An awesome lineup of events is coming this weekend. From the Latin vibes of Latin Sparks Festival to the beats of Afrofestival, fall markets to sports events. There are many things to do in Ottawa to keep you busy all weekend long! Check out this post and share it with your friends!
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19 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Latin Sparks Festival
Viva the Latin Sparks Festival, a one-night event that brings the fire and flavour of Latin America to Canada. The annual festival features DJs, live bands, dance performances, a variety of dance lessons, outdoor bars, authentic Latin street food, and a giant outdoor party in the open air. Tickets: $49.90
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 3pm-11pm
Where: Lebreton Flats, 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
2. Ottawa Comiccon
The pop-culture event that is Ottawa Comiccon returns to the capital. A convention showcasing the best of horror, sci-fi, anime, gaming and more, with live celebrity guests including the Trailer Park Boys. Bring your cosplay and join the legion of fans at Comiccon. Tickets from $35.
When: Sept 5-7, Fri: 3pm-8:30pm; Sat: 10am-7pm; Sun: 10am-5pm
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa
Details: https://
3. Afrofestival
Africa is on full display at this year’s Afrofestival, a music and art festival showcasing the best in African culture and entertainment. Live performances will fill the air with music, while the sights and smells of food vendors will tempt you, and a marketplace filled with arts, crafts, and treasures awaits. FREE.
When: Sept 6-7, 2pm-11pm
Where: Mooney’s Bay Park and Beach, 2960 Riverside Drive, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
4. The Kanata Multicultural Dance and Music Festival
This festival brings together the countries of the world as a community, through dance and music. Latin America, Asia and Europe are all represented with live performances by groups and troupes, plus plenty of food to savour. Face painting for the kids too. FREE.
When: Sunday, Sept 7, 11am-7pm
Where: Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Pl, Stittsville
Details: https://
5. Beechwood’s Annual Living Library
Revisit the past and discover some perhaps unknown Canadian visionaries at Beechwood’s Annual Living Library event. Armed with a map, follow a self-guided tour through the cemetery to meet actors bringing these forgotten Canadian trailblazers to life. FREE.
When: Sunday, Sept 7, 2pm-3:30pm
Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave., Vanier
Details: https://
6. Beechfest
Time to bring out your Vanier pride at Beechfest. Billed as Vanier’s biggest block party, it’s bringing together local businesses, artists and families to enjoy live performances and food, food, food. Come experience the charm and diversity that is Vanier. FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 3pm-9pm
Where: 140 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.vanier-
7. Black Out Loud – Ottawa AfroFolkloric Festival
Celebrate Black culture with live music, art, dance, and food, all in one vibrant, high-energy community event. Come curious, leave inspired. FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 4-8pm
Where: Maison de la francophonie d’Ottawa, 2720 Richmond Rd, Ottawa
8. Redblacks vs BC Lions
Don’t miss the high-energy CFL clash featuring cheerleaders and community pride in Ottawa. Tickets from $35.
When: Friday, Sept 5, 7:30pm
Where: TD Place Stadium
Details: https://www.
9. Atletico Ottawa vs Pacific
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of this CPL showdown, highlighted by exciting Newcomer Night celebrations. Tickets from $20
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 7pm
Where: TD Place Stadium
Details: https://www.tdplace.
10. 613 Flea
Shop from 150 local vendors featuring handcrafted items, art, jewelry, baked goods, and vintage finds. FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 10am–4pm
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St
Details: IG @613flea
11. Ottawa Rapid vs Montreal Roses
Cheer the exciting Northern Super League clash, with gates opening 11am and lively fan activities. Tickets from $25.
When: Sunday, Sept 7, 12pm
Where: TD Place Stadium
Details: https://www.rapidfc.
12. Mirror Mountain Film Festival
Bringing the best in independent, alternative and underground cinema to Canada’s capital. Experience original films from the world’s most unique, creative minds. All tickets are pay-what-you-can / suggested admission $10. Don’t miss the opening night with a big-screen karaoke party hosted by community member Amanda Lowe Warnakulasuriya. Free admission.
When: Sept 5-7
Where: Odd Box, 2 Daly Avenue
Details: https://
13. Capital Pop Up Cinema
Bring your own blanket or lawn chair, snacks, and your favourite people for a nostalgic film experience. FREE. Screening: Adventures in Babysitting (1987)
When: Friday, Sept 5, 7:30pm
Where: Churchill Seniors Recreation Centre – Westboro Village
Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema
14. Art in Strathcona Park
Explore vibrant artist booths, enjoy a BBQ and silent auction, raising mental health awareness. FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 10am
Where: Strathcona Park (25 Range Rd, beside the Rideau River)
Details: https://www.
15. Fall Craft Market
Get ready for the amazing autumn season by browsing among beautiful products from over 50 local vendors and makers. Free workshop on site. FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 10:30am-3pm
Where: Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Avenue
Details: IG @squarelemon_ottawa
16. Barrhaven Harvest Fest
Come for an amazing day filled with great shopping opportunities and lots of FREE family fun! There will be 60+ vendors on site (farmers market, artisan, and BBIA businesses), bouncy castles, entertainment, music, hot food, and fun activities for the kids! FREE.
