59 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | July 24-26

Looking for things to do in Ottawa this weekend? I’ve rounded up the best events happening across the city, from festivals and night markets to outdoor concerts, family activities, and food festivals worth checking out. Read the post, share it with your crew, and start planning your weekend!

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19 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa

1. Kanata Night Market

This four-day outdoor event will once again bring the excitement of a bustling Asian night market to Ottawa’s west end. Explore tasty bites, cool crafts, and good vibes. FREE admission.
When: July 23-26.
Where: 300 Eagleson Road, Kanata
Details: On Eventbrite

2. VegOttawa Fest

Come to Ottawa’s largest celebration of vegan living. Sample a wide variety of delicious vegan foods, hear from leaders and experts in the vegan movement, and connect with vegan-friendly businesses and brands. FREE admission.
When: Saturday, July 25, 12pm-5pm
Where: Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa
Details: vegottawa.org

3. LOL Ottawa Comedy Festival

Get ready to laugh at the LOL Ottawa Comedy Festival, a citywide celebration of stand-up and live comedy featuring acclaimed headliners, rising stars, and local talent. With performances at multiple venues across Ottawa, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy unforgettable nights of laughter throughout the festival. Tickets: $39.95 or $99 full weekend pass.
When: July 23-25
Where: Five different locations
Details: lolottawa.com

4. Cars & Coffee Ottawa

Enjoy a showcase of rare vehicles, timeless classics, and luxury motorcars, create connections, enjoy great coffee, and celebrate automotive culture. FREE admission.
When: Saturday, July 25, 10am-4pm.
Where: Lansdowne Park.
Details: IG @carsandcoffeeottawa

5. 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.ca/en

6. 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 25, 7pm walking tour, 8:30pm film start
Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave, Vanier
Details: https://www.capitalpopupcinema.com/

7. Ottawa Chamberfest 2026

Enjoy one of Canada’s premier chamber music festivals. Featuring internationally renowned artists and emerging voices across venues throughout the capital, the festival offers everything from intimate midday matinées and free outdoor concerts to late-night Chamberfringe performances crossing styles and art forms. Community Tickets are available for $17.
When: July 23 to Aug 2.
Where: Various venues across Ottawa
Details: chamberfest.com

8. Ottawa Tamil Fest – Kondattam

Experience live music, traditional dance performances, sports, cultural displays, and delicious Tamil cuisine. There are games and activities for all ages, from children to seniors, culminating in an energetic evening of music and dance highlighting community, unity, and cultural pride. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 25, 9am-9pm.
Where: Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan Street, Nepean

9. Royal Canadian Mint – FIFA World Cup 2026 Coin Exchange

Come to the Royal Canadian Mint’s Ottawa Boutique to exchange your Canadian currency for the limited-edition 2026 $1 Commemorative Circulation Coin celebrating the FIFA World Cup 2026! A coin limit per person is in place and quantities are limited, so don’t wait. Cash only — any Canadian coin or banknote denomination is accepted. FREE admission.
When: July 24-26, 10am-4pm.
Where: Royal Canadian Mint Ottawa Boutique, 320 Sussex Drive, Ottawa

10. Company of Fools: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Experience a spectacular 1970s disco-inspired Shakespearean comedy performance during a charming moonlit outdoor park theatre. Pay what you can (recommended donation: $20).
When: Jun 29-Aug 15, 7pm.
Where: Half Moon Bay Park, Nepean (Wed, July 23); Nault Park, Vanier (Thu, July 24); Canadensis Botanical Garden, Experimental Farm (Fri, July 25); Hintonburg Park (Sat, July 26).
Details: fools.ca

11. Afro-Caribbean Kinkolé Festival

Enjoy one of Ottawa’s most vibrant summer festivals as thousands of festival-goers gather for three days of African and Caribbean music, culture, food, and art at Britannia Beach! Headliners include international DJs and performers including DJ Kawest and Chily from France, and Charlin Bato from New York. Rain or shine. Free tickets are sold out. General admission is $20 per day, available online only.
When: July 24-26, 10am-10pm.
Where: Britannia Beach, 2805 Carling Avenue, Ottawa

