This weekend is truly packed with big and popular events in Ottawa. From Italian Week, the Dragon Boat Festival, the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, and the Ottawa Jazz Festival, pheww! there are a ton of choices!
If you know of any other events not listed here, let us know in the comments.
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Contents
22 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Italian Week – Grand Finale
Get ready for a vibrant weekend. It will be a fun-filled celebration of entertainment, food, and culture, honouring all things Italian. There will be a Lambretta & Vespa activation zone where people can explore Italian scooter culture through a hands-on, intergenerational experience. There will also be a bigger kids’ zone and a festive atmosphere. FREE.
When: June 19-21
Where: 301 Preston St, Little Italy
Details: italianweekottawa.ca
2. Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival
One of North America’s largest dragon boat festivals, it welcomes thousands of paddlers and attendees annually to Mooney’s Bay Beach. The festival celebrates sport, culture, community, and raises funds for local charities. There will be lion dance performances, as well as performances by the RCAF Pipes & Drums and the National Band of the Naval Reserve. FREE entry.
When: Races are on Saturday, June 20, 8am-4pm.
Where: Mooney’s Bay, 2960 Riverside Drive.
Details: https://dragonboat.
3. Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival
What better way to officially welcome summer than by taking in the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival? It’s an event that brings together Indigenous artists, performers, and the community to celebrate through dance, music, food, games, a drone show, and a Pow Wow. FREE, but parking is $10.
When: June 20-21, Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-5pm.
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Rd, Ottawa
Details: https://
4. Ottawa Jazz Festival
There’s music in the air as the 46th annual Ottawa Jazz Festival kicks off. With stages in and around Confederation Park, and artists such as Wyclef Jean, The Soul Rebels, and acclaimed actor Jeff Goldblum, the downtown core just got a lot cooler. FREE and PAID events. $50 Day Pass.
When: June 18–28, various times
Where: Confederation Park and nearby, 100 Elgin St, Ottawa
Details: https://
5. Metcalfe Plaza Opening
This new community outdoor space in the heart of downtown Ottawa turned into a high-energy spot last summer, and it’s back for a longer period this year. It will host wellness activities, social gatherings, and outdoor parties from Thursdays to Saturdays until September 26. Food and drinks available for purchase. FREE entry.
When: The opening party is on Thursday, June 18, 5pm-10pm.
Where: 151 Metcalfe St.
Details: IG @metcalfeplaza
6. FCA Ottawa Ferrari Festival
Time for a taste of the Dolce Vita as the Ferrari Club of America’s festival rolls into town. All across Little Italy (Preston) and around Dow’s Lake, the finest Ferraris will be viewed, judged, and enjoyed, with an amazing car parade taking place on Saturday. Come for the cars and the food. Viva Italia. FREE.
When: June 19–21, 9am-11pm
Where: Preston St and Dow’s Lake, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
7. Orleans Pickleball Festival
The paddles will be swinging, and the air will be popping at the Orleans Pickleball Festival. There are 8 courts in action with 128 players in two separate divisions, all in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa. Come cheer them on or become a pickleball warrior yourself. FREE to watch, $60 entry fee.
When: Saturday, June 20, 11:30am-7:30pm
Where: Orléans Tennis Club, 1257 Joseph Drouin Avenue, Ottawa
Details: https://www.bbbso.ca/
8. Beach Volley & Salsa
Come for some volleyball, an intro salsa lesson, and a little dance party on the beach!!! Beach volleyball equipment and speakers will be provided by @salsarehab (and maybe some stand-up paddleboards). FREE.
When: Every Saturday from 6pm.
Where: Britannia Beach, 102 Greenview Avenue.
Details: On Eventbrite
9. Wench Faire
Return to the days of yore, and shop while you’re at it at the Parkdale Public Market’s Wench Faire. A fun twist on the market’s usual offerings, with mystics and merchants, mead and music, and LARPers here and there. Prepare for a day of wenching and revelry. Huzzah. FREE.
When: Saturday, June 20, 11am-4pm
Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa
10. York St Car Show
Celebrate Father’s Day by treating Dad to the York Street Car Show. There’s everything for him there, including classic and custom vehicles lined up to be admired and envied, food vendors, live music, plus proceeds going to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Canada. It definitely beats another tie. FREE.
When: Sunday, June 21, 10am-3pm
Where: ByWard Market neighbourhood, Ottawa
Details: https://
11. Swing On The Hill
Come to Parliament Hill for free partner and solo lessons plus social dancing. Step into the 1920s, 30s, and 40s with swing music, dance, and laughter. FREE.
