Are you looking forward to the weekend? Ottawa is buzzing with tons of events and things to do! From two popular cultural and food festivals to Bluesfest, a beer festival, and sports events, there is something for all tastes! Check out the post and share it with your friends.
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18 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Lebanese Festival
Embrace Middle Eastern culture with various artists performing contemporary and customary music and dances. Indulge in popular dishes such as hummus, falafel, and shawarma. There will be a midway with rides and games for children of all ages. There will be tours inside St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral. FREE entry before 5 pm. General admission: $3. Children under 12 are free.
When: July 16–20. Wed–Fri 4 pm–11 pm; Sat–Sun 11 am–11 pm.
Where: Saint Elias Centre Conference and Banquet Facility, 750 Ridgewood Ave, Ottawa.
Details: https://www.
2. Bluesfest
This music festival is Ottawa’s summer signature and one of the largest festivals in the capital. The lineup of artists includes Shania Twain, Hozier, Pixies & Turnstile, and others. Tickets: $133 general admission.
When: July 10–20
Where: LeBreton Flats
Details: ottawabluesfest. ca
3. Thai Street Food Festival
Enjoy Thai dance performances, Muay Thai demonstrations, Thai massage demonstrations, and live music, and of course, savoury street food, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 19, 11 am–6 pm
Where: Horticulture Building, Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way.
Details: thaifest. ca
4. Festival Parasol
Gatineau Beerfest is now Festival Parasol, offering the best beers in the region, tasty food, and live music. Each day is a different theme: beach party, electronik piknic, Latin party, etc. Two sessions: 12–4 pm and 5 pm–11 pm. Tickets: $17.95, $21.95, $28.95
When: July 16–26
Where: Casino Lac-Leamy, 1 Casino Boulevard, Gatineau.
Details: festivalparasol. ca
5. Ottawa Chamberfest
World-renowned artists converge for a dynamic festival that merges tradition with bold, imaginative spirit. Free and paid concerts. Don’t miss the popular Bring the Kids! (5 free shows) tailored for children, and the free Outdoor Concerts series happening at City Hall (yoga, and restorative stretch and strength) and at Rideau Hall (The Central Band of the Canadian Forces).
When: July 18–27
Where: Various venues
Details: chamberfest. com
6. Lock & Paddle 2025
Join Parks Canada at this free community paddling event in the nation’s capital, Ottawa. Paddle into the lock alongside a flash mob of colourful canoes and kayaks, and descend through the locks to the sounds of laughter and music. All ages and skill levels welcome. No registration required. Rain or shine. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 19 at 2 pm
Where: Hartwells Locks, 1794 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1S
Details: On Facebook
7. Music and Beyond
A classical music and arts festival that began in July 2010. Each year, the festival offers a variety of programming to highlight exciting connections between classical music and other art forms. Plus, it also presents one of the most elegant cultural galas in all of Canada: the Viennese Winter Ball.
Tickets from $20
When: July 4–16
Where: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre and other locations
Details: musicandbeyond. ca
8. Nature Nocturne: Desert Oasis
Step into a desert mirage at the Canadian Museum of Nature for an after-hours, adult-only experience. Explore four gallery floors transformed with interactive installations, multiple dance floors, desert-themed décor, a silent disco with live DJs, and the “Butterflies in Flight” exhibition included in the ticket. Tickets: $39 + tax, 19+.
When: Friday, July 18, 8 pm–midnight
Where: Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod Street, Ottawa
Details: IG @naturenocturne
9. 613 Flea
Shop from 150 local vendors featuring handcrafted items, art, jewelry, baked goods, and vintage finds. FREE
When: Saturday, July 19, 10am–4pm
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St
Details: IG @613flea
10. Capital Pop Up Cinema
The magic of outdoor cinema in unexpected places around the Ottawa region. Bring your blanket and a folding chair. This week: The parent trap. FREE. When: Friday, July 18 at 8:45pm. Where: Churchill Seniors Centre, 345 Richmond Rd. Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema
11. Ottawa Redblacks vs. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Cheer on the hometown Ottawa Redblacks as they face off against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in a thrilling CFL matchup at TD Place Stadium. Tickets: from $20.
When: Sunday, July 20, 7 pm
Where: TD Place Stadium, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
12. Company of Fools: The Comedy of Errors
Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy an outdoor adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors. This fast-paced farce transports the classic tale of mistaken identities into a retro video game world, complete with warp pipes, Goombas, and mustachioed plumbers. Tickets: Pay-what-you-can (suggested $20 donation).
