Awesome events will be happening this weekend in Ottawa! Don’t miss Buskerfest, the Casino Lac Leamy Fireworks, the Water Lantern Festival, culture and food festivals, sport events, and much more! Check out this post and share it with your friends!
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18 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Ottawa International Busker Fest
Prepare to be amazed and entertained as the Ottawa International Busker Fest returns for its 31st year. For three days, performers like firebreathers, acrobats and contortionists, coming from all over the world, make Sparks Street their wild stage. Come for the smiles and the Wows. FREE
When: Aug 8–10, Fri–Sat 11am–10pm; Sun 11am–6pm
Where: Sparks Street Mall (between Kent and Elgin)
Details: https://
2. Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy
Get ready for one of the most magical nights of the summer! An international fireworks competition will light up the sky every Wednesday and Saturday. There will be entertainment and food on the festival grounds. Tickets are: $8.50 (child) and $20 (adult). The fireworks are visible from the downtown Ottawa shore like Major’s Hill Park, Kiweki Point, Supreme Court of Justice and other spots.
When: July 30 to Aug 16 (Wednesdays & Saturdays) at 9:15pm
Where: Canadian Museum of History, 100 Rue Laurier, Gatineau
Details: feux.qc. ca
3. Water Lantern Festival
A community event that encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to gather with their loved ones, reflect on their life, and connect with new friends. As the sun sets, people release their personalized lanterns onto the water and watch it illuminate the night. Enjoy food trucks, live music, vendors, a scavenger hunt, and the lantern launch. Tickets from $42.99
When: Saturday Aug 9, 5:30pm–9:30pm
Where: Andrew Haydon Park, 3127 Carling Ave
Details: https://www.
4. Parliament Hill Yoga
Bring a little peace to your lunch hour with the return of yoga sessions on Parliament Hill. Every Wednesday in August and September, join local yoga instructors for a perfect reset class that emphasizes movement, breath and community. Namaste. FREE
When: Wednesday Aug 6 (and every Wed), 12pm–1pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario
Details: https://
5. Navan Fair
Let the county fair season begin with the Navan Fair kicking it off. Enjoy the midway and the games, the skill of the Capital Cowgirls Drill Team, a concert from Kim Mitchell, and learn a little about the animals, people and machines that help make agriculture possible. Tickets from $12
When: Aug 7–10, Thu 4pm–12am; Fri–Sat 9:30am–12am; Sun 9:30am–6pm
Where: Navan Fair Grounds, 1279 Colonial Rd, Navan
Details: https://navanfair. ca/
6. Ottawa Muslim Fest
Returning for its 21st year, the Ottawa Muslim Festival is back to celebrate Muslim culture. With live shows, comedy performances, kids activities, and delicious halal food, it is the place to discover and meet the Muslim community. FREE (but registration is required to attend)
When: Saturday Aug 9, 1pm–8pm
Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Ch. Old Montreal Rd, Cumberland
Details: https://www.
7. Festival Pakistan
Celebrate the colours of Pakistan through vibrant cultural displays, traditional music and dance, delicious food, Meena Bazar, Basant Mela, Mango Festival, Cricket Championship, Ludo Championship, kids’ activities, talent showcases, and much more. FREE
When: Aug 9, 12pm–6pm
Where: Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Drive
Details: salampakistan. ca
8. Capital Pop Up Cinema
Experience a unique cultural event in the beautiful green space of Beechwood Cemetery, Canada’s only national cemetery. FREE
When: Friday Aug 8, 8:30pm
Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
9. Rapid FC vs Calgary Wild
Cheer Ottawa’s first professional women’s soccer team as they battle Calgary Wild in Northern Super League action. Tickets from $25
When: Saturday Aug 9, 4pm
Where: The Stadium at TD Place, Lansdowne Park, Bank St, Ottawa
Details: https://www.tdplace.
10. 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). 7pm–8:30pm
Thursday Aug 7: Fisher Park, 75 Harmer Ave N, Ottawa
Friday Aug 8: Raven Park, John Smith Field, 1500 Larose Ave, Ottawa
Saturday Aug 9: Canadensis Botanical Garden, Experimental Farm, Prince of Wales Dr, Ottawa
Monday Aug 11: Strathcona Park, 25 Range Road
11. Ottawa Blackjacks vs Montreal Alliance
BlackJacks return for the 2025 CEBL Season, taking on Montreal Alliance. Tickets from $35
When: Friday Aug 8, 7:30pm
Where: The Arena at TD Place, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
12. Ottawa Blackjacks vs Vancouver Bandits
BlackJacks are back for the 2025 CEBL season, facing off against the Vancouver Bandits. Tickets from $35
When: Sunday Aug 10, 3pm
Where: The Arena at TD Place, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
13. Swing on the Hill
Join Ottawa’s popular free swing dance event at Parliament Hill. Dance to vintage tunes, learn a few steps, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. Beginners and seasoned dancers alike are welcome to show up and swing under the sky. FREE
When: Saturday Aug 9, 3pm to 7:30pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
14. PandaFest
Celebrate PandaFest’s two-day return featuring Canada’s loudest underground metal bands from Ottawa, Gatineau and beyond. Tickets from $27.96
When: Friday Aug 8, 6:30pm (doors) – Saturday Aug 9, 3:30pm
Where: The Brass Monkey, 250 Greenbank Avenue, Ottawa
Details: https://www.facebook.
