October is here, and fall is definitely making its entrance! There’s so much happening around Ottawa this weekend, from fall hikes and markets to music festivals, circus shows, sports events and so much more.
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20 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Fall Rhapsody
Enjoy Ottawa’s spectacular fall colours as the landscape transforms into shades of red, orange and yellow. Explore the city, Greenbelt and Gatineau Park, and discover some of the best spots to take in the season’s changing scenery. A free shuttle takes you to the most popular spots in Gatineau Park including Pink Lake, King Mountain, and Mackenzie King Estate. FREE
When: Oct 1-25
Where: Ottawa-Gatineau region
Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/events/
2. One World Bazaar
Shop, explore and discover treasures from around the world at this annual fall shopping experience in Manotick. Browse handcrafted goods, furniture, jewellery and ceramics, while enjoying food, live entertainment and special events throughout the season. This weekend is Thailand weekend.
When: Oct 2-4. Fri-Sun 10am-5pm.
Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd., Manotick
Details: https://www.oneworldbazaar.ca
3. Byward Barket
Bring your furry friend to this dog-friendly celebration at the ByWard Market, featuring a dog-themed artisan market, a dog fashion show, live entertainment, local vendors and plenty of activities for pet lovers. FREE
When: Sunday Oct 4, 10am-5pm.
Where: ByWard Market
Details: https://bytownbarket.com/
4. Carleton University Butterfly Show
Step into a tropical oasis filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies at Carleton University’s annual Butterfly Show. Get an up-close look at colourful species while learning more about these fascinating creatures. Tickets are sold out for this year, but put it on your radar for next year!
When: Oct 3-11
Where: Carleton University
Details: https://carleton.ca/biology/
5. Metcalfe Fair
The Metcalfe Fair returns for its 170th anniversary with a full weekend of agricultural exhibits, midway rides, live entertainment, food and family fun. Expect everything from livestock and rural traditions to live music and fairground attractions. Tickets: $5, $12, $17
When: Oct 1-4
Where: 2821 8th Line Rd., Metcalfe
Details: https://metcalfefair.com/
6. Capital Music Week
Ottawa becomes one big stage during Capital Music Week, a nine-day celebration bringing together live music, showcases, nightlife, workshops, networking events and more across the city. Don’t miss the free Capital Drag Night and Dance Party featuring Bif Naked, hosted by Jamie Fine at Skate & Play (1101 Baxter Rd). When: Oct 2-10 Where: Various locations across Ottawa. Details: https://capitalmusicweek.com/
7. 613 Flea
Shop a wide range of locally made goods from 150 local vendors, including handcrafted items, art, jewelry, baked goods, and great food, plus awesome antique and vintage finds. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 3, 10am-4pm. Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St. Details: IG @613flea
8. Ottawa Fall Home Show 2026
Enjoy Ottawa’s premier fall home show at the Cohere Centre! Meet trusted home improvement experts face-to-face and get advice on renovations, interior design, landscaping, pools, and more. Seniors’ Day is Thursday Oct 1 with admission for $5. Adult tickets are $12, youth and seniors $11, children 12 and under FREE. Weekday admission after 4pm is $7.
When: Oct 1-4. Thu-Fri noon-9pm; Sat 10am-7pm; Sun 10am-5pm.
Where: Cohere Centre, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
9. Capital Pop-Up Cinema
Come to the annual Capital Pop-Up Cinema and Chamberfest collaboration for a classic horror night at Beechwood Cemetery. Live music, experimental cinema and classic horror come together under the stars. FREE. When: Saturday, Oct 3. Live music at 6:30pm; an optical poem at 7pm and The Mummy’s Tomb (1942) at 7:30pm. Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa. Details: IG @capitalpopupcinema
10. Dalhousie Day 2026
Enjoy a free community celebration in the heart of Little Italy as the Dalhousie Community Association marks Ottawa’s 200th anniversary! One of Ottawa’s earliest neighbourhoods comes alive with an Indigenous blessing from Albert Dumont of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation, live music from The Lockmasters, The Faes, and Kavita Thomas, and a dance performance by Yet Keen. Kids activities, giant games, ping pong, and live painting round out the day. FREE.
