Ready for a hot weekend? Temperatures are set to soar in Ottawa, and so are the events and things to do! From Carivibe Reach the Beach to food festivals, outdoor movies, markets, and sports, there’s something for everyone. Check out this post and share it with your friends!
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Contents
17 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Carivibe Reach the Beach
Time to get into the Caribbean vibe with the Carivibe Reach the Beach festival. Start on the beach of Petrie Island, then head off to the Bam Bam Block Party, and finish with the Carnival en Blanc. Food, dance, and island rhythms await. Tickets from $30.
When: July 26–27, various times
Where: Petrie Island / Mexi’s Orleans / Shenkman Arts Centre
Details: On Eventbrite
2. Tamil Fest Kondattam
Soak in the beauty of all things Tamil at the Tamil Fest Kondattam. All are welcome to celebrate the dance, music, food, and games of Tamil culture. There’s something for everyone with contests, karaoke, DJs, and bouncy castles. FREE.
When: Saturday July 26, 9am–9pm
Where: Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan Street, Ottawa
Details: https://ottawatourism.ca/en/
3. 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
4. Vegans Who Snack
Satisfy all your vegan cravings at the Vegans Who Snack Food and Art Festival. Indulge in delicious vegan treats, shop local art and self-care goodies, and discover treasures from over 60 amazing small businesses. FREE.
When: Saturday July 26, 5pm–9pm
Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa
Details: IG @veganswhosnack
5. Canadian Multiculturalism Day
Canada is a rich mosaic of diversity and backgrounds, and Canadian Multiculturalism Day is the time to celebrate it. Experience the rich tapestry of cultures that make up Canada through music, dance, and food, on a day to honor and embrace what makes our country so special. FREE
When: Saturday July 26, 3pm–11pm
Where: 144 Wellington Street, Ottawa
Details: On Eventbrite
6. Ottawa Chamberfest
World-renowned artists converge for a dynamic festival that merges tradition with an 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 at Rideau Hall (The Central Band of the Canadian Forces). When: July 18–27. Where: Various venues. Details: chamberfest. com
7. Kanata Night Market
The sights and smells of a traditional Asian Night Market come to Kanata courtesy of T&T Supermarket. Dig into favourites like Korean-style fried chicken, all types of skewers, stinky tofu, Wuhan noodles, and much more. FREE
When: July 24–27. Thu: 2pm–11pm. Fri–Sat: 11am–11:30pm. Sun: 11am-10:30pm.
Where: Hazeldean Mall Parking Lot, 300 Eagleson Rd., Kanata
Details: IG @kanatanightmarket
8. Ottawa Rapid vs Halifax Tides FC
Don’t miss Ottawa Rapid’s high-energy home game with food trucks and family fun zones! Pre-Match BBQ starting at 5:30pm with $5 burgers and hotdogs. Tickets from $25.
When: Friday July 25, 7:30pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St
Details: https://www.tdplace.ca/event/
9. Capital Pop Up Cinema: Spice World and The Sandlot
Enjoy iconic films under the stars with food trucks and free popcorn while supplies last! FREE
When: Friday July 25, 7pm (Spice World); Saturday July 26, 8:30pm (The Sandlot)
Where: Beechwood Cemetery (Spice World) / Merivale Mall (The Sandlot), Ottawa
Details: https://capitalpopupcinema. com
10. Ottawa Blackjacks vs Saskatchewan Rattlers
Cheer courtside for Ottawa’s pro basketball team with halftime entertainment and family activities! Tickets from $35
When: Saturday July 26, 7pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
Details: https://www.theblackjacks. ca
11. Swing On The Hill
Dance under the stars with live swing bands, beginner lessons, and vintage vibes! FREE
When: Saturday July 26, 3pm–7:30pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook
12. Ottawa Titans vs Evansville Otters
Cheer on the Titans all weekend with fireworks on Friday at 9:30pm and a kids’ zone! Tickets from $15
When: Friday July 25, 7pm; Saturday July 26, 6pm; Sunday July 27, 1pm
Where: Ottawa Stadium, Ottawa
Details: https://www.ottawatitans. com
13. Summer Volley & Salsa
Kick off your Saturday night with beach volleyball, a beginner-friendly salsa lesson, and dancing by the water. With music playing and gear provided, all you need is your swimsuit, a bottle of water, and a love for summer vibes. FREE.
When: Saturday July 26, from 6pm
Where: Britannia Beach, 2805 Carling Ave, Ottawa
14. Friends of the Ottawa Library Mammoth Book Sale
Browse through thousands of donated books, DVDs, and more—at bargain prices! This monthly sale supports Ottawa’s public libraries and offers treasures for every kind of reader. FREE.
When: Saturday July 26 – 10am to 2pm
Where: James Bartleman Centre, 100 Tallwood Dr, Ottawa
15. Mud Girl Run – Ottawa
Get ready for a high-energy 5K filled with muddy obstacles, giant inflatables, and non-stop fun—all designed for women and girls ages 7 and up. Whether you’re running solo or with friends, expect laughter, teamwork, and lots of pink! Tickets from $50 (spectators $10, kids under 16 free).
When: Jul 26–27, 8:30am to 4pm
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Rd, Ottawa
16. Fetch Local Markets
Support local and bring your pup along for a fun day at Fetch Local Markets, Ottawa’s favorite outdoor dog-friendly market. Featuring 30+ local vendors, tasty treats, handmade goods, and services for you and your four-legged friends, this market is the perfect weekend outing. Enjoy shopping, meeting artisans, and treating your dog to a few surprises along the way. FREE.
