The first weekend of autumn will still feel like summer in Ottawa. Enjoy food festivals, Oktoberfest, fall markets, fairs, races, and many more things to do! Check out this lineup of events and share it with your friends.
Want a curated list of events sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to our free newsletter! Elevate Your Weekends
Contents
18 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.One World Bazaar
Discover unique home decor, clothing, jewellery, and furniture handcrafted by artisans from around the world. Enjoy exciting weekend programming, live performances, and more. Make it your new fall tradition. This weekend is Indian Cultural Weekend. FREE.
When: Sept 18–Nov 23. Fri–Sun 10am–5pm. Also Thursdays Sept 18 & 25 and Thanksgiving Monday.
Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Road, Manotick.
Details: oneworldbazaar. ca
2. Ottawa Fire Truck Pull
Cheer on the teams of 10 people that will descend on Lansdowne Park to demonstrate that they have the fortitude to pull a 10+ tonne Ottawa Fire Services fire truck 100 feet. FREE to watch.
When: Saturday Sept 27 from 11:30am. The pull starts at 2pm.
Where: Aberdeen Plaza, Lansdowne Park, 1000 Exhibition Way
Details: https://www.
3. Viet Moon Fest
Inspired by the traditional Vietnamese Moon Festival, this two-day event will feature 1,000 handmade lanterns from Vietnamese craft villages, Áo dài fashion shows, art exhibits, authentic cuisine, a lantern-making contest, hands-on crafts, traditional games for all ages, live music, DJs, and more. FREE.
When: Sept 26–27, 11am–11pm.
Where: Sparks Street
Details: vietmoonfest. ca
4. Orleans Oktoberfest
Celebrate autumn in true Bavarian style at Orléans Oktoberfest! 1 FREE Oktoberfest Stein (pint) with your ticket and 1 free pretzel, plus access to the biergarten. What to expect: Guest Breweries, German-inspired food, Live Band, DJ & Games! Only 1 session: 1pm to 10pm. Tickets: $42
When: Saturday Sept 27, 1pm–10pm
Where: Orleans Brewing Co, 4380 Innes Road.
Details: orleansbrewing. com
5. Carp Fair
Come for a weekend celebration of rural life, agriculture, family, and community at Carp Fair. We offer fun and educational experiences for all ages. Enjoy live music, world-class horse shows, and SuperDogs! A midway, magic shows and puppets, agricultural learning in the Ag Tent, petting zoo, and more! Tickets: $10, $20
When: Sept 25–28
Where: 3790 Carp Road.
Details: carpfair. ca
6. Ottawa International Animation Festival
One of the world’s top animation festivals takes over downtown Ottawa with five days of screenings, talks, and parties. Catch over 200 new films, go behind the scenes at Animation Exposé, and enjoy programs for teens and families. Tickets: $15.
When: Sept 24–28
Where: Various venues.
Details: animationfestival. ca
7. Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run
Cheer together with pets and family, walks, runs, K9 Fun Zone, marketplace, and children’s activities. Tickets from $25.
When: Sunday, Sept 28, 9am
Where: The Great Lawn at Lansdowne, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa
Details: https://joinme.
8. Ottawa Cat Show
Explore spectacular purebred & pet cats; Parade of Breeds, vendors, door prizes, decorated cages theme. Tickets from $5.
When: Sept 27–28, 9am
Where: Nepean Sportsplex Curling Rink, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://
9. Pique
Celebrate Ottawa’s cutting-edge festival with live music, multimedia art, rooftop shows, and immersive performances. Tickets are pay-what-you-can (suggested $45–75).
When: Saturday Sept 27, 2pm
Where: Arts Court, 67 Nicholas St, Ottawa
Details: https://thisispique.
10. Databells
Celebrate immersive art created by Rich Loen, where whimsical bells respond to real-world statistics. Almost one full month of free-admission access to this one-of-a-kind art installation. As a visitor, you will be able to immerse yourself in the sensorial experience of the Databells exhibition, taking your time to see and hear the full exhibit. FREE.
When: Sept 25 to Oct 17. Thursdays to Sundays, 10am–3pm.
Where: Salon Des Bananes, 2207 Carling Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
11. Ottawa Rapid FC vs AFC Toronto
Experience an electrifying soccer clash featuring top-tier plays, passionate fans, and thrilling halftime entertainment. Tickets from $25
When: Friday Sept 26, 7pm
Where: TD Place Stadium, Ottawa
Details: https://www.rapidfc.
