Looking for the best ideas for fun things to do in Ottawa? I’ve got you covered! There are dozens of events happening around the city! Save this post, share it with your friends, and start planning your weekend!
Want this curated list of events sent straight to your inbox? Join our happy subscribers and subscribe to our free newsletter! Elevate Your Weekends
1.Fall Rhapsody
Fall is officially here! Take advantage of the gorgeous colours across Ottawa-Gatineau with scenic hikes, bike rides, picnics, apple and pumpkin picking, and a visit to Gatineau Park. This is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy autumn at its best. Take the free shuttle from Ottawa to some of the most popular spots in Gatineau Park including Pink Lake, King Mountain, and Mackenzie King Estate. FREE
When: Oct 1–25
Where: Various locations across Ottawa-Gatineau
Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/events/
2. Diwali Mela 2026
Celebrate the Festival of Lights at this vibrant community celebration featuring cultural performances, delicious food, shopping, kids’ activities and plenty of Diwali festivities. Best of all, admission is FREE!
When: Saturday, Oct 10 from 11am to 11:30pm
Where: Cohere Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr.
3. One World Bazaar
Step inside a historic barn transformed into a treasure trove filled with handcrafted goods, home décor, jewellery, furniture, fashion and unique finds from around the world. Take your time exploring, grab something to eat and discover treasures you won’t find anywhere else. This is Africa Weekend. FREE.
When: Oct 9–12 from 10am to 5pm
Where: One World Bazaar, 6110 Mitch Owens Rd., Manotick
Details: https://www.oneworldbazaar.ca
4. Harvest Night Market
Celebrate the harvest at the final night market of the season! Shop for peak-season produce and local goods, enjoy live music and take part in the annual apple pie contest. FREE.
When: Wednesday, Oct 7 from 5pm to 9pm
Where: Parkdale Public Market, 366 Parkdale Ave.
Details: IG @parkdalepublicmarket
5. Capital Music Awards
Ottawa’s music community takes the spotlight for a big night celebrating the artists, creators and industry professionals shaping the city’s music scene. Expect live performances, awards and plenty of local talent, with the red carpet kicking things off before the show. Tickets:
When: Friday, Oct 9. Red carpet at 6pm, show at 8pm
Where: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St.
Details: ottawamic.com
6. Ottawa Gatineau Tattoo Expo
Into tattoos? This is one for you! Meet hundreds of tattoo artists from Canada and around the world, watch live tattooing, check out vendors and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend. Whether you’re looking for your next tattoo or simply love the art, there’s plenty to see. Tickets:
When: Oct 9–11. Fri 2pm-11pm, Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-7pm.
Where: Palais des Congrès de Gatineau, 50 Boulevard Maisonneuve, Gatineau
7. Watson’s Mill Fall Finale
Wind down the summer and start your Fall at the Watson’s Mill Fall Finale. You’ll find tours of the Mill, a scavenger hunt, games, crafts, even a horse and wagon ride, Complete it with the final flour grind and the last Manotick Farmers’ Market. FREE
When: Saturday Oct 10, 10am-4pm
Where: Watson’s Mill, 5525 Dickinson Street, Manotick
Details: https://watsonsmill.com/events/
8. OFF//SHOOTS Theatre Festival
The future of theatre is now with the OFF//SHOOTS Theatre Festival brought to you by Youth Infringement. Ottawa’s emerging young artists coming together for two mainstage shows and the always popular 24-hour theatre challenge open to all. Come join the show. Tickets FREE up to $15.
