This weekend there will be three exciting events celebrating the Day of the Dead in the nation’s capital! Check out the full list of things to do in Ottawa and share it with your friends!
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16 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Day of the Dead Festival
Immerse yourself in Mexican culture and learn about one of the most important Mexican traditions. There will be music and dance presentations, workshops, activities for kids, food and a bar to try delicious cocktails. Don’t miss the procession (Saturday 4pm-5pm) and the dance party “Rattle your bones” on York St (Saturday, 6pm-8:30pm). FREE. When: Nov 1-3. Fri 11am-7pm;Sat 11am-8:30pm; Sun 11am-5pm. Where: Byward Market. Details: IG @bywardmarket
2. Celebrating the Day of the Dead
Come visit a big and beautiful altar made by the Escuela Moderna Americana (México) starting Oct 28 from 10am to 10pm. Attend different workshops for the whole family. FREE. When: Saturday Nov 2 from 10:30am. Where: Maison Du Citoyen, 25 Laurier St, Gatineau.
3. Day of the Dead Festival
Day of the Dead Festival 2024 – “A Celebration of Life” -promises to be unforgettable with sounds and flavors that will transport you to the heart of Mexico’s vibrant culture. FREE. When: Saturday Nov 2, 3pm-9pm. Where: Horticulture Building, 525 Marche Way, Lansdowne Park.
4. Ottawa Children’s Storytelling Festival
Storytellers will tell engaging stories about heroes for children of all ages in English and French. Hear thrilling tales of superheroes, legends, and everyday champions from professional storytellers. FREE. When: Saturday Nov 2, 10:30am-1:30pm. Where: Ben Franklin Place, 101 Centrepointe Drive. Details: https://www.ottawastorytellers.ca/childrens-storytelling-festival
5. Nature Nocturne
Experience an amazing night of playfulness, discovery and dance at the museum. The Nature nocturne events are iconic in Ottawa. Tickets: $37 plus tax. THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT. When: Friday Nov 1, 8pm-midnight. Where: Canadian Museum of Nature. Details: nature.ca
6. Women’s Day in Manotick
Celebrate women and local businesses: collect stamps, enjoy promotions, shop, explore, and connect! FREE. When: Saturday, Nov 2, 10am-5pm. Where: Manotick, Ottawa. Details: https://manotickvillage.com/womensday/
7. One World Bazaar
Shop for one-of-a-kind products and enjoy live music, food, lawn games, dancers and musicians from different cultural backgrounds. Cynthia Bonnel will be here all Saturday to do Tarot readings. Local musicians will take the Bazaar stage in the afternoons! FREE. When: Nov 1-3, Fri-Sun 10am-5pm. Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd, Manotick. Details: oneworldbazaar.ca
8. Senators vs Seattle Krakens
Cheer on the Senators when they clash against the Seattle Kraken in this game in the National Hockey League. Tickets: $47. When: Saturday Nov 2, 7pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive.
9. Tidal Waves #4
This is a one-day fighting game tournament that is coming back bigger than ever. Opportunity to spectate and/or play friendly matches. Spectator tickets: $20. Spectators can enjoy all games at the event, so don’t forget your controller! When: Saturday Nov 2. Where: Marriott Hotel, Victoria Ballroom, 100 Kent St. Details: start.gg 10.
67’s games
Cheer on Ottawa’s junior hockey team twice this weekend! Friday Nov 1 at 7pm vs Guelph Storm. Sunday Nov 3 at 2pm vs Kingston Frontenacs. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
11. Ottawa Rock n’ Gem Show
Rock and nature lovers: explore rare crystals, fossils, and gemstones at the Rock N’ Gem Show! Tickets from $ 2. When: Thursday, Oct 31 – Sunday, Nov 3, 10am. Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa. Details: https://www.cangems.ca/events.html
12. Bazaar Ottawa
Enjoy elite shopping with unique vendors, handmade gifts, and family activities! FREE. When: Saturday Nov 2, 11am-7pm. Where: 2465 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa. Details: On Eventbrite
13. Christmas Bazaar Parkdale United Church
Enjoy delicious baking, crafts, antiques, and treasures at Parkdale’s Annual Bazaar! FREE. When: Saturday, Nov 2, 9am-12pm. Where: Parkdale United Church, 429 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa. Details: https://parkdaleunitedchurch.ca/
14. All Saints Craft Fair
Discover unique gifts while supporting families in need this Christmas! Tickets $ 2. When: Saturday Nov 2, 10am. Where: All Saints High School, 5115 Kanata Avenue, Kanata. Details: https://ash.ocsb.ca/
15. Nepean Sportsplex Christmas Craft Show
Giving local and Canadian vendors the chance to showcase their hand-crafted products including clothing and accessories, jewelry, wood products, artworks, leather, goods and more! Ticket price Adults $7, Seniors/Youth $5, Children under 12, FREE. When: Oct 31-Nov 3. Thu 10am-6pm; Fri 10am-8pm; Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 10am-4pm. At Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Nepean.