When: Saturday July 26, 10am–3pm
Where: Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Pl, Kanata, ON
17. Almonte Craft Beer Fest
Sip, snack, and unwind at this riverside beer fest featuring local breweries, craft spirits, cider, live music, and food trucks—all in the heart of charming Almonte. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door.
When: Friday, July 25, 6:30pm to 10:30pm
Where: Almonte Old Town Hall grounds, 14 Bridge St, Almonte.
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
18. Fields of Gold 2025
Escape to the breathtaking sunflower fields at Fields of Gold just outside Ottawa. Stroll through acres of golden blooms, pick your own flowers, and capture unforgettable photos in a perfect summer setting. This plan is ideal for families and flower lovers alike. Tickets start at $10. When: Opens on Wednesday July 23, 10am–5pm. Where: 17650 Strathmore Road, Monkland, ON.
19. 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: Wednesday evening, July 23; Friday evenings, July 18 and 25; and Friday, August 15 and 22; each from 4:30pm to 7:30 pm. Where: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Rd, K0A 1L0.
20. Requiem for Radio: Full Quiet Flutter
Step into a hauntingly beautiful soundscape as Amanda Dawn Christie presents Requiem for Radio: Full Quiet Flutter. This one-of-a-kind live performance is a sonic tribute to the lost shortwave radio towers of Radio Canada International. With theremin, saxophone, shortwave simulcasts, and custom-built electronic instruments, the show immerses audiences in an eerie, electrifying requiem that bridges technology, memory, and art. Tickets start at $25. When: Wednesday to Saturday July 23–26, 2025, shows at 4pm & 8pm. Where: Azrieli Studio, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St.
22. Side by Side Weekend
Ottawa’s underground music scene comes alive during Side by Side Weekend. This all-ages, three-day festival features local and regional acts across genres like rock, hip-hop, electronic, post-punk, and industrial. With performances split between Club SAW’s indoor and outdoor stages, plus late-night after-parties, this is the weekend to immerse yourself in independent music and community energy. Day passes start at $50.
When: Friday to Sunday Jul 25–27, doors open at 6pm on Friday
Where: Club SAW, 67 Nicholas St, Ottawa.
23. Bloomfest Garden Art Show & Sale
Discover art in full bloom at Bloomfest Garden Art Show & Sale. Stroll through the beautiful display gardens and daylily fields showcasing hundreds of vibrant daylilies in every color and shape imaginable, alongside sculptures and garden art created by more than 20 talented local artists. This event is perfect for art lovers and nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful, inspiring summer outing. FREE.
When: Friday to Sunday July 18–27, 9:30am–5pm (Sundays until 4pm)
Where: Whitehouse Perennials, 594 Rae Road, Almonte, ON
24. Night Waves
An adults-only summer evening at Calypso Waterpark under the stars. Enjoy a live DJ, foam party, glowing wave pools, and a spectacular drone light show. It’s a refreshing after-dark spin on pool parties, designed for ages 21+. Tickets from $45.
When: Friday, July 25, 7:30pm to 11pm. Where: Calypso Waterpark, 2015 Calypso St, Limoges
Saturday
25. The World’s Greatest Tribute to The Traveling Wilburys
Take a trip down memory lane as the tribute to the Traveling Wilburys rolls into town. An authentic recreation of the Harrison, Petty, Lynne, Dylan, and Orbison supergroup performs their greatest collective and individual hits. A legendary concert of legends. Tickets $61. When: Saturday July 26, at 8pm. Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa. Details: https://shenkmanarts.ca/en/
26. Bridge Street Summerfest
Get ready for a full day of summer fun at Bridge Street Summerfest! This beloved annual event turns downtown into a bustling street market with over 100 local vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious food. Enjoy live music performances, family-friendly activities, and the chance to support small businesses in a vibrant community atmosphere. Whether you’re browsing unique artisanal goods or catching one of the live shows, there’s something for everyone. FREE.
When: Saturday July 26, 10am–3pm. Where: Downtown Carleton Place, 136 Bridge Street, Carleton Place, ON.
27. Peruvian Party
Celebrating Peruvian Independence Day with Banda Sabrosa and DJ Machito, plus tasty Peruvian food. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Buy your tickets at Amazonas restaurant in Aylmer or at the Mercado Latino. More information: sportingperu@hotmail. com
Next Week
28. Katy Perry: The Lifetimes Tour
Catch pop icon Katy Perry live as she brings her new era to life with a high-energy show packed with fan favorites and bold new hits. Expect dazzling visuals, theatrical moments, and a night of pure pop magic. Tickets starting at $63.
When: Tuesday, Jul 29 at 7:30pm
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa
29. Rugby Canada Women’s 15s vs USA Rugby Women’s 15s
Cheer on Canada’s top athletes in this thrilling international rugby clash with USA rivals! Tickets from $47
When: Friday Aug 1, at 7pm.
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
Details: https://www.tdplace.ca/event/
More recurring events in Ottawa
30. 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. FREE. When: Thursdays at 8:45pm. Where: Lansdowne Park, South Court. Details on Facebook.
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. 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
33. 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-
34. Wood Terrace Series
Live outdoor concerts at NAC’s terrace celebrating tradition, culture, and identity. FREE
When: Every Tuesday and Wednesday at 7:30pm.
Where: NAC Terrace, 1 Elgin St
35. 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.
36. 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.
37. 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/
38. 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/
39. 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.
40. 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
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. 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.
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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
47. 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
48. 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.
49. 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.
50. 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.
51. 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