21 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
Go behind the scenes at the Canadian Museum of Nature’s research and collections facility in Gatineau! Explore some of the millions of natural-history specimens, including fossils, minerals, plants and animals, and meet the scientists who study them. This is a rare opportunity to see the museum’s collections that aren’t normally on display. FREE but tickets are required.
When: Saturday Oct 17, 9am-4pm
Where: Canadian Museum of Nature’s Natural Heritage Campus, Gatineau, 1740 Pink Road, Gatineau.
Details: https://nature.ca/en/visit-us/
2. Fall Rhapsody
Fall is putting on a spectacular show across Ottawa-Gatineau! Take a scenic drive, explore colourful trails, visit beautiful parks or head to Gatineau Park to admire the autumn foliage. 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/
3. The National Women’s Show
Grab your friends for a fun day of shopping, beauty, fashion and entertainment! Discover exclusive products, enjoy free makeovers, watch fashion shows and explore a variety of exhibitors. Tickets: $11, $14, $15. Children 11 and under get in free.
When: Oct 17-18. Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 10am-5pm
Where: Cohere Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa
Details: https://nationalwomenshow.com/
4. One World Bazaar
Travel the world without leaving the Ottawa area! This unique shopping experience takes over a historic barn filled with handcrafted treasures, jewellery, home décor, fashion and gifts from artisans around the globe. Enjoy international food, live entertainment and cultural performances while discovering one-of-a-kind finds. This weekend: Celebrating Indonesia. FREE.
When: Sept 17-Nov 22. Fridays-Sundays, 10am-5pm
Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd., Manotick
Details: https://www.oneworldbazaar.ca/
5. Ottawa Parent & Child Expo
Planning a family outing? Head to this family-friendly expo packed with play zones, learning activities, demonstrations, parenting resources and entertainment. Kids can meet Bluey and Bingo, Peppa Pig and George, enjoy a bounce slide and explore interactive activity areas. Families can also receive a free show bag while supplies last, with free parking available. Family passes starting at $17.70
When: Oct 17-18, 9am-4pm
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, Entrance 4, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa
Details: https://parentandchildexpo.ca/
6. Trick or Treat with the Mayor
Witches and reapers guard the entrance to the Heritage Building, where inside fairy tales and futuristic scenes collide. Outside, enjoy the glowing pumpkin patch where costumed characters from worlds both heroic and enchanted await you. Admission is a suggested donation to the Ottawa Food Bank’s Baby Basics Program (formula, baby food, diapers) When: Saturday Oct 17, 5pm to 8pm. Where: City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave W. Details: https://ottawa.ca/en/city-
7. ArohaFest Diwali Dhamaka
Celebrate the vibrant arts and culture of India at this bilingual festival featuring classical and folk dance, music, visual arts, workshops and more. Enjoy performances and immerse yourself in Indian culture, with activities including henna painting and opportunities to discover traditional art forms. FREE.
When: Oct 15-18. Thu-Fri 6pm; Sat 12pm-4pm. Sun 7:30pm (paid).
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa
Details: https://arohafest.ca/
8. Hintonburg Howl-O-Ween
Calling all dog lovers! Dress up your four-legged friends and head to this Halloween celebration featuring a dog costume parade, local judges, a photo booth, snacks and a market. It’s a fun way to celebrate the season, meet fellow dog lovers and support local dog rescues. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 17, 12pm-4pm. Where: Parkdale Park, 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa. Details: https://www.
9. Glebe Halloween Village: Free Accessible Trick-or-Treating
A Halloween celebration everyone can enjoy! Glebe Avenue transforms into an accessible trick-or-treating village with treat stations, arts and crafts, colouring, button-making and appearances by superheroes, costumed characters and local firefighters. Designed with accessibility and sensory needs in mind, this free community event welcomes families of all abilities. FREE but you need to register for tickets at the details below. When: Saturday Oct 17, 11am-2pm. Where: Glebe Avenue, between Lyon and Bank streets, Ottawa. Details: On Eventbrite
10. 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 17, 10am-4pm. Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St. Details: IG @613flea
11. Ottawa Ski, Snowboard & Travel Show
Get ready for winter! Explore more than 100 exhibitors showcasing ski and snowboard gear, apparel, travel destinations and equipment deals. Whether you’re planning your next ski getaway or upgrading your winter gear, this is a great place to get inspired for the season ahead. FREE. Register for your free tickets in details below. When: Oct 17-18, Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm. Where: Cohere Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa. Details: On Eventbrite
12. Maestro: Competitive Improv Comedy
Ten improvisers enter the stage, but only one walks away with the title of Maestro and the prize money! Watch Ottawa performers create hilarious scenes and games based entirely on audience suggestions, then cast your vote to decide who stays and who goes. Expect unpredictable comedy and plenty of surprises. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased at the website below. When: Saturday Oct 17, 9pm-10:30pm. Where: Arts Court, Atelier, 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa. Details: https://www.waywardimprov.ca/
13. Bytown Oktoberfest
Celebrate Oktoberfest with a lively atmosphere, German-inspired festivities and plenty of seasonal fun. It’s an opportunity to gather with friends and enjoy a taste of Bavarian tradition right here in the Ottawa area. Advance tickets $10, $12 at the door.