When: Sunday, Sept 7, 10am-2pm
Where: Nepean Woods Park & Ride, Strandherd Dr, Ottawa
Details: https://barrhavenbia.
17. 67’s Pre-Season Games
Cheer on Ottawa’s junior hockey league in these pre-season games against Kingston and North Bay Battalion. Tickets starting at $19.50.
When: Friday, Sept 5 at 7pm vs Kingston; Saturday, Sept 6 at 1pm vs North Bay Battalion
Where: TD Place, 1525 Bank St
18. Almonte Fair
Experience a beloved rural tradition just outside Ottawa with three days of lively rodeo-style energy—think livestock showcases, carnival rides, local eats, live entertainment, and good old-fashioned family fun. Tickets from $20.
When: Friday, Sept 5, 2pm-10pm; Saturday, Sept 6, 9am-10pm; Sunday, Sept 7, 10am-5pm
Where: Almonte Fairgrounds, 195 Water St, Almonte
19. Renfrew Fair
Celebrating 170 years of Renfrew Fair with a large offering of entertainment, agricultural shows and concessions. Enjoy live music, watch the demolition derby, see the horse and cattle shows, or visit the midway. Tickets: $7, $12, $30, $35. Bundles available.
When: Sept 4-7
Where: 115 Veterans Memorial Boulevard – Renfrew
Details: https://renfrewfair.
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
20. Metcalfe Night Farmers Market
Come for the last night market of the season. Live music, 55+ local producers, hot prepared food and plenty of free parking. FREE. When: Thursday, Sept 4 from 5pm to 8pm. Where: Metcalfe fairgrounds, 2821 8th Line Road, Metcalfe.
21. The Chef’s Table
Dine al fresco beside the Rideau Canal at the NAC’s elegant 1 Elgin patio, where renowned Canadian chefs pair creative three-course meals with live music under the summer sky. Tickets: $143.88
When: Sept 4–6, 6-9pm
Where: 1 Elgin Restaurant patio (National Arts Centre), 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
22. Canta Corazón: Despecho Playero
Think karaoke meets beach party. Sing your heart out to Caribbean vibes right by the water at Baja Burger Shack, nestled on Mooney’s Bay Beach. It’s a vibrant evening full of tropical energy and group sing-alongs. Tickets: $25
When: Friday, Sept 5, 5pm-11pm
Where: Baja Burger Shack, Mooney’s Bay Beach, Ottawa
Details: On Eventbrite
Saturday
23. Stray Dog Day of Summer – 8th Anniversary Celebration
Raise your glass and tail. This brewery bash marks eight summers of good vibes! Expect a backyard-style party with awesome brews, live tunes, cornhole challenges, and a “Best in Show” contest for our furry pals. Fun for the whole family (including four-legged members). FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 2pm
Where: Stray Dog Brewing Company, 501 Lacolle Way, Unit 4, Ottawa
24. Laylit
Dive into an electrifying night of music where Arab/SWANA beats meet underground club energy, from shaabi and mahraganat to techno and hyperpop. It’s a genre-melting dance party that pushes boundaries and brings people together under one vibrant roof. 19+ only. Tickets from $25.
When: Saturday, Sept 6, 9pm-2am
Where: Club SAW, 67 Nicholas St, Ottawa
25. Almonte Fibrefest
With more than 80 vendors from across the province and beyond, there’s no better place to stock up on amazing supplies for your textile hobby and shop for finished clothing, accessories and art. Over the weekend, skilled local artisans will demonstrate spinning, knitting and more. Tickets: $5
When: Sept 6-7
Where: John Levi Community Centre, and the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum
Details: https://mvtm.ca/
Sunday
26. Ottawa School of Art 2025 Open House
Step inside the studios of Ottawa’s longest-running independent art school! Watch live demos in ceramics, printmaking, mixed media, and more. Try hands-on workshops, meet our instructors, and explore both campuses. FREE.
When: Sunday, Sept 7 — ByWard Market: 11am–3pm | Orléans: 1pm–3pm | Online: streaming all day
Where: ByWard Market Campus (35 George St.); Orléans Campus (Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd.); OSA Online
27. Ottawa OCD Walk
More recurring events in Ottawa
28. Family Activity Weekends
Go for a ride on the covered wagon, or on the famous cow-train, use the pedal karts, visit the giant hedge mazes, see the roaming chickens, play in the family activity area, and walk through the orchard. Activities Bracelet: $16 per person. Children 3 and under: free. When: From mid-late August until Thanksgiving weekend in early October. Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 11am to 4pm. (They stop selling activity tickets at 3pm). Where: Cannamore Orchards, 1480 County Road 32. Crysler, ON.
30. 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.
31. 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.
32. 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.
33. Songs from the Shed
Enjoy free lunchtime performances by emerging artists in an open-air setting. Until October 9. FREE
When: Every Tuesday & Thursday, 12pm–1:30pm
Where: Sparks Street Shed, 190 Sparks St, between Bank St and O’Connor St.
34. 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.
35. 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: From May 31 to Oct 18. Multiple dates. Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave
Details: On Eventbrite.
36. 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/
37. 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.
38. 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
39. 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 veranda 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.
40. 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.
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. 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.
44. 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
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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