Looking for the best things to do in Ottawa and the best ways to celebrate Canada Day and the weekend? Start here! Check out Ottawa Is Not Boring’s weekly weekend events guide, share it with your crew, and make unforgettable memories. Happy Canada Day!
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Contents
21 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. Canada Day
Celebrate Canada and everything that makes this country special in the heart of Canada’s Capital. Join the biggest Canada Day celebration in the nation!
Parliament Hill
-Ceremonial Guard Band: 10am–10:45 am.
-Royal Canadian Air Force Pipes & Drums: 11–11:30 am & 1:30–2pm.
-Meet the RCMP Musical Ride Horses: 11am–3pm.
-742 Air Cadet Squadron Music Program: 2pm–2:45pm & 3:15pm–4pm.
Supreme Court of Canada
Mindfulness activities, guided visits of the building, creative workshops, a drumming session, a face painting station, and live improv performances.
Lebreton Flats
-National Noon Ceremony: 12–1:30 pm
-National Evening Show: 8–10 pm
Plus multiple activities and entertainment running nonstop all day long!
2. Canada Day Fireworks
The most anticipated moment of the Canada Day celebration is certainly the fireworks show! A beautiful spectacle to close an amazing day with a bang! FREE.
When: Wednesday, July 1, 10pm–10:30pm.
Where: Lebreton Flats
3. Snowbirds Aerial Show
This is your last chance to see this iconic aerial show in Ottawa for free on Canada Day, as the Snowbirds will be grounded for an uncertain time while Canada looks to replace the aircraft. The Snowbirds have amazed crowds with their acrobatics since 1971. FREE
When: Wednesday, July 1, 4pm–4:30pm
Where: Parliament Hill. Also visible at Lebreton Flats.
4. Back to 80’s Throwback Concert at ByWard Market
Relive the ’80s with an amazing concert featuring three beloved Canadian bands: Men Without Hats, Spoons, and The Box. FREE
When: Wednesday, July 1, 7pm–11pm
Where: York St between William and Dalhousie, ByWard Market
Details: IG @bywardmarket
5. Stittsville Canada Day Car Show
Get your Canada Day motor running at the 4th annual Stittsville Car Show. Everything from vintage to exotic to the 1980s will be on display and judged. Add live music, a local market, and a 50/50 draw, and you’ll be firing on all cylinders. FREE
When: Wednesday, July 1, from noon to 4pm.
Where: 1469 Stittsville Main St, Stittsville
Details: On Facebook
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. Natsu Matsuri
Take a trip to Japan this weekend with the return of Natsu Matsuri (the Japanese Summer Festival). Enjoy martial arts demonstrations, Japanese flower arranging, games, music, and of course food. Come connect with the culture and the local community. FREE
When: Saturday, July 4, 11am–4pm
Where: Sandy Hill Community Centre, 250 Somerset Street East, Ottawa
Details: ojca.ca/program/natsumatsuri/
8. Music on the Canal
Set sail on a voyage of music as the NAC brings back its popular Music on the Canal series, starting July 4. A barge filled with musicians (this week noted Cuban pianist Miguel de Armas) starts off at the Rideau St Bridge and fills the air with music, going to Lansdowne Park and back again. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 4, 4:30pm–6pm
Where: Rideau St Bridge (start/finish) / Lansdowne Park turnaround
Details: https://nac-cna.ca/
9. 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, July 4, 10am-4pm
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1015 Bank St.
Details: https://www.613flea.
