What are your plans for this weekend? If you haven’t thought of it yet, here is a lineup of exciting events and things to do in Ottawa. Check out the special section on Canada Day, and don’t forget to share this post with your friends!
Want a curated list of events sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to our free newsletter! Elevate Your Weekends
Contents
17 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
- RCMP Canadian Sunset Ceremonies
A troop of police officers and their beautiful black horses delight audiences with a spectacular showcase of riding skills. There will be performances by RCMP Pipes, Drums and Dancers, the Capital Cowgirls, and show jumping with RCMP horses. FREE. When: June 26–29 at 7pm. Where: RCMP Rockcliffe Stables, 1 Sandridge Road, Ottawa.
2. Ooh Festival
Enjoy three days of good music, good food, drinks, shopping by the Fly Market, good vibes and good people. Over 120 vendors. FREE.
When: June 28–July 1, 11am–10pm. Where: York St to Dalhousie St.
3. Ottawa Jazz Festival
Celebrating its 45th anniversary with over 45 free concerts across five different distinct series. During the Festival, catch the free noon-hour concerts on the OLG Stage (June 20-22; 24-29), or Jazz at the Castle in the lobby at Château Laurier on June 21, 26, and 28 at 4pm. Or the Late Night Jamming at The Lord Elgin Hotel’s Forty One, from June 20 to 29 at 10:30pm. Day pass tickets to paid concerts from $33.94. When: June 20-29. Where: Confederation Park, City Hall, NAC.
4. Open Doors at Rideau Hall
Explore the State rooms of Rideau Hall at your own pace and tour the greenhouses and gardens, which are not open to the public during regular tours. Guides will be on hand to answer any questions about the history and the role of Canada’s Governor General. FREE.
When: June 28–29, 10am–4pm. Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex.
5. Annual Inspection of the Ceremonial Guard
This annual tradition emphasizes polish, precision and pageantry as the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief conducts the annual Inspection of the Ceremonial Guard. The event includes a military parade, inspection of the guard and band, and a “Viceregal Salute” to Her Excellency. FREE. When: June 27 at 10am. Where: Rideau Hall forecourt
Details: https://www.gg.ca/en/visit-us/
6. Capital Pop Up Cinema
The magic of outdoor cinema in unexpected places around the Ottawa Region. This weekend: Spaceballs. Bring your folding chair and a blanket. FREE. When: Friday June 27 at 8:45pm. Where: Block 2 of Sparks Street between Metcalfe and O’Connor.
7. Kanata Fun Fair
Explore thrilling midway rides, fun foods, and a lively kids’ zone with unlimited rides. FREE
When: June 20–July 1. Where: Kanata Recreation Complex, 400 March Rd
Details: https://www.facebook.com/
8. Black History in Ottawa Streets
Discover Ottawa’s rich Black heritage on a historic bus tour that features landmark stops and offers inspiring insights. FREE
When: Wednesday June 25, 11:30am. Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave
Details: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/
9. Don Kwan’s Chinatown Walking Tour
Explore vibrant Chinatown on a guided walk with Don Kwan, highlighting murals and architecture. FREE
When: June 28, 5pm (Cantonese available). Where: Meet at Chinatown Royal Arch (Somerset St & Bronson Ave)
Details: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/
10. Ottawa Redblacks vs Toronto Argonauts
Cheer for the Redblacks at TD Place with live music, pre‑game deals, and fireworks post‑game. Tickets from $30
When: Sunday June 29, 7pm. Where: The Stadium at TD Place, 1015 Bank St
Details: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/
11. Ottawa BlackJacks vs Montréal Alliance
Don’t miss Canada’s first pro outdoor basketball game. Thrilling CEBL action under the stars at IGA Stadium. Tickets from $35
When: Saturday June 28, at 3pm. Where: The Arena at TD Place
Details: https://www.theblackjacks. ca/
12. Ottawa Titans vs New Jersey Jackals
Start your holiday weekend by heading out to the ballpark to cheer on the Ottawa Titans as they try to tame the New Jersey Jackals. Friday’s game has fireworks, and Sunday’s has a bouncy castle. Get your bats swinging. Tickets from $13.