When: Saturday, June 20, 3pm-7:30pm
Where: Parliament Hill.
Details: On Facebook
12. Dance at Zibi
A free outdoor dance series presented by the National Arts Centre and the Dream Community Foundation, running monthly through the summer. The June edition features Afro-Caribbean dance led by Suzan Richards of SoulRhythms, moving through traditional and modern folklore-based rhythms. All levels welcome. FREE.
When: Thursday, June 18, 7pm–8pm.
Where: Head Street Square, 310 Miwate Private, Zibi (rain location: The Warehouse, 28 Booth Street).
13. Repair Café
A free community event run by the Ottawa Tool Library, where volunteer fixers help you repair broken household items, electronics, clothing, small appliances, jewelry, and more instead of tossing them out. Bring one item to be fixed and learn some skills along the way, with coffee and snacks on hand. First-come, first-served, so be prepared for possible wait times. FREE.
When: Saturday, June 20, 10am–2pm.
Where: Zibi, 28 Booth Street, Ottawa.
14. Parkdale Night Market
Enjoy a relaxing evening while browsing amazing businesses, listening to live music, and trying wellness-inspired cocktails, wine, beer, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. FREE. When: Wednesday, June 17, 5pm–9pm. Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue.
15. Stittsville Multicultural Festival
The 5th annual Welcome to Stittsville Multicultural Festival, a free community celebration of the area’s diversity with dozens of performers, exhibitors, food vendors, and community organizations. Get your event passport stamped for a chance to win prizes, with activities for all ages. FREE.
When: Saturday, June 20, 12pm–4pm.
Where: Village Square Park, 6000 Abbott Street, Stittsville.
16. Hunt Club Park Community Association Summer Festival
A free community festival packed with family fun, from horse-drawn wagon rides and a bouncy castle to face painting, a visiting fire truck, hot dogs, and s’mores by the fire. Little Ray’s Reptiles and mermaids drop by, while the Ottawa Public Library and Pathway Patrol set up on site. The wading pool also opens for the day. This year’s edition adds new activities celebrating Ottawa’s 200th anniversary. FREE.
When: Saturday, June 20, 10:30am–1pm.
Where: Elizabeth Manley Park, Ottawa.
17. Ottawa Fringe Festival
Now in its 29th year under the banner “Fringe Out Loud,” this is the city’s loudest and most adventurous theatre festival, a celebration of work that pushes past the edges of traditional theatre. Expect the experimental and the unexpected across more than 40 independently produced shows in venues all over downtown, spanning sharp comedy, bold drama, dance, and performance. Accessibility, inclusivity, and risk-taking are the whole point, and every ticket dollar goes straight to the artists. Tickets: $14 + fees per show.
When: June 18–28.
Where: Arts Court and various venues, 2 Daly Avenue, Ottawa.
18. Ottawa Redblacks vs Toronto Argonauts
The Redblacks host their division rivals, the Argonauts, in a Week 3 CFL matchup at TD Place. There’s an extra storyline this season as new Redblacks head coach Ryan Dinwiddie faces off against his former team for the first time. Tickets: from $28.50.
When: Saturday, June 20, 1pm.
Where: The Stadium at TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa.
19. Ottawa Rapid FC vs AFC Toronto
Catch professional women’s soccer action in the Northern Super League as Ottawa’s home squad takes on visitors AFC Toronto. Standard tickets $25.
When: Sunday, June 21, at 9am.
Where: TD Place Stadium, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa, ON.
20. Ottawa BlackJacks vs Saskatoon Mamba
High-intensity CEBL pro basketball action at the arena as the BlackJacks battle it out on the court against the Saskatoon Mamba. Tickets $25.
When: Sunday, June 21, at 7pm.
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa, ON.
21. Ottawa Titans vs Québec Capitales
Frontier League professional baseball action as the Titans host a crucial weekend home series against their regional rivals from Québec. Tickets starting at $15.
When: Friday, June 19, at 7pm, and Sunday, June 21, at 1pm.
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Road, Ottawa, ON.
22. Legends
Presented by The Iron Cabaret, this is an immersive, fantasy-inspired performance showcase (Ages 18+) exploring mythology, folklore, and tabletop gaming tropes through aerial arts, pole dance, and burlesque.