When: Oct 8-11, 6pm-10pm
Where: Arts Court Theatre 2 Daly Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://youthinfringement.ca/offshoots
9. Stittsville Gobblefest
How better to prepare for Thanksgiving than a visit to the Stittsville Gobblefest. Plenty of local vendors to fill your belly and scratch that shopping itch, plus door prizes from grocery gift cards, to Yuk Yuk tickets, and even a $1000 grand prize. Gobble this one up. FREE
When: Saturday Oct 10, 10am-2pm
Where: Johnny Leroux Stittsville Community Arena, 10 Warner-Colpitts Ln. , Stittsville
Details: https://stittsvillecentral.ca/events/stittsvilles-5th-annual-gobblefest-fundraiser/
10. Fetch Local Markets
A local market that truly has gone to the dogs. The Fetch Local Market returns, showcasing vendors that specialize in all products and services for your furry pet pals, from food, snacks, accessories and pet care. Treat your best friend to a day just for them. FREE
When: Saturday Oct 10, 10am-3pm
Where: Ray Friel Recreation Complex, 1585 Tenth Line Road, Orléans
Details: https://doggocakesandtreats.square.site/fetch-local-markets
11. Annual Thanksgiving Market
Spend your Thanksgiving weekend somewhere tropical with a visit to the Annual Thanksgiving Market at Robert Plante Greenhouses. With over 200 product, service and food vendors, there’s bound to be something here for everyone, all while enjoying the plants and colours of the greenhouses. You’ll be thankful you did. FREE
When: Saturday Oct 10 – Sunday Oct 11, from 9am-4pm
Where: : Robert Plante Greenhouses, 4228 Navan Road, Navan
Details: https://www.robertplantegreenhouses.com/event-details/3rd-annual-thanksgiving-market-at-robert-plante-greenhouses
12. Ottawa Senator vs Nashville Predators
Cheer for the Ottawa Senators during this thrilling regular season hockey match against the Predators. Tickets from $40
When: Saturday, Oct 10, 7pm
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa
Details: https://www.canadiantirecentre.com
13. Hex Appeal: The Iron Cabaret
Experience gravity-defying aerials, fierce heels choreography, and a kinky night market inside this spooky venue. Tickets from $55.66
When: Oct 9-10, 7pm-10pm
Where: Saint Brigid’s Centre for the Arts, 310 Saint Patrick Street, Ottawa
Details: https://www.ironcabaret.com
14. Behind The Screams: Midway Massacre
Don’t miss this terrifying double-feature haunted house filled with immersive, cinematic rooms and spooky scare actors. Tickets from $21.36
When: Oct 2-Nov 1. Thu 5pm-10pm; Fri 5pm-1am; Sat 4pm-1am; Sun 4pm-10pm
Where: 1D Studios, 2935 Conroy Road, Ottawa
Details: https://www.1dbts.com
15. Crown and Pumpkin Studio Tour
Explore scenic country roads to meet over fifty local artists during this festive autumn weekend tradition. FREE
When: Oct 10-11, 10am-4pm
Where: Various artists’ studios, Almonte, Clayton, and Pakenham, Mississippi Mills
Details: https://www.crownandpumpkin.com
16. Perth Autumn Studio Tour
Discover exquisite handmade pottery, paintings, and woodcraft across five beautiful countryside stops west of Ottawa. FREE
When: Oct 10-11,10am-4pm
Where: Various countryside studios, Perth and Maberly
Details: https://www.perthstudiotour.com
More fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
17. 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/
18. Pipes & Projections
An immersive night where live music, projection, and light transform the historic CDCC domed theatre. Keyboardist Kim Farris-Manning moves between Ottawa’s largest pipe organ, piano, and harpsichord while interdisciplinary artist Kwende Kefentse loops sound and video in real time, turning the 55-foot dome into a canvas of archival imagery and audio-reactive visuals. Tickets: $32.44. When: Thursday, Oct 8, 8pm. Where: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 290 Lisgar Street, Ottawa. Details: https://www.showpass.com/pipes-projection/
19. Hearbroken & Bootleg Creedence
A double bill of tribute acts for fans of classic American rock. Bootleg Creedence rolls through Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty favourites like Proud Mary, Bad Moon Rising, and Fortunate Son, while Heartbroken: A Tom Petty Experience recreates the sound of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, from Free Fallin’ to American Girl. Tickets: $59. When: Friday, Oct 9, 8pm. Where: Harold Shenkman Hall, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa.
20. Christone “Kingfish” Ingram: The Hard Road Tour
A night of blues from the Grammy-winning guitarist and singer, touring behind his acclaimed album Hard Road. Still in his twenties, Ingram pairs virtuosic guitar work with a soulful voice and a genre-blurring take on the tradition. Tickets: $59. When: Friday, Oct 9, 8pm. Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Avenue, Nepean.
21. Elmvale Ward Séance
Step inside a historic Ottawa ward for an immersive Victorian séance led by Jaymes White, combining psychological illusion, suspense, history, and the paranormal in an intimate experience designed for guests 18+. Admission: $66.66.
