60 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | Aug 14-16

Looking for things to do in Ottawa this weekend? From iconic festivals and fairs to free outdoor events, live music, food and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone this weekend! Check out this post and share it with your friends!

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

1.Ottawa Greekfest

Enjoy one of the highlights of Ottawa summer, the Greekfest brings delicious Greek cuisine, live music, performances, dancing and the energy of Greece to the capital. Don’t miss the popular Zorba Show, the Multicultural night, the Greek dance performances, the church tours and the market. FREE admission.

When: Aug 13-16 and 20-23.

Where: 1315 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa

Details: https://ottawagreekfest.ca/

2. Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy

Don’t miss the last two shows including the Grand Finale! This is 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 for free are: Kiweki Point, Major’s Hill Park, Mackenzie King Bridge.

When: Wednesday Aug 12 and Saturday Aug 15 at 9:15pm.

Where: Canadian Museum of History, Gatineau, 100 Laurier St, Gatineau.

Details: http://feux.qc.ca/

3. Lock & Paddle

Paddle into the lock alongside a flash mob of colourful canoes and kayaks, and descend through the locks to the sounds of laughter and music. All skill levels and all ages are welcome. FREE to join. No need for registration.

When: Saturday Aug 15 at 1:30pm.

Where: Hartwells lockstation

Details: On Facebook

4. Capital Fair

It’s time to kick off the Fair season with a trip to the Capital Fair. Along with the Midway and games, there will be live music, a dog stunt show, a lumberjack show, piglet races, and a demolitition derby. Fun for all ages. Tickets $10.

When: Aug 14-23, 11am-11pm

Where: Rideau Carleton Casino, 4837 Albion Rd S, Gloucester

Details: IG @thecapitalfair

5. Carp Garlic Festival

A celebration you can smell a mile away, is what you’ll find at the Carp Farmer’s Market Garlic Festival. In addition to all your normal market favourites, it’s a weekend devoted to all things garlic with gardening tips, cooking demos, braiding classes, and garlic tasting (with shots). Be careful who you kiss after. FREE

When: Aug 15-16. Sat 8am-3pm, Sun 10am-3pm.

Where: Carp Farmers Market, 3790 Carp Road, Carp

Details: IG @carpfarmersmarket

6. Le Grand Poutinefest

Time to indulge in the ultimate comfort food at Le Grand Poutinefest. Five food trucks doing poutine battle with varities including pulled pork, dumplings, lobster, and fried pickles. Paired with craft beers and other snacks, it’s a day for feasting. FREE

When: Aug 14-16. Fri-Sat 12pm-9pm, Sun 12pm-7pm.

Where: Promenades de Gatineau, 1100 Boulevard Maloney Ouest, Gatineau

Details: https://legrandpoutinefest.ca/

7. Russell Fair

Fair season comes to Russell with the return of the Russell Fair. Rides, live entertainment, and games of course, but all sort of pulls from Tractor to Truck to Heavy Horse, a baby show and a demolition derby. Fun this weekend in Russell. Tickets $16 ($6 for kids 7-12)

When: Aug 13-16. Thu-Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 9am-3pm

Where: Russell Fair Grounds, 1076 Concession St, Russell

Details: https://russellagriculturalsociety.com

8. Vankleek Hill Fair

Have better than a fair time at the Vankleek Hill Fair. Along with the usual rides and games, there’s the Fair parade, an Extreme Cowboy show, a Wildtime Rodeo, agricultural exhibitions and a demolition derby. Tickets from $25

When: Aug 13-16. Thu-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-5pm.

Where: Vankleek Hill Fairgrounds, 92 Main Street West, Vankleek Hill

Details: https://vankleekhillfair.ca/

9. Cars and Coffee Ottawa

Grab your caffeinated beverage and cruise on into the Cars and Coffee Event at TD Place. The best and the beautiful on 4 wheels will be here with over 50 unique classic and exotic automobiles on display. Come dream at what you could be driving. FREE.

