Fun events are on the horizon this weekend in Ottawa: a surprising aerial show in the heart of the ByWard Market, a museum’s open house, expos, fall markets, football and hockey games, don’t miss out!
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19 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.The Sky Becomes The Stage
Enjoy a breathtaking aerial show by French company Transe Express, a taste of what is coming next year when La Nuit Blanche is launched in Ottawa. Their world-renowned show Mobile Homme will transform the ByWard Market into an aerial stage of drummers and acrobats soaring above the crowd. FREE.
When: Friday Oct 17, 8:30pm-10pm.
Where: York St, ByWard Market
2. Canadian Museum of Nature Open House
Once a year the museum opens its research and collections facility in Gatineau, which hosts a huge collection of plants, animals, fossils and minerals housed in an area that is as large as five hockey rinks! This event is now fully booked. However, a limited number of walk-up tickets may be available based on no-shows. FREE.
When: Saturday Oct 18, 10am-4pm.
Where: 1740 Pink Road, Gatineau (Aylmer sector), Quebec
Details: https://nature.ca/en/
3. Fall Rhapsody
Enjoy stunning autumn scenery in Gatineau Park. Hop on the free shuttle and tour the most popular and beautiful spots in the park, such as Pink Lake, King Mountain, Mackenzie King Estate, and others. The shuttle departs from Ottawa to the Visitor Centre in Gatineau Park with nine stops.
When: Oct 4–26, from 9:10am to 3:10pm. Last departure to return to Ottawa from the Visitor Centre is 4:45pm.
Where: Boarding point is Pindigen Park on Wellington St.
Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.
4. One World Bazaar
Discover unique home decor, clothing, jewellery, and furniture—handcrafted by artisans from around the world—and enjoy exciting weekend programming, live performances, and more. Make it your new fall tradition. This weekend is African Cultural Weekend. FREE.
When: Sept 18–Nov 23. Fri–Sun 10am–5pm. Also Thanksgiving Monday.
Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Road, Manotick.
5. Ottawa National Women’s Show
The ultimate girls’ day out has arrived with the return of the Ottawa National Women’s Show. Health and wellness, fashion and beauty, food and wine, live shows and learning await. Come early for the free goodie bag and enjoy the shopping. Tickets from $14.
When: Oct 18-19, Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 10am-5pm.
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr, Ottawa
Details: https://
6. Ottawa Parent & Child Expo
Something fun for the whole family can be found at the Ottawa Parent & Child Expo. For the parents, plenty of local exhibitors offering parenting info, products and services. And for the kids, meet and greets with Ninja Turtles and princesses, animals from the Animal Rescue Centre, bouncy castles and more. Tickets from $15.
When: Oct 18-19, from 9am-4pm
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean
Details: https://
7. Capital Wedding Show
From gowns and venues to florists and catering, all the exhibitors for your special day are in one spot. Whatever you need, they have the plan. Tickets $12 online, $15 at the door.
When: Sunday Oct 19, from 11am-4pm
Where: Ottawa Conference and Event Center, 200 Coventry Rd, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
8. Ottawa Redblacks vs Montreal Alouettes
Time for some fall football, and it’s rivalry week here in the capital as the Redblacks face off against the Montreal Alouettes. With pre-game RNation tailgating, and great giveaways and surprises, there are plenty of reasons to cheer and get loud. Tickets from $33.
When: Saturday Oct 18, at 3pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
9. Senators vs Seattle Kraken and vs NY Islanders
The Sens are back with regular season play this week, and there are a couple of battles on the schedule. First, they look to harpoon the Seattle Kraken on Thursday before blockading the NY Islanders on Saturday. Let’s welcome back the team, fans, with some Go Sens Go! Tickets from $48.
When: Thursday Oct 16, 7pm / Saturday Oct 18, 3pm.
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa.
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. 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, Oct 18, 10am–4pm
Where: Aberdeen Square, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St.
Details: IG @613flea
12. Hintonburg Howl-o-ween
Come raise your paws for a cause at the Hintonburg Howl-o-ween festival. Supporting local dog rescue charities, there will be a pup-up market offering dog products and accessories, plus a dog/human costume parade with prizes. It’s time to pawty. FREE.
When: Saturday Oct 18, 12pm-4pm
Where: Parkdale Park, 366 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
13. Fresh Meat Fest
Explore a bold theatre festival in Ottawa showcasing world‐premiere works by local artists. Tickets from $17.35.
When: Oct 15-18, 7:30pm
Where: Arts Court Studio (3rd Floor), 2 Daly Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
14. 67’s vs Kingston Frontenacs
Cheer for the Ottawa 67’s as they battle their rivals, the Kingston Frontenacs, in an action-packed home game. Tickets from $26.
When: Sunday Oct 19, 3pm
Where: TD Place.
