Victoria Day long weekend is coming with exciting events and fun things to do in Ottawa: cultural festivals, tulips, food festivals, soccer, film festivals, markets, a fun fair, and much more! Check out this post and share it with your friends so you can start making plans for the weekend!
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18 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Ottawa Polish Fest
Enjoy a family fun day filled with colourful performances, lively music, delicious traditional Polish food, and vendors in the heart of the ByWard Market. FREE.
When: Saturday May 16, 11am-6pm.
Where: ByWard Market
Details: On IG @ottawapolishfest
2. Canadian Tulip Festival
Enjoy the amazing sight of hundreds of thousands of tulips with over 100 varieties at Commissioners Park. 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 Tulip Trek (paid), and visit the Korean and Dutch pavilions. 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
3. Barrhaven Ribfest & Poutine World
Don’t miss this year’s Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine World featuring live music, an expanded menu, and even more to do, see, eat, and drink during four days! FREE entry.
When: May 15-18. Fri 11:30am to 9pm; Sat 11am to 9pm; Sun 11am to 9pm and Mon 11am to 6pm.
Where: Clarke Field, 93 Houlahan St.
Details: On Facebook
4. 613 Flea
Over 150 vendors showcasing jewelry, art and crafts, clothing, woodworking, sweet treats, and much more! Dogs on a leash are welcome. FREE.
When: Saturday May 16, 10am-4pm
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1015 Bank St.
Details: https://www.613flea.
5. Atletico Ottawa vs Halifax Wanderers
Cheer on Ottawa’s men’s soccer team this Sunday when they face Halifax Wanderers. The Toonie Hot Dog match is back. Enjoy the epic half-time wiener dog race.
When: Sunday May 17 at 1pm. Tickets: $25
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
6. Ottawa Rapid vs Halifax Tides
Ottawa Rapid will be looking for revenge against Halifax Tides, who defeated them in the first game of the season. Rapid is heading into the match full of confidence after securing two consecutive wins against Calgary and Vancouver. Tickets: $25.
When: Wednesday May 13, at 7pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
7. 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 Uruguay, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. FREE admission. When: Apr 24-May 16 Where: St. Paul University, 233 Main Street. Details: On Eventbrite
8. Cangames
CanGames is Canada’s longest-running, volunteer-led gaming convention. Join hundreds of game enthusiasts over the course of a weekend for fun and friendly competition. Play board games, collectible card games, miniatures, role-playing games, and more. There are onsite dining options and an onsite bar with soft drinks, snacks, and adult beverages on offer. Tickets start at $15.
When: May 15-17. Fri Noon-11:30pm; Sat-Sun 8am-11:30pm.
Where: Rideau Curling Club, 715 Cooper Street, Ottawa.
Details: cangames.ca
9. Carp Farmers’ Market
Come to the opening season of one of the largest producer-based Farmers’ Markets in Eastern Ontario. Find fresh, local produce and artisan goods. Enjoy engaging activities and entertainment for the whole family. Live music by Sugartime Band. FREE.
When: Saturday May 16, 8am-1pm.
Where: Carp Fairgrounds, 3790 Carp Rd
Details: https://www.
10. Westboro Farmers’ Market – Opening Day
Stroll under the canopy of trees in beautiful Byron Linear Park and shop from 60+ authentic local vendors offering fresh seasonal produce, meat and dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, crafts, and more. Stop by the food court for lunch and enjoy live market musicians. To mark opening day, the first 50 groups and families to arrive will receive a FREE veggie or herb seedling grown by Heart City Farm starting at 9am at the Market Info Booth while supplies last. FREE admission and free street parking.
When: Saturday, May 16 from 9am to 3pm
Where: Byron Linear Park, 579 Byron Avenue, Ottawa
11. Ottawa REDBLACKS Fan Fest 2026
Come to TD Place for the Ottawa REDBLACKS Fan Fest, your first chance to see the team in action before the 2026 CFL season kicks off! Watch an open training camp practice, then head down to the field for an autograph session with REDBLACKS players. Enjoy family-friendly activities, food and beverage options, and be among the first to sample new menu items for the upcoming season. Reserve your spot in advance to secure centre seating. FREE.
