This weekend is coming packed with events of all sorts and lots of things to do in Ottawa, starting with the renowned Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa’s signature event. Haven’t you started making plans yet? Don’t waste any time, take a look at this post, tag your friends, and plan an awesome weekend!
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18 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Canadian Tulip Festival
Finally, Ottawa’s signature and renowned festival is here! Enjoy the amazing sight of hundreds of thousands of tulips at Commissioners Park, with over 100 varieties of gorgeous tulips. Stroll through the colourful beds of tulips at Major’s Hill Park or along the Rideau Canal. Participate in a variety of activities like the official opening of the festival (Sat May 9, 11am-12pm). FREE.
When: May 8-18
Where: Commissioners Park-Dow’s Lake (main site), Major’s Hill Park, Rideau Canal (Queen Elizabeth Drive), Parliament Hill, Confederation Park, National War Memorial and other sites.
Details: IG @cdntulipfest
2. Ottawa Charge vs Boston Fleet
Game 3 of the playoffs and the series is tied as the Ottawa Charge host the Boston Fleet. Expect high-intensity, physical hockey as both teams battle for the edge in a tightly matched series. With everything on the line, every shift counts and momentum could swing at any moment in front of a loud Ottawa crowd. Tickets: $32.50
When: Friday May 8, at 7pm.
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive.
3. Live Chess on Parliament
This is the 3rd Annual Live Human Chess game. All white and black pieces are currently covered, however if you come as a spectator there is a good chance you will be able to join in the action. This is an all ages event. Rain or shine. FREE.
When: Sunday May 10, at 2pm
Where: Parliament, great lawn.
Details: https://
4. NCC Weekend Bikedays
From May to October, the NCC’s Weekend Bikedays program opens select Ottawa parkways to active use, perfect for biking, walking, rollerblading, or strolling. Enjoy a safe, car-free way to explore the National Capital Region. Runs on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays. FREE.
When: May 9 to October 12, 2026
Where: Kichi Zibi Mikan, George Etienne Cartier Parkway and Queen Elizabeth Drive.
Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.
5. Bestfest Ottawa
Experience a range of cuisines, with the best vendors in BBQ, Indian, fried chicken, Italian, Japanese and more! Taste delicious pints from our local breweries, sample flavourful wines, and enjoy hand-crafted cocktails. Admission: $10.
When: May 8-9
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Lansdowne.
Details: On Eventbrite
6. Ottawa Rapid vs Vancouver Rise
Cheer on Ottawa’s women’s pro soccer team as they take on Vancouver Rise in their second home game of the season. Tickets: $25. When: Wednesday May 6 at 7pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank Street.
7. Ontario Guild of Town Criers Competition
Oyez, Oyez, Oyez. Come experience the original social media at the Ontario Guild of Town Criers Competition. As part of the Canadian Tulip Festival, listen as town criers from across Ontario show off their vocal skills and theatrical talents in a battle to be the best crier. FREE.
When: May 9–10, 12pm–5pm
Where: Commissioners Park, Preston St and Queen Elizabeth Drive, Ottawa
Details: https://
8. Mother’s Day Flower Fun Run
It’s the prettiest race ever for Mom’s special day. The Canadian Tulip Festival offers the Flower Fun Run, a 1k Walk / 5K Run that passes by the tulips in bloom, all in support of the Canadian Tulip Legacy. Registration from $30, $59.
When: Sunday May 10, from 12pm
Where: Dow’s Lake, 1001 Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
9. Seedling Saturday
Time to get your hands dirty in the garden, and Seedling Saturday is a great place to start. Local farmers and vendors offering products, advice, and most importantly seeds and seedlings. Come celebrate the joy of spring and make your garden happy. FREE.
When: Saturday May 9, 10am–2pm
Where: Just Food Community Farm, 2391 Pepin Court, Ottawa
Details: https://justfood.ca/
10. Ottawa Titans vs Quebec Capitales
Celebrate a beloved sport with special vibes and big opening-weekend energy! Home opener on Friday May 8 is sold out. Tickets starting at $16.95.