Wednesday, July 16, 7 pm–8:30 pm. Stonecrest Park, 220 Stoneway Dr, Nepean
Thursday, July 17, 7 pm–8:30 pm. Greenboro Park, 363 Lorry Greenberg Dr, Ottawa
Friday, July 18, 7 pm–8:30 pm. Lion’s Park, 296 Elmgrove Ave, Ottawa
Saturday, July 19, 7 pm–8:30 pm. Champlain Park, 140 Carleton Ave, Ottawa
13. Atlético Ottawa vs. Halifax Wanderers FC
Kick off a Friday night matchup under the stadium lights as Atlético Ottawa welcomes the Halifax Wanderers FC for an exciting Canadian Premier League clash. Tickets: from $22.
When: Friday, July 18, 7 pm
Where: TD Place Stadium, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
14. Fanaticcon
Don’t miss celebrity meet-and-greets (guests include stars from Toy Story, Power Rangers, Pet Sematary, Big Comfy Couch, and more), cosplay stage competitions, retro arcade zone, TCG area, raffles, artwork, and fan-focused panels. Tickets: from $20, free for kids 12 and under.
When: Sunday, July 20, 10 am–4 pm
Where: Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa
15. Zumba on the Hill
Join this fun free weekly Zumba classes. Come and party in front of the Parliament. When: Sunday July 20. Where: Parliament Hill. Details: On Facebook
16. Ontario Parks Free Use Day
Explore a new park, join in interpretive hikes and family programs, or enjoy a lakeside stroll – all Ontario provincial parks will waive day-use fees! Don’t forget to guarantee your spot! FREE.
When: Friday, July 18, 8 am–10 pm
Where: All operating Ontario Parks (e.g., Algonquin, Sandbanks, Bruce Peninsula)
17. The Original Navan Market
Come to shop from over 200 local vendors! Lots of food, live entertainment, family fun zone. FREE. When: Sunday July 20. Where: Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Road.
18. Stewart Park Festival
Three days of music by the water held in the beautiful Stewart Park, located in downtown heritage Perth. Admission: FREE. Friday, July 18–20 all day. At Stewart Park, Perth, Ontario.
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
19. Akoustik Vanier
A summer music series by the Vanier BIA. When: Wednesday, July 16 – Malia Rogers and Jeff & The Falcons; July 23 – C.A. & Sonny and The Monroe Sisters. 6pm–8pm
Where: St. Charles Market, 135 Barrette St.
20. Always a Bridesmaid
Join this laugh-out-loud journey as beleaguered bridesmaids navigate the ups and downs of love, marriage, and friendship, proving that true bonds stand the test of time. Admission: $32 (Adult). Running from Wednesday, July 16–Aug 2 at 7:30pm and 2:30pm on Sundays. At Ottawa Little Theatre, 400 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa.
21. Ottawa Blackjacks vs Edmonton Stingers
Come cheer on your city’s basketball team as they battle for a playoff spot with rising star Javonte Smart leading the charge. The energy will be electric, the competition fierce, and your support could make all the difference. Tickets starting at $35. When: Thursday July 17 at 7:30pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
22. Abbas Wahab LIVE – The Joyride Tour
Catch viral Canadian comedian Abbas Wahab on his North American Joyride Tour. Expect sharp, electrifying humor drawn from his TV and viral comedy career. $30 General Admission. When: Thursday, July 17 and Friday, July 18 at 7:30 pm (plus an additional 10 pm show on July 18). Where: LIVE! on Elgin, 220 Elgin St #2, K2P 1L7.
23. Lansdowne Park Movie Nights
Bring some friends and enjoy free movie nights in the South Court. Movies take place Thursday evenings at sunset. Some seating is provided but feel free to bring your chair. In case of rain, movies will take place inside the Aberdeen Pavilion. This week: The Mitchells vs the Machines. FREE. When: Thursday July 18, 8:45pm. Where: Lansdowne Park, South Court.
24. Level Six Sample Sale
Join Level Six for their first summer sample sale. It’s a family-friendly event with discounts on sample casual wear, swimwear, and watersports gear. You might even find a raft up for grabs! There’ll be a BBQ, and they will accept donations in support of Whitewater Ontario. FREE. When: Friday, July 18, 12pm–7pm. Where: 165 Colonnade Rd. S.
25. Dief the Chief: October ’62
Step 75 feet underground in the Diefenbunker to relive the Cuban Missile Crisis through the eyes of PM John Diefenbaker in this gripping one-hour solo performance. Includes same-day general museum admission!
$55 per ticket. When: Friday evenings, July 18 and 25; Wednesday evening, July 23; and Friday, August 15 and 22; each from 4:30 to 7:30 pm. Where: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Rd, K0A 1L0.