When: Saturday, May 16 from 1pm to 4pm
Where: The Stadium at TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
12. Stittsville Book Fair
Meet 24 local Canadian authors, browse and buy their books, and discover new titles directly from the writers behind them. All books on sale are written by Canadian citizens. FREE admission.
When: Saturday, May 16 from noon to 4pm
Where: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 618, 1481 Stittsville Main Street, Ottawa.
13. Step into the Rainbow with Wild Colour
Making its Ottawa debut, Wild Colour is a family-friendly exhibition exploring the beauty and science of colour in nature. Discover nearly 200 specimens, audio stories, vibrant colour zones, and hands-on activities. Learn how living things use colour to communicate, attract, hide, and survive in the wild. Enjoy interactive activities that spark wonder in both kids and adults. On view for a limited time. Included with general admission. When: Starting May 15. Where: Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St. Details: Wild Colours
14. Orléans Fun Fair
Bring the whole family to the Orléans Fun Fair for unlimited midway rides, fun foods, and games for all ages. This is the final week of the fair so don’t miss out! Tickets are $25 on weekdays and $30 on weekends and holidays, with children 3 and under FREE. Admission is per person, per time slot, and includes unlimited rides. Cash only, ATM on site. For the full schedule and details, visit their Facebook page.
When: May 8-18. Weekday evenings run from 5pm to 10pm. Weekend sessions are split into day and evening time slots.
Where: Ray Friel Recreation Complex, 1585 Tenth Line Road, Orléans
15. Pirate Life – Opening Weekend
Set sail on a swashbuckling one-hour pirate adventure on the water, featuring dockside activities before boarding. A magical experience for kids and adults alike, advance booking is highly recommended as space on the ship is limited. Tickets are $44 per person, with children 3 and under at $14. Adventures run on weekends in May and June, with multiple time slots available daily.
When: Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17.
Where: Mooney’s Bay, 588 Hog’s Back Road, Ottawa
Details: piratelife.ca
16. Summer at The Log Farm – Opening Weekend
Come enjoy opening weekend at Ottawa’s favourite family farm! The Log Farm kicks off its summer season this weekend, welcoming families to meet all the animals: sheep, cows, goats, horses, donkeys, alpacas, pigs, turkeys, chickens, ducks, rabbits, and barn cats. Spring babies will be active and curious, often eating right from your hand! Kids will love the Kids Barn with themed hands-on activities, the corn sensory table, dramatic play stations, hay bales to climb, and wide open fields to explore. Don’t miss the pioneer farmhouse for a glimpse into early farm life. Admission is $12.99 plus tax for all guests aged 1 and up. Children under 1 are FREE. Free parking on site. No pets allowed.
When: Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17 from 9am to 4pm (last admission at 3pm)
Where: The Log Farm, 1041 Stittsville Main Street, Stittsville
17. Queen Victoria Birthday Celebrations
Step back into the 1860s with military drills, patriotic speeches, vintage games, and birthday cake as Upper Canada Village celebrates Queen Victoria in true historical style. Tickets from $17.
When: Sunday, May 17, 10am to 4:30pm
Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Road 2, Morrisburg
18. Kemptville Buskerfest 2026
Downtown Kemptville comes alive with street performers, comedy, music, food trucks, and interactive entertainment for all ages. Expect jaw-dropping acts, lively festival energy, and plenty of family-friendly fun throughout the day. FREE.
When: Saturday, May 16, 10am to 5pm
Where: Downtown Kemptville, 10 Prescott St, Kemptville
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
19. Fun Home
Based on the award-winning graphic novel by Alison Bechdel, Fun Home is a touching musical about family, memories, and growing up. The story follows Alison as she looks back on her childhood and relationship with her father while learning more about herself and her family’s past. The show mixes emotional storytelling, humor, and beautiful live music. Tickets at $48.
When: May 14-17, 1:30pm and 7:30pm.
Where: The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Avenue, Ottawa.
20. Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Based on the popular movie, this award-winning Broadway show features incredible costumes, energetic dancing, and famous pop songs woven into a dramatic love story set in Paris. It’s a spectacular theatre experience full of excitement and emotion. Tickets start at $240.
When: May 12-17, 1pm and 7:30pm.
Where: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
21. Los Desperados – Canada’s Premier Tribute to the Eagles
Sing along to Eagles classics like Hotel California, Take It Easy, and Desperado as Los Desperados brings rich harmonies, iconic guitar work, and serious classic rock nostalgia to the stage. A must for longtime Eagles fans. Tickets from $54.
