The summer isn’t over yet! Still, there are a lot of things to do in Ottawa every weekend, from cultural and food festivals to fairs, parades, music festivals, and sports events. Check out this post and start planning your weekend!
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18 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Greek Festival
Celebrating Greek culture and heritage with live music, comedy shows, the Zorba show, Greek traditional dances, and delicious Greek food. Don’t miss the family-friendly activities on Saturday and the church tours. FREE.
When: Aug 22-24. Fri 5pm-11pm; Sat 12pm-11pm; Sun 12pm-10pm.
Where: 1315 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa
Details: ottawagreekfest. ca
2.Latin American Festival & Fair
Enjoy traditional music and dance performances, savor authentic cuisine from across Latin America, and experience the warmth, joy, and hospitality that define the community. Don’t miss the street parade at Lansdowne Park. FREE.
When: Sunday Aug 24, 11am-8pm. Parade: 1pm-3pm.
Where: Horticulture Building & East Side Court, Lansdowne Park.
Details: IG @latinfestivalottawa
3.Navatara’s Indian Food Festival of Ottawa
Experience the best of Indian food that Ottawa has to offer along with fun activities and performances. Bollywood dance, Indian drums performances, live music and more. FREE.
When: Aug 22-24. Fri 2pm-10pm; Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-5pm.
Where: Clarke Fields Park, Nepean
Details: indianfoodfestival.ca
4.Nostalgia Music Festival
Enjoy the music of the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. This event features professional tribute bands and a customized environment to recreate the sights, sounds, and all-around good vibes of our youth. Tickets from $63.
When: Aug 20-24. Wed-Fri 4:30pm-11pm; Sat-Sun 3pm-11pm.
Where: Lebreton Flats
Details: nostalgiafestival. ca
5.Capital Pride Parade
Join more than 225 groups and over 11,000 community members celebrating diversity and taking the streets in Ottawa. FREE to watch.
When: Sunday Aug 24 at 1pm.
Where: The parade starts on Elgin with Laurier St.
Details: capitalpride. ca
6. Capital Fair
Enjoy thrill-seeking rides, live music, family-friendly shows like the Extreme Dogs Show, magic and science shows, Demolition Derby, arm wrestling championship, cornhole tournament, and much more! Tickets: $15. Children 4 and under free.
When: Aug 15-24.
Where: 4899 Albion Rd S (Corner of Albion Road and Rideau Road)
Details: capitalfair. ca
7. Redblacks vs Edmonton Elks
Take in those Friday Night Lights as the Ottawa Redblacks battle the Elks of Edmonton. Friday means Chop N Cheers pre-game drinks, a live band playing at Gate 1, and the return of the post-game favourite of Fans on the Field. Tickets from $33.
When: Friday Aug 22, at 7:30pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
8. Atletico vs Cavalry FC
Can’t decide between hitting the beach and watching some soccer? Atletico has you covered as they take on Cavalry FC and the return of the Atletico Beach Party with a Steel Drum band and a Beach Movie-themed costume contest with a $1000-valued prize. Don the Hawaiian shirts and Vamos Atleti. Tickets from $20.
When: Saturday Aug 23, at 7pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
9. Ottawa Rapid vs Vancouver Rise
Why not make it a full weekend of soccer? On Sunday, the ladies get their turn as the Ottawa Rapid battle the Vancouver Rise. Come on out and watch the rapid fall of the Rise. Tickets from $25.
When: Sunday Aug 24, at 2pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
10. Welcome Wednesdays
Come and be welcome with free admission and parking to the Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum this Wednesday only. Have a visit with the cows, sheep, and goats, learn some new recipes, and make some delicious maple ice cream. No excuses, the animals are waiting for you. FREE.
When: Wednesday Aug 20, 4pm-8pm.
Where: Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum, 901 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa.
Details: ingenium.ca/
11. National Capital Pride Run
Time to show your colours as the National Capital Pride Run returns for its 9th year. There’s a 2.5km walk and 5km run, all in support of Bruce House and people living with HIV. Open to all and for a great cause. Registration from $24.
When: Saturday Aug 23, at 10am
Where: Riverain Park, 400 North River Rd, Ottawa.
Details: ncpr. ca/
12. Ottawa Titans vs Brockton Rox
Spend the weekend at the park as the Ottawa Titans host a three-game series against the Brockton Rox. With fireworks on Friday, Bark in the Park (dogs welcome) Saturday, and Family Fun Day (with bouncy castle) on Sunday, each day has a home run of fun going on. Tickets from $15.
When: Aug 22–24. Fri at 7pm; Sat at 6pm; Sun at 2pm.
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
13. The Original Navan Market
A community gem for farm-fresh finds, artisan treasures, and relaxed country charm with over 200 local vendors and live entertainment. FREE.
When: Sunday Aug 24, 9:30am–2pm.
Where: 1279 Colonial Road, Navan, Ottawa.
Details: On Facebook.
14. Dance at Zibi
Tangent and Rise Ashen from Capital Sessions will share their love of house music and dance with you. Tangent will teach a beginner house dance workshop for participants to practice their moves, and Rise will be on the mix for the hour. You can follow the steps or just have fun and groove to Rise’s set. Instructions are visual, and all are welcome! FREE.
When: Thursday Aug 21, 7pm.