10. Capital Pop Up Cinema
There’s nothing like catching a movie under the stars, and Capital Pop Up Cinema is making that happen again this summer. To kick things off, it’s the inconceivable adventure of The Princess Bride. So bring your chairs and your snacks, or purchase some there. Enjoy the show, as you wish. FREE
When: Saturday, July, at 8:30pm
Where: Zibi, Albert Island, 8 Booth Street, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
11. Crescendo Concert Series
Support the troops and support the band as the Crescendo Concert Series presents the full Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces. Expect a diverse selection of live music, all taking place on the grounds of Rideau Hall. A great way to spend a Sunday. FREE
When: Sunday, July 5, at 2pm
Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive, Ottawa
Details: https://www.gg.ca/en/
12. African Canadian Association of Ottawa – Multicultural Festival
Time to rep your country and celebrate culture, heritage and community as the African Canadian Association puts on its multicultural festival. Expect live stage and music performances, drumming and dancing, a local market, and family-friendly games. FREE (Registration required)
When: Saturday, July 4, at 12pm
Where: Brewer Park, 100 Brewer Way, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook
13. The Eddy Street Festival
Stroll through Vieux-Hull to enjoy an exciting family edition street party featuring games, animations, and circus shows. FREE
When: Saturday, July 4, 11am
Where: Rue Eddy, between Rue Wright and Rue Papineau, Gatineau
Details: https://calendrier.
14. Metcalfe Farmers Market
Explore a vibrant country market filled with unique crafts, fresh local agricultural products, and delicious baked goods. FREE
When: Saturday, July 4, 9am–2pm
Where: Metcalfe Fairgrounds, 2821 8th Line Road, Metcalfe
Details: www.metcalfefm.com
15. Company of Fools: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Experience a spectacular 1970s disco-inspired Shakespearean comedy performance during a charming moonlit outdoor park theater. Pay what you can (Recommended donation $20)
When: Jun 29–Aug 15, 7pm
Where: Various Ottawa parks, multiple locations
Details: www.fools.ca
16. Ottawa On Tap Beerfest
Taste incredible regional craft beverages while enjoying a lively afternoon of karaoke, line dancing, and local foods. All tickets include ONE 12 oz. beer (or two 6 oz. sample size beers), 3 raffle tickets for beer and merch gift packs, and a whole lot of fun with games and entertainment. Tickets: EXPRESS: $20.00 + fees and HST. AT THE GATE: $25.00 + fees and HST
When: Saturday, July 4, 1pm
Where: Bells Corners BIA, 2135 Robertson Road, Ottawa
Details: http://ottawaontapbeerfest.ca
17. Gatineau Comedy Festival
Don’t miss a stellar lineup of French-language comedy stars performing live under the stars during three festive summer nights. Tickets from $64
When: Saturday, July 4, 7pm
Where: Place de la Cité, 570 Boulevard de la Cité, Gatineau
Details: https://www.
18. Music and Beyond Festival
Now in its 16th season, this distinctive two-week summer festival connects classical music to visual art, theatre, poetry, science, and more, with concerts in some of Ottawa’s most striking venues. The 2026 edition features The King’s Singers, Kim Richardson singing Duke Ellington, a rare appearance by the Wuxi Chinese Orchestra, and a five-concert series marking Ottawa’s 200th anniversary. Tickets vary by concert, passes available.
When: July 4–17
Where: Various venues, Ottawa
19. Ottawa Redblacks vs Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Redblacks host the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the defending Grey Cup champions, in a Week 5 CFL matchup at TD Place. A Friday-night game against one of the league’s most passionate fan bases. Tickets from $36.
When: Friday, July 3, 7:30pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
20. Atletico Ottawa vs Cavalry FC
The reigning Canadian Premier League champions host Cavalry FC at TD Place in a rematch of the dramatic 2025 final, which Atlético won 2–1 in extra time through a snowstorm to claim their first title. A Saturday afternoon of top-flight Canadian soccer against a familiar rival. Tickets from $22.80
When: Saturday, July 4, 4pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
21. Ottawa Rapid FC vs Calgary Wild
Ottawa’s first professional women’s soccer team takes on Calgary Wild FC at TD Place, both clubs competing in the Northern Super League — Canada’s new top-flight women’s league in its second season. Tickets from $27.
