An amazing weekend with three beloved Ottawa festivals is coming! Get ready for the Chinatown Night Market, the Asian Fest Night Market and the Ottawa Ribfest on Sparks St. Check out this post and find more fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend! Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and let us know about any other event you know about.
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17 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Chinatown Night Market
Come to enjoy a three-day food festival that has become one of Ottawa’s favourites! Savor everything from dumplings and BBQ skewers to bubble tea and delectable desserts. Enjoy live performances throughout each day including the colourful and iconic lion dance. Don’t miss the Latin street party on Friday night! FREE entry.
When: May 29-31. Fri 2pm-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-8pm.
Where: Somerset St W between Bronson Ave and Bell St.
Details: ottawachinatown.ca
2. Ottawa Asian Fest Night Market
Featuring some of the very best in Asian culture, performers, and street food. With all the unique sights, tastes and sounds… Enjoy K-pop dance, singers, random play dance, lion dance and traditional performances! FREE.
When: May 29-31. Fri 12pm-12am; Sat 12pm-12am; Sun 12pm-8pm.
Where: LeBreton Flats
Details: ottawaasianfest.com
3. Ottawa Ribfest
Indulge in mouth-watering ribs, tender chicken, smoky BBQ, and all the saucy flavours you crave. Enjoy a celebration of great food, music, and a vibrant community atmosphere. FREE.
When: May 27-31.
Where: Sparks St
Details: https://www.
4. Ottawa Improv Festival
An annual improvised comedy festival that features hilarious and talented local, national and international performers. Prepare to laugh and have fun as you witness hilarious comedy created on the spot! Tickets: $30.
When: May 28-30.
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave, Ottawa.
Details: www.ottawaimprovfest.
5. Full Moon Yoga
Enjoy a free outdoor yoga class on the lawn under the light of the full moon at Lansdowne Park! Led by Ottawa yoga and Pilates instructor Jessica Younes, this 60-minute gentle full moon–inspired flow invites you to slow down and move with intention through soft, breath-led movement. Open to all levels. Please bring a yoga mat, water, and anything you need to feel comfortable outdoors. The Ottawa Food Bank will also be accepting non-perishable food donations on site. FREE.
When: Saturday, May 31, 9pm-10pm.
Where: Aberdeen Plaza at Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa.
6. Desi Dhamaka: A Celebration of South Asian Arts & Culture
Enjoy the second edition of Desi Dhamaka at the National Arts Centre, an afternoon bursting with the colours, sounds, and energy of South Asian creativity! Watch beautiful performances of Kathak, Bhangra, and Kandyan dance on stage, enjoy live Persian music from the Rumi Music Group, browse a lively community market featuring crafts, jewelry, and design, and get a traditional henna design from on-site mehndi artists. FREE. No tickets required.
When: Saturday, May 30, noon to 3pm.
Where: Peter A. Herrndorf Place, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
7. Ottawa Dressage Festival 2026
Enjoy one of Canada’s largest dressage shows right here in Ottawa! Watch elite riders compete for international qualifications in the main CDI ring, cheer on young talent in the Rising Stars and Pony Cup divisions, and browse a lively Vendors’ Village with boutiques catering to equestrian and non-equestrian visitors alike. Special events throughout the weekend include a Jog Party on Thursday, a Pony Cup Pizza Party on Friday, a Western Dressage demo, and the spectacular Grand Prix Freestyle on Saturday at 4:30pm. FREE admission and parking.
When: May 28-31.
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Road, Nepean.
8. Touch-A-Truck Navan
Bring the kids out for a hands-on day at Touch-A-Truck Navan at the Navan Fairgrounds! Climb aboard and explore real-life vehicles up close, from fire trucks and emergency vehicles to construction equipment, farm machinery, military transports, and vintage displays. Meet the operators and learn how these machines support everyday life. Family-friendly activities include face painting, musical entertainment, and a colouring corner. A sensory-friendly Quiet Hour is also offered for a calmer experience. FREE.
When: Friday, May 30, 9am-3pm.
Where: Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Road, Navan.
9. Spring-a-ling Shop at BEING Studio
Come to the Spring-a-ling Shop at BEING Studio for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience supporting local artists with disabilities! Browse and buy unique fine art paintings, prints, cards, sweatshirts, ornaments, and more, all made by BEING Artists. Try your hand at a paper flower activity to take home, and enter for a chance to win prizes from local sponsors. An online art auction also runs during the event. FREE.
When: Sunday, May 31, 10am-2pm.
Where: BEING Studio, Room 304, 211 Bronson Avenue, Ottawa.
