Looking for ideas of what to do in Ottawa this weekend? Look no further! Here are 54 things to do including the opening weekend of the popular One World Bazaar, the Aero Gatineau festival with aerial shows by the Snowbirds and other fleets, City Folk, Taste of Wellington, sports matches and much more! Check out this post and share it with your crew!
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21 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.One World Bazaar
Step inside a 14,000+ sq. ft. barn filled with handcrafted treasures, home décor, artisan goods, furniture, fashion, gifts and unique finds from around the world. The opening weekend also features food vendors and live music.
FREE
When: Sept 17-Nov 22. Opening weekend Thu to Sun: 10am-5pm.
Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd., Manotick
Details: www.oneworldbazaar.ca
2. AERO Gatineau-Ottawa
Look to the skies for an action-packed airshow featuring the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, CF-18 Hornet, SkyHawks parachute team, aerobatic performers and historic aircraft. Friday’s twilight show ends with a spectacular drone show, while Saturday and Sunday feature the full airshow.
Tickets: $19.95, $59.95
When: Sept 18-20. Fri opens at 5pm; Sat-Sun opens at 10am.
Where: Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport, 1717 Arthur-Fecteau St., Gatineau
Details: www.
3. City Folk
Get ready for five days of live music with an eclectic lineup spanning rock, alternative, folk, country and more. This year’s headliners include Alabama Shakes, Third Eye Blind, Of Monsters and Men and Alice Cooper, with multiple stages and performances throughout the festival.
Tickets start at $99
When: Sept 16-20. Gates open at 5pm daily.
Where: RA Centre Grounds, 2451 Riverside Dr.
Details: cityfolkfestival.com
4. Canada Army Run
Run, walk or roll through Ottawa while supporting the Canadian Armed Forces community. Choose from a 5K, 10K, half marathon or one of the unique challenge events, with the races starting near Ottawa City Hall and finishing by the National War Memorial.
Registration required
When: Sept 20. The races start between 7:45am and 9:30am.
Where: Downtown Ottawa, starting near Ottawa City Hall
Details: armyrun.ca
5. Taste of Wellington
Wellington West comes alive with food tastings, local shopping, live music, circus acts, roller disco, kids’ activities, art and more. More than 100 local businesses are taking part, making this a great day to explore Hintonburg and Wellington Village while supporting the local community.
FREE
When: Sept 19. 10am-6pm. After Taste 6pm-11pm.
Where: Wellington West, from Island Park to the O-Train tracks
Details: https://www.
6. 613 Flea
Hunt for one-of-a-kind finds at this huge, ever-changing marketplace featuring 150 vendors selling handmade goods, vintage clothing, antiques, art, food and plenty of unexpected treasures. Admission is always free, so come browse and see what you discover.
FREE
When: Sept 19, 10am-4pm.
Where: Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St.
Details: IG @613flea
7. Stittsville Applefest
Celebrate the arrival of fall at this community marketplace featuring local artisans, creators and small businesses. Browse unique products, enjoy food and drinks, and soak up the seasonal atmosphere while supporting local makers.
FREE
When: Saturday Sept 19, 10am-2pm
Where: Village Square Park.
Details: https://glengower.ca/
8. Cumberland Heritage Village Museum – 50th Anniversary Open House
Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s as costumed interpreters bring the historic village to life. Explore heritage buildings, watch working vintage equipment in action, meet farm animals, and discover the new Memory Wall showcasing photographs and stories from the museum’s first five decades. A wonderful family outing just 30 minutes from downtown Ottawa. The open house runs from 10am to 3pm, with the museum open from 9am to 4pm.
FREE
When: Sunday, Sept 20, 9am-4pm.
Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Road, Cumberland
9. Swing on the Hill
Enjoy Ottawa’s beloved outdoor swing dance social on Parliament Hill, stepping into the spirit of the 1920s to 1940s! Bring your picnic, dancing shoes, and water bottle and spend the afternoon dancing against the stunning backdrop of Parliament Hill. The schedule includes a solo drop-in lesson at 3:30pm, a partner drop-in lesson at 5pm, and DJ’ed social dancing throughout. No partner or prior experience needed.
FREE
When: Saturday, Sept 19, 3pm-7:30pm.
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa
10. Capital Pop-Up Cinema – Jumanji at Beechwood Cemetery
Enjoy a magical free outdoor movie night at Beechwood Cemetery, Canada’s only national cemetery! The evening kicks off with a special themed walking tour at 6pm. Explore the grounds and meet eight remarkable scientists, explorers, and adventurers whose real-life stories connect to the mysterious world of Jumanji. Bring a blanket, chairs, and a picnic. Popcorn, water, and snacks available for purchase on site, and chair rentals are $5. Well-behaved dogs welcome.
FREE
When: Saturday, Sept 19. Walking tour at 6pm, film screening at 7:30pm.
Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa
11. Ottawa 200 Tour
History raconteur Jack Hanna brings the origins of the city to life with stories of the Algonquin people who lived in the area around 1826, including Chief Constant Pinesi, alongside tales of heroes, rogues, scandals, and fortunes that shaped the dramatic rise of Bytown. Discover how Colonel John By’s vision transformed the region into the city we know today. The tour lasts about 90 minutes and covers 1.4km.
