Don’t know what to do this weekend? Don’t miss a fun and unique Pumpkin race, the chance to admire the beauty of fall at Gatineau Park, an international bazaar, a literary and a theatre event, a football game, and much more. Check out this listing of things to do in Ottawa, including a variety of Halloween events for all ages!
Subscribe to the free newsletter if you want to receive all this information in your inbox! Elevate Your Weekends
Contents
16 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. Lansdowne Park Pumpkin Derby
Fun for all ages! Participants must design a pumpkin race car and will compete for prizes and bragging rights. There will be free activities like glitter tattoos, Halloween crafts and a play zone. When: Sunday Oct 27, 9:30am to 4pm. Where: Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way.
2. Fall Rhapsody
It’s the last weekend of Fall Rhapsody at Gatineau Park! Take the free NCC shuttle to visit it and rejoice in the beauty of autumn! 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
3. One World Bazaar
It’s the Day of the Dead weekend. Known for being the time when Mexicans celebrate their lost loved ones, is also a celebration of culture. There will be an altar to the lost ones, a mariachi band, dancers, tacos and more! Shop for one-of-a-kind products. FREE admission. When: Oct 26-27, 10am-5pm. Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd, Manotick. Details: oneworldbazaar.ca
4. Trick or Treat with the Mayor
Come Trick or Treat with the Mayor and a cast of costumed characters in the “Weird and Wonderful” Heritage Building, where you will be welcomed by the Enchanted Witches and Goblins of Elgin Street! Admission: A non-perishable item or cash donation to the Ottawa Food Bank’s Baby Basics Program. When: Saturday Oct 26, 5:30pm-8:30pm. Where: City Hall, 110 Laurier St W. Details: https://ottawa.ca/trickortreat
5. Ottawa International Writers Festival
A celebration of ideas to recharge our imaginations. From politics to poetry, science to music, or history to thrillers. General admission $25. When: Oct 23-27. Where: Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street. Details: writersfestival.org
6. Fresh Meat
Fresh Meat Theatre Festival is back for its 13th year, showcasing the incredible talent of local creators. The festival will feature 6 exciting world premieres, making it a must-see event for theatre-lovers. Tickets: $6. When: Oct 23-27, 7pm-11pm. Where: Arts Court Theatre (3rd Floor), 2 Daly Ave. Details: freshmeatfest.com
7. 613 Flea
The 613 flea market returns just in time for those last-minute Halloween needs. Among the 150 vendors, visitors will discover many ghostly items like classic Halloween décor, vintage clothing – perfect for that retro-inspired costume – and hauntingly decorated and delectable baked goods. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 26, 10am to 4pm. Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne park, 1015 Bank St.
8. Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ottawa Redblacks will play against the Hamilton Tigers in a game of the Canadian Football League. Tickets: $37.50. When: Friday Oct 25 at 7pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St
9. Ottawa Wedding Show
Join Ottawa’s leading Wedding professionals from venues to florists, catering to invitations, and much more. It’s the big day before your big day. Tickets $17+HST. When: Saturday Oct 26 – Sunday Oct 27, from 11am – 4pm. Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr, Ottawa. Details: https://ottawaweddingshow.ca/
10. The Ottawa Chocolate Show
If you have a sweet tooth, come take a bite out of the Ottawa Chocolate Show. Meet, greet, sample and bring home the work of chocolate makers from across the country. Sit in on seminars to learn more about all things chocolate, plus the first 25 people receive a free chocolate goodie bag. Tickets from $16.95. When: Saturday Oct 26, from 10am–5pm. Where: Algonquin College Event Salons, 1385 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa. Details: https://theottawachocolateshow.ca/
11. Capital’s Diwali Mela
Embrace the vibrant spirit of India right here in Ottawa at the Capital’s Diwali Mela. Enjoy mouth watering snacks to a full family dinner, cultural performances and dances, and shopping for decorations, gifts and more. Plus, a must-see drone show to end off the celebration. Tickets from $38. When: Friday Oct 2, from 12pm (vendors) or 4pm–12am (event). Where: Saint Elias Banquet Centre, 750 Ridgewood Ave, Ottawa. Details: On Eventbrite.
12. The Lion King
Broadway returns to the capital as the Lion King opens its run at the NAC. Giraffes strut, gazelles leap and the music soars in the Tony award winning musical based on the Disney classic. Come and join the pride at Pride Rock, and live the Hakuna Matata life. Tickets from $125. When: Thursday Oct 24 – Sunday Nov 10, various showtimes. Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa. Details: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/36390
13. Into the Woods
Calling all musical theatre fans! This amazing classic brings your favorite tales together in one show. Perfect for audiences young and old who love immersing themselves in the magic of theatre. Ticket prices start at $46.76. When: From Oct 24 till Nov. 03. Where: 101 Centrepointe Dr, Ottawa, ON K2G 5K7
14. Symposium Gatineau en Couleurs
Fall is about colour so come experience the colours on the canvas at the Symposium Gatineau en Couleur. Over 70 painters and sculptors from across Ontario and Quebec will be on-hand displaying their work for you to enjoy and bring home. FREE. When: Friday Oct 25 – Sunday Oct 27, from 6pm – 10pm (Friday), 10am- 5pm (Sat/Sun). Where: Chateau Cartier Hotel and Resort, 1170 Chemin D’Alymer, Gatineau. Details: https://www.gatineauencouleurs.ca/
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
15. Toddlers’ Halloween Hunt
Bring your little ones in costume for a fun-filled day at the Diefenbunker! Explore the 100,000-square-foot museum, hunt for treats, enjoy crafts, and discover Halloween surprises. $12 per person; children 5 and under are free. When: October 23, 9am–October 25, 12:30pm. Entry every 30 minutes from 9am to 12pm. Where: Diefenbunker, Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa.