15. Angels and Demons
Halloween is a special time of the year when the Iron Cabaret gets together and celebrates all the things that go bump in the night. Whether it is soaring aerials, titillating pole dance, sultry burlesque, or thrilling heels dance, prepare to have your breath taken and your mind blown. IT IS AN ADULT HALLOWEEN SHOW. Ticket price: $49–$70.
When: Oct 10–18 at 7:30pm.
Where: The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Avenue.
16. Pumpkins in the Park
Celebrate autumn with free yoga, kids’ activities & live music, pick up a pumpkin too. FREE.
When: Saturday Oct 18, 12pm
Where: Princess Margriet Park (formerly Fairmont Park), 265 Fairmont Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://613today.ca/
17. The Original Navan Market
Discover fresh artisan goods and live music under domes, over 200 local vendors! FREE.
When: Sunday Oct 19, 10am
Where: 1279 Colonial Rd, Navan
Details: https://www.
18. Ski, Snowboard and Travel Show
Explore the ultimate winter-sports expo with huge equipment deals and travel destination showcases. FREE.
When: Oct 18-19. Sat from 9am; Sun from 10am.
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa
Details: https://
19. Ottawa Retro and Antique Market
Discover vintage and retro treasures, mid-century furniture, vinyl records & one-of-a-kind finds this weekend. FREE.
When: Oct 18-19, 11am-5pm
Where: 955A Gladstone Ave, Ottawa (Wellington West / Hintonburg)
Details: https://www.
More things to do in Ottawa
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
20. Arohafest Diwali Dhamaka
Ottawa’s bilingual celebration of Indian arts and culture. Community events featuring yoga, Bhangra & Bollywood dance workshops, rangoli mural, henna painting, and visual arts exhibitions. Tickets: FREE except special shows (from $22.50).
When: Oct 15–18.
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa.
21. Taylor Swift: The Life of a Showgirl Release Party
Step into a dazzling night celebrating Taylor Swift: The Life of a Showgirl! Enjoy a lively atmosphere, music, and fun inspired by one of pop’s biggest icons.
Tickets: $17.13–27.80
When: Friday, Oct 17 at 7:30pm
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave, Ottawa
22. Ottawa Psychic & Crystal Fair
Whether you’re seeking insight, healing, or simply curiosity, the fair offers opportunities to connect with spiritual practitioners and browse beautiful crystals, singing bowls, and metaphysical tools. Tickets: $13.54.
When: Oct 17-19, 11am/2pm-5pm/9pm.
Where: Jim Durrell Recreation Centre, 1265 Walkley Rd, Ottawa.
23. ABBA Revisited
ABBA Revisited recreates the magic of the iconic Swedish pop group with authentic costumes, spectacular harmonies, and note-perfect musicianship, taking their audiences on a musical journey back in time.
Tickets: $59
When: Friday, Oct 17 at 8pm
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Dr, Nepean
24. C4 Wrestling presents “SCREAM” – Our Halloween Bash!
C4 celebrates the most terrifying season of the year with a show filled with thrills and chills when they present “SCREAM”! Tickets: $33.59+
When: Friday, Oct 17 from 7:30–11pm
Where: Preston Event Centre, 523 Saint Anthony Street, Ottawa
25. The Festival of Small Halls
The event brings first-rate Canadian artists to small-town halls for cozy performances, storytelling, foot-stomping and song singing. Expect shows at beloved halls in rural communities, both new and long-standing venues, featuring artists like Chantal Kreviazuk, Ashley MacIsaac, The Arrogant Worms, Irish Mythen, and many others. Tickets: various prices depending on the venue.
When: Oct 17-19.
Where: Various small halls across Eastern Ontario, including around Ottawa and neighbouring towns.
26. Watercolor Workshop: Fall Leaves
Unwind with artist Patricia as you paint the rich colours of autumn leaves using professional watercolor techniques. Learn blending, layering, and brushwork and leave with a stunning fall masterpiece! Tickets: $60/guest | Ages 12+.
When: October 17, 6pm–8:30pm
Where: ArtHaven Kanata, 150 Katimavik Road, Unit 124.
Saturday
27. Dual Worlds
Step inside Dual Worlds on Saturday, a cinematic rock show where music and story collide. The show follows the arc of a love story, brought to life with Charae Alexandra’s soaring vocals, the electrifying energy of rock band Polarized, and the haunting beauty of world-renowned cellist Raphael Weinroth-Browne. Experience it live. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at the door.
When: Saturday Oct 18, at 8pm.
Where: LIVE! On Elgin, 220 Elgin St, 2nd floor.
