59 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | Aug 21-23

Take a trip back to the 70s, 80s and 90s with five days of live music!
Enjoy professional tribute bands bringing some of your favourite classic hits back to life. Expect throwback tunes, food vendors, drinks and a fun outdoor festival atmosphere. Tickets start at $63.
When: Aug 19–23, Wed–Fri 4:30pm–11pm, Sat–Sun 3pm–11pm
Where: LeBreton Flats, 1 Vimy Pl.
Details: nostalgiafestival.ca

4. Capital Fair

Haven’t been to the Capital Fair? Don’t miss it on its second weekend. Along with the Midway and games, there will be live music, a dog stunt show, a lumberjack show, piglet races, and a demolition 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. Art in Strathcona Park

Spend the day browsing beautiful handmade creations by local artists and artisans! This long-running community art show brings creativity, shopping and a great park setting together. Discover unique pieces, meet the artists and support local makers.
When: Sat Aug 22, 10am–4pm
Where: Strathcona Park, 25 Range Rd.
Details: nationalcapitalartisans.ca

6. Meet & Grease Car Show

Bring your car, truck, motorcycle, or just come out and enjoy an afternoon filled with amazing vehicles, great food, music, and family-friendly fun, all while supporting Ottawa Heart Institute. FREE admission and free parking. Registering a vehicle for the show is $10.
When: Sunday Aug 23, 12pm-4pm
Where: 1231 Newmarket Street, Ottawa.
Details: On Facebook

7. Stittsville Sweet Corn Festival

Enjoy a fun-filled celebration of everyone’s favourite summer vegetable at the Stittsville Sweet Corn Festival! Go crazy with corn as vendors serve up corn relish, popcorn, corn dogs, corn bread, corn salsa, corn decor, and so much more. A great family outing for all ages. FREE.
When: Saturday, Aug 22 from 10am to 2:30pm.
Where: Village Square Park, 6000 Abbott Street East, Stittsville

8. Barrhaven Annual Carnival 4 Kids (BACK)

Come to Larkin Park for a fun-filled community carnival in support of CHEO! The park transforms into a lively hub with live music, games, face painting, massive bouncy castles, and entertainers for the whole family. More than just a great day out, the carnival is a chance to come together and make a real difference for children, youth, and families in our region. FREE.
When: Saturday, Aug 22, 1pm-6pm.
Where: Larkin Park, 76 Larkin Drive, Ottawa

9. Queenswood Heights Music Festival

Enjoy a fun-filled day of live music, local food, and community spirit in the heart of Orléans! The Queenswood Heights Music Festival brings local musicians to the stage while you explore an artisan market, community exhibits, food vendors, and activities for all ages including games, crafts, and interactive experiences for children. A welcoming neighbourhood celebration for everyone. FREE.
When: Saturday, Aug 22, 10am-4pm.
Where: Queenswood Heights, Orléans

10. The Original Navan Market

Shop fresh produce, artisan breads, local honey, cheese, handmade crafts, jewelry, and more while enjoying live entertainment at this popular farmers’ market. It’s a great Sunday outing for the whole family. Free admission.
When: Sunday Aug 23, 9:30am–2pm
Where: Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Rd, Navan
Details: IG @theoriginalnavanmarket

11. Salsa Street Seats – Ottawa’s Calle del Sabor, Curated by SalsaRehab

Enjoy a free outdoor salsa experience in the heart of Ottawa’s Chinatown every Friday night! Salsa Street Seats, curated by SalsaRehab, kicks off with open-level dance classes led by instructors from the University of Ottawa Salsa Club. No partner or prior experience needed, followed by social dancing and live Latin music. FREE.
When: Friday Aug 22 and every Friday during August and September. 7pm
Where: Somerset & Cambridge Parking Lot, 687 Somerset Street West, Ottawa