Ticket Price: $49 (Wings) to $70 (Full Frontal)
When: June 19-20 and 25-27 at 7:30pm
Where: The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa, ON
More things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
23. Rock of Ages
Step into the high-energy world of 1980s rock with Rock of Ages, a Tony-nominated Broadway musical featuring a live band, iconic hits, and a concert-style atmosphere full of nostalgia and big-stage energy. Admission: $102+. When: Wednesday, June 17 to Sunday, June 21 (various times). Where: Hard Rock Live Ottawa, 4837 Albion Road, Ottawa.
24. Studio 2B’s Dad Jokes
A stand-up comedy showcase celebrating fatherhood, flannel, and terrible puns. Headlined by local favourite Pierre Brault and featuring a lineup of sharp local comics perfect for an evening of eye-rolling laughs.
Tickets: $24.25
When: Friday, June 19, at 8pm
Where: The Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe (Les Lye Studio Theatre), 101 Centrepointe Dr, Ottawa, ON
25. Drôle de mariage!
Enjoy a fast-paced French comedy full of misunderstandings, surprises, and laugh-out-loud moments as one unforgettable evening turns into a series of secrets, awkward moments, and guaranteed chaos. Admission: $23+. When: Friday, June 19 from 7:30-9pm. Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, Richcraft Theatre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa.
Saturday
26. Centrepointe Union Grand Opening
Come visit this new condo building in Nepean by Richcraft. The event will feature tastings and pop-up experiences from local businesses, as well as guided tours of the building and its curated amenity spaces. FREE.
When: Saturday, June 20, 11am-3pm
Where: 19 Centrepointe Drive.
Details: https://www.
27. Kinburn Celebrates 200 Years of Bytown
Celebrate community spirit and local heritage with a full day of family-friendly activities, history, summer fun, local vendors, and fireworks marking 200 years of Bytown. Admission: FREE. Where: Saturday, June 20, 12-9pm, with fireworks at 9pm. Where: Kinburn Community Centre, 3045 Kinburn Side Road, Ottawa.
28. Breakthrough T1D Walk Ottawa/Gatineau
The Breakthrough T1D Walk is a high-energy, family-friendly event where you’ll meet others who “just get it.” Expect smiles, team spirit, and a whole lot of heart. The walk is more than just an event – it’s a celebration of the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community, where families, volunteers, and supporters come together to help make every day better for those living with type 1 diabetes.
When: Saturday, June 20, 10am-1:30pm
Where: Andrew Haydon Park, 3127 Carling Avenue, Nepean, Ontario
Website: https://
29. FOPLA Mammoth Book Sale
Calling all book lovers! Come browse a great selection of books at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for bestselling novels, mysteries, children’s books, cookbooks, biographies, jigsaw puzzles, CDs and DVDs, or hidden gems, there’s something for everyone! FREE entry and parking.
When: Saturday June 20, 10am to 2pm.
Where: 100 Tallwood Dr.
30. The Somewhat Super Centretown Multi-Street Garage Sale
Tons of streets, tons of treasures, and something for everyone! Rain or shine, the deals are calling so grab a coffee, take a wander, and discover hidden gems all around the neighbourhood. It may not be the Glebe Garage Sale (yet), but it’s definitely one to watch as it grows bigger every year. Come be part of it.
When: Saturday, June 20, 9am-1pm (rain or shine!)
Where: Centretown (Florence, McLeod, Flora, Gilmour & more!)
31. Fish Ontario Licence-Free
Introduce a friend or family member to fishing during Ontario’s licence-free Father’s Day weekend, when Canadian residents can fish without purchasing a fishing licence while still following conservation limits and fishing regulations. Admission: FREE. Where: Saturday, June 20 to Sunday, Jun 21. Where: At participating Ontario waters.
Sunday
32. Father’s Day Car Show
A family-friendly showcase of pre-1999 antique and vintage cars hosted on the lawns of Ottawa’s oldest wood-frame house. Features community vehicles alongside the estate’s classic 1959 Cadillac Sedan de Ville, plus museum scavenger hunts. Tickets $8.93; $23.15 (family).
When: Sunday, June 21, 10am to 3pm
Where: Billings Estate National Historic Site, 2100 Cabot Street, Ottawa, ON
33. Father’s Day at Upper Canada Village
Celebrate Father’s Day with a full day of discovery, fresh air, and hands-on history at Upper Canada Village, where families can explore historic homes, workshops, and village life from the 1860s. Admission: FREE for fathers; regular admission applies to all others. When: Sunday, June 21 from 9:30am-5pm. Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Road 2, Morrisburg.