10. Ottawa Redblacks Pre-Season Game
Football is back in the capital! The Ottawa REDBLACKS face off against the Montreal Alouettes in a preseason showdown as both teams gear up for the new CFL season. Expect big hits, fresh talent, and the return of game-day energy at TD Place. Tickets from $18.
When: Friday, May 29 at 7pm.
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.
11. Alta Vista Jazz Night Market
This outdoor community event features live jazz performances, local artisans, handmade products, and food vendors in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend a spring night with friends and family. FREE.
When: Friday, May 29, 5pm–8pm.
Where: Billings Estate Museum, 2100 Cabot Street, Ottawa.
12. Sing a Sea Shanty
Grab a pint and join the Bytown Sea Shanty Collective for a lively night of sea shanties, singalongs, and pirate-worthy fun at Beyond the Pale Brewing Company. No musical experience needed, just show up ready to sing, laugh, and enjoy the energetic community atmosphere. FREE.
When: Friday, May 29 at 8pm.
Where: Beyond the Pale Brewing Company, 250 City Centre Ave, Bay 106, Ottawa, ON K1R 6K.
13. Fantastic Fibres & Terrific Textiles
Discover how wool transforms from sheep fleece into handmade textiles during this interactive heritage experience at Upper Canada Village. Watch live sheep shearing demonstrations, then explore traditional wool washing, carding, spinning, and weaving techniques using both hand methods and 1860s-era machinery. Included with regular Upper Canada Village admission.
When: May 29–30.
Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg, ON K0C 1X0.
14. Ink & Wheels Big Show
Ink & Wheels Big Show Ottawa is a massive three-day celebration of tattoo culture, custom motorcycles, live music, and creative artistry featuring over 500 exhibitors from across Canada and beyond. Expect tattoo showcases, custom bike displays, live entertainment, and an energetic atmosphere packed with creativity and self-expression. Tickets: $65.40.
When: May 29–31.
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON K1S 5J3.
15. Shaping Reciprocity
Shaping Reciprocity is a thought-provoking weekend festival blending contemporary dance, harp performances, and ecological storytelling through original works by local composers and artists. Expect immersive performances, creative workshops, and conversations exploring humanity’s relationship with the natural world. Tickets from $20.
When: May 29–31.
Where: LabO, 60 Waller Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 6E.
16. The Heart of Orléans Market
The Heart of Orléans Market is a lively outdoor community market featuring local makers, farmers, artisans, and food vendors in the heart of Orléans. Browse handmade goods, fresh produce, and unique local finds while enjoying a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates small businesses and community connection. FREE.
When: Sunday, May 31 at 9am.
Where: Orléans Town Centre, 1H-245 Centrum Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1E 0A1.
17. Glengarry Renaissance Festival 2026
Step back into the Middle Ages at the Glengarry Renaissance Festival, a lively family-friendly weekend filled with live music, stage performances, interactive renaissance characters, and themed vendors. Expect knights, costumes, fantasy-inspired entertainment, and immersive medieval fun just outside Ottawa. Tickets from $20.91 (children 5 and under free).
When: May 29–30.
Where: Maxville Fairgrounds, 34 Fair Street, Maxville, ON K0C 1T0.
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
18. OrKidstra Vanier Hub End-of-Year Concert
Enjoy a joyful evening of music as OrKidstra’s young musicians take the stage, performing a mix of classical, jazz, pop, and music from around the world. This family-friendly concert celebrates community, creativity, and the power of music. Entry is Complimentary. NO RSVP required.
When: Wednesday May 27, 6:30pm.
Where: Ottawa Technical Secondary School, 485 Donald Street, Ottawa, Ontario.
Details: orkidstra.ca
19. Ron White
Enjoy a live stand-up comedy show with Ron White, known for his laid-back style, storytelling humour, and sharp punchlines. He shares funny real-life stories in a relaxed way that makes for an easy and entertaining night out. +19 event. Tickets start at $106.
When: Thursday, May 28, at 6pm and Friday, May 29, at 7pm.
Where: Hard Rock Live at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, 4837 Albion Road, Ottawa.
20. Singin’ in the Rain
Singin’ in the Rain “pours” down delight, capturing the waning days of the silent screen era as they give way to new-fangled “talkies”. When Monumental Studios turns silent The Dueling Cavalier into The Dancing Cavalier, a musical picture, in order to stay relevant, they are faced with a problem: their star, Lina Lamont, can’t sing, and can’t even really talk. Singin’ in the Rain includes some of the best-loved comedy routines, dance numbers, and love songs ever written, including “Good Mornin’”, “Make ‘em Laugh”, and of course the show-stopping dance number, “Singin’ in the Rain”. Tickets: $37-$59.
When: May 29-June 7.
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Dr.
