The fall colours are starting to pop up around and Thanksgiving is coming!! Isn’t it exciting? Have you already made plans for the long weekend? If not, check out this post to get some great ideas!
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15 events you won’t want to miss this Thanksgiving weekend in Ottawa
1. Carrot Fest
Join the harvest of 10,000 pounds of carrots for the winter! Enjoy a day of music, food, and a community coming together to bring in the harvest. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 12, 10am-3pm. Where: Ottawa Farm Fresh, 2811 Ramsayville Rd, Ottawa. Details: ottawafarmfresh.com
2. Fall Rhapsody
It’s the second weekend of October and it’s the best time to admire the fall foliage in Gatineau Park! Take the free NCC shuttle to visit the most popular places. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes from Ottawa to Gatineau only on the weekends. FREE. Only service dogs are allowed on the shuttle. 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
Pic: NCC
3. Watson’s Mill Harvest Festival
Enjoy a family day with tours in the heritage museums, lawn games, a community painting, crafts and a scavenger hunt as well as a $2 horse and wagon ride from 11am-2pm. Don’t miss the milling demonstration from 1pm to 3pm! When: Sunday, Oct 13, 10am-4pm. Where: 5525 Dickinson Street. Details: On Facebook.
4. One World Bazaar
Come to the bazaar for a weekend of gratitude. Shop for one-of-a-kind products while enjoying music from local artist Alanna J Brown, food from Dhruvees, Rideau BBQ with drinks by Pompette Pours and baked apple goods from Hall’s Apple Orchard. FREE admission. When: Oct 11-14. Fri-Mon 10am-5pm. Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd, Manotick. Details: oneworldbazaar.ca
5. Byward Harvest Market
Enjoy a day of celebration of all things fall! There will be an artisans market, corn roast from a local vendor, magic shows (11am and 12pm), horse carriages rides (2pm-4pm), live music (1pm-3pm) and a 13 foot-skeleton! FREE. When: Sunday Oct 13 from 10am to 5pm. Where: Byward Market. Details: IG @bywardmarket
6. Pumpkins After Dark
This is a celebrated Halloween outdoor event in Ottawa featuring 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins. Enjoy exploring the magical pathway of lit pumpkin sculptures and displays, with music, sounds and special effects. Tickets from $17.49. Ticket price varies based on the dates and times you choose. Children 3 and under free. When: Oct 10-31. Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Rd, Nepean. Details: https://ottawa.pumpkinsafterdark.com/
7. Harvest Night Market
Don’t miss the last night market of the season. There will be over 60 vendors, an apple pie contest, a community corn roast, bingo and a documentary screening. Live music by the Keystrings and Chris White ft Erin Okrainec and DJ Del Pilar. FREE. When: Wednesday Oct 9, 5pm-9pm. Where: 366 Parkdale Ave.
8. 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 12, 10am-4pm. Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park.
9. Senators vs Los Angeles Kings
Time to give thanks for our blessings and the return of hockey as the Sens take on the L.A Kings. Come celebrate Sensgiving and help those in need by bringing a non-perishable food item. Plusthe first 10000 fans will receive an Ottawa Sens Gravy Boat for the Thanksgiving table. Tickets from $40. When: Monday Oct 14, at 1pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Kanata. Details: https://www.nhl.com/senators/
10. 67’s Games
The 67s are looking to bring the canines to heel in a weekend of hockey, taking on the Bulldogs on Friday, and the Wolves on Sunday. It’s a special Redblack appreciation night on Friday, so bring out your Redblacks gear for a night of surprises. Tickets from $25. When: Friday Oct 11, at 7pm (Brantford); Sunday Oct 13, at 2pm (Sudbury). Where: TD Place (Lansdowne Park), 1015 Bank St, Ottawa. Details: https://chl.ca/ohl-67s/
11. Pumpkinferno
Upper Canada Village is where art, heritage and pumpkins come together in their 12th annual Pumpkinferno. Stroll through the historic village at night to see over 9000 hand crafted pumpkins come to life, with fall treats and children’s play stations along they way. Tickets $22 (0-4 FREE). When: Wednesday Oct 9 – Thursday Oct 31, from 7pm. Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg. Details: https://www.uppercanadavillage.com/event/pumpkinferno/
12. Robert Plante Greenhouses 1st Annual Thanksgiving Market
Come visit the tropics for Thanksgiving, at the 1st annual Robert Plante Greenhouses Thanksgiving Market. Explore the greenhouse market filled with over 130 local artisans and their craft/treat creations, while enjoying the warmth, the coffee and the food. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 12 – Sunday Oct 13, from 9am-4pm. Where: Robert Plante Greenhouses, 4228 Navan Rd, Navan. Details: https://www.robertplantegreenhouses.com
13. Dogs Do Magic
Let the magic power of the pack amaze you as Canada’s Got Talent veterans Dogs Do Magic walk into town. From household pets to heroic rescue dogs, keep an eye on the treats as with their talents and tricks, they’ll for sure paw their way into your heart. Tickets from $30. When: Friday Oct 11 – Saturday Oct 12, at 7pm. Where: (Friday) Meridian Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Dr, Nepean (Saturday) Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd, Orleans. Details: https://meridiancentrepointe.com/en https://shenkmanarts.ca/en
14. Latin American Heritage Celebration – Miguel de Armas
Let the Latin beats take you away as the Latin American Heritage Celebration hits the stage at the NAC. Honouring the heritage, culture and contributions of Ottawa’s Latin community, Cuban born Miguel de Armas leads a memorable night of his music and collaborations with local artists . Tickets $25. When: Saturday Oct 12, at 8pm. Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa. Details: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/37277
15. Crown and Pumpkin Studio Tour
Looking for unique pieces of art? Then, look at the Crown and Pumpkin Studio, which offers art and craft pieces made by local artists. Additionally, you can enjoy fine food experiences and live demonstrations! FREE. When: Oct 12 and 13 from 10am to 4pm. Where: Check out https://crownandpumpkin.com/our-locations/ to see the different locations.
