If you’re looking for fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend, you’re in the right place! Bluesfest is wrapping up with an incredible final weekend, followed by the Ottawa Lebanese Festival and Festival Parasol. Check out this post, start planning your weekend, and don’t forget to share it with your friends!
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18 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1. Ottawa Bluesfest
When: July 9–19
Where: Lebreton Flats
Details: ottawabluesfest.ca
2. Ottawa’s 200 Anniversary Celebration
Come celebrate Ottawa’s 200th Anniversary at Bluesfest. The daytime programming on Sunday, July 19 will be free. The FREE daytime programming includes music by Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy & Family, Choir! Choir! Choir!, Les Petites Tounes, Blues in the Schools Showcase & Be in the Band Showcase. There will also be special family-friendly activities including museum fun, circus and aerial performances, and firefighters. FREE entry.
When: Sunday, July 19, noon to 4pm.
Where: LeBreton Flats
Details: https://support.
3. Ottawa Lebanese Festival
Come celebrate the sounds, culture and cuisine of Lebanon as the annual Ottawa Lebanese Festival returns to the capital. There will be singing, dancing, and live music, along with a midway and, of course, plenty of treats and food to fill you up. FREE before 5pm, $3 after.
When: Wednesday, July 15 – Sunday, July 19. Wed-Fri 4pm-11pm; Sat-Sun 11am-11pm
Where: Saint Elias Centre, 750 Ridgewood Avenue, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
4. Festival Parasol
It’s a beautiful blend of the finest drinks and music at the Casino du Lac-Leamy as Festival Parasol (formerly Festibière de Gatineau) kicks off. Nightly music, theme nights, Saturday for the family, and plenty of microbrews to sample. Tickets from $25.
When: July 16-26, 4:30pm-6pm
Where: Hôtel-Casino du Lac-Leamy, 1 Bd du Casino, Gatineau
Details: https://www.festivalparasol.
5. Ratha Yatra Chariot Festival
Make a cultural and spiritual connection with India at the annual Ratha Yatra Chariot Festival. It begins with the parade of the festively decorated cart through the streets and ends with a celebration including music, dancing, yoga classes, henna tattoos, and a delicious vegetarian feast. FREE
When: Saturday, July 18, 11am-4pm
Where: Sandy Hill Community Centre, 250 Somerset Street East, Ottawa
Details: https://iskconottawa.
6. Fanaticcon
Pop culture comes alive in Ottawa with the return of Fanaticcon. Over 140 vendors of the finest vintage toys, games, comics, art and more. With cosplay, panels, special guests, and live entertainment, it’s a place to let your geek flag fly. Tickets $20, kids under 12 FREE.
When: Saturday, July 18, 11am-4pm
Where: Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, 200 Coventry Rd, Ottawa
Details: https://www.fanaticcon.ca/
7. Capital Pop Up Cinema
Where better to watch the star-crossed lovers than under the stars themselves, as Capital Pop Up Cinema presents the 1996 version of Romeo and Juliet. And for an added treat, take a guided walking tour of the cemetery before the film and visit Ottawa’s own great love stories. FREE
When: Saturday, July 18, 7pm walking tour, 8:30pm film start
Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave, Vanier
Details: https://www.
8. 613 Flea
9. Touch-a-Truck
It’s like seeing your Tonka trucks come to life as Landscape Ontario brings you the Touch-A-Truck event. Various industry vehicles and equipment will be set up so kids and adults alike can touch, learn, and experience the big machines, with a quiet hour between 9am-10am. FREE
When: Saturday, July 18, from 9am-1pm
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa
Details: https://landscapeontario.com/
10. Lansdowne Park Movie Nights
Don’t miss the free outdoor family-friendly screening of Night at the Museum happening at sunset. FREE
When: Thursday, July 16, 9pm
Where: Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook
11. The Original Navan Market
Explore over eighty unique local artisan booths alongside live stage entertainment inside the domes. FREE
When: Sunday, July 19, 9:30am
Where: Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Road, Navan
Details: IG @theoriginalnavanmarket
12. Ontario Parks Free Use Day
Discover the beautiful wilderness during this province-wide celebration featuring special guided mine tours, activities, yoga, and more. FREE
When: Friday, July 17, 8am
Where: Ontario Provincial Parks
Details: ontarioparks.ca
13. Akoustik at St. Charles
Enjoy a wonderful summer evening of live music showcasing Ottawa’s most exciting local soul and indie artists. FREE
When: Wednesday, July 15, 6pm
Where: St. Charles Market, 135 Barrette Street, Vanier
Details: https://vanierbia.com/
14. Ottawa Redblacks vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Cheer at this high-energy regular season football matchup. Tickets from $24
When: Sunday, July 19, 6pm
Where: TD Place Stadium, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
Details: Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers Tickets Jul 19, 2026 Ottawa, ON | Ticketmaster
15. Atletico Ottawa vs. Inter Toronto FC
The reigning Canadian Premier League champions, currently near the top of the table, take on mid-table Inter Toronto FC in a competitive summer-evening matchup. Tickets: from $35.