When: Saturday May 9 at 6pm and Sunday May 10 at 1pm
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Road, Ottawa
11. Jukebox Lunch Concerts
Live music for your lunch returns to the capital with Jukebox Lunch Concerts at the National Arts Centre every Thursday in May and June. It kicks off with poet / singer-songwriter Maya Spoken bringing her soulful take on self-discovery, love and Black culture. Bring your lunch hour to the next level. FREE.
When: Thursday May 7, at 12:10pm
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
Details: https://nac-cna.ca/
12. Fetch Local Markets
If you are in need of something for your favourite furry friend, Fetch Local Markets has got you covered. A dog-friendly market with over 30 vendors offering amazing products and useful services like nail trimming. Get those tails wagging. FREE.
When: Saturday May 9, 10am–3pm
Where: Place D’Orleans Park and Ride, 110 Place D’Orléans Dr, Orléans
Details: IG @fetchlocalmarkets
13. Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market
Shopping in the evening always has its own flavour, as you’ll find at the Hintonburg Night Market. It’s a chance to stroll through a variety of local vendors, plenty of food and drink, all while being entertained by local musicians and buskers. A great night out. FREE.
When: Thursday May 7, 4pm–9pm
Where: Urban Art Collective, 1088 Somerset Street West, Ottawa
Details: https://
14. Friends of the Farm Plant Sale
Explore many specialty growers and get free advice from Master Gardeners for your spring garden. Refreshment tables provide a nourishing break while you shop. FREE.
When: Sunday, May 10, 8:30am
Where: K.W. Neatby Building parking lot, 960 Carling Ave, Ottawa
Details: friendsofthefarm.ca
15. Retro Silent Disco
For one night only, this iconic venue will be transformed into a giant dance floor, complete with a bar, nightclub-quality lighting, visual effects, and three amazing DJs spinning 80s, 90s, and 00s anthems across three channels. Tickets from $50.
When: Saturday May 9, 7:30pm
Where: National Gallery of Canada, 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa
Details: On Eventbrite
16. A Glow of Love: Mother’s Day Market and Concert
Celebrate with a beautiful candlelight concert and shop from over forty unique local artisan vendor booths. Featuring incredible live performers: Julianna Labelle, Chelsea Palmer, Liana Molinaro, Sharlee, Romy Mounzer and others. Tickets from $40.25.
When: Saturday, May 9, 1pm (Market) and 7pm (Concert)
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd, Orleans
Details: shenkmanarts.ca
17. Saunders Farm Tulip Fest
Wander through half a million tulips and enjoy the giant Dutch windmill for amazing family photos. Perfect for day trippers, families, and flower lovers of all ages. Tickets from $15.
When: Saturday, May 9-24.
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Road, Ottawa
Details: saundersfarm.com
18. Art Battle Ottawa
Step into a world where imagination comes to life! Watch as talented artists transform blank canvases into breathtaking masterpieces in just 20 electrifying minutes per round. Feel the energy in the air as creativity flows and the crowd cheers them on. Vote to crown the ultimate champion and take home a piece of the night with the silent auction of all original works. Tickets: $25.50.
When: Thursday May 7 at 7pm
Where: Overflow Brewing Company, 2477 Kaladar Avenue
Details: On Eventbrite
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
19. 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. Details on Eventbrite.
20. Kanata United Church Book Fair
One of Eastern Ontario’s biggest community book fairs, now in its 33rd year, with around 30,000 gently used books covering fiction, non-fiction, kids’ titles, cookbooks, and more. All volunteer-run, with proceeds supporting local charities. Kicks off with a kids-only afternoon on Wednesday, then opens to everyone through the weekend. Most books are $1–$5. FREE.
When: May 6-9. Wed 2–6pm (kids only); Thu 2–9pm; Fri 3–8pm; Sat 9am–2pm.
Where: Kanata United Church, 33 Leacock Drive, Kanata.
