Ready for another amazing weekend in Ottawa? There are so many things to do! From the world-famous RCMP Musical Ride to Escapade Music Festival and the Ottawa Jazz Festival, films, markets, fun fairs, and much more, there is no shortage of events in Ottawa!
Check out this post, share it with your crew, and start making plans for the weekend!
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
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Contents
23 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.RCMP Canadian Sunset Ceremonies
Enjoy the spectacle of a troop of officers and their horses showcasing spectacular riding skills. Watch formations and historic cavalry drills, all set to upbeat music. FREE entry and free parking.
When: June 25-28 at 7pm
Where: RCMP Stables, 1 Sandridge Road.
Details: https://rcmp.ca/en/
2. Ottawa National Watch Party
Cheer on Team Canada at a FIFA World Cup watch party as Canada takes on Switzerland. This is part of a series of watch parties being held across the country. Gather with fellow supporters, enjoy the excitement of the match, and experience the energy of the World Cup season right in the heart of Ottawa. FREE.
When: Wednesday, June 24 at 3pm
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park.
3. Open Doors at Rideau Hall
Come to explore the State Rooms of Rideau Hall at your own pace and visit the private gardens and Palm House, which are not open to the public during regular tours. FREE.
When: June 27-28, 10am-4pm
Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive
Details: IG @rideauhall
4. Escapade Music Festival
Enjoy massive beats, incredible stage productions, and some of the biggest names in electronic music in the city. This is one of Ottawa’s biggest summer events. Tickets: $187-197.
When: June 26-28
Where: RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive.
Details: escapademf.com
5. Ottawa Jazz Festival
Enjoy an exciting mix of world-class jazz, blues, and contemporary music. Featuring acclaimed international artists alongside emerging talent, the festival transforms the city into a vibrant hub of live performances, open-air concerts, and unforgettable musical moments. FREE and PAID events. $50 Day Pass.
When: June 18–28, various times
Where: Confederation Park and nearby, 100 Elgin St, Ottawa
Details: https://
6. Kanata Fun Fair
Featuring amusement rides, games, live entertainment, food vendors, and activities for all ages. Running through Canada Day. FREE admission and parking.
When: Wednesday, June 24-July 1
Where: 100 Charlie Rogers Pl, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook
7. Annual Inspection of the Ceremonial Guard
Watch the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada conduct the annual Inspection of the Ceremonial Guard, an annual tradition that showcases precision, pageantry, and military excellence. The event features a military parade, an inspection of the guard and band, and the Viceregal Salute to Her Excellency. FREE.
When: Friday, June 26 at 10am
Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive
8. 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, June 27, 10am-4pm
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1015 Bank St.
Details: https://www.613flea.
9. Japanese Film Week at Bytowne Cinema
Enjoy a week of free Japanese film screenings at Bytowne Cinema, presented by the Embassy of Japan in Canada! Featuring a diverse lineup of award-winning dramas, animation, and horror films, there is something for every film lover. Screenings this week include Linda Linda Linda (June 25 at 6:30pm), Shoplifters – winner of the Palme d’Or at Cannes (June 26 at 6:30pm), Exit 8 (June 27 at 4pm), Seven Samurai (June 28 at 4pm), Summer Wars (June 29 at 6:30pm), and Offbeat Cops (June 30 at 6:30pm). FREE admission, reservations recommended at bytowne.ca.
When: June 25-30.
Where: Bytowne Cinema, 325 Rideau Street, Ottawa
10. Vegans Who Snack Food & Art Festival
Come to Parkdale Public Market for a night of plant-based bites and creative delights! Vegans Who Snack brings together local vegan food vendors, artists, and small businesses for a fun evening of snacking, shopping, and good vibes. Indulge in delicious vegan treats, browse local art and self-care goodies, and discover amazing small businesses. FREE.
When: Friday, June 26 from 5pm to 9pm.
Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa
11. Ooh Fest
Come to Skate & Play for one of Ottawa’s most exciting summer festivals, a full-day creative takeover featuring music, art installations, vintage streetwear vendors, food trucks, roller skating, dance crews, arcade games, and more! The outdoor festival and vendors’ parking lot are FREE and open to all. Later in the evening, ticketed adults-only events take over: the Solé x Grown-Ass Pizza Party starting at 5pm, and Ooh Fest After Dark from 10pm to 3am.