Secure your tickets here: Tickets
28. Firefighter Calendar Party
Join Brady Jones for the Second Annual Firefighter Calendar Party at The Bronson, where there will be a reveal of next year’s calendar at the party, and you can meet and get your photo taken with all the firefighters featured in this year’s calendar. Tickets: $8.99+
When: Saturday, Oct 18 from 7–11pm
Where: The Bronson, Bronson Avenue, Ottawa
29. Red Trillium Studio Tour
A free, self-guided driving tour through rural Ottawa’s artistic heart. Visit 11 studios across Dunrobin, Kinburn, Constance Bay, Carp, and more. Meet local and guest artists working in glass, pottery, fibre, media and more. Follow the numbered route using the official tour map or plan your own path by browsing artist profiles online. FREE.
When: Oct 18–19, 10am–4pm.
Where: Studios throughout West Carleton.
30. Les Toches – La Cumbia SVP
This ensemble of five explosive musicians channels their Colombian, Mexican, Cuban, and Argentinian roots into a fresh, energetic reinterpretation of folk cumbia, accordion, and analogue trance. Tickets: $20.
When: Saturday, Oct 18, 8pm.
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
31. Faelight Immersive Market
Gather round all fair folk and merry wanderers to the Faelight Immersive Market, Ottawa’s Ren Faire experience happening this upcoming weekend. Explore a marketplace filled with nearly 40 vendors, live performers, and interactive experiences. Taking place at the transformed whimsical village in the heart of Kanata, where fantasy meets community. FREE entry!
When: Saturday, Oct 18, 11am-6pm
Where: Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Place, Ottawa, ON K2V 1A2.
32. Goth Clothing Swap
It’s back, and there are some new rules! Foremost, this is a Gothic clothing swap. Items should be mainly goth, punk, industrial, cyber, dark lolita, alternative, witchy, Victorian, etc.!
Tickets: FREE
When: Saturday, Oct 18 from 12–3pm
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave, Ottawa
Sunday
33. Ottawa Nostalgia Collectible Show 2025
Step into the past at Eastern Ontario’s largest nostalgia and collectible show! Explore tables filled with vintage toys, comics, memorabilia, coins, records, advertising pieces, and more, including appraisers and TV-featured experts. Enjoy prize draws, free magazine subscriptions, and thousands of unique finds. Tickets: $8, free for children under 12.
When: Sunday, Oct 19, 9am–3pm.
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave.
34. Geek Hoard Haul-oween
Celebrate all things geeky with a spooky twist at this pop-up convention and market. Explore around 90 vendors offering comics, games, collectibles, art, and Halloween-themed items, and enjoy cosplay, special guests, and interactive activities. FREE
When: Sunday, Oct 19 from 10am–5pm
Where: Sensplex Kanata, 1565 Maple Grove Road, Ottawa
35. Socalates™️: A Wellness Escape
Experience SOCALATES™️ — wellness that’s soulful, organic, connected, and alive — at Audi West Ottawa with Stacey Martin! All women, any skill level, are welcome to Pilates set to Caribbean-inspired beats. Enjoy immersive wellness zones, a fashion show, keynote, rum punch, and community connection. Every ticket includes a chance to win a staycation at Hotel X Toronto and entry into the Trip-for-2 giveaway to Nevis Island. Tickets start at $125 from staceymartinlifestyle com.
When: Sunday, Oct 19, 3pm-6pm.
Where: Audi West Ottawa, 269 West Hunt Club Road
More recurring events in Ottawa
36. Wickedly Westboro Scavenger Hunt
Kick off the Halloween season with the Wickedly Westboro Scavenger Hunt, explore the village with family and friends, solve fun clues, and discover spooky surprises hidden throughout the neighborhood. This interactive scavenger hunt brings the community together for a festive way to enjoy the Halloween season. FREE.
When: Oct 10-31, all day.
Where: Westboro Village, Ottawa.
37. Behind the Screams: Studio Tour Horror House
Step onto real sets built inside a working film studio and descend into the twisted imagination of Andi Cryst—a cult horror creator whose B-movie nightmares refuse to stay on-screen. Ticket price: $27.68.
When: Oct 3–Nov 1 from 4pm to 7pm (every half hour)
Where: 1D Studios, 2935 Conroy Road.
38. Pumpkinferno
Step into a glowing fall wonderland where thousands of handcrafted pumpkins illuminate historic paths under the night sky. A walk-through spectacle that blends art, light, and Halloween magic for all ages. Tickets from $25.
When: Select nights from Oct 1–Nov 1, 2025 – 7pm to 10:30pm
Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Road 2, Morrisburg, ON.
40. 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–Oct 31, Day 12pm and Night 6:30pm
Where: Cannamore Orchard, 1480 County Road 32, Crysler
Details: https://www.
41. 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: Sept 27-Oct 31 at 7pm
Where: Proulx Farm, 1865 O’Toole Road
42. 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.
43. 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.
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. 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.
50. 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.
51. 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
52. 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.
53. 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.
54. 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.
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