21. Capital Cup and Second Provincial Qualifier 2026
A four-day rhythmic gymnastics event blending two competitions under one roof. The Capital Cup opens things up with interclub, national-level, and Special Olympics athletes, followed by three days of high-level provincial qualifier competition. Over 250 gymnasts performing with ribbons, hoops, and dazzling choreography to vibrant music. Tickets: $25/adult per day, $10/child (12+).
When: May 7-10. Thursday, 11:30am–6:30pm (Capital Cup); Fri–Sat 9am–8:30pm; Sun, 9am–5pm (Provincial Qualifier).
Where: Algonquin College ARC Varsity Gym (X Building), 1385 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa.
22. Cranium Conference & Showcase
A four-day music industry event connecting emerging artists with active professionals through panels, masterclasses, and networking sessions, wrapping up with a live showcase of eight acts spanning afrobeat, R&B, hip-hop, and soul. The weekend kicks off with a ticketed Sofar Sounds x Cranium concert on Thursday, continues with free conference events Friday and Saturday, followed by the ticketed headline showcase Saturday evening, and wraps up with an after party later that night. Tickets: Sofar Sounds x Cranium Concert CA$36 (+ booking fee); Conference events FREE; Showcase CA$20; After Party from CA$33.28 (incl. fees).
When: May 7-10 (various times); Showcase: Sat 7pm; After Party: Sat, 11pm.
Where: Various locations (NAC, 1 Elgin Street for conference & showcase; NUVO Lounge 295, 295 Dalhousie Street for after party).
23. Object//Project Art Book Fair 2026
Don’t miss this gathering of independent publishers and artists showcasing unique contemporary art books and zines. FREE.
When: May 8-9, 11am
Where: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper Street, Ottawa
Details: objectproject.org
24. In the Black 2.0
After a sold-out debut, In the Black 2.0 returns with a bold comedy showcase highlighting Black voices from Eastern Canada through sharp, funny, and meaningful stand-up performances rooted in culture and lived experience. Admission: $30. Friday, May 8 at 7:00pm. At Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa.
25. The Box Deux Voix, Une Capitale
Catch legendary Canadian progressive rock band The Box live as part of the Deux Voix, Une Capitale concert series, celebrating music, culture, and Ottawa’s rich francophone heritage with an unforgettable night of classic hits and live performance. Admission: $39+. Friday, May 8 at 7:00pm. At The Bronson, 211 Bronson Avenue, Ottawa.
Saturday
26. Spring Art Festival 2026
Discover original artwork from over 30 local artists working across a wide range of disciplines including painting, photography, jewellery, fibre art, pottery, and more. This free, family-friendly event features live music, food trucks, and a welcoming gallery-style atmosphere. Come meet the artists and experience a vibrant celebration of local creativity.
When: Saturday, May 9, 10am–4pm.
Where: Jim Tubman Chevrolet Sens Rink, Canterbury Recreation Complex, 2185 Arch Street, Ottawa.
Details: www.
27. Fish Ontario License Free
Cheer while fishing with your family without needing a license during this special Mother’s Day weekend. FREE.
When: May 9-10.
Where: Province-wide, various locations, Ontario
Details: ontario.ca
28. Fleetwood Mac Mania
Widely regarded as the most authentic Fleetwood Mac tribute band in North America, delivering spot-on harmonies and a setlist packed with hits like Rhiannon, Go Your Own Way, and Edge of Seventeen across both the band’s catalog and Stevie Nicks’ solo work. Tickets: $49.
When: Saturday, May 9, 8pm.
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, Mainstage, 101 Centrepointe Drive.
29. Sacred and Profane
Experience an enchanting evening of choral music as the Ottawa Bach Choir presents Sacred and Profane, featuring Frank Martin’s Mass for Double Choir alongside works inspired by Shakespearean poetry. Admission: $20+. Saturday, May 9 at 7:30pm. At Knox Presbyterian Church, 120 Lisgar Street, Ottawa.
