 5pm. At Studio Space Ottawa, 2477 Kaladar Avenue, Ottawa.

23. Ottawa Architecture Week

Ottawa Architecture Week: Festival of Design and Imagination is an annual week-long festival that welcomes everyone to explore architecture, urbanism, art, and design in Ottawa. Admission: FREE. Monday, September 30 to October 4 at various times and locations.

24. Hope Rock Fest

Join HOPE RockFest for a night filled with electrifying up-and-coming artists, an amazing headliner, delicious food and good vibes! Admission: $28.25. Friday, Oct 4 at 8pm. At Overflow Brewing, 2477 Kaladar Avenue, Ottawa.

25. Les Producteurs

This adaptation of Mel Brooks’ masterpiece remains the most awarded musical in Broadway history, with 12 Tony Awards to its credit! Admission:$106+. Thursday, October 3-5 at 8pm. At Théâtre du Casino Lac-Leamy, 1, boulevard du Casino, Gatineau (Québec).

26. Ontario Festival of Small Halls

This festival presents some of Canada’s best musicians during intimate shows in beloved buildings in smaller communities. From October to December 2024. Tom Wilson: Oct 4, 7:30pm at St John’s United Church, 192 Mill St, Creemore, ON.

Saturday

27. Geeked Out: Ottawa’s Toy & Collectible Sale

Don’t miss out on this epic event! This weekend marks the 25th edition of Geeked Out! You can explore 120 vendor booths featuring the best geek merchandise from the Ottawa Valley. Whether you’re searching for vintage action figures, toys, video games, board games, comics, trading cards, or handmade creations, expect no shortage of incredible treasures and rare finds. Admission $5. Saturday, Oct 5 and Sunday, Oct 6, from 10am to 4pm. At Nepean Sportplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa.

28. Imjin Hockey Classic

The Imjin Hockey Classic, an annual commemoration of the Canadian soldiers in the Korean War, was inaugurated in 2013 on the Rideau Canal with a game between the Canadian Armed Forces and Parliamentarian teams. Admission: FREE. Saturday, Oct 5 at 3pm. At Bell Sensplex, 1565 Maple Grove Road, Ottawa.

29. Urban Art Collective Saturday Themed Markets

Stroll through the Hintonburg Night Market to pick up “Local Eats, Treats & All Things Handmade.” Admission: FREE. Saturday, Oct 5 from 12-5pm. At Urban Art Collective, 1088 Somerset Street West, Ottawa.

Other recurring events in Ottawa

30. 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.

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.

32. 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.

33. Stittsville Haunted Heritage Tours 2024

Explore the eerie side of Stittsville on this unique heritage tour, blending local history with haunted tales. Discover the town’s spooky past as you walk through its quaint streets. Tickets: $22.59 at Eventbrite. From Sept 27 to Nov 2. Where: 1549 Main Street South, Ottawa

34. 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/
 
35. 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.
 
36. 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.

37. 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.

38. 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.
 
39. 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.
 
40. 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
 
41. 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.
 
42. 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.
 
43. 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.
 
44. 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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