12. Mammoth Sale – Friends of the Ottawa Public Library

Come browse thousands of gently used books, CDs, and DVDs at incredibly affordable prices at the monthly Mammoth Sale hosted by the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library! Cash and credit accepted. Free parking on site. FREE admission.
When: Saturday, July 25, 10am-2pm.
Where: James Bartleman Centre, 100 Tallwood Drive, Ottawa

13. Dance at Zibi – K-pop with Synaptik Dance Crew

Enjoy a high-energy free outdoor dance experience at Zibi in celebration of BTS and their comeback summer tour! Ottawa’s Synaptik Dance Crew will teach you some of the legendary boy group’s most iconic moves in a fun, all-ages setting. No experience required, just bring your energy! Rain location: The Warehouse, 28 Booth Street. FREE.
When: Thursday, July 23, 7pm-8pm.
Where: Head Street Square – Zibi, 310 Miwate Private

14. Swing on the Hill

Trade your patio plans for Parliament Hill. Ottawa’s beloved free swing dance social is back, bringing 1920s-40s vibes, live DJ sets, and beginner-friendly lessons right to the lawn in front of the Peace Tower. No partner, no experience, no excuse not to show up. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 25, 3pm-7:30pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook

15. Carivibe

Ottawa’s biggest Caribbean festival weekend is back, taking over the city with non-stop soca, dancehall, reggae, and afrobeats, plus Caribbean food, rum punch, rollerskating, beach vibes, and late-night block parties. Three days of pure Caribbean energy, all ages welcome. Tickets from $17.31.
When & where:

Saturday, July 25. Bam Bam Day Party. 12pm. Exit Lounge + Skate & Play, 1101 Baxter Rd.

Sunday July 26. Solé Day Party X Carivibe 4pm-10pm. Armada Courtyard & Lounge, 23 York St.

16. Atlético Ottawa vs. Pacific FC

Ottawa’s CPL side is currently sitting at the top of the Canadian Premier League standings. Catch them at TD Place as they take on Pacific FC in what promises to be a lively Sunday afternoon match. Great soccer, great atmosphere, and a perfect way to spend a summer Sunday. Tickets from $33.
When: Sunday, July 26. 2pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St

17. Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Scarborough Shooting Stars

The BlackJacks are back at TD Place for another high-energy CEBL home game, taking on the Scarborough Shooting Stars. Great basketball, electric atmosphere, grab your seats early. Tickets from $25.
When: Wednesday, July 22, 7:30pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St

18. 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

19. Mud Hero

Get ready to crawl, climb, and conquer. Mud Hero’s epic 6km obstacle course is back, with 15+ obstacles, mud pits, food trucks, vendors, and a live DJ to celebrate your filthy finish. No training required, all fitness levels welcome, and yes, there’s a kids’ course too. Tickets from $39.99.
When: Saturday, July 25. Starting at 9am
Where: MARKED Ultimate Family Adventure Park, 13259 ON-7, Carleton Place, ON

More things to do in Ottawa this weekend

Thursday and Friday

20. La Pambelé

Experience the vibrant sounds of Colombia with La Pambelé, a nine-piece salsa brava orchestra bringing the energy of 1970s salsa with a modern twist. Featuring lively rhythms, powerful vocals, and rich instrumentation including piano, congas, trumpets, trombone, and percussion, this concert is a celebration of Colombian music and culture that will have audiences moving. Tickets start at $19.
When: Thursday, July 23, 7:30pm.
Where: Babs Asper Theatre, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa

21. 10-Minute Play Festival

From its inception in 2021, the 10-Minute Play Festival, as a training initiative, has been successful in attracting and retaining many people new to community theatre. Enjoy 7 different plays directed by 7 different directors. Tickets: $15.
When: July 23-25 at 7:30pm; July 25 & 26, matinee 2:30pm.
Where: Kanata Theatre, 1 Ron Maslin Way, Kanata

22. Trooper

Enjoy a night of classic Canadian rock with Trooper, one of Canada’s most iconic bands. Known for their energetic performances and unforgettable hits, Trooper brings decades of popular songs, great storytelling, and a fun concert atmosphere for rock music fans. Tickets start at $61.50.
When: Friday, July 24, 7pm.
Where: Hard Rock Live at Hard Rock Casino Ottawa, 4837 Albion Road, Ottawa