Where: Warehouse at Zibi, 28 Booth Street (Albert Island), Ottawa
Details: On Facebook
15. Monster Trucks All Out
Don’t miss roaring monster trucks, thrilling stunts, and family fun with kids’ activities. Tickets from $10.
When: Saturday Aug 23, 9:30am
Where: 3629 Carp Road, Carp
Details: https://www.
16. Paranormal Cirque
A new show with breathtaking acts always poised between fun and fear that will transport you to a dark world inhabited by creatures with incredible circus art abilities. Admission: $35.00 to $80.00.
When: Friday Aug 15-25 at either 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, or 8:30pm.
Where: 1200 St Laurent Blvd, Ottawa.
17. Hot Wench Pride Market
Featuring over 30 local businesses from curated vintage clothing, unique oddities, handmade wearables and decor, original art, tasty treats, and more! Don’t miss their final event of the summer. FREE.
When: Saturday Aug 23, 11am-5pm.
Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue.
Details: IG @hotwenchmarket
18. North Lanark Highland Games
Celebrate Scottish culture with pipe bands, dancers, athletes, kids’ games, and family fun riverside. Tickets $20. Kids go free.
When: Saturday Aug 23, 8am-6pm
Where: Almonte Fairgrounds, 195 Water St., Almonte
Details: https://
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
19. Ottawa Capital Pride Pageant
Drag artists compete for the crowns of Mr., Mx., and Ms. Capital Pride in a night full of glamour, talent, and fierce performances, hosted by Cyril Cinder and judged by local drag icons. Tickets from $47.55.
When: Thursday Aug 21, 8pm-11pm
Where: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa.
20. Drunken Cinema: Speed
Turn movie night into a game night: watch Speed (1994) with a twist, complete with interactive prompts, glowsticks, and a playful, beer-friendly vibe. It’s a cheeky mix of action movie nostalgia and audience participation. Tickets approximately $19.02.
When: Friday Aug 22, 9:30pm
Where: ByTowne Cinema, 325 Rideau St, Ottawa
22. Dief the Chief October 62
It’s October 1962. Relive the heart-stopping story of the Cuban Missile Crisis through the eyes of Canada’s 13th Prime Minister, John “Dief the Chief” Diefenbaker. Travel with “Dief the Chief” through the Diefenbunker into the War Cabinet Room as he and the world watch the USA and USSR face off in history’s closest brush with nuclear war. Hear in his own words how “Dief the Chief’s” rocky relationship with President John F. Kennedy played an extraordinary role in Canadian and American relations and how each influenced the other’s policies. Ticket price: $55. Friday Aug 22, 4:30pm, 6:30pm. At the Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa, Ontario.
23. Tate McRae: Miss Possessive Tour
Tate McRae is hitting the stage with powerhouse vocals, killer dance moves, and all the emotional punch her fans love. From slow-burning ballads to explosive pop anthems, this concert promises high energy and full-on feels. Tickets from $166.
When: Friday Aug 22, 7:30pm
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa
24. Crooks Rapids Country Fest
Round up your cowboy hat and get ready for two full days of country music charm in scenic Hastings. This year’s fifth edition spotlights a fantastic lineup of homegrown and touring artists, along with tasty local eats and artisan stalls—pure country festival vibes for the whole family. Tickets from $50.
When: Friday Aug 22, 4pm–11:30pm; Saturday Aug 23, 1pm-11:30pm
Where: 29 Pickens Rd, Hastings, Ottawa.
Saturday
26. Driven Ottawa Aftermarket Car Show
Gearheads and casual admirers, unite: It’s one day to take in more than 300 meticulously customized cars, all under one massive roof. From vintage restomods to futuristic builds, this is your front-row ticket to Canada’s finest automotive craftsmanship. Tickets from $10 to $25.
When: Saturday Aug 23, 1pm-6pm
Where: EY Centre (Halls 2 & 3), 4899 Uplands Dr, Ottawa.
28. Beach Volley Bachata Party
Come for some volley and a bachata lesson! Another Saturday of beach volley and dance. FREE. When: Saturday Aug 23. Volleyball: 6pm-8pm. Bachata: 8pm-9pm. Where: Britannia Beach. Details: IG @salsarehab
Sunday
29. The Girl With No Hands – Theatre Under the Stars
A captivating outdoor theatre show, a darkly comic fantasy retelling of the Brothers Grimm tale. Through inventive physical theatre, original music, and neo-goth masks and costumes, eight actors bring over 30 characters to life under the stars. Recommended for ages 12 and up due to mature themes. Tickets: from $22.63.
When: Aug 13-24, 8pm, with select matinees at 2pm on Sundays
Where: Strathcona Park, 25 Range Road, Ottawa, ON
30. Summer Volley & Salsa
Beach volleyball, a beginner-friendly salsa lesson, and dancing by the water. FREE.
When: Saturday Aug 16, 6pm-9pm
Where: Britannia Beach, 2805 Carling Ave, Ottawa
More recurring events in Ottawa
31. Ouimet Farm Adventures
Farming, family, and fun come together at this working farm in Vankleek Hill, featuring a 7-acre maze and many other seasonal attractions. Admission: $19.58 to $184.24 (depending on ticket type).
When: Friday Aug 8-Oct 26 from 10am-5pm
Where: 63 Main Street West, Vankleek Hill, Ontario.
32. 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: Sundays from June to October from 9am to 1pm. Where: Boushey Square, 340 Elgin St, K2P 1M6.
33. 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.
34. 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 providded 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.
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. 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.
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