When: Saturday, June 27 from noon to 8pm.
Where: Skate & Play + Exit Lounge, 1101 Baxter Road, Ottawa
Details: oohfest.com
12. Orléans Comic Book & Novelty Show
Come to Place d’Orléans Mall for a fun-filled day celebrating comics, collectibles, and pop culture! Browse local comic vendors, novelty and toy vendors, craft vendors, and meet local artists and writers. Cosplay and dress-up are encouraged. Show off your best costume! Entrance is FREE.
When: Sunday, June 28 from 11am to 5pm.
Where: Place d’Orléans Mall, 110 Place d’Orléans Drive, Orléans
13. Indigenous Outdoor Market at Maker House Co.
Come to the open-air Indigenous Outdoor Market hosted by Maker House Co. in the Little Mac’s parking lot on Wellington Street! Shop directly from 16 Indigenous makers and artisans offering beadwork, prints, leather goods, textiles, jewelry, herbal teas, sustainable fashion, and so much more, one-of-a-kind work you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy live traditional music, storytelling, and Fancy Dancing performances at 1pm and 2pm. Rain or shine. FREE.
When: Sunday, June 28 from 10am to 4pm.
Where: Little Mac’s Parking Lot, 991 Wellington Street West, Ottawa
14. The Original Navan Market
Come support local vendors at the Original Navan Market, held inside the unique geodesic domes at the Navan Fairgrounds! Browse a wonderful selection of fresh produce, breads, cheese, honey, jams and jellies, wines and spirits, handmade jewelry, soaps, crafts, and so much more. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while listening to live entertainment on the stage. FREE.
When: Sunday, June 28 from 9:30am to 2pm.
Where: Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Road, Navan
15. Welcoming Ottawa Week (WOW)
Ottawa’s beloved 9-day celebration brings newcomers and locals together through 50+ free events, from cultural showcases to sports, tours, workshops, and much more. FREE.
When: June 22-30
Where: Various locations across Ottawa and Lanark-Renfrew counties
Details: https://
16. Zumba on the Hill
Ditch the gym and dance in front of Parliament instead. Ottawa’s free weekly Zumba classes on Parliament Hill are back. All levels welcome, no experience needed. FREE.
When: Sunday, June 28, 4pm–5pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
17. Parliament Pilates
Roll out your mat in one of the most iconic settings in the country. Free outdoor mat Pilates classes hosted by Soma Pilates right on Parliament Hill. All levels welcome, just bring your mat and a water bottle. FREE.
When: Sunday, June 28, 12pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
18. Bytowne Oysterfest
Ottawa’s most beloved shellfish celebration is back: fresh-shucked oysters, ice-cold beer, great food, and a DJ to keep the party going all day long. A sell-out every year, so grab your tickets early. Tickets from $10.
When: Sunday, June 28, doors at 12pm
Where: Beyond The Pale Brewing Co., 250 City Centre Ave, Ottawa
19. High Tea on the Veranda
Step back in time and sip tea on the historic veranda of Laurier House, once home to two of Canada’s longest-serving Prime Ministers. Think fine china, handcrafted treats, curated teas, and a house tour included. Tickets from $68.
When: Thursdays & Fridays | Seatings at 10:30am, 12:30pm & 2:30pm
Where: Laurier House National Historic Site, 335 Laurier Ave. East, Ottawa
20. Ottawa Titans vs. New Jersey Jackals
Catch three games of live baseball under the summer sky as your Ottawa Titans host the New Jersey Jackals for a home series at Ottawa Stadium. Great food, cold drinks, and all the ballpark energy you could ask for. Tickets from $34.
When: Friday, June 26, 7pm; Saturday, June 27, 6pm; Sunday, June 28, 1pm
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Road, Ottawa
21. Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Niagara River Lions
Pro basketball comes to TD Place as your Ottawa BlackJacks take on the reigning back-to-back CEBL champion Niagara River Lions. Fast-paced action, Canadian talent, and a great afternoon out, this one’s worth showing up early for.
When: Sunday, June 28, 1pm
Where: The Arena at TD Place
22. Jurassic Kingdom Ottawa
Walk through a large outdoor dinosaur experience featuring life-sized, moving dinosaur models set along a themed forest trail. Visitors can see realistic animatronic dinosaurs, learn fun facts about prehistoric life, and enjoy an immersive family-friendly adventure. It’s an interactive attraction designed for kids and dinosaur fans of all ages. Tickets: Adults $30 and children $25. Free parking.