When: Friday June 27 – Sunday June 29, at 7pm (Friday), 6pm (Saturday), 1pm (Sunday). Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa. Details: https://www.ottawatitans. com/
13. Water Circus Cirque Italia
How better to beat the heat wave than to take in Cirque Italia’s Water Circus. From the magic of water stages to the thrills of the paranormal, the Cirque makes each performance an unforgettable aquatic experience. Tickets from $35
When: June 27–July 7, various times. Where: St Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St Laurent Blvd, Ottawa. Details: https://cirqueitalia. com/
14. Animal Helpers
Come learn how our animal friends have been important helpers in the past and up to today. Visit with the collies and service dogs, the bees and pigeons, and the all-mighty alpacas. Plenty of hands-on experiences and family fun await. Tickets from $7.
When: Sunday June 29, from 10am–4pm. Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Rd, Ottawa
Details: https://ottawa. ca/
15. Live from the Booth
Sparks St is coming alive with the energy and sounds of Ottawa’s electronic music scene. Live from the Booth turns the Mall into a vibrant dance floor with local DJs and artists bringing a spark and a pulse to your weekend. FREE
When: Saturday June 28 (and every Saturday till Oct 11), from 7pm–9pm. Where: 56 Sparks St (Mall), between Elgin and Metcalfe, Ottawa
Details: https://www.sparkslive. com/
16. Fish Ontario License Free
Time to dip your toe into the fishing world, as Ontario is allowing licence-free fishing for a short time. Find a public event near you or head off to your local fishing spot and learn to love what could be a lifelong family pastime. FREE
When: June 28–July 6, various times. Where: Various locations. Details: https://www.
17. Light at Night Kayaking
See Ottawa from a whole new perspective with Light at Night Kayaking. Travel down the Rideau Canal from Patterson Creek (2nd Ave) to the Rideau Locks, taking in Pretoria Bridge, the NAC and the Château along the way. The LED lights on the kayaks make the canal burst with colour. No experience required, and it’s perfect for the young and old. Tickets $99. When: Saturday June 28, 7pm–9:45pm
Where: Patterson Creek, 524 O’Connor St, Ottawa. Details: https://ottawatourism. ca/en/
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
18. 37 Postcards
A lighthearted and touching comedy about Avery Sutton, who returns to his family home only to find that everything—and everyone—is a little more offbeat than he remembered. Full of warmth, laughs, and unexpected moments, this play is a gentle reminder that family is never quite what you expect. Ticket price: $16–$32. When: Wednesday to Saturday, June 25–28, 7:30pm. Sunday June 29, 2:30pm
Where: Ottawa Little Theatre, 400 King Edward Ave, Ottawa.
19. Private Fears in Public Places
A witty, film-style stage play by Alan Ayckbourn following six Londoners seeking love, connection, and a sense of home. Ticket price: $24–$75. When: June 26–27, 7:30pm. Saturday, June 28, 2:30pm & 7:30pm. Where: The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa.
20. Sesame Street Live – Say Hello
Step into the world of Sesame Street in this lively new show filled with music, dancing, and big smiles! Join Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and friends on a fun-filled hide-and-seek adventure featuring Elmo’s playful puppy, Tango. A joyful night out for little ones and the young at heart. Tickets starting at $41. When: Friday June 27, 6pm. Where: Southam Hall at National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa.
