The last weekend of April is bringing us lots of things to do in Ottawa! From food festivals to film and music festivals, hockey games, soccer, expos and markets, you have great options to enjoy! Check out this post and start making plans with your friends!
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16 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Orleans PoutineFest and Street Food Frenzy
Come to this fun outdoor festival featuring dozens of poutine varieties, street food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities. FREE entry.
When: April 24–26. Fri–Sat 11am–9pm, Sun 11am–6pm.
Where: 255 Centrum Blvd, Orléans
Details: On Facebook
2. Ottawa Senators vs Carolina Hurricanes
Playoff fever hits the capital as the Sens keep their post-season dreams alive for Games 3 and 4 of their battle with the Carolina Hurricanes. Cheer on the Sens to victory before they head back out of town. Tickets from $305
When: Thursday April 23, at 7:30pm; Saturday April 25, at 3pm
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Kanata
Details: https://www.nhl.com/
3. Irish Film Festival Ottawa
Bringing the Emerald Isle to Ottawa is the job of the Irish Film Festival. Held at the Museum of Nature, this three-day festival features 6 diverse Irish films, making it a great event for the Irish and those who simply want to be.
Tickets from $12
When: Friday April 24–Sunday April 26, various times
Where: Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
4. Ottawa Charge vs Toronto Sceptres
It all comes down to this, as the Ottawa Charge, in their final home game, take on the Toronto Sceptres to determine if they are playoff-bound. Plus, it’s Fan Appreciation Night, so expect in-seat surprises and delights. One last Charge to victory. Tickets from $36
When: Saturday April 25, at 2pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
Details: https://www.thepwhl.
5. Spring Craft Market: Mother’s Day Edition
Searching for a great gift for Mom? Well, your search is over thanks to the Spring Craft Market: Mother’s Day Edition. Choices aplenty, with artists and vendors offering locally hand-crafted gifts and treasures. FREE
When: Sunday April 26, 11am–4pm
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
Details: https://nac-cna.ca/
6. Ottawa Grassroots Festival
Looking for some family-friendly music? Then the Ottawa Grassroots Festival may be your thing. A musical celebration of culture and community, with local artists sharing songs that capture the spirit of our city. FREE–$40 (for some shows)
When: Thursday April 23–Sunday April 26, various times
Where: First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa, 30 Cleary Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://
7. Outdoor & Adventure Travel Show
‘Tis the season for getting back outside again, and the Outdoor & Adventure Travel Show is looking to set you up. Dozens of vendors and presentations to get you out camping, hiking, canoeing, and more. Your adventure awaits. FREE.
When: Saturday April 25–Sunday April 26, 10am–5pm
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean
Details: https://www.
8. European Union Short Film Festival
Explore award-winning European short films, diverse cultures, and free screenings across Ottawa venues. FREE
When: Friday Apr 24–Saturday Apr 25. Check schedule
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.cfi-icf.
9. Atletico Ottawa vs Vancouver FC
Cheer for Atletico Ottawa in an exciting home match against Vancouver FC. Tickets from $23
When: Sunday Apr 26, 1pm
Where: TD Place Stadium, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
Details: https://
10. Latin American Film Festival
Immerse yourself in a diverse selection of films that showcase the rich heritage and creativity of the region. From gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This weekend: films from Ecuador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru and Argentina. FREE admission.
When: Apr 24-May 16
Where: St Paul University, 233 Main Street.
Details: On Eventbrite
11. Spring Fling in Manotick
Discover local vendors, handmade crafts, delicious treats, and family-friendly spring activities outdoors. FREE
When: Saturday Apr 25, 10am–4pm
Where: Manotick Village, 5562 Manotick Main St, Ottawa
Details: https://
12. Ottawa Indie Bookstore Crawl
Built around Canadian Independent Bookstore Day, this city-wide crawl invites you to pick up a free passport and turn a weekend of browsing into a low-key challenge. Collect stamps from at least seven shops to enter the prize draw, with each stop offering its own mix of curated shelves, small perks, and in-store celebrations that make the route feel as rewarding as the finish. FREE. When: Friday, Apr 24–Sunday, Apr 26.
Where: Various locations across Ottawa
13. Maestro: Competitive Improv Comedy
Don’t miss hilarious improv battles where performers compete for laughs and audience votes. Tickets from $10
When: Saturday Apr 25, 9pm–10:30pm
Where: Arts Court Theatre, 2 Daly Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
14. Ottawa Guitar Show
Browse guitars, meet expert luthiers, enjoy live demos, and discover rare instruments. Tickets $10
When: Sunday, Apr 26, 10am–3pm
Where: Jim Durrell Recreation Centre, 1265 Walkley Rd, Ottawa
Details: https://www.facebook.
15. Capital Comic Book Convention
Dive into comics, meet artists, cosplay contests, and shop collectibles with fellow fans. Tickets from $9.85
When: Sunday Apr 26, 11am–4pm
Where: RA Centre, Clark Hall, 2451 Riverside Dr, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
16. Stars on Ice
A chance to see world-class skaters up close as they trade medals for music-driven routines that feel looser, more playful, and often surprisingly emotional. The mix of solo spotlights and group numbers gives the whole show a celebratory, almost behind-the-scenes feel you don’t get during competition season. Tickets: from $54.
When: Sunday, Apr 26, 4pm.
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Friday
17. Old Dominion
Old Dominion is a five-member country music band. Formed in Nashville, TN, their music is contemporary country with rock instrumentation and has pop and hip-hop overtones. This is a +19 event. Ticket price starting at $220
When: Friday, April 24 at 8pm
Where: Hard Rock Cafe and Casino, 4837 Albion Rd S.