When: Friday, June 26 to Sunday, July 12, 10am-6pm.
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Rd, Ottawa, ON.
23. Paranormal Cirque
Step into a dark and thrilling circus experience that mixes acrobatics, theatre, music, and horror-style storytelling. This event takes place inside a big top tent and features skilled performers doing aerial acts, contortion, juggling, and illusions, all with a spooky, supernatural theme. Tickets start at $30.
When: June 19-29, 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 9:30pm.
Where: St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St. Laurent Blvd.
More things to do in Ottawa
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
24. La p’tite St-Jean
Celebrate Quebec’s Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day with a fun, family-friendly community event featuring live music, local performers, activities for kids, food vendors, and a festive outdoor atmosphere. This celebration highlights Francophone culture, summer vibes, and community spirit in a relaxed setting for all ages. FREE.
When: Wednesday, June 24, 7pm.
Where: Rue Laval, Old Hull, Gatineau, QC.
25. 2026 Walking Tour Season – Britannia Village
Discover the history of Britannia Village on a guided walking tour through 14 heritage sites. Learn how the area grew from a sawmill town in 1818 into a popular destination shaped by the Britannia Amusement Park, the “electrified” pier, early rail and trolley access, and the Britannia Yacht Club. Tickets: $25.
When: Thursday, June 25, 7pm.
Where: Departure from the intersection of Rowatt Street and Kirby Road, Ottawa, ON.
26. Grease: The Concert & Music from the 50’s and 60’s
Enjoy a fun throwback concert celebrating the music of the 1950s and 1960s, featuring songs from Grease along with classic rock ’n’ roll and pop hits. The show brings high-energy live performances, vintage-style costumes, and nostalgic favourites that get the audience singing along and dancing. Tickets: $50.75.
When: Friday, June 26, 7pm.
Where: Harold Shenkman Hall, Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa, ON.
Saturday
27. Maker’s Path Market
Explore a local artisan market featuring handmade goods, creative crafts, and small business vendors from the Ottawa area. Visitors can browse unique items like jewelry, art, home décor, and specialty products while enjoying a relaxed community atmosphere. FREE.
When: Saturday, June 27, 11am-4pm.
Where: Mad About Patchwork, 2477 Huntley Rd, Stittsville, ON.
Sunday
28. Animal Helpers
Meet real service animals and learn how they help people in everyday life. This family-friendly educational event introduces different working animals, shows how they are trained, and explains the important roles they play in supporting people with disabilities or special needs. Tickets: $9.42.
When: Sunday, June 28, 10am–3pm.
Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Road, Ottawa.
Next Week
29. Canada Day
Canada Day in Ottawa is amazing! You won’t see Ottawa more alive or full of energy than on Canada Day.
Enjoy entertainment for the whole family on Parliament Hill, the Supreme Court of Canada grounds, the Kichi Zibi Mikan Parkway, and LeBreton Flats.
Don’t miss the National Noon Ceremony from 12pm. to 1:30pm or the National Evening Show at 8pm, which concludes with spectacular fireworks at 10pm at LeBreton Flats.
When: Wednesday, July 1, from 9am. to 11pm
Full list of events: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/canada-day/capital-region/calendar-events.html#eventslist
More recurring events in Ottawa
30. 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: Thursdays to Saturdays, 5pm-10pm.
Where: 151 Metcalfe St.
Details: IG @metcalfeplaza
31. 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
32. 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: Wednesdays, 5pm–9pm. Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue.
33. Fish Ontario Licence-Free
Introduce a friend or family member to fishing during Ontario’s licence-free Family Fishing Week, when Canadian residents can fish without purchasing a fishing licence while still following conservation limits and fishing regulations. FREE. Where: Saturday, June 27 to July 5. Where: At participating Ontario waters.
34. Snider Park
Snider Park has opened 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. FREE.
Where: Snider Park, 250 Slater St.
Details: IG @centretownottawa
35. 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.
36. 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.
37. 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.
38. 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 27, 11am-1pm. Where: Fourth Avenue Baptist Church, 816 Bank Street, Ottawa. Details: ottawamic.com
39. 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
40. 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
42. 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.
43. 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
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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.
47. 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
48. 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
49. 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
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