12. Atlético Ottawa vs Cavalry FC
Witness Canadian Premier League action with intense rivalries, electrifying goals, and unforgettable supporter chants. Tickets from $20
When: Saturday Sept 27, 1pm
Where: TD Place Stadium, Ottawa
Details: https://www.tdplace.
13. Acres of Terror
Explore four spine-tingling Halloween-themed attractions: wagon ride, haunted house, fog maze, spooky village. Tickets $25 (day), $35 (night)
When: Sept 26–27, Day 12pm and Night 6:30pm
Where: Cannamore Orchard, 1480 County Road 32, Crysler
Details: https://www.
14. Skreamers
Will you survive? Then take a ride on the wild wagon through the border forest and stroll through the Side Laboratory and Front Barn. THIS IS NOT A FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT.
Ticket price: $25/victim
When: Saturday Sept 27 at 7pm
Where: Proulx Farm, 1865 O’Toole Road
15. Ottawa 67’s vs Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds
Ticket price: $25–$50
When: Sunday Sept 28 at 3pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
16. Courons Gatineau
The Quai-des-Cageux area will be buzzing with activity for the very first edition of Courons Gatineau. Come and cheer our runners and walkers! There will be entertainment on site starting at 1pm. FREE ADMISSION
When: Saturday Sept 27 from 12pm to 8pm
Where: Courons Gatineau Welcome Area (Como Alley). No parking in Como Alley. Public transportation will be available.
17. Oktoberfest in Aylmer
A free two-day festival organized by the Corporation du Vieux-Aylmer featuring live music, local breweries, and regional cuisine. FREE ADMISSION
When: Sept 26–27
Where: Rue Principale d’Aylmer, Gatineau.
18. Europa Super Circus
It will be an unforgettable evening of thrilling performances, mesmerizing lights, and whimsical delights under the big top. The show puts a modern twist on a beloved classic circus.
Ticket price: $25 per child and $35 per adult
When: Sept 25 at 7pm, Sept 26 at 4:30pm and 7pm; Sept 28 at 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30pm
Where: Under The Big Top, RioCan Lincoln Heights
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
19. Fifteen Dogs
Based on the Giller Prize-winning book by André Alexis, this story will have audiences sitting, staying, and begging for more. Admission: $69
When: Sept 24–27 at 8pm or 2pm (matinee)
Where: The Azrieli Studio, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
20. 21 Gun Salute – The Explosive AC/DC Tribute
Get ready to rock like never before with 21 GUN SALUTE – the ultimate AC/DC Tribute experience! Admission: $39.50
When: Friday, Sept 26 at 8pm
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, Robert C. Gillett Student Commons, 1385 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean
21. The Ottawa Latin Jazz Conference
Over three vibrant days, audiences and artists will come together for an inspiring program of live performances, thought-provoking panels, hands-on workshops, and opportunities for mingling — celebrating the richness and diversity of Latin jazz in Canada and beyond. Free and ticketed events. All daytime events are free and will take place at the NAC Peter A. Herrndorf Place. Ticketed evening concerts will take place at the NAC Fourth Stage. Tickets: $25
When: Sept 26–28
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St.
Details: latinhubcanada. com
22. Harvest for Hospice Night Market
The Harvest for Hospice Night Market features 50+ vendors set against the beautiful backdrop of the Kemptville Campus. Admission: FREE.
When: Thursday, Sept 25 from 4–7:30pm
Where: Kemptville Campus, 75 Campus Drive, Kemptville
Saturday
23. Great Glass Pumpkin Patch
The furnaces will be blazing at Ottawa Glassblowing Co-op for the return of the Great Glass Pumpkin Patch! Drop by for live glassblowing demonstrations, free pumpkin mini-classes, raffle prizes, mystery boxes, and the annual one-day-only pumpkin sale. A fall tradition you won’t want to miss. FREE.
When: Saturday Sept 27, 10am–4pm.