Saturday
Start your weekend with an energizing outdoor yoga class surrounded by art and nature! Led by Brittany Bryden on the charming patio at Tavern at the Gallery, this relaxed session is perfect for all levels. Ticket price is $25 per class, drop-in basis. When: Saturday June 28, from 9am to 10am. Where: Tavern at the Gallery, 380 Sussex Drive, K1A 0G8
22. Summer Maze Days
Get outside and explore giant hedge mazes, splash pads, jumpy castles, wagon rides, puppet shows, and more at Saunders Farm—a summer favourite for families and kids of all ages. Tickets starting at $18.99. When: May 31 to August 31, 10am to 4pm. Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd, Ottawa.
Sunday
23. Shayok Summer Showcase
Get ready for a high-energy day of hoops, talent, and college-level action! This dynamic basketball showcase—founded by NBA pro Marial Shayok—brings Ottawa’s rising stars to the court to compete in front of family, fans, and university scouts. It’s where dreams and dunks collide! Tickets $20. When: Sunday June 29, 10am to 7pm. Where: St. Patrick’s High School, 2525 Alta Vista Dr, Ottawa.
24. Regional FireFit – Northern Ontario Championships
Feel the adrenaline as top firefighters from across the region go head-to-head in a high-intensity competition packed with stair runs, hose drags, and dramatic rescue challenges. It’s fast, fierce, and seriously impressive—like a real-life action movie! FREE.
When: Saturday, June 28 – 10am to 6pm. Sunday June 29, 10am to 4pm. Where: Ray Friel Recreation Complex, 1585 Tenth Line Rd, Orleans, Ottawa.
25. Soca Boat 2025
Celebrate Canada Day weekend afloat at Soca Boat 2025, a vibrant, adult‑oriented boat party celebrating soca, steelpan, and tropical vibes along the Ottawa River. Dance into the sunset with live DJs, onboard contests, giveaways, and sky‑high energy as you cruise aboard the Ottawa River Queen. 21+ event. Tickets range from $80 to $100.
When: Sunday June 29, 2025, boarding 5pm, departure 6pm–10pm.
Where: Ottawa River Queen (Quai des Artistes), 795 Rue Jacques‑Cartier, Gatineau, QC.
26. 7th Annual Meat & Grease Car Show
Celebrate horsepower and community at the 7th Annual Meat & Grease Car Show, a family-friendly gathering of classic, custom, and performance vehicles supporting the Ottawa Heart Institute. Stroll through shining displays, enjoy BBQ, music, silent auction, 50/50 draw, and door prizes. All proceeds benefit the Ottawa Heart Institute. Tickets $10 minimum door fee (includes 1 raffle ticket).
When: Sunday June 29, 12pm–4pm.
Where: Derand Motorsport, 1231 Newmarket St, Ottawa, ON K1B 5N6
Canada Day
27. Canada Day Concert with the NAC Orchestra
Celebrate Canada Day with music, pride, and community at the Canada Day Concert with the NAC Orchestra, a free, family-friendly event in the heart of Ottawa. Enjoy an uplifting performance by the world-class National Arts Centre Orchestra, led by Alexander Shelley and joined by celebrated Canadian guest artists. With a program spanning 100 years of Canadian music, including Oscar Peterson’s “Hymn to Freedom,” this inspiring concert promises unforgettable moments for all ages. FREE.
When: Tuesday July 1, 2:30pm (doors open at 1:30pm). Tickets will be available to reserve starting Friday, June 27, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON.
28. Canada Day in the Capital
Celebrate Canada’s birthday at Canada Day in the Capital, a high-energy, family-friendly event filled with music, culture, and community pride. Enjoy free concerts featuring artists like Sarah McLachlan, Coeur de Pirate, Tom Cochrane, Amanda Marshall, and more, plus fun activities for all ages. Highlights include a Snowbirds flyover (4pm at Parliament Hill), interactive zones, and a spectacular Tim Hortons fireworks finale (10pm at Lebreton Flats). FREE.
When: Tuesday July 1, 12pm–10pm.