15. Ottawa Titans vs Quebec Capitales
Enjoy baseball at Canada’s capital with family-friendly vibes and spirited play. Tickets from $13
When: Friday Aug 8, 7pm
Saturday Aug 9, 6pm
Sunday Aug 10, 1pm
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa
16. Ottawa Cat Video Fest
Spend an adorable hour (about 75 minutes) watching the latest and funniest cat videos on the big screen—curated from viral clips, animations, and creative submissions. A lighthearted, family-friendly experience that raises funds for local cat charities. Tickets $15.98
When: Friday Aug 8, 7pm
Saturday Aug 9, 1:30pm
Sunday Aug 10, 3pm
Where: ByTowne Cinema, 325 Rideau St, Ottawa
17. Full Moon Yoga
Enjoy a relaxing moonlit yoga session on the Great Lawn at Lansdowne Park. Open to all skill levels, this free outdoor class is a peaceful blend of stretching, breathing, and gentle movement under the night sky. Bring your mat, water bottle, and maybe a friend. FREE
When: Saturday Aug 9, 9pm to 10pm
Where: Great Lawn, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
18. Reptile Extravaganza
Come for a reptile extravaganza! Meet with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TM), catch Ray’s Reptiles in action with Nature’s ninjas, and snag a balloon critter or two! FREE
When: Aug 9, 11am–3pm
Where: Tanger Outlets, 8555 Campeau Drive
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
19. 2025 Canadian Para Bowls Championships
Watch top Canadian para bowlers compete in classification rounds and finals at a premier national event. Experience the sport’s intensity and community spirit at the historic Nepean Lawn Bowling Club. Spectator entry free; registration is required for athletes
When: August 5–10
Where: Nepean Lawn Bowling Club, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, K2G 1W2
20. Twist Fibre Festival
A weekend full of colour, creativity, and craftsmanship. This fibre arts festival brings together makers, artists, and curious beginners for shopping, demos, hands-on workshops, and family fun. From yarn and weaving to local eats and live demos, it’s a perfect summer escape for textile lovers. Tickets $15–$20 (free for kids under 12)
When: Aug 8–10. Fri 11am–6pm; Sat 9am–5pm; Sun 10am–4pm
Where: Complexe Whissell, 530 Rue Charles-Auguste Montreuil, St-André-Avellin, QC
21. Full Moon Nights & Perseids at Éco‑Odyssée Nature Park
Immerse yourself in three magical nights under the full moon and Perseid meteor shower. Enjoy live storytelling and acoustic music by the fire, guided stargazing, and optional evening boat maze adventures. Camp, glamp, or simply visit. Cost: $8 adult / $5 child for general evenings; evening water maze boat booked separately
When: Friday & Saturday, Aug 8–9; quiet meteor watching on Tuesday, Aug 12
Where: 52, chemin des Sources, Wakefield, QC
Saturday
22. Music Festiversary
Celebrate two decades of Empress Effects, the renowned Canadian manufacturer of high-end
guitar pedals and audio gear! Expect live performances, a pedal & guitar expo featuring international makers, prize giveaways via a branded claw machine, and plenty of gear to try. Tickets starting at $10
When: Saturday Aug 9, from 11am to 7:30pm
Where: Saint Brigid’s Centre for the Arts, 310 Saint Patrick Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5K4
Buy your tickets here: Festiversary
23. Beats and Beer Silent Disco
Slip on a headset and dance to your own beat at this unique outdoor silent disco! With multiple DJs spinning live across three channels, you can switch vibes anytime. Enjoy a cold beer, great music, and a sunset party atmosphere in front of the German Embassy.
FREE admission; headphones provided with ID. Drinks available for purchase
When: Saturday Aug 9, 4pm–7pm
Where: Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, 1 Waverley St, K2P 0T8
24. Rhythm Culture Festival
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Caribbean culture, featuring captivating live performances by both local and international artists, folk dances, captivating stories, delectable ethnic cuisine, traditional games, and much more. Tickets: $28.50
When: Aug 9–10, Noon to 10pm
Where: Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Place
Details: On Eventbrite
25. War Machines Weekend
Watch and hear history come alive as powerful military vehicles from the Second World War rumble into action on the demo track behind the museum. Art activities, cool collector displays, tasty eats, live riverside tunes, and tank-themed goodies in the boutique. FREE with general admission
When: Aug 9–10
Where: Canadian War Museum, 1 Vimy Pl
26. ReStore Reads Book Fair
27. Trainfest 2025
Come for a weekend celebration of all things railway. Fans of all ages will love seeing trains big, small and even made of LEGO! Tickets from $25.68
When: Aug 9–10, 10am–4pm
Where: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls
Sunday
28. Elgin St Market
Discover this vibrant market nestled in Boushey Square, featuring a curated selection of fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal creations, and handmade crafts. A community hub for local shoppers and passersby alike. FREE
When: Sunday Aug 10 from 9am to 1pm
Where: Boushey Square, 340 Elgin St, K2P 1M6
29. All Things Bookish Market
A must-attend for bookworms! Shop a cozy pop-up market filled with indie bookstores, local authors, blind-date-with-a-book, bookish candles, and literary merch. Perfect for finding your next read or a charming gift for a fellow reader. FREE
When: Sunday Aug 10, 11am–5pm
Where: Parkdale Market Square, 366 Parkdale Ave, K1Y 1G6
Next week
30. Art from the Archives: Black Diasporas Tkaronto–Toronto
During the workshop, participants will create a unique bookmark using collage techniques with images from Library and Archives Canada’s collections, as well as a selection of magazines. All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary! Spaces are limited, and registration is required to attend. Details on Eventbrite
When: English workshop – Monday, Aug 11 at 6:30pm; French workshop – Wednesday, Aug 13 at 6:30pm
Where: Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington St
Other recurring events in Ottawa
31. 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.
32. 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.
33. 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.
34. 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.
35. 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
36. 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.
37. 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.
38. 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/
39. 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/
40. 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.
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. 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.
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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
48. 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
49. 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.
50. 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.
51. 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.
52. 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