Where: Ottawa Glassblowing Co-op, 957C Gladstone Ave, Ottawa
24. New Edinburgh Artists’ Studio Tour
A self-guided tour that takes place every year, with 10 to 12 studios located within New Edinburgh, Ottawa. This event features resident and guest artists, crafting works in ceramics, glass, painting, textiles, photography, and more. FREE ADMISSION
When: Sept 27–28, 10am–4pm
Where: New Edinburgh neighbourhood, Ottawa
25. The Original Navan Night Market & Movie Night
Enjoy a magical evening at the Night Market and Movie Night, featuring more than 35 local vendors, delicious food, and a cozy outdoor film screening. Admission: FREE
When: Saturday, Sept 27 from 6pm–10pm
Where: 1279 Colonial Road, Navan
26. Fall Craft Fair
Come for Richmond’s very first Craft Show. This vibrant event will feature 19 amazing local vendors showcasing a wide variety of creations: woodworking, knitting, jewelry, baking, soap, 3D printing, homemade mustard, and so much more! Each vendor will be donating an item to the grand prize basket, which attendees will have the chance to win in a draw. Plus, a local artist has kindly donated a painting to be raffled off! The venue is wheelchair accessible, and light refreshments will be available for purchase. When: Saturday, Sept 27, 10am-4pm. Where: St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Hall, 3529 McBean St, Richmond.
27. United to Give
A nationwide humanitarian campaign organized by Ukrainians in Canada, invites everyone to take part in a blood drive. The campaign unites communities across the country to support Canada’s national blood donation system and demonstrate gratitude and solidarity with Canadians. FREE. When: Saturday, Sept 27, 12pm-2pm. Where: Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, 1575 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7M3. Registration form: https://docs.google.com/
Sunday
28. Doors Open Rideau Hall
In the lead-up to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Rideau Hall will hold a special Doors Open. Programming will encourage the public to reflect on the 10 years that have passed since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report. Interactive art activities will be offered, focused on learning and healing through art. These include: Create a paper heart to express your commitment to reconciliation and to the 94 Calls to Action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada; explore hands-on activities inspired by Métis artist Christi Belcourt’s Honouring My Spirit Helpers, currently on display in the Ballroom; make a print with the guide of staff from the Ottawa Art Gallery. FREE. When: Sunday Sept 28, 10am-4pm. Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex St. Details: https://gg.ca/en/visit-us/rideau-hall/events/doors-open- ndtr
29. Fall Farm Fest
Join us at the Just Food Community Farm for the 2025 Fall Farm Fest, a family friendly festival to celebrate community that, together, are working to build a vibrant, just and sustainable food system in the Ottawa region. It’ll be a fun afternoon filled with live music, hay rides, local food & drinks, free activities, and more! FREE. When: Sunday Sept 28, 11am-3pm. Where: Just Food Community Farm, 2391 Pepin Court (Blackburn Hamlet).
30. The Great Ottawa Markets Collective Destash: Craft Overstock & Food Market
A great chance to shop handmade goods, local overstock items, and more. Non-perishable food donations will be collected at the door during the event for the Kanata Food Cupboard. FREE ADMISSION
When: Sunday Sept 28, 11am–4pm
Where: 1565 Maple Grove Rd, Stittsville
31. Ottawa Doll Show & Sale
Discover a treasure trove of dolls, teddy bears, and miniatures, new and vintage finds for both kids and collectors. Admission: FREE
When: Sunday, Sept 28, 10am–3pm
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa
Next Week
32. Sacred Fire Ceremony
The Sacred Fire ceremony will bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together to honour the thousands of lives lost or traumatically impacted by the residential school system. This solemn ceremony will encourage participants to build community, exchange knowledge and reflect on the experiences of Survivors of the residential school system, as well as those of their families and communities. Beginning with an opening ceremony of approximately 45 minutes, the fire will then be tended to throughout the morning to encourage reflection. FREE. When: Tuesday Sept 30, 9am-1pm. Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive. Details: https://gg.ca/en/visit-us/rideau-hall/events/ sacred-fire
33. Accessorizing Sale
Looking to refresh your style without breaking the bank? Join us for our Accessorizing Sale, featuring a beautiful selection of gently used jewellery, hats, and handbags – perfect for adding a touch of flair to your office wardrobe (or any outfit!).
When: Wednesday, Oct 1, 11am–2pm
Where: 82 Kent Street
34. Lace Up for a Cause!
Join us Saturday, October 4 for the first annual Race to End Homelessness. Walk or run a 1K, 5K, or 10K — every step helps bring lasting housing solutions to those in need right here in Ottawa. All participants get a FREE commemorative t-shirt. Sign up today and be part of the movement! Your impact goes beyond the finish line.
When: Saturday Oct 4 at 9am
Where: RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive
Other recurring events in Ottawa
35. 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.
37. 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.
38. 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.
39. 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.
40. 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.
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. 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/
44. 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
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. 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.
50. 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
51. 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.
52. 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.
53. 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.
54. 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