When: Oct 2-Nov 30 on select dates.
Where: Meet inside 1D Studios, 2935 Conroy Road #100, Ottawa.
Details: https://www.jaymeswhite.com/seance/
22. Stittsville Haunted Heritage Tours
Explore the alleys and side streets of Stittsville on a 90-minute walking tour filled with eerie local legends, unexplained stories, and haunted history, with an additional tarot-reading experience offered on Saturdays. Admission: $19.56+.
When: Oct 2-Nov 7 on Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm.
Where: Stittsville Barber Shop, 1549 Stittsville Main Street, Ottawa.
Details: On Eventbrite.
23. ONIRO Night Walk
Journey through an illuminated forest at Parc Oméga as the story of wolf cub Oniro unfolds through spectacular projections, music, light, and immersive storytelling across 17 magical scenes. Admission: $22+; children 5 and under FREE.
When: Oct 9-31 on select dates. First departures at sunset.
Where: Parc Oméga, 399 Route 323 North, Montebello.
Details: https://www.parcomega.ca/en/the-night-time-walking-trail/
Saturday
24. NCC Weekend Bikedays – Last weekend
Enjoy a safe, car-free way to explore the National Capital Region. Ottawa parkways are open for active use, biking, walking, rollerblading, or strolling. FREE.
When: Oct 10-12.
Where: Kichi Zibi Mikan, George Etienne Cartier Parkway and Queen Elizabeth Drive.
Details: https://ncc-ccn.gc.
25. Constant Companions
Witness this laugh-out-loud sci-fi comedy about androids and human connection making its North American premiere. Tickets from $25
When: Saturday, Oct 10, 7:30pm
Where: The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa
Details: https://www.thegladstone.ca/shows/constant-companions/
26. Ann Wilson: The Voice of Heart & Tripsitter
Ann Wilson, the legendary lead singer of Heart, takes the stage with her band Tripsitter for a night of era-defining rock hits, solo material, and newer collaborative work. A Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Grammy Lifetime Achievement honoree, her powerhouse vocals have anchored rock for five decades and remain as commanding as ever. Tickets: from $82.50. When: Saturday, Oct 10, 7pm. Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, 4837 Albion Road, Gloucester. Details: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/ann-wilson-tickets/artist/2201487
27. Thanksgiving Train Rides
A festive family day out at the local railway museum. Ride the rails in an antique caboose, hop on a hay ride, explore the historic 1912 station, and tour the steam engine, dining car, and dental car, with plenty of fall photo ops along the way. Tickets: $20.76. When: Saturday, Oct 10, 11am-2pm. Where: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls. Details: On Eventbrite.
Sunday
28. Retro 80s Bash
Step back into the ’80s for a high-energy night of neon, throwback hits, themed costumes, and live music from The START at Manor Lounge. Admission: $12.
When: Sunday, Oct 11 at 8:30pm.
Where: Manor Lounge, 292 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
Details: https://www.escapemanor.com/ottawa/retro/booking
Next Week
29. Comedy at The Carleton
We all need a laugh these days and the Carleton Tavern is serving it up with Comedy at the Carleton. Enjoy some local comedians and an open mic night, showcasing the best that Ottawa has to offer and maybe even discovering some new comedy stars. FREE
When: Tuesday Oct 13, 7:30pm-10pm
Where: The Carleton Tavern, 223 Armstrong Street, Ottawa
Details: https://thecarletontavern.com/
30. 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 event is free, but timed tickets are required. Registration opens October 6 at nature.ca/openhouse.
More recurring events in Ottawa
31. 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: uppercanadavillage.com
32. 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
33. 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-
34. 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
35. 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
36. 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
37. 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.
38. 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.
39. 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.
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. (Until Nov 8)
When: By reservation.
Where: Tulip Restaurant, Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Ottawa Downtown, 361 Queen Street, Ottawa.
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. 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.
44. 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.
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. Every Thursday, admission to the museum is free from 5pm to 8pm. When: Starting May 15. Where: Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St.
46. 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.
17. 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: Oct 8-10. Where: Westport, Moose Creek, Russell, Almonte, Carp, and other locations. Details: https://www.ontariosmallhalls.
48. 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
49. 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. When: Both exhibitions run until December 13. Where: Carleton University Art Gallery, St. Patrick’s Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive.