34. Father’s Day Train Rides
Celebrate Father’s Day at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario with vintage train rides, historic vehicles, family activities, museum exhibits, and a day of railway-themed fun for all ages. Admission: $19.56+. When: Sunday, June 21 from 10am-4pm. Where: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls.
More recurring events in Ottawa
35. Snider Park Opening
Snider Park is opening in the heart of Centretown as a new public space designed for community life, creativity, and connection. The park features programming on Centre Stage, free public WiFi, and an on-site café. It officially opens this Saturday with a Grown-Ass Pizza Party & Taco Fest from 5pm–11pm (paid).
When: Public Park launch is on Saturday June 13, 4pm–5pm. FREE.
Where: Snider Park, 250 Slater St.
Details: IG @centretownottawa
36. Carp Farmer’s Market
Celebrating the market’s 36th anniversary. This is one of Eastern Ontario’s largest producer-only farmers’ markets with 80+ local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, baked goods, honey, and artisan goods. FREE admission and parking.
When: Saturdays, 8am–1pm.
Where: Carp Agricultural Fairgrounds, 3790 Carp Road, Carp.
37. Summer Sounds Concert Series at Andrew Haydon Park
A free outdoor evening concert by the Nepean Concert Band by the water at Andrew Haydon Park, part of their beloved bi-weekly summer series running since 2012. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a relaxed hour of lively band music — an easy, all-ages Wednesday night out. FREE.
When: Every second Wednesday., 7:30pm–8:30pm.
Where: Andrew Haydon Park, 3127 Carling Avenue, Nepean.
38. Live from the Booth
Enjoy free outdoor performances from local DJs and electronic music artists as Sparks Street transforms into a vibrant open-air dance floor every Saturday evening throughout the summer. Admission: FREE. Saturday, June 6 to Saturday, Oct 10, 8pm-10pm. Where: The Booth on Sparks Street, between Elgin Street and Metcalfe Street, Ottawa.
39. City Sounds Live
Enjoy free outdoor live music in the heart of the Glebe as local musicians perform in a community-focused concert series celebrating emerging Ottawa artists. Admission: FREE. When: Saturday, June 6 to Saturday, Jun 27 (no times yet). Where: Fourth Avenue Baptist Church, 816 Bank Street, Ottawa.
40. Nepean Night Market
A Sunday evening market with local vendors, food trucks, live music, glow sticks for the kids, and dogs welcome. Running every week through the summer, it’s a reliable good-vibes night out. FREE.
When: Sundays, 5pm–9pm.
Where: Mr. Lube + Tires, 1442 Baseline Road, Nepean
41. Bistrofest
Celebrate local music at Bistrofest, a free outdoor concert series featuring original performances from Ottawa-area artists in a lively summer setting. Admission: FREE. When: Saturday, May 16 to Saturday, Sep 5 on select Saturdays. Where: Hog’s Back Grill & Bistro, Ottawa.
When: June 17-21, 7:30pm
Where: Patterson Creek Park, Linden Terrace, Ottawa
43. 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.
44. 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
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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.
48. 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
49. 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
50. 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.
FIFA World Cup
- Lowertown Brewery, 73 York St
- Heart and Crown, 67 Clarence St
- El Taco de Oro, 303 St Patrick St
- Senate Tavern, 33 Clarence St
- A La Istambul, 140 Rideau St
- Barrio, 115 Rideau St
Centretown
- Sir John A, 284 Elgin St
- Manor Lounge, 292 Elgin St
- Deacon Brodies, 247 Elgin St
- Maclarens, 301 Elgin St
- The Lieutenant’s Pump, 361 Elgin St
Hintonburg
- Publicco, 1331 Wellington St W
- Hintonburg Public House, 1020 Wellington St West
- The Wood on Wellington, 1237 Wellington St W.
- Braumeister Bierhalle, 175 Carruthers Ave
The Glebe
- Glebe Central Pub, 779 Bank St
- Margaritas, 873 Bank St
- Craft Beer Market, 975 Bank St
- Local, 107, 825 Exhibition Way Unit 107.
- Jack Astor’s Lansdowne, #101 425 Marché Way
Nepean
- Casa Mexico, 1491 Merivale Road
- That’s Bananas, 2932 Baseline Road
- Local Heroes, 1400 Clyde Ave
Elsewhere in Ottawa
- Aztec Tacos, 77 Montreal Road
- Al Forno Pizza Pub, 2645 Altavista Dr
- Casa Mexico Preston, 226 Preston St.
- Mongolian Village, 2150 Robertson Road, Bell Corners.
- Minotaure, 3 rue Kent, Gatineau