12. 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: Turner & Hooch. FREE.
When: Friday Aug 21, 8:30pm.
Where: Churchill Seniors Community Centre, 345 Richmond Road, Ottawa.
Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema

13. Tomato Fest

Enjoy the annual Tomato Fest at the Real Canadian Superstore in Westboro! Celebrate the season’s finest Roma tomatoes alongside local vendors, food trucks, and face painting for the kids. A fun, family-friendly outing for the whole neighbourhood. FREE.
When: Saturday, Aug 22, 9am-1pm.
Where: Real Canadian Superstore, 190 Richmond Road, Ottawa

14. Ottawa Palestinian Festival 2026

Enjoy a vibrant three-day celebration of Palestinian culture, community, and heritage at Lansdowne Park! Sample authentic Palestinian cuisine, shop the bustling cultural bazaar, watch traditional dabkeh dance performances, and enjoy live music throughout the weekend. Saturday is the main festival day with traditional music, dance troupes, and cultural showcases. Sunday wraps up with family programming, artisan booths, and closing celebrations. FREE.
When: Aug 21-23.
Where: Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa.

15. Dance at Zibi – Argentine Tango

Close out the summer with a free outdoor tango lesson right at Zibi. Learn the embrace, the footwork, and a few secrets of tango culture from the team at Siempre Tango Ottawa. No experience or partner needed, all levels welcome. FREE.
When: Thursday, Aug 20, 7pm–8pm
Where: Head Street Square, 310 Miwate Private, Ottawa (Rain location: The Warehouse, 28 Booth St.)

16. Atlético Ottawa vs. Vancouver FC

Ottawa hosts Vancouver FC in a CPL clash that’s shaping up to be a tight one. Wear your red and white and bring the noise. Tickets from $33.
When: Wednesday, Aug 19, 7pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa

17. Ottawa Rapid FC vs. Vancouver Rise FC

Ottawa’s women’s soccer club takes on the defending NSL champions, Vancouver Rise FC, in what’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated home matches of the season. Tickets from $37.50.
When: Saturday, Aug 22, 7pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa

18. Ottawa Titans vs. Mississippi Mud Monsters

Bring the whole crew to Ottawa Stadium this weekend for three nights of live Frontier League baseball, plus fun extras every single game. Don’t miss it. Tickets from $15.
When:
• Friday, Aug 21, 7pm. Jamaica Trip Giveaway Night + post-game fireworks
• Saturday, Aug 22, 6pm. Bark in the Park — bring your dog!
• Sunday, Aug 23, 1pm. Family Fun Day — team photo giveaway + post-game autographs
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Road, Ottawa

19. Yowfest

A two-day multicultural music festival taking over The Urban Centre. Day 1 celebrates French-speaking and international artists, while Day 2 brings high-energy urban English acts from Canada and beyond. Featuring Jay Critch, Tizzo, Erin B, Gretch’N, and many more. Tickets from $37.
When:
• Friday, August 21, 4pm
• Saturday, August 22, 4pm
Where: The Urban Centre, 70 Bongard Ave, Ottawa

20. Monster Trucks All Out

Giant outdoor monster truck action comes to Carp for one day only. Watch iconic Canadian trucks like ROBOSHARK, BUCKING BRONCO, OUTFOXED, and the Canadian debut of T-REX battle it out in two high-flying shows. Tickets from $20.
When: Saturday, August 22, 11am and 4:30pm
Where: 3629 Carp Road, Carp, ON

More things to do in Ottawa

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

21. Book Club: Celebrating Pride Season

Explore stories by and about members of the Canadian 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, allies, and anyone interested in discovering diverse perspectives are invited to take part. Every month, we suggest a list of titles from the collections preserved at LAC to guide and inspire your reading and our conversation. FREE. Registration required.
When : Wednesday Aug 19 (in French) and Thursday Aug 20 (in English), from 4pm to 5pm.
Where : 1st floor, Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa.