Where: LeBreton Flats Park, 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, ON
29. Canada Day Orleans
Celebrate Canada Day riverside at Canada Day Orléans, a vibrant, family-friendly festival on Petrie Island filled with community spirit and fun. Enjoy cultural performances, beachside games, water competitions, including canoe races and flotillas, interactive kids’ zones with inflatables and science activities, local vendors, food, a beer tent, and live entertainment. Cap it all off with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk. FREE.
When: Tuesday July 1, 10am–11pm (fireworks at 10pm).
Where: Petrie Island Park, 795 Trim Rd, Orléans, ON.
30. Canada Day at the Byward Market
Enjoy musical performances, a kids zone, and DJs. When: July 1, 12pm-8pm. Where: George St Plaza and York St.
31. Canada Day at Supreme Court of Canada
Family-friendly activities, yoga and drumming workshops. When: July 1, 12pm-11:30pm. Where: Supreme Court, 301 Wellington St.
32. Canada Day in Old Hull
Family fun in Old Hull starting at noon. Featuring Naima Frank, P’tit Beliveau, and The Umbrellas. When: July 1, 12pm-11:30pm. Where: Laval St pedestrian precinct, 35 Laval, Gatineau.
33. Stittsville Canada Day Car Show
Celebrate Canada Day on wheels at the Stittsville Canada Day Car Show 2025, a family-friendly event showcasing classic and custom cars in the heart of Stittsville. Stroll through rows of stunning vehicles, enjoy live music and a local vendor market, and support the community with a 50/50 raffle and awards ceremony. FREE.
When: Tuesday July 1, 11am–4pm (awards at 3:30pm).
Where: Frederick Banting Alternative High School, 1453 Stittsville Main St, Stittsville, ON.
34. Barrhaven Canada Day Celebrations
Celebrate Canada Day with a full-day carnival atmosphere, live music, midway rides, kids’ zone, and fireworks. FREE
When: Tuesday July 1, 9am–11pm (fireworks at 10pm)
Where: Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan St.
Details: https://canadadaybarrhaven. ca/
35. Beacon Hill Fireworks
July 1, 7:30pm-9:30pm at Loyola Park, 956 Loyola Ave, Gloucester. (In the event of rain, fireworks will be postponed to July 2 from 7pm to 9:30pm).
36. Kanata Otto’s Canada Day Road Race
July 1, 8am-11am at Sandwell Green Park (60 Leacock Drive, Kanata)
37. Kanata Canada Day
July 1, 8am-11pm at Walter Baker Park (100 Charlie Rogers Pl., Stittsville)
38. Greely Canada Day
July 1, 12pm to 10:30pm at Greely Community Centre / Andy Shields Park (1448 Meadow Dr., Greely).
39. Riverside South Canada Day
July 1, 10am-2pm. Fireworks: 8pm-10pm at Claudette Cain Park, 660 River Rd.
Other recurring events in Ottawa
40. Welcoming Ottawa Week
WOW is a week-long event full of cultural celebrations, guided tours, sports, documentaries, and more, all to give newcomers a warm Ottawa welcome. FREE. Registration is required.
When: June 16-30.
Where: Various venues.
Details: https://
41. Salsa Sundays
Participate in a FREE open-level salsa lesson before diving into a vibrant social dance session—no partner or experience required! Each lesson is led by instructors from the University of Ottawa Salsa Club. FREE.
When: Sundays, June 22 through September, 3pm–5pm
Where: George Street Plaza (55 ByWard Market Square), Ottawa
42. High Tea in the Veranda
Laurier House National Historic Site and Working Title Kitchen invite you to enjoy decadent pastries, delightful desserts, and high tea on the verandah of this historic home. Admission: $68 (plus tax + 18% service charge).
When: Thursdays and Fridays from May 15 to Sep 26 at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm
Where: Laurier House National Historic Site, 335 Laurier Avenue East, Ottawa.