FREE. Donations are appreciated.
When: Saturday, Sept 20 at 10:30am.
Where: Colonel John By Statue, Major’s Hill Park (behind the Château Laurier), Ottawa
12. Ottawa Senators Fan Fest 2026
Kick off the new NHL season with the Ottawa Senators at their annual Fan Fest! Walk the red carpet, get up close with players for autographs, enjoy a DJ, face painting for kids, and food and drink options. A great way to celebrate the start of hockey season with the whole family.
FREE. Tickets required, available on Ticketmaster.
When: Saturday, Sept 19 from noon to 4pm.
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa
13. Asinabka Film & Media Arts Festival – 15th Season
Discover films from Indigenous cultures and nations across Canada and around the world, a curated art exhibit at Gallery 101, Q&As, networking events, and a music showcase at Club SAW. The festival opens Tuesday evening with a free outdoor film screening at 7:30pm at Club SAW Courtyard. Tickets and passes available at Eventbrite.
Opening night is FREE
When: Sept 15-20. Opening night Tuesday, Sept 15, doors at 6pm.
Where: Various venues including Club SAW, 67 Nicholas Street, and Gallery 101, Ottawa
14. The Original Navan Market
Come support local vendors at the Original Navan Market, held inside the unique geodesic domes at the Navan Fairgrounds! Browse a wonderful selection of fresh produce, breads, cheese, honey, jams and jellies, wines and spirits, handmade jewelry, soaps, crafts, and so much more. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while listening to live entertainment on the stage.
FREE
When: Sunday, Sept 20, 9:30am to 2pm.
Where: Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Road, Navan
15. Tour de Gatineau
Canada’s most prestigious professional women’s cycling race comes to Gatineau, featuring a time trial and a road race with top UCI-ranked athletes from around the world competing through the streets of downtown Hull.
FREE
When: Sept 16-17. Wednesday 10:45am; Thursday 10:15am
Where: Centre-Ville de Hull, Gatineau
Details: https://www.
16. Atlético Ottawa vs. FC Supra du Québec
Ottawa’s professional men’s soccer team, competing in the Canadian Premier League (CPL), hosts FC Supra du Québec at TD Place. Doors open at 11am. Tickets from $33.
When: Sunday, Sept 20, 12pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
Details: https://www.
17. Ottawa Rapid FC vs Calgary Wild FC
Ottawa’s professional women’s soccer team, competing in the Northern Super League (NSL), hosts Calgary Wild FC at TD Place. Tickets from $25.
When: Sunday, Sept 20, 7pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
Details: https://www.
18. IWBF Wheelchair Basketball World Championships
Ottawa is the global epicentre of wheelchair basketball this month, hosting 336 elite athletes from 28 countries for 11 days of world-class competition. The knockout rounds are underway. Don’t miss the medal games on Saturday. Tickets from $35.75.
When: Sept 16-19. Wednesday: Quarter-finals (Women); Friday: Placement games; Saturday: Semi-finals 10am; Sunday: Medal games 10am
Where: TD Place and Carleton University, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
19. Richmond Fair
Now in its 182nd year, the Richmond Fair is one of the largest annual events in the Ottawa area, bringing the whole community together for agricultural shows, midway rides, live entertainment, a demolition derby, a parade, local food, and more. Tickets from $5.49.
When: Sept 17-20. Thursday 4pm-10pm; Friday 10am-7:30pm; Saturday 11am-midnight; Sunday 9am-7:30pm
Where: Richmond Fairgrounds, 6121 Perth St., Richmond
Details: https://www.
20. Ottawa Fashion Week
A celebration of local creativity and craftsmanship, Ottawa Fashion Week showcases original collections from Ottawa-based designers alongside an Open Runway, live music, and a vibrant mix of fashion, art, and community. Doors open at 4:30pm. Tickets from $27.96.
When: Saturday, Sept 19, 5pm–9pm
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa
Details: On Eventbrite. IG @fashionweekottawa
21. Ottawa Anime-Fest
Ottawa’s annual anime trade show and convention brings together collectors, cosplayers, and fans of anime, manga, and pop culture fandoms under one roof. Tickets from $13.45.
When: Saturday, Sept 19, 10am
Where: Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport, Ottawa
Details: https://www.fancons.
More fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
22. Mayoral Eco Debate, Leading Candidates
Residents of Ottawa are invited to join us for a Mayoral Debate featuring four of the leading candidates for Mayor of Ottawa and moderated by CBC’s David Thurton. The candidates will take part in a structured debate focused on the environmental and sustainability issues facing Ottawa, including climate action, urban growth, transportation, housing, trees and greenspace, and community resilience.
FREE but reservation is required. Brought to you by The People’s Official Plan (POP) coalition.