30. Adapt Expo and Ottawa Inclusive & Para Sports Expo
Discover Eastern Ontario’s largest double-expo dedicated to accessibility, adaptive living, and inclusive recreation, featuring over 150 organizations, hands-on para sport demonstrations, free health clinics, and community resources for all ages and abilities. Admission: FREE. Saturday, May 9 from 10:00am to 3:00pm. At Carleton University Fieldhouse and Ravens’ Nest, 85 University Drive, Ottawa.
31. La Maldita Primavera
Celebrate the energy and nostalgia of Latin music with nortNsur, bringing their electrifying concert “La Maldita Primavera” to La Fab Sur Mill. This vibrant evening blends passion, rhythm, and storytelling through a dynamic mix of Latin pop and rock classics that will have audiences singing, swaying, and dancing along. Tickets: $25.
When: Saturday May 9 at 7pm.
Where: 8 Chemin Mill, Chelsea, QC, Canada.
Sunday
32. Mother’s Day Brunch at the NCC River house
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a delicious brunch served by Bytown Catering at the iconic River House. Enjoy crepes, omelettes, beef, salmon, soups, salads, desserts and mimosas. Tickets: $34.95, $44.95.
When: Sunday May 10, 9am-2pm.
Where: 502 George Etienne Cartier Parkway.
Details: https://
33. Mother’s Day Train Rides at RMEO
A sweet Mother’s Day outing at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario in Smiths Falls, with scenic rides in a vintage caboose, museum exhibits to explore, kids’ crafts, and family photo opportunities. Bring a picnic or grab hot dogs on site — a relaxed, all-ages day out that’s easy to enjoy at your own pace. Tickets: CA$19.56.
When: Sunday, May 10, 10am–4pm.
Where: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls.
Next week
34. Arising – The Canadian Irish Dance Company
A bold reimagining of Irish dance featuring professional Canadian dancers performing alongside live musicians on stage, blending traditional Irish dance with innovative choreography set to an entirely Canadian soundtrack, precision, rhythm, and expressive physicality all in one.
Tickets: $59.50.
When: Tuesday, May 12, 7pm.
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, Harold Shenkman Hall, 245 Centrum Boulevard.
35. Ottawa Blackjacks Home Opener
Kick off the basketball season with the Ottawa BlackJacks as they return to the court for their highly anticipated home opener, bringing fast-paced action, entertainment, and an electric game-day atmosphere to the city. Admission: $25+. Wednesday, May 20 at 7:30pm. At TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa.
More recurring events in Ottawa
36. Move for Youth 2026
Join United Way East Ontario, Centraide Outaouais, and National Bank for a free, two-week activity challenge that turns everyday movement into support for young people across our region.
When: May 1–15, 2026
Where: Across Renfrew County, Lanark County, Ottawa, Prescott-Russell, and the Outaouais region.
Details and Registration: https://www.
37. Mother’s Day with the LEGO Group
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a whimsical LEGO® floral experience featuring a stunning oversized botanical installation, elegant afternoon tea, and interactive LEGO building activities perfect for families and flower lovers alike. Admission: FREE. Friday, May 1 to Sunday, May 31 (various times). At Fairmont Château Laurier, 1 Rideau Street, Ottawa.
38. The Invisible, Agents of Ungentlemanly Warfare
This powerful theatre production tells the story of seven women spies during World War II. They are secretly recruited to carry out dangerous missions behind enemy lines. The show mixes drama, music, and visual storytelling to show courage, sacrifice, and teamwork during wartime. Tickets at $31.
When: April 29-May 9, 2pm and 7:30pm.
Where: Babs Asper Theatre, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
39. Jade Circle
This thoughtful theatre show tells the story of a woman reconnecting with her mother tongue and family history. Blending Mandarin and English, it follows a daughter who learns more about her mother and grandmother’s past while rediscovering her own identity. Tickets start at $42.
When: April 30-May 10, 2pm and 7:30pm.
Where: Great Canadian Theatre Company, 1233 Wellington Street West, Ottawa.
40. 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.