Ready for planning your weekend? There will be amazing events that you should put on your radar! Don’t miss Open NCC, Aero Gatineau, music festivals like CityFolk and Riverside, food festivals like Orleans Ribfest & Poutine and the Butter Tart Festival, and so much more! Check out the post and share it with your friends!
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Contents
19 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Open NCC
Join the NCC for a day of discovery at various sites in Ottawa and Gatineau and get a behind-the-scenes look at the latest projects shaping the National Capital Region. Including Kiweki Point, Westboro Beach, Dow’s Lake dock, and River House, among others. Guided tours, engaging booths, and live entertainment. Just drop in! (Some tours require advance registration). FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, from 10am to 3pm.
Where: Major’s Hill Park (main hub)
Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.
2. Aero Gatineau
Celebrate aviation with a mix of historic aircraft, modern military jets, aerobatic displays, and family-friendly entertainment. Air shows by the Snowbirds, the CF-18 Hornet, parachute teams like the SkyHawks and GERONIMO!, drone shows, static displays of aircraft, pilot meet-and-greets, and more! Tickets: $27.37, $32.53, $48. Children 4 and under free.
When: Sept 12-14. Fri 5-9pm; Sat-Sun 10am-5pm.
Where: Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport, rue Arthur-Fecteau, Gatineau, QC J8R 2Z9.
Details: aerogatineauottawa. com
3. Orleans Ribfest & Poutine
Indulge in two of the most beloved dishes: ribs and poutine this weekend in Orleans. Sweet Home Chicago will play blues, rhythm & blues, and soul music originally performed by the legendary Blues Brothers Band (Saturday at 7pm). FREE.
When: Sept 12-14. Fri 11:30am-9pm; Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-6pm.
Where: 255 Centrum Blvd.
Details: On Facebook
4. CityFolk
An all-ages outdoor musical event featuring Morrissey, Melissa Etheridge & Indigo Girls, Dropkick Murphys, Tyler Shaw, among others. Tickets from $69.60.
When: Sept 10-14
Where: Lansdowne Park (The Great Lawn)
Details: cityfolkfestival. com
5. Riverside Festival
Ottawa’s biggest electronic music event is back! Dance by the river to sets from world-class DJs like Zeds Dead, Alok, and Don Diablo at this high-energy festival. Tickets from $89.99.
When: Sept 9–14
Where: Canadian Museum of History, 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau
Details: festivalriverside. ca
6. Taste of Manotick
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 2pm–6pm
Where: Main Street, Manotick
Details: On Facebook
7. Butter Tart Festival
Indulge in Stittsville’s “Sweetest Day” at the 4th Annual Butter Tart Festival — sample everything from classic to gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free butter tarts. Enjoy children’s games, artisan vendors, and even a wild animal show! FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 10am-2pm
Where: Stittsville Market at The Barn, 6154 Abbott St
Details: atthebarn. ca
8. Bike Night at Confederation Park
Join this fun nighttime bike ride inspired by Montreal’s popular Tour La Nuit. The ride covers 6.6 km per loop, and participants can make as many or as few loops as they like. Cyclists of all ages and experience levels are welcome! There will be booths and activities from 6pm to 10pm at Confederation Park. FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, from 7:30pm to 9:30pm
Where: Meeting point is Confederation Park (corner of Laurier Avenue and Elgin St), but you can join in at any point along the route.
Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.
9. Banfest
An elegant black-tie gala showcasing the rich flavors, music, and artistry of Haiti. The evening features culinary delights from multiple Haitian restaurants, live performances, and a vibrant atmosphere that honors the Afro-descendant community.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 6pm–2am
Where: Santo Cristo Banquet Hall, 1100 Kenaston St, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook
10. 613 Flea
Find a unique mix of makers, bakers, artists, artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs, alongside vendors offering antiques, upcycled and recycled goods, vintage clothing, vinyl records, comics, delicious foods, and one-of-a-kind finds. FREE.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 10am-4pm
Where: Aberdeen Square, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St.
Details: IG @613flea
11. Black and Bluegrass Fest
Celebrate a decade of genre-defying music with a full day of electrifying performances across two stages. This year’s lineup includes Yes Ma’am, The Lab Ratz, Bastards and the Buzzards, and Smoke Spell. With a BYOB policy, affordable food, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a celebration of community and music you won’t want to miss. Tickets: $60.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 12pm – Sunday, Sept 14, 12am
Where: Rideau Pines Farm, 5714 Fourth Line Road, North Gower
Details: blackandbluegrass. ca
12. Capital Pop Up Cinema
When: Friday, Sept 12, 7:30pm
Where: Sparks St (block 5)
Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema
13. Heating Up the Capital
Sample sauces from mild to wild at Ottawa’s premier hot sauce expo! Enjoy spicy food contests and quench the heat with unique treats like jalapeño beer and ice cream. Whether you’re a heat enthusiast or just curious, this event offers something for everyone. Tickets from $13.54.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 10am–5pm
Where: Smokie Ridge Vineyard, 10090 Cameron Rd, Mountain
Details: https://
14. WOW Festival
The Working in Wellness Festival brings together service providers, community organizations, and the public to envision a coordinated healthcare system that values Physical, Mental, and Substance Use Health equally. FREE.