26. Bloomfest Garden Art Show & Sale
Garden Art Show and Sale featuring 20+ talented artisans. The work will be displayed throughout the gardens and daylily field. Admission: FREE. Friday, July 18–27 from 9:30am (ends at 4 on Sundays). At Whitehouse Perennials, 594 Rae Road, Almonte.
Saturday
27. Touch-a-Truck
Discover the world of landscaping at this fun, family-friendly event where kids and adults can explore industry vehicles up close and learn about their uses. Admission: FREE. Saturday, July 19, 9am–1pm. At Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean.
28. Fetch Local Market
Celebrate local love (and pups!) at Fetch Local Markets, a monthly dog-friendly event featuring 30+ local makers, great vibes, and free entry. Admission: FREE. When: Saturday, July 19, 10am–3pm. Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd.
29. Christmas in July
Beat the heat with a festive twist. Enjoy Christmas decor, lights, music, signature iced tea, candy canes, and a merry market atmosphere. Family- and pet‑friendly. FREE. When: Saturday, July 19, from 9 am to 1 pm. Where: Metcalfe Fairgrounds, 2821 8th Line Rd, K0A 2P0.
30. Saturday Pro Comedy
Laugh out loud at Culture’s Comedy Club’s Pro Saturday showcase, featuring a lineup led by rising star David Foggia and top Canadian comics. The 19+ show is perfect for an evening of high-energy hilarity. Ticket price is $15 online / $20 at the door. When: Saturday, July 19. Doors at 7:30 pm; show starts at 8pm. Where: Culture’s Comedy Club, 291 Dalhousie St #2, K1N 7E5.
31. St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival
Experience professional outdoor theatre along the riverbank in charming Prescott. This season features the classic comedy Much Ado About Nothing and a brand-new Sherlock Holmes mystery set on the St. Lawrence. Tickets starting at $39. When: July 19 to August 9 (specific showtimes vary). Where: Kinsmen Amphitheatre, 202 King St W, Prescott, ON K0E 1L0.
32. Westport Car Show Cruise & Shop
Rev up your summer with over 250 vintage, classic, custom, and exotic vehicles at this free, family-friendly car show. Cruise, shine, shop local, enjoy vendors, test drives, fire trucks, antique tractors, and more along the waterfront. Free entry (registration for car participants: $20). When: Saturday, July 19, from 9am to 3 pm. Where: Lockwood Memorial Park, Westport, ON K0G 1X0.
Sunday
33. The Zine Scene Market
This market will officially launch a community collection of zines on various themes around social justice in Ottawa. Admission: FREE. Sunday, July 20 at 10am. At Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd, Orléans.
34. Picnic for Colombia Independence Day
Bring your flag, traditional outfit, and hat, and join the most Colombian picnic in Ottawa. Live music, traditional dances, and food. Bring a blanket (chairs are not allowed). FREE. When: Sunday, July 20, 12pm–5pm. Where: Parliament Hill.
Other recurring events in Ottawa
35. City Hall Salsa
Learn how to dance salsa or just come for the social dancing! All levels of dancers are welcome. There will be two workshops each evening and social dancing to follow. FREE. When: July 9, 16, 30, August 6, 13, 20, 27. Workshop 1 – 6:30 to 7:15pm; Workshop 2 (Salsa) – 7:15 to 8pm; Social Dancing – 8 to 10pm. Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier W Ave (Marion Dewar Plaza). Details: On Facebook
36. Music on the Canal
Enjoy vibrant live music by bands or artists as they float along the Rideau Canal on Thursdays and Saturdays in July. Pack a picnic or follow along while biking or running. FREE
When: July 3–26
Where: Starts at Paul’s Boat Line docks, Rideau Canal outside the NAC
Details: nac-cna.ca/en/series/music-on-
37. Wood Terrace Series
Live outdoor concerts at NAC’s terrace celebrating tradition, culture, and identity. FREE
When: Every Wednesday, 7pm–9pm
Where: NAC Terrace, 1 Elgin St
38. Songs from the Shed
Enjoy free lunchtime performances by emerging artists in an open-air setting. FREE
When: Every Tuesday & Thursday, 12pm–1:30pm
Where: Sparks Street Shed, 190 Sparks St.
39. Indigenous Walking Tours
Join artist and educator Jaime Morse for a guided tour of downtown Ottawa through an Indigenous lens. FREE (Register on Eventbrite)
When: Every other Saturday (May–October)
Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave W.
40. 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/
41. 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/
42. 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.
43. 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
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. 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
50. 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
51. 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.
52. 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.
53. 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.
54. 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