When: Sunday, July 5, 2pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
More things to do in Ottawa
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
22. Canada Day at the Diefenbunker
Canada’s Cold War Museum opens its massive blast doors for a special family-friendly Canada Day celebration featuring a self-guided scavenger hunt, outdoor games, and discounted admission. Ticket price $13.65 per person (plus taxes); children 5 and under are free. Note: Tickets must be booked online in advance.
When: Wednesday, July 1, 10am–4pm (last entry at 2:45pm)
Where: Diefenbunker Museum, 3929 Carp Road
23. RBC Summer Tournaments
Cheer on elite equestrian pairs competing at the prestigious forty thousand dollar RBC Grand Prix show jumping competition. Tickets from $18.35
When: July 2–5, 2pm
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Road, Ottawa
Details: www.
24. Our Lady Peace
A high-energy live performance by one of Canada’s most iconic rock bands, showcasing decades of chart-topping hits like Superman’s Dead and Clumsy. Ticket price starts at $82
When: Friday, July 3, 2026 at 7 pm
Where: Hard Rock & Casino – Rideau Carleton Raceway, 4837 Albion Road
25. 1999 The Ultimate Prince Experience
An immersive, high-energy stage tribute show celebrating the music, vision, and genius of Prince, complete with a live 8-piece band and bespoke costuming. Tickets $46.00 to $76.00+
When: Friday, July 3 at 7 pm
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre (Harold-Shenkman Hall), 245 Centrum Boulevard, Orleans
26. Ottawa River Paddlefest
A full weekend celebrating the Ottawa River, hosted at OWL Rafting. Expect kayak lessons and skills coaching, a recreational boat rally, a gear swap, a vendor marketplace, live music, food, and a film screening, all welcoming paddlers of every skill level. Paddler camping is available on a first-come basis. Tickets vary by activity. When: July 3–5
Where: OWL Rafting, Foresters Falls, Ontario
27. Almonte Celtfest
A weekend festival celebrating Ottawa Valley and Celtic entertainment, featuring local and out-of-town performers, heritage traditions, and unique artisan vendors. Suggested donation at the gate.
When: July 3–5, at 6 pm
Where: Gemmill Park, 182 Bridge Street, Almonte, ON
Saturday
28. Yoga on the Hill at Tavern on the Hill
An outdoor all-levels flow with Brittany Bryden on Saturday mornings, set on the patio at Tavern on the Hill behind Major’s Hill Park, with Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River as the backdrop. A feel-good morning practice to move, breathe, and reset, welcoming total beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Pre-registration required, and classes run weather permitting. Tickets $25 + tax.
When: Every Saturday, Jun 20–Aug 29, 8:30am–9:30am
Where: Tavern on the Hill, 1223 Alexandra Bridge (behind Major’s Hill Park), Ottawa
29. Fairfields Summer Picnic
A classic family summer event where you can tour a 19th-century Gothic Revival farmhouse, play old-fashioned lawn games, enjoy live music, try flower arranging, and have some cake and lemonade. Suggested donation.
When: Saturday, July 4, from 1 to 4 pm
Where: Fairfields Heritage House, 3080 Richmond Road
30. Heritage in Motion(s)
A vibrant cultural performance presented by the Ishaka Cultural Group that takes audiences on an artistic journey through the history and evolution of Burundian heritage via music, storytelling, and folklore dance. Ticket price $65 to $100
When: Saturday, July 4 at 7 pm
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Drive, Nepean.
Sunday
31. 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, July 5, 4pm–5pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
Next Week
32. 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. Events are weather permitting.
When: Tuesday, July 7, 12pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
More recurring events in Ottawa
33. 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
34. 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.
35. Metcalfe Plaza
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
36. 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
37. 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.
38. 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.
39. 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
40. 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.
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. 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
44. 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
45. 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
47. 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.
48. 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
49. 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.
50. 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.
51. 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.
52. 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
53. 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
54. 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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