When: Friday Aug 14, 6pm-10pm

Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa

Details: IG @carsandcoffeeottawa

10. 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: The Mighty Wind. FREE.

When: Saturday Aug 15, 8:30pm.

Where: Beechwood Cemetery, Ottawa.

Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema

11. 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 & Where: Aug 12: Tanglewood Park, 30 Woodfield Dr, go

Aug 13: Raven Park, John Smith Field, 1500 Larose Ave, Ottawa

Aug 14: Stanley Park, 183 Stanley Ave

Aug 15: Windsor Park, 1 Windsor Ave, Ottawa

Details: fools.ca

12. Evenings at Zibi

Explore a lively riverside night market featuring local vendors, art activations, and delicious food beside Chaudière Falls. FREE

When: Saturday Aug 15, 5pm-10pm

Where: Head Street Square, 310 Miwate Private, Ottawa

Details: https://urbanartcollective.ca/pages/evenings-at-zibi

13. Salsa Series Lansdowne Park

Dance under the stars at this outdoor social featuring a beginner salsa workshop and open Latin dancing. FREE

When: Wednesday, Aug 12, 6:30pm-10pm

Where: Aberdeen Plaza, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa

Details: On Facebook

14. Free Community Screening: Afrosphere & Entre Deux Mondes

Enjoy a captivating evening of local filmmaking, Afrobeat documentary screenings, and direct conversations with the creative filmmakers. FREE

When: Sunday, Aug 16, 6:30pm-10pm

Where: The Origin Arts & Community Centre, 57 Lyndale Avenue, Ottawa

Details: On Eventbrite

15. The Ottawa Kosher BBQ Cook-Off & Festival

Cheer on championship cooking teams and treat the family to live music and a dedicated Kids Zone. FREE

When: Aug 15-16, 11am-4pm

Where: Ottawa Torah Centre, 111 Lamplighters Drive, Ottawa

Details: https://www.theotc.org/tem

16. Ottawa Flower Market

Stroll through vibrant flower stalls and create your own custom arrangement at the build-your-own bouquet bar. FREE

When: Saturday, Aug 15, 9am

Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa

Details: https://www.ottawaflowermarket.ca/

17. Geek Hoard Haul

Discover rare retro treasures, pop culture collectibles, handmade plushies, and whimsical art prints from passionate community vendors. FREE

When: Saturday, Aug 15, 10am-5pm

Where: Bell Sensplex, 1565 Maple Grove Road, Ottawa

Details: On Eventbrite

18. Under the Stars

An outdoor live music series in the Club SAW courtyard, presented by spectrasonic, spotlighting local and touring indie talent under the night sky. This weekend’s two-night edition is headlined by The New Hires and Scary Bear Soundtrack on Friday, with in passing and TRVLR leading Saturday’s bill. All ages welcome, 19+ with ID to drink. Tickets from $19.54.

When: Aug 14-15, 2:30pm.

Where: Club SAW courtyard, 67 Nicholas Street, Ottawa.

19. Major League Show Jumping Ottawa

A weekend of world-class international show jumping, drawing some of the sport’s top-ranked riders and horses for CSI5\*/CSI2\* competition. Beyond the ring, there’s a Family Fun Zone, local vendors, food trucks, and a licensed patio overlooking the grass Grand Prix field, with Saturday’s big-money Grand Prix as the headline event. Tickets from $21.97.

When: Aug 14-16; Grand Prix Saturday, Aug 15, 2pm.

Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Road, Ottawa.

More things to do in Ottawa this weekend

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

20. 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 12 and 14, 4:30pm & 6:30pm. Where: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Rd, Ottawa.

21. Green Drinks: Waste Reduction Edition & Trivia Night!

Come for a fun night of friendly competition, networking, and learning. Bring a team of friends or form one once you arrive with your tablemates. There will be prizes, so get ready to compete (or just play for fun)! Topics will cover waste reduction and environmental issues in pop culture. Network, grab dinner and a drink, or enjoy free vegetarian pizza.