16. Gatineau Hills Fiddle Festival
What could be a better combination than barbecue and dance? If this plan appeals to you, come to the community dance and barbecue at the Gatineau Hills Festival. This event promises to get you moving all night long to music from artists like Kyle Burghout, John Mitchell, and more! Ticket prices are $5 for ages 18 & under and $15 for adults. When: Thursday, Oct 24 from 6 to 10 pm. Where: 8 Chem. Mill, Chelsea, QC J9B 1K8.
17. Halloween Costume Party
The Annual Halloween Costume Party is always a blast!! Come dressed in costumes to celebrate Halloween down on the farm. All the fall activities will be there: Wagon Rides, Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, Animals, Enchanted Forest, Hay Play and more. All the kids will receive a Halloween candy loot bag on their way out. Tickets: $11.50, Infants under 1 year old – FREE. Pre-purchased tickets are required. When: October 24-27, 9am- 4pm. Where: The Log Farm, 670 Cedarview Rd.
18. Music To Movement Build: Retro Funk Costume Party
Jazz, funk, costumes, and prizes from local vendors! Don’t miss this party if you enjoy groovy live music from talented local artists. Ticket prices start at $11.98. When: Friday, Oct. 25 at 7 pm. Where: 211 Bronson Ave, Ottawa, ON K1R 6H5
19. Watson’s Mill Haunt Nights
Ghosts, ghouls and monsters of all kinds will be unleashed inside Watson’s Mill! Three floors of the historic mill will be transformed into frightening scenes that will scare anyone who dares to enter! Tickets: $15, not recommended for children under 10. When: October 24–26, 7pm- 9:30pm. Where: Watson’s Mill, 5525 Dickinson St
Saturday
20. Taylor’s Story
Get ready for an unforgettable day of music and fun at TD Place on October 26, 2024! Taylor’s Story is a double-header show that brings the energy of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and a Spice Girls reunion into one spectacular event, perfect for families. Tickets: $40– $100, available through Ticketmaster and TD Place. When: Saturday, Oct 26, 2pm–10pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
21. Hanim: Arab Women in Music
This special event celebrates iconic Arab women musicians like Umm Kulthum, Asmahan, Fairouz, Sabah, Shadia, Warda, and more! The unique voice of Ranya Jamal will be featured throughout the night. Ticket prices start at $44.25. When: Saturday, Oct. 26 at 8 pm. Where: 245 Centrum Blvd, Orléans.
22. All Request Radio: Musical Improv Comedy
This hilarious comedy show features performers improvising lyrics based on audience song title suggestions and a playlist they’ve never heard before! This month’s show comes with a Halloween edition that you won’t want to miss. Ticket price is $15. When: Saturday, Oct 26 from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Where: 2 Daly Ave, Ottawa.
23. Undercover Legends of Rock
Get ready for a night of classic rock hits! Undercover Legends of Rock brings the best of iconic bands to the stage with high-energy performances that will have you singing along. From Led Zeppelin to Queen, enjoy a tribute to the legends of rock. Join the costume contest with prizes for best individual costume, best group costume and best couple. Must be 19+. Tickets: $19.56, $25.57. Free parking. When: Saturday, October 26, 8pm. Where: The Joint at Rideau Carleton Casino, 4837 Albion Road Ottawa.
24. The Herb Garden Fall Market
Take a stroll through the gardens and the pumpkins at the Herb Garden’s Fall Market. Sip on your coffee, enjoy some snacks, and relax as you shop for handcrafted treasures, amazing creations and delicious treats offered by dozens of local shops and vendors. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 26, from 10am-4pm. Where: The Herb Garden, 3840 Old Almonte Rd, Almonte. Details: https://herbgarden.ca/workshop/
25. Haunted Manor Halloween Party
6th annual Haunted Manor Halloween Party with all your favourite Halloween anthems and popular club tracks throughout the night. Stay for the costume contest with judging starting at midnight and $1000 in prizes for the best solo, couple and group costumes. Tickets: $6.66. All guests must be over 19 and have a government-issued photo ID. When: Saturday, October 26, 9pm-2am. Where: Manor Lounge, 292 Elgin St
26. Halloween Howl Market
Embrace the hauntingly festive spirit with your canine companions, as dogs are welcome, and treat them to on-site paw-dicures for a ghoulishly delightful family-friendly experience! FREE. When: Saturday, October 26, 10am-3pm. Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd.