21. To Life! / Vive la Vie!
Enjoy a joyful choral concert celebrating life, hope, and connection through music. The Canadian Centennial Choir performs a mix of uplifting songs in both English and French, featuring beautiful harmonies and emotional pieces that bring together different musical styles and traditions. General Admission: Adult: $45; Senior (65+)/Student: $35.
When: Friday, May 29, 7:30pm.
Where: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper Street, Ottawa.
Saturday
22. Streetwear Saturday
Ottawa’s newest streetwear pop-up event is bringing together local clothing brands, vintage sellers, food vendors, and creatives all under one roof. Expect exclusive pieces, curated vintage, live shopping, and a high-energy atmosphere throughout the day. Free admission.
When: Saturday May 30 from 12pm–8pm
Where: Preston Event Centre, Ottawa
23. See the Bees
Enjoy a gentle and interactive outdoor experience where visitors learn about bees, beekeeping, and the important role bees play in nature. This family-friendly event includes guided talks, close-up observation of hives (at a safe distance), and simple hands-on activities that help kids and adults understand how honey is made and why bees matter. Tickets: Adults $15, Children $10.
When: May 30-31, time booking required.
Where: Gees Bees Honey Company, Honey Gables, 538 River Rd, Ottawa.
Sunday
24. Children’s Business Fair Ottawa
This one-day market gives kids the chance to become young entrepreneurs. They create their own products or services, set up a booth, and sell to real customers. It’s a fun and hands-on event that helps children build confidence, creativity, and basic business skills in a supportive environment. FREE.
When: Sunday, May 31, 10am–1pm.
Where: Horticulture Building, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa.
25. Discover the Capital: Historical Highlights Walking Tour
Enjoy a free two-hour walking tour through Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks and hidden stories! Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes you past Parliament Hill, the National War Memorial and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Fairmont Château Laurier, the Rideau Canal, the ByWard Market, the Office of the Prime Minister, historic Sparks Street, Major’s Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and more. Tours run rain or shine. Tips are appreciated and the suggested amount is $25 per person and $10 per child 12 and older. Advance registration recommended. Look for the guide with the red umbrella!
When: Daily at 11am.
Where: Bear Catching Fish Statue, 89 Sparks Street (corner of Sparks and Metcalfe), Ottawa.
This beloved event brings families and neighbours together for a joyful morning of kids’ activities, games, snacks, live music, a special appearance from a beloved Marvel character, and a silent auction with local prizes. $10 per person or $25 per family (2 adults and 4 kids). All proceeds go towards supporting the GCNS, a non-profit, co-operative nursery school.
When: Sunday, May 31, 2026. 10am-12pm.
Where: Outdoors at Third Avenue & Lyon Street.
27. Witchy Women: Hammer Book Launch
Celebrate the launch of Ottawa author N.G. Avant’s new feminist fantasy series, Witchy Women. Enjoy an evening of books, witchy vendors, refreshments, storytelling, and community under the energy of the Blue Moon. The evening will also spotlight conversations around women’s empowerment and ending violence against women. Entry is FREE.
When: May 31, 6:30pm–8:30pm.
Where: Nonna’s, 70 Beech Street, Unit 2, Ottawa, Ontario.
Details: IG @ngavantauthor | NGAvant.ca
Next week
28. Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Vancouver Bandits
Enjoy live professional basketball as the Ottawa BlackJacks face the Vancouver Bandits in a high-energy CEBL matchup. Expect fast-paced play, big crowd moments, music, halftime entertainment, and a lively arena atmosphere that makes for a fun night out in the city. Tickets: $25.
When: Tuesday, June 2, at 7pm.
Where: The Arena at TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa.
More recurring events in Ottawa
When: May 22-June 1
Where: St Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St Laurent Boulevard
When: May 22–June 7, 7:30pm
Where: Patterson Creek Park, Linden Terrace, Ottawa
31. Metcalfe Farmers’ Market
Come celebrate the opening of the 33rd season of the Metcalfe Farmers’ Market. Shop from 65+ local producers and enjoy live music, a petting zoo, face painting, and a balloon twister. Rain or shine. When: Saturday, May 23, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Where: Metcalfe Fairgrounds, 2821 8th Line Rd, Metcalfe
32. 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.
33. Pirate Life
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. When: Weekends in May and June, with multiple time slots available daily.
Where: Mooney’s Bay, 588 Hog’s Back Road, Ottawa
Details: piratelife.ca
34. Summer at The Log Farm
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: Thursdays to Sundays until Aug 30, from 9am to 4pm (last admission at 3pm)
Where: The Log Farm, 670 Cedarview Rd.
35. 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.
36. 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.
37. 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: Thursdays at 12:10pm
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
38. 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
39. 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.
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.