When: Saturday, Oct 3 from 10am to 5pm.
Where: Plouffe Park, 130 Preston Street, Ottawa
Details: https://www.ottawadalhousie.
11. 2026 Panda Game
Enjoy one of Ottawa’s most beloved annual sports rivalries as the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees take on the Carleton University Ravens in the 2026 Panda Game! The stakes are high as both teams battle it out on the field for possession of the legendary trophy, Pedro the Panda. A must-see event for university football fans and Ottawa sports lovers alike. Tickets from $79.81.
When: Sunday, Oct 4 from noon to 4pm.
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
Details: On Ticketmaster
12. Capital Wedding Show
Enjoy Ottawa’s premier wedding show, bringing the best of the Ottawa and Gatineau wedding industry under one roof! Meet vendors for venues, catering, photography, flowers, entertainment, and more, enter contests and door prize draws, and catch the fashion show at 1:30pm. Sign up for the Bridal Registry to unlock exclusive savings and offers from exhibitors. Tickets are $12 online or $15 at the door. Children 17 and under FREE. Ticket includes unlimited re-entry.
When: Sunday, Oct 4 from 11am to 4pm.
Where: Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa
Details: https://www.
13. Expressions of Art 2026
Discover original artwork by more than 30 local artists at the West Carleton Arts Society’s annual juried exhibition in Carp. Browse paintings, photography, sculpture and more, meet the artists and hear the stories and inspiration behind their work. There will also be prints and art cards available, with something for different tastes and budgets. FREE admission and parking. When: Saturday Oct 3, 8am–4pm and Oct 4, 10am–4pm. Where: Agricultural Hall, Carp Fairgrounds, 3790 Carp Road, Carp.
14. Estée Lauder Cosmetics Warehouse Sale
Enjoy an incredible opportunity to shop premium beauty products at warehouse prices! The Estée Lauder Warehouse Sale features deep discounts on cosmetics, skincare, and fragrances from Estée Lauder and its family of brands. No tickets or reservations required, just show up and shop. FREE admission and free parking on site.
When: Oct 1-4. Thu-Fri 9am-7:30pm; Sat-Sun 9am-5:30pm.
Where: Cohere Centre, Hall 3, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa
Details: IG @premiumretailgroup
15. Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Friday night football is back at TD Place as the REDBLACKS take on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in a CFL home game this weekend. Tickets from $15. When: Friday, Oct 2, 7pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa. Details: https://www.ottawaredblacks.
16. Ottawa 67’s vs. Erie Otters
The 67’s kick off their home season at TD Place with an afternoon OHL matchup against the Erie Otters. Great junior hockey and a fun outing for the whole family. Tickets from $25. When: Saturday, Oct 3, 3pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa. Details: https://www.ottawa67s.com
17. PumpkInferno
Thousands of hand-crafted illuminated pumpkins come to life along the historic streets of Upper Canada Village for one of Ontario’s most magical fall traditions. A stunning walk-through experience perfect for all ages. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Tickets from $21, kids under 5 FREE. When: Oct 2-31. 7pm–10pm. Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg. Details: https://www.
18. Cirque à la Carte: Circus of Shadows
Ottawa’s beloved circus cabaret is back with a Halloween twist, featuring aerial acrobatics, juggling, hand balance, hooping, and more in an intimate setting. Two evening shows for ages 18+ and one all-ages afternoon show with a Halloween costume parade. Tickets from $37.28, children 2 and under FREE. When: Oct 2-3. Friday 8pm (18+); Saturday 2pm (all ages) and 7pm (18+). Where: LabO Theatre, Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa. Details: https://www.cirquonscient.com
19. Ontario Festival of Small Halls
World-class Canadian musicians take the stage in intimate, beloved community halls across Eastern Ontario for one of the region’s most unique music experiences. Tickets from $29.