16. Traditions Christmas Craft Show
The tradition continues hosted by the National Capital Artisans. Check out the unique items of 70+ locals artisans. Each item is handcrafted by the artisans. There is something for everyone. FREE admission and parking. Nov 2-3, from 10 am to 4 pm. At Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School 1515 Tenth Line Rd., Orleans, ON.
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
17. Snow in Midsummer This tense, emotional and at times eerie production shows how well a good ghost story can grip an audience. Ticket price starting at $31 – $61. Wednesday Oct 30–Nov 9, at 8pm. Azrieli Studio, National arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
18. Peau d’Ane
Feminist theatrical fable. Ticket price starting at $31-$61. Thursday Oct 31 and Friday Nov 1, at 7:30pm. Saturday Nov 2, at 7pm. Babs Asper Theater, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St. Ottawa.
19. sKreamers
Looking for a spooky group adventure this month? Look no further than this haunted weekend event full of wagon rides and scary surprises. Admission: $25. Every Friday & Saturday in October & Halloween Night, from 7-10pm. At Proulx Maple & Berry Farm, 1865 O’Toole Road, Ottawa.
20. Outstanding in their fields
A taste-and-buy event to discover 100+ wines from across Ontario: meet the makers who have just finished harvest. Admission: $25-65 (depending on package). Friday, November 1st from 7-9pm. At Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper Street, Ottawa.
21. Jesse Singh – Baby Goat Comedy Tour
Follow headlining comedian, Jesse Singh, across the country as he begins his transformation from “The Baby Goat” to “THE GOAT”. Admission: $22.63. Friday, November 1st from 8-10pm. At LIVE! on Elgin, 220 Elgin Street #2, Ottawa.
Saturday
22. Ottawa Valley Weavers’ and Spinners’ Guild Sale and Exhibition
Discover local fiber arts, a must-visit event for spinners, weavers, knitters, and shoppers! FREE. When: Nov 2-3, 10am. Where: Glebe Community Centre 175 Third Ave, Ottawa. Details: https://www.ovwsg.com/
23. Inspirations Art Show and Sale
You’re invited to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of creativity. Join for an unforgettable celebration of artistry and imagination, where talented artists showcase their finest works for your enjoyment and acquisition. FREE. Saturday Nov 2, from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday Nov 3, from 11 am to 4 pm. At Manotick United Church, Downstairs Hall, 5567 Manotick Main St., Manotick.
24. Twilux Lantern Parade
On the evening of this magical festival, community revelers come to Crozier Park with their handmade paper lanterns, arriving to the sounds of a band of merry musicians and colourful light performers! Admission: FREE. Saturday, November 2nd from 6-9:30pm. At Crozier Park, the streets of Oxford Mills, and Maplewood Park, Ottawa.
25. Christmas in the Valley Artisan Show
Make your first holiday shopping destination the Christmas in the Valley Artisan Show where a selection of over 25 local artisans, crafters and bakers will be presenting their original creations in a festive atmosphere. Admission: FREE. Saturday, November 2nd and 3rd from 10am-4pm. At John Levi Community Centre/Arena Upper Hall, 182 Bridge Street, Almonte.
Sunday
26. Music for a Sunday Afternoon Fall Edition
Prepare to be amazed as the tuba steps into the spotlight! Curated by Chris Lee, NACO’s Principal Tuba and a true virtuoso, this chamber concert showcases the instrument´s expressive range like you’ve never heard it before. Ticket price: Under 30 – $15, General Admission: $45. Sunday, Nov 3, at 3pm. At 355 Cooper St., Ottawa.
27. Turkish Food Festival
Indulge in traditional Turkish delicacies like sarma (stuffed grape leaves, çiğ köfte (vegan meatballs made of bulgur wheat), börek (savoury pie), mantı (Turkish ravioli), and many different kinds of desserts. There will be a market showcasing gift items, books, jewelries, accessories, clothing, handmade soaps, and candles.
Sunday Nov 3, between 11am and. At 335 Michael Cowpland Drive, Ottawa
28. Maple Hill Urban Farm Corn Maze
Explore a historic 1860s family farm with a kids’ play barn, various animals to see and feed, a pumpkin patch with field-grown and pre-picked pumpkins, a three-acre corn maze, wagon rides, and picnic areas for a full day of family fun. Admission: $15. Until Sunday, November 3 from 10am-5pm. At 200 Moodie Dr, Ottawa.
Other recurring events in Ottawa
29. 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
30. 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/
31. 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/
32. 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: Fridays from 9pm to 10:45pm. Where: Norm Fenn Gym – Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr.
33. 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.
34. Ontario Festival of Small Halls
This festival presents some of Canada’s best musicians during intimate shows in beloved buildings in nearby smaller communities. From October to December 2024.
35. 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.
36. 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.
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. 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.
39. 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.
40. 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.
41. 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.
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. 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.
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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