18. Ottawa Wine Auction
Enjoy an elegant evening at the Château Laurier and bid on some of the finest wines.This event is a key fundraiser for the Music and Beyond Festival. Tickets: $25–$50
When: Friday, April 24 at 7 PM
Where: Fairmont Château Laurier
Details: IG @musicandbeyond
19. SOS the Abba Experience
A lively, singalong-heavy night that leans into ABBA’s biggest hits, with sequined costumes, tight harmonies, and the kind of energy that quickly pulls the audience in. It feels less like watching a tribute and more like being part of it, as the crowd joins in on every chorus and keeps the momentum going from start to finish. Tickets: $57.
When: Friday, Apr 24 and Saturday, Apr 25, 7pm.
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa
20. The Great Canadian Comedy Caravan Tour
The Great Canadian Comedy Caravan Tour is returning to the National Arts Centre for its 2nd annual benefit gala with Ronald McDonald House Ottawa.
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT
When: Friday, April 24 at 8 pm
Where: Azrieli Studio, 1 Elgin Street
Saturday
21. Battle of Santiago
An electrifying soundclash where Afro-Cuban rhythms and vocals collide with a distinctly Canadian post-rock edge, creating something both global and deeply rooted. Driven by layered percussion and brass, the band builds a powerful, border-crossing sound that feels immersive, rhythmic, and constantly evolving. Tickets: $25.
When: Saturday, Apr 25, 8pm.
Where: Fourth Stage, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
22. Ottawa Beatlemania
A nostalgic, note-for-note tribute that moves through The Beatles’ catalogue, from early mop-top hits to their later studio-era sound, complete with era-specific costumes and instruments. It’s the kind of show where every chord and harmony feels instantly familiar, with the crowd inevitably joining in by the second chorus. Tickets: $49.
When: Saturday, Apr 25, 8pm.
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Drive, Ottawa.
23. Done By Three
A relaxed daytime social with early dancing, a small clothes swap, and space to sip coffee, create, or just be around a good vibe. Bring your own coffee or snacks. No bar, no pressure. Come solo or with a friend. Entry is $10.
When: Saturday Apr 25, 12–3pm.
Where: LIVE ON ELGIN, 220 Elgin Street, Ottawa, Ontario.
Details: IG @sunshinewithjoce
24. Rockcliffe Park Spring Book Sale 2026
Browse over 25,000 used books in great condition at bargain prices! There is a book for everyone! Proceeds support the Rockcliffe Park branch of the Ottawa Public Library and the wider library system. Entry is FREE.
When: Saturday Apr 25 10am–5pm, and Sunday April 26 11am–5pm
Where: Rockcliffe Park Community Centre, 380 Springfield Rd, Ottawa, Ontario.
Details: IG @springbooksale
25. 6ixsters Drag Extravaganza
The 6ixsters are back! It’s an extravaganza like no other: a celebration of drag from Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto. General admission $50.
When: Saturday, April 25 at 8 pm.
Where: The Bronson Theatre, 211 Bronson Ave.
26. Kalashree Anubhuti – The Confluence of Rhythmic Footwork and Melodic Resonance
An elite showcase of North Indian classical excellence. This performance illuminates the intricate synergy between the visual storytelling of Kathak and the profound instrumental traditions of the subcontinent. Ticket price: $30
When: Saturday, April 25 at 5:30 pm.
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd.
27. Pretty in Pink – Dance Moms
Shake off the winter blues and catch spring fever at this dance party with the theme Pretty in Pink (wear something pink). Featuring DJ Tom. THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT
When: Saturday, April 25 at 8 pm.
Where: One Up Cocktail Lounge, 1 Beechwood Ave.
28. Festival of Maples
A spring day trip that fully immerses you in maple season, with downtown Perth buzzing as producers, food stalls, and artisans line the streets with everything from fresh syrup to sweet treats. Between live music stages, a classic car show, lumberjack-style competitions, and a lively kids’ zone with games, climbing walls, and a petting zoo, it’s the kind of festival where you can wander, snack, and stumble into something new at every turn. FREE.
When: Saturday, Apr 25, 9am–4pm.
Where: Downtown Perth, Gore Street East, Perth.
Upcoming events
29. Ian Bostridge and Wenwen Du in Recital
An exceptional night of art song is coming to Ottawa. Nebula Performances Society brings together three-time Grammy Award–winning tenor Ian Bostridge and pianist Wenwen Du for a rare and intimate performance at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre. Expect a deeply expressive evening featuring the works of Hugo Wolf and Benjamin Britten, two masters of the art song repertoire. For anyone who appreciates world-class music in an intimate setting, this is not one to miss. A limited number of student tickets are available for purchase for this event by using the code “STUDENT30”. Student tickets are available for all individuals with a valid Student ID card. Tickets: $45-$95.
When: Wednesday May 6 at 7:30pm.
Where: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre.
Secure your spot here: Tickets
More recurring events in Ottawa
30. Faith Fyles: in Full Bloom
This exhibition explores the intersection of art and science through the life and work of Faith Fyles (1875–1961), the first woman to be appointed as a botanist with Canada’s Department of Agriculture. FREE ADMISSION.
When: March 7–September 27, 2026
Where: Ottawa Art Gallery, Level 4, 50 Mackenzie King Bridge.
31. Radical Reuse
This exhibition explores how Ottawa’s design salvage can be restored and repurposed for the contemporary home. Presented by the emerging curators of Carleton University, whose mission is to promote sustainability and heritage preservation by challenging our culture of overconsumption. Entry is FREE.
When: Apr 7-May 3 (daily) Mon-Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 12pm-5pm.
Where: Scrim’s Florist, 262 Elgin Street, Ottawa, Ontario.
Details: IG @therejoinery