When: Friday, Sept 12, from 8:30am
Where: Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, 1145 Carling Ave.
Details: capsa. ca
15. Fifty-Five Plus Lifestyle Show
Enjoy a fun and lively event for anyone aged 55 and over. Browse a variety of exhibitors showcasing products and services to make life easier and more enjoyable. It’s a wonderful way to learn something new, have fun, and meet people with similar interests. FREE.
When: Sept 12-13, 10am–4pm
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
16. Multi-Brand Footwear Warehouse Sale
Ready to go shopping? Step into a huge warehouse sale featuring a wide selection of footwear from top brands. Find deals on shoes, boots, sneakers, flats, sandals, and more. Perfect for anyone looking to update their shoe collection at unbeatable prices. Admission: FREE.
When: Sept 11-14, Thu & Fri 10am–8pm; Sat 10am–7pm; Sun 10am–6pm
Where: EY Centre, Hall 2, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
17. Zones Théâtrales
Experience the 11th edition of this biennial festival celebrating French-language theatre from across Canada. Enjoy a diverse lineup of performances, including fully staged plays, works in progress, and immersive experiences. Single tickets: $15-$25.
When: Sept 8-13. Performance times vary by show.
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON
18. Cat Video Fest
Get ready for a purr-fectly delightful time at the Cat Video Fest! This 75-minute reel showcases the internet’s funniest, most heartwarming, and occasionally bizarre cat videos, including animations, music videos, and viral classics. It’s a family-friendly event that celebrates our feline friends while supporting local cats in need. A portion of the proceeds benefits Ottawa Stray Cat Rescue. Tickets: Non-members $15.98; children under 12 $9.99.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 4:15pm, and Sunday, Sept 14, 3:30pm
Where: ByTowne Cinema, 325 Rideau Street, Ottawa, ON
19. Spencerville Fair
This four-day celebration showcases livestock shows, homecraft competitions, junior exhibits, and incredible displays of locally grown food and goods. Admission: $15.00 (Day Pass).
When: Sept 11-14, 8:30am-5pm
Where: 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
20. Tosca
A tale of art, politics, and dangerous romance set in early 19th-century Rome, Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca has left audiences swooning since its premiere 125 years ago. Admission: starting at $31.
When: Wednesday, Sept 10, and Friday, Sept 12, at 8pm
Where: National Arts Centre, Southam Hall, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
21. Ikebana: Nature’s Beauty Reimagined
The Art of Japanese Floral Design Exhibition. Admission: $24 (included in regular museum admission).
When: Friday, Sept 12-14, 9:30am-4pm
Where: Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St, Ottawa
22. Sing A Sea Shanty
Join the Bytown Sea Shanty Collective for an unforgettable night of sea shanties, a fun and welcoming event where everyone is invited. No musical experience is needed and there’s no pressure to perform perfectly — just enjoy spirited songs, delicious grog, and a few surprise guests along the way. Bring your energy and your favorite drink for a lively evening full of music, laughter, and great company. FREE.
When: Friday, Sept 12, 8pm
Where: 250 City Centre Ave, Bay 106, Ottawa, ON
23. Deathtrap by Ira Levin
Sidney Bruhl, a successful writer of Broadway thrillers, is struggling to overcome a string of failures and a shortage of funds. Admission: $30.
When: Sept 10-20. Evening shows at 7:30pm; matinee shows at 2:30pm
Where: Ron Maslin Playhouse, 1 Ron Maslin Way, Ottawa
24. Autumn in the Country
Come on over for an artist studio tour, maker’s market, battle of the brushes art competition, and live music. Admission: FREE.
When: Sept 12-14. Fri 6:30pm-8:30pm; Sat 10am-4:30pm; Sun 1pm-3pm
Where: Russell Fairgrounds, 1076 Concession St, Russell
Saturday
25. Bodies of Art
Bodies of Art invites audiences to experience a night where art, music, movement, and a touch of mischief collide. Admission: $32.95.
When: Saturday, Sept 13, 6:30-11pm
Where: Next Door Ottawa, 955a Gladstone Avenue, Ottawa
Sunday
27. Pravāha
Pravāha (meaning “continuous flow” in Sanskrit), the much-anticipated second production by Stuti Mukherjee, is a celebration of the timeless flow of South Asian dance, culture, and tradition. The evening begins with captivating performances by the dedicated students of Kalagriha, joined by bharata natyam dance schools from across Ottawa, highlighting the richness and vitality of the city’s classical dance community. In the second half, audiences will be treated to the Canadian premiere of The Accidental Goddess, a mesmerizing kuchipudi dance production by the acclaimed California based artist Smt. Archana Raja. When: Sunday Sept 14, 4:30pm – 6pm. Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard.
Next Week
28. Intersections of Wonder: Art Meets Academia
More recurring events in Ottawa
29. 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.
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. 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.
35. 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.
36. 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.
37. 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/
38. 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.
39. 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
40. 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.
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. 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.
44. 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.
45. 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
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. 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