When: Thursday, August 13, 5:30pm to 7pm

Where: The Prescott, 379 Preston Street

Details: IG @cafesottawa

Saturday

22. Barbatuques with Victor Anastacio

Part of the NAC’s Brazilian Grooves concert series, this is an evening of body percussion from the acclaimed Brazilian group Barbatuques, who turn the human body into a full orchestra using claps, snaps, chest beats, vocal sounds, and rhythmic improvisation. Led here by Victor Anastacio, it’s a joyful, high-energy celebration of Brazilian musical tradition. Tickets: $25.

When: Saturday, Aug 15, 7:30pm.

Where: Fourth Stage, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.

23. Tribute to Barbra Streisand – Songbird

A 90-minute tribute to the legendary Barbra Streisand starring Montreal-born vocalist Karine Hannah, backed by her band Water Colors. Praised by songwriter Jim Steinman as the best voice he’d worked with since Céline Dion, Hannah delivers Streisand’s songbook with emotional depth and electrifying stage banter. English-language repertoire, no intermission; ages 18+. Tickets from $58.

When: Saturday, Aug 15, 8pm (doors 7pm).

Where: Théâtre du Casino, Hôtel-Casino du Lac-Leamy, 1 Boulevard du Casino, Gatineau.

24. Crafter’s Movie Afternoon

Settle in for a cozy afternoon of stitching and cinema at this lights-on movie experience made for crafters, where guests can work on crochet, knitting, cross-stitch, or other projects while watching The Parent Trap. Admission: $16.

When: Saturday, Aug 15 from 12:30-2:30pm.

Where: Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank Street, Ottawa.

25. Queer Market at Next Door Ottawa

Celebrate creativity, identity, and community at this queer-centred market spotlighting LGBTQIA+ makers, artists, small businesses, handmade goods, fashion, art, accessories, and more. FREE.

When: Saturday Aug 15-16, 11am-5pm.

Where: Next Door Market & Event Space, 955A Gladstone Avenue, Ottawa.

26. Gatineau-Ottawa Sasquatch Conference

Discover the mystery and folklore surrounding Sasquatch at this two-day conference exploring reports and stories from the Ottawa and Outaouais region, featuring guest speakers, vendor booths, themed products, and resources for enthusiasts and curious visitors. Admission: $40+.

When: Aug 15-16, 8am-5pm.

Where: La Cabane en Bois Rond, 331 Boulevard de la Cité-des-Jeunes, Gatineau.

Sunday

27. Run & Rave 2.0

Missed the first Run & Rave? You can catch it this Sunday! Join Pilates x Run Ottawa and Let’s Go Cargo for a free 5K run followed by a street block party celebrating Strong Wellington West’s first anniversary. No registration required. A mobile DJ will keep the energy going!

When: Sunday, August 16, 10:30am–4pm. The run is from 10:30 to 11:30am

Where: Strong Wellington West, 1306 Wellington St. W.

Details: IG @pilatesxrun

28. Picnic at the Estate

Wander the gardens to the ambiance of a live string duet, learn the secret language of fans, pose for an old-fashioned photo memento, try plein air art or a tea-leaf reading, and challenge new friends to traditional parlour and lawn games. Guests are encouraged to dress in their 19th-century or garden-party best. 18+; advance registration required. Tickets: $46.63 (taxes included).

When: Sunday, Aug 16, 1pm–4pm.

Where: Billings Estate National Historic Site, 2100 Cabot Street, Ottawa.

Other recurring events in Ottawa

29. 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. Details: http://www.odysseytheatre.ca

30. 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

31. 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/

32. 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.

33. 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, 2^nd floor, Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa.

34. 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.

35. 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

36. 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

37. 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

38. 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

39. 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.

40. 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

41. 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.

42. 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

43. 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

44. 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.