When: Friday, May 15, 8pm
Where: Harold Shenkman Hall, 245 Centrum Blvd, Ottawa
22. Style & Shop Retreat
A fashion-forward weekend designed for style lovers, featuring private styling sessions, curated shopping experiences, and insider access to Ottawa’s boutique scene. An elevated escape for anyone looking to refresh their wardrobe with intention. Tickets from $3,150.
When: May 15–17
Where: Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, 325 Dalhousie Street, Ottawa
Saturday
23. Mid West Shoot Out
Experience high-energy semi-pro basketball as elite athletes bring fast-paced action and competitive gameplay to the court. A fun, family-friendly sports event with serious game-day energy. Tickets from $17.26.
When: Saturday, May 16 – doors open at 1:45pm, tip off at 2:45pm
Where: Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa
24. Ottawa Jazz Orchestra
Celebrate the music of jazz legend Wayne Shorter as a 15-piece Ottawa Jazz Orchestra brings his iconic compositions to life with bold big-band arrangements and powerful live energy. A must-see night for jazz lovers. Tickets from $45.75.
When: Saturday, May 16, 4pm and 8pm
Where: Fourth Stage, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
25. Tartan and Red Serge – A Canadian Celtic Showcase
Enjoy an exciting celebration of Celtic and Canadian culture through music and dance. Presented by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Pipes, Drums and Dancers, the event highlights Canada’s rich traditions and heritage in a fun and energetic performance. Tickets at $35.75.
When: Saturday, May 16, 3pm and 7pm.
Where: Harold Shenkman Hall, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa.
26. All Things Bookish Market
Calling all book lovers! This is a fun outdoor event where visitors can meet local authors, discover unique book-themed items, shop from indie bookstores and vendors, and enjoy a cozy literary atmosphere. FREE.
When: Saturday, May 16, 10am–4pm.
Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa.
27. Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park
Enjoy over 80 sculptures representing themes on the human condition, philosophic concepts, and imagery representative of various faiths from around the world, carefully placed in a natural setting. Tickets: $7, $10, $25 (family pass)
When: As of Saturday May 16, Thursdays to Mondays 10am-5pm until October 31.
Where: 3468 Old Montreal Road (Cumberland)
Details: On Facebook.
28. Art from the Archives workshop at Library & Archives Canada
Join us this May for a workshop celebrating Asian Heritage Month, where you’ll create a personalized mixed-media banner alongside guest artist Mai-Lan Tomkins. Free. Registration required. Workshops in English and French. When: Saturday, May 16, 10am-noon (French); 1:30pm-3:30pm (English). Where: Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa.
29. Y Ride for Youth
Join us for an upbeat evening of community, compassion, and movement at Y Ride for Youth, a fun, family-friendly bike ride along the canal. Together, we’ll ignite the spark of hope, raise critical funds, and shine on for young people supported through the YMCA’s Second Stage Housing Program for Youth. All you need is a bike and your brightest spirit: sign up, show up, and ride on! When: Saturday, May 16. Check-in at 5 pm. Ride departs at approx 6pm. FREE but registration is required. Where: Meet at First National Tree Day Memorial Park, between Elgin Street and Metcalfe Street. Details: https://www.ymcaottawa.ca/events/y-ride-for-youth
Monday
30. Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Niagara River Lions
Watch exciting live basketball where fans can enjoy high-energy plays, entertainment during breaks, and a fun atmosphere for families and sports lovers. Tickets start at $25.
When: Monday, May 18, 7pm.
Where: The Arena at TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa.
31. Ottawa Titans vs. New York Boulders
Enjoy baseball and long weekend vibes at our Victoria Day game. Expect exciting plays, crowd energy, family-friendly entertainment, and a great atmosphere at the ballpark. It’s a fun spring outing for baseball fans of all ages. Tickets start at $16.95.
When: Monday, May 18, 1pm.
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Road, Ottawa.
More recurring events in Ottawa
32. 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.
33. 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.
34. 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/
35. 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: Thursdays from May to Oct, 4pm–9pm
Where: Urban Art Collective, 1088 Somerset Street West, Ottawa
Details: https://
36. 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
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. 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.