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
16. Songs from the Shed
A collaboration between the Sparks Street BIA and the Ottawa Music Industry Coalition (OMIC) is bringing local music as a lunchtime concert series. Welcome a variety of captivating singer-songwriters in solo or duo formations and enjoy lunch outdoors. FREE. When: Oct 8-10, 12pm-1:30pm. Where: The Shed on Sparks Street, Ottawa (between Bank St & O’Connor St near 190 Sparks St).
17. Candlelight Concerts
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations never seen before in Ottawa. At the First Baptist Church Ottawa, 140 Laurier Avenue West. Tickets: $44 – $74 A Tribute to Adele: Oct 11, 8:45pm
18. Ottawa Quad Sessions Social Rollerskating
Ottawa Quad Sessions are all about fun on eight wheels. Any style of skating, all levels, no instruction, lots of watch-and-learn. Rentals (if needed) can be booked as an add-on to the admission. Tickets: $9.31-$17.31. When: Friday, Oct 11, 9pm-10:45pm. Where: Norm Fenn Gym – Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr.
19. World Space Week
Come celebrate World Space Week while enjoying different activities offered by the Canada Aviation and Space Museum for space enthusiasts of all ages. The fee is included with the admission ticket. When: Oct 9-10 from 9am to 5pm. Where: 11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa.
Saturday
20. Les Eaux
Les Eaux is a video installation that invites kids (and the rest of the family) to reconnect with the magical substance that connects all living things: H2O. Come let your dreams ebb and flow with the tides under a comfortable translucent canopy showing projections of the seaside and children playing. The event is presented in French. FREE. When: October 12-13, 11:30am-4:30pm. Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street.
21. The Great Ottawa Markets Collective Destash Market
Come to find the best sewing and craft materials, tools and supplies at this overstocked market! If you are a DIY enthusiast, I’m sure there will be something for you! FREE. When: Oct 12 from 11am to 3pm. Where: Bell Sensplex Kanata, 1565 Maple Grove Rd
22. Emirates Cultural Days
The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates invites people to the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral relations between Canada and the State of Emirates. Explore the uniqueness and authenticity of the Emirate’s heritage. When: Saturday Oct 12 from 1pm to 6pm and Sunday Oct 13 from 10am to 4pm. Where: Horticulture Building, Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way.
23. Candlelight Concerts
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations never seen before in Ottawa. At the First Baptist Church Ottawa, 140 Laurier Avenue West. Tickets: $44 – $74 A Tribute to ABBA: Oct 12, 6:30pm A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac: Oct 12, 8:45pm.
24. Ottawa Flower Market
The Ottawa Flower Market Collective will have one stall filled with the best flowers local farms can offer. FREE. When: Oct. 12 from 9am to 1pm. Where: 366 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Y 1G8
25. Diwali Mela
Featuring a variety of stalls showcasing traditional clothing, jewelry, shoes, handicrafts, home decor, gift items, exquisite Diwali decorations & delicious food. When: Saturday Oct 12 from 11am to 7pm at Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Nepean.
Sunday
26. Capital Trade Shows
Capital Trade Shows presents monthly sports cards, sports memorabilia, and a comic book trade show. A very nice assortment of pretty much anything collectible, including not only various cards but also wax boxes, supplies and autographs. FREE. When: Sunday Oct 13, 10am-3pm. Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave.
27. Andy Shauf Fall 2024 Solo Tour
The Ottawa concert of a Canadian singer-songwriter from Regina, with a very special guest – Le Ren. Andy plays several instruments, including guitar, drums, and clarinet. Silky voice, aura of ambiance, albums that unfold like short fiction, full of colourful characters, fine details and a rich emotional depth. Tickets: $48.02. When: Sunday, Oct 13, 7:30pm. Where: Bronson Centre Theatre, 211 Bronson Avenue
Monday
28. Aroha Fest Diwali Royale
Enjoy the only fully bilingual festival showcasing the arts and culture of India in Canada while highlighting Diwali, the ancient and regal festival of lights. FREE. When? From Oct. 14 to 18 at 6pm. Where: NAC, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa.
29. AHC 2024 Sunset 6K Series
Join Arboretum Hill Club x Aylmer Run Crew as they mash it up for our 6th fun FREE Sunset 6k powered by Bushtukah, Xact Nutrition, Marsquest and Run Ottawa. The run will start and finish at Bistro L’Autre Oeil (152, rue Principale – Aylmer).Post-run hydration and fun will be at … you guessed it … Bistro L’Autre Oeil! Free street parking near Bistro L’Autre Oeil. All humans and canines (on leash) welcome.
All ages. All paces. All run clubs. Newbies welcome. When: Monday Oct 14, 2024 (Thanksgiving) at 6pm.
Other recurring events
30. 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.
31. 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.
32. 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. This weekend: Hawksley Workman, East Coast Experience, Basia Bulat, Kathleen Edwards and other artists.
33. 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.
34. 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.
35. 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.
36. 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
37. 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/
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. 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.
40. 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.
41. 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. This weekend tickets are $25. Children 3 and under are free. At 588 Hog’s Back Road, Ottawa.
42. 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.
43. 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
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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).
