An amazing weekend is on the horizon! From incredible street performances to a glowing evening by the water and spectacular fireworks, Ottawa has some unforgettable experiences coming up! Tell your friends ASAP and start planning your weekend!
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17 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Ottawa International Buskerfest
Get ready for three days of amazing street performances on Sparks Street! Enjoy talented performers from around the world showcasing acrobatics, comedy, juggling, magic, music, and more. It’s a free, family-friendly event you won’t want to miss. FREE. When: Aug 7–9, Fri & Sat: 11am–10pm, Sun: 11am–6pm
Where: Sparks Street & World Exchange Plaza, downtown Ottawa. Details: https://ottawabuskerfestival.
2. Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy
A spectacular pyromusical fireworks festival featuring international fireworks shows, live entertainment, and food experiences. Tickets: $8.50 (child 6-12), $21 (13+). Spots to watch the fireworks from Ottawa: Kiweki Point, Major’s Hill Park, Mackenzie King Bridge. When: July 29, Aug 1, 5, 8, 12 & 15 at 9:15pm.
Where: Canadian Museum of History, Gatineau, 100 Laurier St, Gatineau. Details: feux.qc.ca
3. Water Lantern Festival
Experience a magical evening as thousands of glowing lanterns light up the water at Andrew Haydon Park. Create your own lantern, add a message or wish, and watch it join hundreds of others in this beautiful celebration of hope and connection. Tickets from $44.99. When: Aug 8, 6pm–10pm (Lantern launch: 9pm–10pm). Where: Andrew Haydon Park, 3127 Carling Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
4. Navan Fair
Celebrate one of the Ottawa region’s favourite summer traditions with four days of agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, demolition derbies, tractor pulls, a midway, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss special attractions like the Zucchini-500 Car Race, the Ultimutts dog show, and the community parade. Tickets: $17 adults, $12 seniors, $5 for children (6–12), and free for children under 6. Midway ride tickets start at $10 for 4 tickets. When: Aug 6–9, Thu: 4pm–10pm, Fri–Sat: 9:30am–11pm, Sun: 9:30am–4pm. Where: Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Rd, Navan. Details: https://navanfair.ca/
5. Nature Nocturne: Golden Hour
Experience the Canadian Museum of Nature after dark with live DJs, dancing, games, gallery access, themed food and drinks, and plenty of photo opportunities. This popular 19+ event sells out every year. Tickets are $42 + tax and include coat check. When: Aug 7, 8pm–12am. Where: Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St, Ottawa. Details: IG @naturenocturne
6. Voices from the South Festival
Enjoy two evenings of multicultural music, dance, and food featuring Flamenco, Mariachi, Afro-Jazz, Peruvian folk, Arabic music, Turkish and Balkan performances, and more. Ticket proceeds support the Canadian Centre for Victims of Armed Conflicts. Tickets: $9,95. When: Aug 8–9, 5pm–9:30pm
Where: 136 University Private, Ottawa. Details: IG @voices_from_the_south_
7. Public Archaeological Digs
Take part in a real archaeological dig at Philippe Lake and help uncover artifacts from one of the region’s most significant Indigenous archaeological sites, dating back more than 6,000 years. No registration is required. There is a limit of 50 participants per time slot, and spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. FREE. When: Aug 4–8, 9am–12pm and 1pm–4 pm. Where: Philippe Lake, Gatineau Park. Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/events/
8. Capital Pop-Up Cinema
Enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars at different locations across Ottawa! Bring a blanket or lawn chair, grab some snacks, and enjoy a fun movie night with family and friends. Each week features a different film and location. This week: Office Space. FREE. When: Saturday Aug 8, 8:30pm. Where: Zibi at Albert Island, 28 Booth St, Ottawa. Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema
9. Swing on the Hill
Step back in time with an afternoon of swing dancing at Parliament Hill! Enjoy live swing music, beginner-friendly lessons, DJ sets, and open-air dancing with the Ottawa Swing Dance Society. No partner or previous experience is needed. Everyone is welcome. FREE. When: Saturday Aug 8, 3pm–7:30pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa. Details: IG @ottawaswingdancesociety
10. Fetch Local Markets
Bring your pup to this dog-friendly outdoor market featuring 30+ local vendors selling handmade goods, pet products, art, and more. Expect dog services, local rescues, and plenty of treats for both humans and dogs. Free admission. When: Saturday Aug 8, 4pm–9pm. Where: Ray Friel Recreation Complex, 1585 Tenth Line Rd, Orléans. Details: IG @fetchlocalmarkets
11. Hot Wench Market
Shop a curated selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and unique treasures with a witchy twist at this one-day market in Hintonburg. Free admission. When: Saturday Aug 8, 11am–5pm. Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa. Details: IG @hotwenchmarket
12. Parliament Pilates
Enjoy an outdoor Pilates session with a stunning backdrop of Parliament Hill. These welcoming mat classes are a great way to move, stretch, and recharge while enjoying the beauty of downtown Ottawa. Perfect for all levels. FREE. When: Sunday Aug 9, 12pm. Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa. Details: IG @somapilates.studio
13. Atlético Ottawa vs. Halifax Wanderers FC
Cheer on Atlético Ottawa as they take on Halifax Wanderers FC at TD Place. With the team battling near the top of the standings, expect an exciting afternoon of Canadian Premier League soccer. Tickets from $22.07. When: Saturday Aug 8, 1pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa
14. Ottawa Titans vs. Trois-Rivières Aigles
Catch Frontier League baseball as the Ottawa Titans host the Trois-Rivières Aigles for a three-game home series. Enjoy great ballpark food, drinks, and a fun night out for the whole family. Tickets from $16.95. When: Aug 7, 7pm; Aug 8, 6pm; Aug 9, 1pm. Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa
15. Nitro Circus 2.0
Watch world-class FMX, BMX, skate, and scooter athletes perform jaw-dropping stunts off the legendary Giganta Ramp in one of the world’s biggest action sports shows. Tickets from $35.85. When: Aug 5, Doors: 6pm, Show: 7pm. Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa. Details: https://www.nitrocircus.com/
16. Night Waves
Experience a unique after-hours waterpark adventure with live music, a DJ, night rides, a foam party, and a spectacular drone light show. Swim under the stars, enjoy the wave pool and slides, and dance the night away in a fun summer atmosphere. Tickets are $34.99 for season passholders and $52.99 for general admission. When: Friday Aug 7, 7pm–11pm. Where: Calypso Waterpark, 2015 Calypso St, Limoges. Details: https://calypsopark.com/en/
17. Festival de la fibre TWIST
Discover Canada’s largest textile and fibre arts festival celebrating knitting, weaving, spinning, embroidery, quilting, and more. Explore over 130 artisans, workshops, demonstrations, children’s activities, local food, and unique handmade creations. Tickets start at $15. When: Aug 7–9, Fri: 11am–6pm, Sat: 9am–5pm, Sun: 10am–4pm. Where: Complexe Whissell, 530 Rue Charles-Auguste-Montreuil, Saint-André-Avellin
More fun things to do in Ottawa
Friday
18. Dief the Chief: October ’62
Step inside the Diefenbunker for an immersive theatre experience set during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Discover the story of Prime Minister John Diefenbaker and the difficult decisions Canada faced during one of the most tense moments of the Cold War. Tickets are $59. When: Aug 7, 4:30pm & 6:30pm. Where: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Rd, Ottawa. Details: https://diefenbunker.ca/
Saturday
19. War Machines Weekend
See history come to life at the Canadian War Museum with impressive historic military vehicles, live demonstrations, and the stories behind these powerful machines. Meet drivers and volunteers while discovering Canada’s military history. Tickets are $20.70 for adults, $10.35 for young adults, and free for children. When: Aug 8, 10am, 12pm & 2pm. Where: Canadian War Museum, 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa. Details: https://www.warmuseum.ca/
20. Puppets Up! International Puppet Festival
Enjoy a magical weekend celebrating puppetry with performances, street entertainment, parades, a marketplace, and family activities. Downtown Almonte transforms into a lively stage filled with creativity and imagination for all ages. Tickets are $20 for children and $30 for adults. When: Aug 8–9, 10am–6pm
Where: Downtown Almonte. Details: https://puppetsup.com/
Sunday
21. Uncovering Bytown
Discover the origins of Ottawa on a guided walking tour through the history of Bytown, the settlement that became Canada’s capital. Learn about early communities, the Rideau Canal, and the city’s transformation through fascinating stories and historical insights. Tickets for non-members are $25. When: Aug 9, 10am. Where: Meet under the large “Maman” spider sculpture in front of the National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa. Details: https://heritageottawa.org/en/
More recurring events in Ottawa
22. 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
23. 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
24. 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/
25. Bar 7
Bar 7 is a well-known hangout in the region. Its cozy and intimate setting makes it the perfect place to celebrate happy hour with friends and co-workers. Once the sun sets, bands and DJs take centre stage to delight a dancing crowd. You won’t want to miss these live music nights! Country Wednesdays, Latin Thursdays, Rythmik Nights (Fridays and Saturdays). Free entry. When: Until Aug 29, 7pm. Where: Bar 7, Hotel Casino Lac Leamy, 3 Boulevard du Casino, Gatineau.
26. Creative Space at Library and Archives Canada
Explore artistic and literary activities at your own pace facilitated by bilingual staff. Free admission; no registration required. When: Every Wednesday, from July 8 to August 19, between 9am and 3pm. Where: Alfred Pellan room, 2nd floor, Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa.
27. Weekly Summer Guided Tours at Library & Archives Canada’s Preservation Centre
This summer, step inside Library and Archives Canada’s Preservation Centre in Gatineau, Quebec, and let yourself be guided behind the scenes on weekly guided tours open to the public. During a tour of approximately 70 minutes, participants will discover laboratories, vaults, and works by Canadian artists while learning how our specialists work every day to preserve our history. FREE. Registration required, Register here: https://evenements-events.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/Events/Details/207. When: Every Friday, from July 10 to August 14, at 10am and 1pm. Where: Gatineau Preservation Centre, 625 du Carrefour Boulevard, Gatineau, Quebec.
28. 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/
29. 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
30. 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
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: Saturdays until Aug 22, 4:30pm–6pm
Where: Rideau St Bridge (start/finish) / Lansdowne Park turnaround
Details: https://nac-cna.ca/
32. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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
39. 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.
40. 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.
41. 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.
42. 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
43. 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: Until the end of September. Between 6pm and 8pm depending on the date.
Where: Patterson Creek Park, Linden Terrace, Ottawa
45. 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.
46. 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
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. 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.
50. 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
51. 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.
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