When: Friday, July 17, 7pm.
Where: The Stadium at TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa.
16. Ottawa Titans vs. Down East Bird Dawgs
The Titans return from the Frontier League All-Star break to host the Down East Bird Dawgs for a three-game weekend series at Ottawa Stadium — pro baseball with a family-friendly ballpark atmosphere, capped by a base-running session for kids after Sunday’s game. Tickets: from $16.95.
When: Friday, July 17, 7pm; Saturday, July 18, 6pm; Sunday, July 19, 1pm.
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Road, Ottawa.
17. AXE Summer Worldfest 2026
A three-day world music festival, bringing together international and local artists for a celebration of global music and culture. Each night pairs performers from different traditions — Colombian, West African, and Brazilian — for a mix of cumbia, Afro-rooted rhythms, and contemporary global sounds, opening with a free outdoor terrace show. Tickets: Thursday is FREE; Friday and Saturday concerts – from $25.
When: Thursday, July 16, 7pm; Friday, July 17, 7:30pm; Saturday, July 18, 7:30pm.
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
18. Girl Mud Run
A women-only obstacle course event with a supportive, no-pressure atmosphere, welcoming all ages and fitness levels. Participants tackle a roughly 5km walk or run through 17+ obstacles, inflatables, and plenty of mud, cheered on by a community that calls itself the #PinkArmy. Set on a scenic course surrounded by greenery and stables at Wesley Clover Parks. Tickets: $90 + tax (participant); $10 + tax (spectator).
When: Saturday, July 18, from 8:30am; Sunday, July 19.
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Road, Ottawa.
More fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
19. Maze Days
Get ready for a summer adventure at Saunders Farm with hedge mazes, outdoor activities, play structures, wagon rides, and family-friendly farm fun. Admission: $14.99+.
When: July 15-31, 10am-4pm.
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Road, Ottawa.
20. 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: Weston Park (July 15), Lynwood Park (July 16); Beechwood Cemetery (July 17); Patterson Creek Park (July 18). Details: http://www.fools.ca
21. Music and Beyond Festival
Now in its 16th season, this beloved Ottawa festival weaves classical music together with jazz, dance, poetry, theatre, and more, across 40+ concerts in unique venues throughout the city. This year’s highlights include The King’s Singers, Kim Richardson sings Duke Ellington, and a special five-concert series celebrating Ottawa’s 200th birthday. Tickets vary by event.
When: July 15–17
Where: Various venues across Ottawa
More info: https://musicandbeyond.
22. Wood Terrace Series
Enjoy free outdoor concerts every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday night at the National Arts Centre’s Wood Terrace. Space on the Wood Terrace is limited to 400 guests and available on a first-come, first-served basis. FREE. This week: Rum Ragged (Tue and Wed) and Yeison Landero with Special Guests Afrosound and Lady La Profeta (Thu). FREE. When: July 14-16, at 7:30pm
Where: Wood Terrace. It’s accessible by elevator or directly from Elgin Street, the canal, or the Mackenzie King Bridge.
Details: https://nac-cna.ca/
23. City Hall Salsa
Come for a fun evening of dancing at City Hall (Marion Dewar Plaza). All levels of dancers are welcome. There will be two workshops each evening and social dancing to follow. FREE.
When: Every Wednesday until Aug 26 (except Aug 5 and 12) from 6:30pm to 10pm.
Where: 110 Laurier St W.
Details: On Facebook
24. Deusas da Kizomba
An Afro-centric dance and culture festival celebrating the artistry of women in the Kizomba community. The weekend opens with an Angolan dinner and night party, followed by a full day of dance workshops spanning Kizomba, Semba, Konpa, UrbanKiz, and Afrobeats, more late-night dancing, and Afro-Caribbean cuisine throughout. An alcohol-free, ages 21+ celebration of movement, heritage, and community. Tickets: single-day passes from CA$43.93; full 3-day pass CA$198.36 (all incl. fees).