43. Parkdale Night Market
The Night Market welcomes new producers and growers offering unique products, creating an opportunity to connect with the community into the evening. Admission: FREE. When: Open every day from Wednesday, June 4 to Oct 8, 5-9pm. Where: 366 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa.
44. Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market
Add some sparkle to your Thursday evenings at the Hintonburg Night Market, hosted by the Urban Art Collective. With rotating local vendors, handmade goods, vintage finds, and street food favourites, there’s something new every week. Enjoy live music and the buzzing creative energy of Hintonburg under the summer sky. FREE. When: Thursdays, 4pm–9pm. Where: Urban Art Collective Parking Lot, 1088 Somerset St W, Ottawa.
45. Orleans Farmers’ Market
Shop the freshest seasonal produce, meat & dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, crafts & more while getting to know the folks who grew and made it. Admission: FREE. When: Thursdays 11am-4pm. Where: Ray Friel Recreation Complex Parking Lot, 1675 10th Line Rd, Ottawa.
46. Main St Farmers’ Market
Support the local farmers’ market every Saturday from May to October and discover the finest fresh produce, baked goods, pantry staples, crafts, hot meals and more. Admission: FREE. When: Saturdays from 9am-2pm until October. Where: Grande Allée Park, 185 Main Street, Ottawa.
47. Wakefield Market
Experience the charm of the Wakefield Market, a lively outdoor market happening every Saturday from May to October. Admission: FREE. When: Saturdays from 9am-2pm until October. Where: 38 Chemin de la Vallée de Wakefield, Wakefield, Québec.
48. Westboro Farmers’ Market
This vibrant market offers a diverse selection of farm-fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, and handcrafted items—all sourced within 100 km of Ottawa. Visitors can enjoy live music, a variety of food options, and a welcoming community atmosphere. FREE. When: Saturdays, starting May 17, 9am-3pm. Where: Byron Linear Park, 579 Byron Avenue, Ottawa
49. Nepean Night Market
Enjoy delicious offerings from food trucks, groove to live music, and soak in the community atmosphere. Bring your lawn chairs, dancing shoes. Dogs are welcome and treats are available on site! FREE. When: Sundays, starting from May 18, 5pm-9pm. Where: Mr. Lube parking lot, 1442 Baseline Road, Ottawa
50. Metcalfe Farmers’ Market
Enjoy the Metcalfe Farmers’ Market every Saturday from May to October! (No market on Oct 4) With over 45 friendly vendors to explore, you’ll find something special every time. Plus, there’s free parking and you can bring your furry friend along for the fun! Free Admission. From 9am to 1pm. At 2821 8th Line Rd, Metcalfe.
51. Carp’s Farmers Market
Discover Eastern Ontario’s biggest producer-run farmers’ market, featuring 100+ vendors with farm-fresh produce, artisan crafts, and homemade baked goods. Free Admission. Every Saturday from May to the end of October from 8am to 1pm. At 790 Carp Rd, Ottawa.
52. NCC Weekend Bikedays
As of May 10 three Ottawa parkways will be closed to vehicular circulation so you can use them whether you’re biking, walking, in-line skating, using a wheelchair, or pushing a stroller. FREE. When: May 10 to October 13. Where: Kichi Zibi Mikan: 8am-noon. George-Etienne Cartier Parkway: 8am-4pm. Queen Elizabeth Driveway: 8am-8pm.
53. Jukebox Lunch Concerts
Drop by the NAC this spring for the Jukebox Lunch Concerts, Season 3! Savour live tunes from top Canadian artists during your midday break in the vibrant Peter A. Herrndorf Place. Free Admission. Thursdays at 12:10pm. At National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
Back by popular demand! Enjoy a delightful exhibition of live tropical butterflies including the impressive large blue morpho. Tickets: $6 in addition to the cost of general museum admission. Until Dec 16, get a 10% discount reserving online. When; Dec 6, 2024-Jan 6, 2026. Where: Canadian Museum of Nature. Details: nature.ca