When & Where:
• Friday, Oct 2. Ashley MacIsaac at The Spire, Perth. Doors 7pm
• Saturday, Oct 3. The White Buffalo at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Almonte. Doors 7pm
• Sunday, Oct 4. East Coast Experience at Carleton Place Arena, Carleton Place. Doors 2:40pm
Details: https://www.ontariosmallhalls.
20. FILibro Canada
Celebrate Latin American and Iberian literature at FILibro Canada, Ottawa’s Ibero-American Book Fair. Browse books in Spanish, French, English and Portuguese, meet writers and publishers, and enjoy literary events, art and more. Tickets: $10. Youth under 18 free.
When: Oct 3-4. Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm.
Where: Saint Paul University, 223 Main St.
Details: https://www.filibrocanada.com/
More fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Friday
21. Two Door Cinema Club
The beloved Northern Irish indie rock trio brings their Tourist History 15th Anniversary Tour to Ottawa, with opener STRFKR kicking off the night. An all-ages show. Tickets from $95. When: Friday, Oct 2, 7pm. Where: HISTORY Ottawa, 47 Rideau St., Ottawa. Details: https://www.livenation.com
22. Bring Me The Horizon
British rock band Bring Me The Horizon brings its North American headline tour to Ottawa, with Motionless in White and The Plot in You as support acts. The show features the band’s immersive live production with visuals and cyberpunk-inspired elements. Tickets start at $43. When: Oct 2, 7pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa. Details: https://www.bmthofficial.com/
23. Endy’s Ottawa First Store
Endy opened its first-ever Ottawa store, so you’re now able to try its mattresses, bedding, furniture and other sleep essentials in person. No more relying on online reviews to decide if a mattress is actually comfortable. Ottawa has become one of Endy’s fastest-growing communities, which is why the brand is bringing its next retail location to the capital. When: The store is open since Sept 18. Where: Bayshore Shopping Centre. 100 Bayshore Drive, Ottawa. Details: www.endy.com
Saturday
24. HOPE Rockfest
Enjoy an evening showcasing independent local music, featuring A Rose For Ann, Futura Free, Last Stop and Capital Music Week showcase artist Amanda Keeley. The event also includes food, drinks and an audience vote to help select a local act for the 2027 HOPE Volleyball SummerFest. Tickets $24.20. When: Oct 3, 7pm. Where: The Lone Star Loft, 1211 Lemieux Street, Ottawa. Details: https://www.hopehelps.com/
25. Ottawa’s Toy and Collectible Sale
Browse vendor booths featuring vintage and modern toys, action figures, video games, trading cards, comics, LEGO, Funko Pops, Pokémon, and more. The event also includes giveaways, a gamer zone, building-brick area and cosplay groups. Admission $5, children 12 and under FREE. When: Oct 3-4, 10am-4pm. Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave. (Entrance 4). Details: https://www.geekedoutevents.
Sunday
26. Modest Mouse
See influential American indie-rock band Modest Mouse, led by singer-guitarist Isaac Brock, live in Ottawa as part of their 2026 tour. The band will perform a selection of material from across its career, including well-known songs such as Float On, Dashboard and Ocean Breathes Salty. Tickets start at $104.71. When: Oct 4, 7pm. Where: History Ottawa, 47 Rideau Street, Ottawa. Details: https://www.historyottawa.com/
27. Art Exhibition Opening Party Celebrating Indigenous Utopia and Somali Stories of Home — Joi T. Arcand and Faisa Omer
Celebrate the opening of two major solo exhibitions in Ottawa: Joi T. Arcand’s immersive ᓀᐦᐃᔭᐍᐏᐣ / Cree Utopia and Faisa Omer’s photography and textile exhibition celebrating Somali Canadian family, identity and belonging. The artists will be in attendance. Both exhibitions run until December 13. When: Oct 4, 2pm–4:30pm. Where: Carleton University Art Gallery, St. Patrick’s Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive.