22. Partage Beechwood

Enjoy an elegant fundraising dinner under the stars at historic Beechwood Cemetery. This year’s Moroccan-inspired evening features a five-course meal by Chef Dave Godsoe, wine pairings, cocktails and canapés, all beneath a beautiful canopy of lanterns. Proceeds support the Partage Vanier Food Bank. Tickets at $350 +HST, includes a $50 donation to Partage Vanier Food Bank.
When: Wednesday, Aug 19, 5:30pm–10pm.
Where: 280 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa, ON.

23. The Wallflowers

Big things landing in the ByWard Market. History Ottawa (the Drake x Live Nation venue that’s been taking over Toronto) is officially throwing open its doors, and it’s doing it with a legit ’90s rock legend. The Wallflowers are playing the very first show at the brand new venue. Expect that warm, roots-rock sound, decades of hits, and the kind of energy that comes with christening a brand new stage. Tickets start around $63+ (prices vary by seller/section).

When: Thursday, Aug 20. Doors/show at 7pm
Where: History Ottawa, 47 Rideau St, Ottawa
Details: historyottawa.com

Saturday

25. Pride Pageant

Watch local drag performers compete for the titles of Mr., Mx., and Ms. Capital Pride 2026 in a glamorous evening of performances, creativity, and celebration. Hosted by Cyril Cinder, with judges Yovska, Suki Doll, and Hercusleaze. Tickets starting at $35.
When: Saturday, Aug 22, 8pm.
Where: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON.

26. 5K Foam Fest

Get ready to get muddy, wet, and covered in foam at this fun-filled 5K obstacle course. With 25+ obstacles, giant inflatable slides, foam zones, mud pits, music, food vendors, and a free kids’ zone, it’s designed for all abilities and can be walked, run, or tackled at your own pace. Tickets: $100.62.
When: Saturday, Aug 22, 8am-5pm.
Where: 401 Corkstown Rd, Nepean, ON.

27. Ottawa Jollof Festival

Celebrate African food and culture at this vibrant festival featuring a Jollof Pavilion, live music, dance, fashion, an African marketplace, cooking classes, and a kids’ zone. Come hungry and enjoy a weekend filled with food, music, and community. FREE.
When: August 22-23, 11am-9pm.
Where: Jacques Cartier Park, Rue Laurier, Gatineau, QC.

28. North Lanark Highland Games

Celebrate Scottish culture and heritage at this lively Highland Games featuring 20 pipe bands, Highland dancers, heavyweight athletic competitions, vendors, and Mini-Highland Games for children. With the Mississippi River as a backdrop, it’s a fun cultural experience for the whole family. Tickets at $20, children 11 and under are FREE.
When: Saturday, August 22, 8am–6pm.
Where: Almonte Fairgrounds, 195 Water Street, Almonte, ON.

29. Secondhand Stories Chicken Sanctuary Open House

Meet rescued chickens and explore this unique sanctuary at its annual Open House. Enjoy hourly guided tours, a vendor marketplace, yoga with the chickens, children’s story time, and hands-on activities while learning about chicken rescue and humane education. Tickets: $12.
When: Saturday, Aug 22, 9am-4pm.
Where: 21 Pegg Road, Lombardy, ON.

Next Week

30. Art from the Archives : Zine Making

In celebration of Capital Pride, August’s Art from the Archives workshop invites you to discover zines and literary works by 2SLGBTQ+ creators preserved at Library and Archives Canada. Inspired by these works, you’ll create your own zine. All materials will be provided, and creative tools and guidance will be available for participants of all experience levels. Participants are encouraged to bring any drafts or works in progress they’d like to develop during the workshop. Free admission, registration required.
When Tuesday Aug 25 (in French) and Wednesday Aug 26 (in English), from 7pm to 9 pm.
Where : Alfred Pellan room, 2nd floor, Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa.

More recurring events in Ottawa

31. 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

32. 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/

33. 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.

34. 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

35. 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

36. 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

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.