27. Halloween Hijinks
Explore cool gizmos and gadgets with our ghosts and ghouls while collecting a few treats along the way. Wind your way through our maze, make a skeleton craft, and test your skills in our Halloween challenges. Tickets: $25.63 per group. Activities are best suited for children 10 and under. Advance registration is required. Maximum of 6 people per group; children 2 and under are not counted toward the group total. When: October 26-27, 10am-4pm. Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Road.
28. Pumpkin Carving Contest
Join the fun and support the Ottawa Boys and Girls Club with a pumpkin carving contest on. Prizes include tennis lessons, tickets, gift certificates, and more. Bring your own pumpkin and tools, and feel free to come in costume! Entry $20. When: Saturday, October 26, 1-4pm. Where: The Bridge Public House, 1 Donald Street, Ottawa.
29. Halloween Heist
Help stop ghouls from stealing the Halloween candy! Explore the museum grounds, complete fun activities, and gather clues to unlock the vault and earn a sweet reward. Costumes encouraged. Admission $30.66 for up to six people. Advance registration required. When: October 26-27, 10 am-4pm. Where: Billings Estate National Historic Site, 2100 Cabot Street, Ottawa.
30. Glebe Halloween Village
Presenting the first-ever Glebe Halloween Village! Come to the Lyon-Bank block of Glebe Avenue. The block will be transformed into an accessible daytime trick-or-treating experience with at least seventeen treat stations at the ends of driveways. RSVP for your free tickets at Eventbrite. Saturday Oct 26,11am-2pm. Where: Lyon-Bank block of Glebe Avenue.
31. Nepean’s Best Trunk or Treat
The parking will be filled with fun and creative decorated cars! Each vehicle will have their trunk decorated and children will walk from trunk to trunk gathering goodies & enjoying festive Halloween decorations. RSVP: nepeantruckortreat.com or (613) 828-8000. Saturday Oct 26, 4:30pm-7pm. At 2062 Robertson Rd.
32. Trunk-or-Treat for Dreams
Don’t miss this inclusive, safe, family-friendly event where kids can trick-or-treat around stations set up by local businesses, law enforcement and first responders, all in support of Dreams Take Flight Ottawa. Bring your family over for treats, meet-and-greets, and lots of fun! Entry by donation. Details: @dreamsottawa. Saturday Oct 26, 11am-3pm. At Giant Tiger, 2480 Walkley Rd.
33. Wickedly Westboro
Wear your costume and visit the designated stops to fill your bag with all treats – and that’s no trick! The Wickedly Westboro Trick or Treat event happens rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather – and don’t forget to bring your own bag. Details: https://westborovillage.com/ww/ Saturday Oct 26, 1pm-4pm.
34. Greely’s Haunted Hike
This event takes place along a 500-meter nature trail. Be prepared to navigate natural inclines and tree roots. This hike is designed for the whole family but it gets scarier as the hike progresses. (Weather permitting). Saturday Oct 26, 1pm-4pm. At 1448 Meadow Drive, Greely.
35. Halloween Howl (CCC)
This long standing tradition is an opportunity for our littlest neighbours to dress up and participate in Halloween themed activities, crafts and games inside the Fieldhouse. Saturday Oct 26, 3pm-5pm. At New Edinburg Park, 203 Stanley St.
36. Beastmaster 2024 Experience
The Beastmaster Invites Community to Electrify Skeleton this Halloween! This is a backyard laboratory experience involving three interactive processes to electrify a beast to life! Help the Beastmaster bring his spooky creation to life! Saturday Oct 26, 7pm-9pm. At 300 Lajoie, Vanier.
Sunday
37. Aella Choir Presents: Something Wicked This Way Comes
Demons, ghosts, and witches await you at this haunted concert, complete with pumpkin treats and apple cider! Join us for some of the favorite Halloween-themed repertoire. PAY WHAT YOU CAN. When: Sunday, Oct 27 at 7 pm. Where: 140 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON K1P 5J4
38. Halloween dans la forêt
The Museopark, in collaboration with the Vanier Optimist Club, invites kids and grown-ups to take a stroll in the Richelieu Park forest to celebrate Halloween. Little monsters can take part in several activities and collect treats along the way. A volunteer from the Lire et faire lire program will also read stories around the campfire! Sunday Oct 27, 11am-11pm. At Richelieu Vanier Park, 300 Peres-Blancs.
39. Halloween Train Rides
Dress up in your favourite Halloween costume and join us for caboose rides, and trick-or-treating at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario. Explore our fascinating rolling railway displays such as our 1899 era Dining Car, Dental Car, Snow Plow and our Canadian Pacific Cadillac Limousine and gather treats along the way. Tickets: $19.56. When: Sunday, October 27, 11am-2pm. Where: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls
Next week
40. Evanescence with Halestorm
The Grammy-winning rock band Evanescence returns to Ottawa for their first Canadian headline tour in 15 years. Joined by Halestorm and opening act The Warning, the tour celebrates the 20th anniversary of their iconic album Fallen. Tickets from $65. When: Oct 28, 7pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa
Other recurring events in Ottawa
41. Pumpkins After Dark
49. 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.
52. 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.