When: Friday, July 17, 7pm–2am; Saturday, July 18, from 12pm; Sunday, July 19, until 9pm.
Where: Club SAW, 67 Nicholas Street, Ottawa.
25. Orléans Unplugged
Enjoy a free outdoor music series on Fridays in the heart of Orléans! Orléans Unplugged brings local talent, community vibes, and laid-back summer evenings to the Orléans Town Centre courtyard. Settle into your own chair or grab a spot on a nearby patio and enjoy live acoustic performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. Bring your own chair. FREE.
When: Fridays at 6pm.
Where: Orléans Town Centre Courtyard, 250 Centrum Boulevard, Orléans
26. Star Parties
Spend an evening under the stars with the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada – Ottawa Centre, where visitors can look through telescopes, learn about the night sky, and enjoy a free public stargazing experience. Admission: FREE.
When: Friday, July 17 from 9:30pm-11:30pm, with backup dates on Saturday, July 18, Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25.
Where: Ottawa Public Library, Carp Branch, 3911 Carp Road, Carp.
27. Bloomsfest Garden Art Show & Sale
Wander through stunning display gardens showcasing handcrafted art pieces and a vibrant daylily field in full bloom. FREE
When: Friday, July 17-26, 9:30am
Where: Whitehouse Perennials, 594 Rae Road, Almonte
Details: whitehouseperennials.com
28. Stewart Park Festival
Celebrate live music, community, and creativity at this beloved three-day festival featuring Canadian and international artists, an artisan marketplace, food vendors, kids’ activities, and after-hours shows. Admission: By donation.
When: Friday, July 17 to Sunday, July 19.
Where: Stewart Park, 80 Gore Street East, Perth.
29. Dief the Chief: October ’62
Journey 75 feet underground at the Diefenbunker for an immersive theatrical production that follows Prime Minister John Diefenbaker through the tense events of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Admission: $59.
When: Friday, July 17, 4:30pm and 6:30pm.
Where: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa.
30. Pembroke Multicultural Festival
Celebrate cultural diversity with international food, live entertainment, cultural performances, vendors, workshops, and family-friendly activities highlighting traditions from around the world. Admission: FREE.
When: Friday, July 17 from 4-8pm and Saturday, July 18 from 12-8pm.
Where: Pembroke Waterfront Park, Fred Blackstein Boulevard, Pembroke.
Saturday
31. 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 starts off at the Rideau St Bridge and fills the air with music, going to Lansdowne Park and back again. FREE. This weekend: Primary Colours.
When: Saturday, July 18, 4:30pm–6pm
Where: Rideau St Bridge (start/finish) / Lansdowne Park turnaround
Details: https://nac-cna.ca/
Sunday
Next Week
33. Mirandolina – Theatre Under the Stars
Enjoy an unforgettable summer evening under the stars with Mirandolina, the latest production from Odyssey Theatre. This lively comedy follows Mirandolina, a clever and fiercely independent innkeeper who has no intention of falling for the wealthy men competing for her attention. But when an arrogant nobleman claims he’s immune to her charm, she decides to teach him a lesson he’ll never forget. Mirandolina is a fast-paced battle of wit and ego, brought to life with masks, movement, and the playful theatrical style Odyssey Theatre is known for. Tickets: $22, $32, $38 When: July 23–August 16 (8pm performances; Pay-What-You-Wish Sunday matinees at 2pm) Where: Strathcona Park, Sandy Hill, Ottawa. Buy your tickets here: www.odysseytheatre.ca
More recurring events in Ottawa
34. 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.
35. 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
36. Le Petit Chef
An immersive dining experience where “the world’s smallest chef” is brought to life on your plate through 3D projection, turning each of the five courses into part of a playful animated story that unfolds on your table between dishes. Tickets: from $129 + tax. ( Not available for reservation in July, only for August)
When: By reservation.
Where: Tulip Restaurant, Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Ottawa Downtown, 361 Queen Street, Ottawa.
37. 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
38. 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
39. 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.
40. 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
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. 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.
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. 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
53. 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
The FIFA World Cup is entering its final stretch and the excitement is at an all-time high! Who will you be cheering for? There’s no better way to experience the action than surrounded by fellow soccer fans. Here are some of the best restaurants and pubs in Ottawa where you can catch the remaining World Cup matches:
- 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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