Next week
28. Free Open House: Discover the Canadian Museum of Nature’s Hidden Collections
Ever wondered what’s hidden behind the scenes at the Canadian Museum of Nature? On Saturday, October 17, explore its research and collections campus in Gatineau and discover a world of fascinating specimens, scientific treasures and stories from the natural world. Meet museum experts and get an up-close look at some of the more than 15 million natural history specimens and artifacts in the collections, from dinosaurs and fossils to insects, plants, animals, minerals and much more.
The self-guided Open House offers a rare chance to explore behind the scenes and see collections that aren’t normally open to the public. The event is free, but timed tickets are required. Registration opens October 6 at nature.ca/openhouse.
More recurring events in Ottawa
29. Frightfest
Canada’s biggest haunted attraction returns for its 33rd year of scares. Brave the award-winning Haunted Hayride, the Barn of Terror, The Sawmill, The Shambles, and The Coven, plus a cemetery scare zone, roaming street monsters, Circus Macabre, and a fire-and-sword-swallowing stage show. Between frights, refuel at the food booths and warm up with a Saunders Cider on the CiderHouse patio. Not recommended for kids under 10. Tickets from $62.98.
When: Fridays and Saturdays, Sept 26-Oct 31
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Road, Ottawa
Details: saundersfarm.com/frightfest
30. Acres of Terror
Eastern Ontario’s self-styled “most terrifying” Halloween attraction returns for its 31st year, run in partnership with local high school students. Four attractions span a 60-acre property: a tractor-pulled Spooky Wagon Ride narrated by a witch or warlock and stalked by 30+ live actors, the Fun-House-meets-Haunted-House House of Terror, a Fog Maze, and a Spooky Village. Weekend daytime hours are toned down for families and younger kids; nights are the real scare. Tickets: $25-$37 (30% off opening weekend).
When: Sept 25-Oct 31
Where: Cannamore Orchard, 1480 County Road 32, Crysler
Details: cannammoreorchard.com/acres-
31. sKreamers
Ottawa’s self-styled scariest haunted attraction, powered by 150+ local student volunteers. Take a ride on the wild wagon through the border forest, then brave two haunted houses, the Side Laboratory and the Front Barn, where the sKream Team lurks around every corner. Not recommended for young children. Tickets: $12.50.
When: Saturdays, Sept 26-Oct 31. Gates open at 7pm; last wagon at 9:15pm
Where: sKreamers, 1665 Frank Kenny Road, Ottawa
Details: skreamers.ca
32. Pumpkin Fest
A family-friendly daytime fall celebration where you can pick from 28 pumpkin varieties, get lost in North America’s largest collection of hedge mazes, hop on a hayride, bounce on the Jumbo Jumpers, and ride the new Saunders Safari Jeeps through the woods. A handful of haunts open during the day for light scares, plus live stage shows, play structures, and seasonal treats. Tickets from $32.98.
When: Sept 26-Nov 1, 10am-5pm
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Road, Ottawa
Details: saundersfarm.com/pumpkinfest
33. Pumpkin Fest
Spend a day at a country farm, where you can pick your own pumpkins, ride the hayride through the “Mysterious Forest,” conquer the corn and raspberry mazes, visit the petting farm, and roam multiple outdoor playgrounds. Bring a picnic; face painting and inflatables run on weekends too. Tickets from $28.36; kids 2 and under free.
When: Sept 19-Oct 31, 10am-5pm (last entry 4pm)
Where: Proulx Maple & Berry Farm, 1865 O’Toole Road, Cumberland
Details: proulxfarm.com/pumpkinfest
34. 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.
35. 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.
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.
36. 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.
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.
38. 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.
39. 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
40. 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.
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. 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.
44. 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.
45. 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.
46. 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
47. 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.