23. Almonte Craft Beerfest

Enjoy a summer evening celebrating local craft beer, cider, food, and live music. This festival brings together local breweries and vendors for tastings, great food, and a fun community atmosphere. It’s a perfect event for craft beer lovers and anyone looking for a relaxed summer outing. Tickets are $20 + HST.
When: Friday, July 24, 6pm-10:30pm.
Where: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Mississippi Mills, Ontario

Saturday

24. West Side Pride

Celebrate Pride with a fun community festival featuring live music, drag performances, local vendors, family activities, and delicious food. This welcoming event brings people together to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in a lively and family-friendly atmosphere. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 25, 11am-4pm.
Where: Alexander Grove Park, 10 Warner-Colpitts Ln, Stittsville, ON

25. Fit Fest Ottawa

Ottawa’s biggest fitness networking event is back for its 3rd edition. Expect a group workout, wellness vendors, giveaways, and an energetic community vibe all in one place. Whether you’re a fitness fanatic or just looking for a fun summer outing, this one’s for you. Tickets from $38.95.
When: Saturday, July 25. 11:30am-2:30pm
Where: Immaculata Turf Field, Ottawa

26. Music in the Woods

Welcome to Music in the Woods! Join us for a day of live music, family fun, and community spirit with family and friends at our first-ever Music in the Woods event. Enjoy live performances, a family-friendly Kids Zone, food and drinks, and plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbours and celebrate summer together. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026, 1pm-7pm.
Where: Roy Hobbs Community Centre, 109 Larch Crescent, Orléans.

27. Bridge Street Summerfest

Enjoy a fun summer street festival featuring local vendors, artisans, live entertainment, food, sidewalk sales, and family-friendly activities. Bridge Street transforms into a lively community celebration where visitors can explore shops, discover local makers, and enjoy a day of summer fun. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 25, 10am-3pm.
Where: Bridge Street, Downtown Carleton Place (from Mill Street to Lake Avenue), Carleton Place, ON

Next Week

28. Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac Leamy

Don’t miss one of the most anticipated summer events in the Ottawa-Gatineau region! This international fireworks competition has been dazzling audiences for years. The fireworks can be seen from many spots along the Ottawa and Gatineau riverfronts, with shows taking place on Wednesdays and Saturdays. However, for the full experience, attend the festival to enjoy the synchronized fireworks and music, delicious food vendors, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Tickets: $8.50 (ages 4-12) and $21 (ages 13 and up). Taxes not included.  When: Opening night is Wednesday July 29 at approximately 9:15pm. Then Aug 1, 5, 8, 12, and 15. Where: Canadian Museum of History grounds, 100 Laurier St, Gatineau.

More recurring events in Ottawa

29. Lansdowne Park Movie Nights

Don’t miss these FREE outdoor, family-friendly movie screenings at sunset!
When: Thursdays, 9pm
Where: Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
Details: On Facebook

30. Akoustik at St. Charles

Enjoy a wonderful summer evening of live music showcasing Ottawa’s most exciting local soul and indie artists. Twenty-one artists across ten Wednesdays in the heart of Vanier. FREE
When: July 15-Sept 23, 6pm-7:10pm
Where: St. Charles Market, 135 Barrette Street, Vanier
Details: https://vanierbia.com/akoustik/

31. 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.

32. 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: Flavia Nascimento and Tio Chorinho. FREE.                                                      When: Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday until Aug 25, 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/en/series/summer-ete-terrace

33. 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

34. 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

35. 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

36. 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: Dates July 23, 25, Aug 15, 20, 22, Sept 12, 17, 19. At 4:30pm and 6:30pm.
Where: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa.

37. 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: Saturdays until Aug 22, 4:30pm–6pm
Where: Rideau St Bridge (start/finish) / Lansdowne Park turnaround
Details: https://nac-cna.ca/en/series/music-on-the-canal

38. 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.

39. 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

40. 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.

41. 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

42. 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

43. 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.