When: Thursday Sept 17, 6pm-8pm
Where: Centretown United Church, 507 Bank Street, Ottawa
Registration: RSVP on Eventbrite FREE
23. Quilt Walk
Come experience an unforgettable outdoor gallery of colour, creativity, and community! Follow a gentle 1 km woodland path lined with over 200 modern quilts, displayed under the dappled light of the forest.
FREE
When: September 18-20
Where: 2477 Huntley Road
Details: https://glengower.ca/
24. Dief the Chief: October 62
Experience an immersive theatrical performance 75 feet underground at the Diefenbunker, following Prime Minister John Diefenbaker through the Cuban Missile Crisis of October 1962. The production moves through historic rooms of the bunker, blending live theatre with Canadian Cold War history.
Tickets: $59.
When: Sept 18, 23, 25. 4:30pm and 6:30pm.
Where: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa, ON.
Details: https://diefenbunker.
Saturday
25. Gem, Mineral & Jewellery Show and Sale
Discover beautiful gemstones, minerals, fossils, meteorites, jewellery, crystals, beads, carvings, and more. The show also features demonstrations, displays, hands-on activities, and mineral and gem identification.
Tickets: $8, 12yrs & under: FREE.
When: Sept 19-20. Sat 10am–6pm; Sun 10am–5pm.
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa.
Details: https://olmc.ca/
26. Alchemy Fest
Step into the unique world of fusion and contemporary dance. Featuring original works from a variety of Canadian artists and groups who defy convention and push the boundaries of their creativity, this event promises something for everyone. Tickets available online for $20+fees.
When: Saturday, Sept 19; doors at 6:30pm, show at 7pm.
Where: LabO Theatre (OAG) entrance at 10 Daly Ave.
27. Heating Up the Capital
Get ready for a spicy day featuring over 30 Canadian hot sauce makers, free tastings, hot sauce shopping, food, beer and wine, ice cream, and spicy competitions and entertainment.
Tickets: $19.56.
When: Saturday, Sept 19, 10am–5pm.
Where: Smokie Ridge Vineyard, 10090 Cameron Road, Mountain, ON.
Details: https://
28. Zulu Challenge
Take on a family-friendly obstacle-course challenge designed for adults, kids and even dogs, with fitness obstacles and teamwork activities. The Ottawa event includes adult, kids and K9 categories.
Tickets: $107.64.
When: Saturday, Sep 19, 10am-12pm.
Where: Hog’s Back Park, 600 Hog’s Back Road, Ottawa.
Details: On Eventbrite
Sunday
29. Cat Video Fest
Enjoy a 70-minute, family-friendly compilation of the newest and funniest cat videos, including viral classics, original submissions, animations and music videos. A portion of ticket proceeds supports local cats in need.
Tickets: $17.25.
When: Sept 20-22. Sat 3:45pm; Sun 6:30pm; Mon 9:15pm; Tue 9pm.
Where: ByTowne Cinema, 325 Rideau Street, Ottawa.
Details: https://www.bytowne.
More recurring events in Ottawa
30. Cirque du Soleil: LUZIA
Rain falls indoors, acrobats fly, and an imagined Mexico comes to life in LUZIA, Cirque du Soleil’s return to Ottawa under the Big Top. Vivid colour, live music, and gravity-defying feats carry you from desert to dance hall in a surreal daydream of a show. Tickets: from $72. When: Sep 10-Oct 18. Where: Under the Big Top, St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St. Laurent Boulevard, Ottawa. Details: https://www.cirquedusoleil.
31. Arôme
Soak up the warm days at Arôme, the restaurant at the Hotel-Casino du Lac-Leamy in Gatineau. Enjoy the lovely terrace and inviting atmosphere while indulging in delicious cocktails and seafood and grill specialties. Arôme is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
A special BBQ menu featuring tasty homemade sausages is also available every Friday and Saturday from 5 pm to 9:30 pm for $82 per person, until Sept 5.
When: Daily from 6:30am to 10pm.
Where: Arôme, Hilton Lac-Leamy Hotel, Level A, 3 Boulevard du Casino.
Reserve your table here: https://casinos.
32. Salsa Street Seats
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: Fridays during August and September. 7pm
Where: Somerset & Cambridge Parking Lot, 687 Somerset Street West, Ottawa.
33. 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/
34. 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 Oct 31, 7pm. Where: Bar 7, Hotel Casino Lac Leamy, 3 Boulevard du Casino, Gatineau.
35. 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
36. 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 until Sept 25 | Seatings at 10:30am, 12:30pm & 2:30pm
Where: Laurier House National Historic Site, 335 Laurier Ave. East, Ottawa
37. 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. (Until Nov 8)
When: By reservation.
Where: Tulip Restaurant, Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Ottawa Downtown, 361 Queen Street, Ottawa.
30. 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
39. 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 until Sept 26.
Where: Britannia Beach, 102 Greenview Avenue.
Details: On Eventbrite
40. 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.
41. 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
42. 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.
43. 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.
44. 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.
45. 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
When: Until the end of September. Between 6pm and 8pm depending on the date.
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. Every Thursday, admission to the museum is free from 5pm to 8pm. 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. 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.
50. 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.
51. 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
52. 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.