When: Saturday Oct 17, 12-6pm
Where: Westboro Masonic Hall, 430 Churchill Avenue,
Details: https://bytownlodge721.com/
14. Maker’s Path Market
Discover handmade treasures and support local businesses at this artisan market featuring approximately 80 local artisans and food vendors. Browse unique creations, meet the makers and find something special while enjoying the indoor and outdoor market setting. FREE. When: Saturday Oct 17, 11am – 4pm. Where: Mad About Patchwork, 2477 Huntley Rd., Stittsville. Details:https://
15. Sculpture Expo
Discover original sculptures created by artists from across the National Capital Region at this free exhibition and sale. Explore works in stone, wood, steel and mixed media, meet the artists and learn about their creative process. Don’t miss the Gift Boutique, where you can find original sculptures priced under $100, or enjoy free refreshments on opening day! FREE. When: Saturday Oct 17, 10am-5pm; Oct 18, 10am-4pm. Where: Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Ave., Ottawa. Details: https://sculptureottawa.ca/
16. Geek Hoard Haul-oween
Calling all geeks, collectors and Halloween fans! This family-friendly event brings together more than 90 vendors selling comics, trading cards, toys, collectibles, art and spooky merchandise. Enjoy cosplay, special guests, idol performances and trick-or-treating at vendor booths if you arrive in costume. Admission and parking are FREE. When: Sunday Oct 18, 10am-5pm. Where: Sensplex Kanata, 1565 Maple Grove Rd., Stittsville. Details: On Facebook
17. Ottawa Rapid FC vs. Vancouver Rise FC
Ottawa’s professional women’s soccer team, competing in the Northern Super League (NSL), hosts Vancouver Rise FC at TD Place. Doors open at 3pm. Tickets from $25. When: Sunday, Oct 18, 4pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
Details: https://www.rapidfc.ca
18. Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Toronto Argonauts
Friday night football is back at TD Place as the REDBLACKS take on the Toronto Argonauts in their final regular season home game. Wear your plaid for Lumberjack Night! Tickets from $25.
When: Friday, Oct 16, 7pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
Details: https://www.ottawaredblacks.
19. Atlético Ottawa vs. Forge FC
Ottawa’s professional men’s soccer team, competing in the Canadian Premier League (CPL), hosts Forge FC at TD Place. Tickets from $34.
When: Saturday, Oct 17, 1pm
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
Details: https://atleticoottawa.canpl.
20. Ottawa 67’s vs. Oshawa Generals
Cheer on the Ottawa 67’s as they face the Oshawa Generals in an OHL home matchup. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets from $25. When: Saturday, Oct 17, 7pm. Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa. Details: https://chl.ca/ohl-67s
21. Whisky Global
Discover an international selection of premium, rare and limited-edition whiskies at this elevated tasting experience. Your ticket includes whisky samples, a catered meal, a souvenir glass and live music. VIP tickets offer early access and masterclasses. For adults of legal drinking age. Tickets from $152. When: Saturday, Oct 17, 2pm–5pm. Where: Rogers Centre Ottawa, 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa. Details: https://www.thewhiskyglobal.
More fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend
Thursday and Friday
22. Yuk Yuk’s Singles Comedy Night
Looking to meet new people while having a laugh? This special comedy night combines socializing and stand-up. Arrive early for the mix-and-mingle, then settle in for a comedy show featuring a lineup of talented performers, including Canada’s Got Talent finalist Sai Kit Lo. General Admission Tickets: $25 and Show & Dinner Tickets: $60. When: Friday Oct 16, 6:30pm mix-and-mingle; 8pm show. Where: Yuk Yuk’s Ottawa West, Ottawa. Details: https://www.yukyuks.com/
23. Now Clap! Bob the Drag Queen’s on Tour
Get ready for bold humour, sharp wit and plenty of laughs as Bob the Drag Queen brings the Now Clap! tour to Ottawa. The comedian, actor and winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8 takes the stage with new material and a larger-than-life personality. Two shows are scheduled. Tickets start at $143.96. When: Friday Oct 16, 7pm and 9:15pm. Where: The Bronson Centre Theatre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa. Details: https://www.bobthedragqueen.
24. Richard O’Brien’s THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW
A stormy night, a mysterious mansion and a cult musical that has delighted audiences for decades! This outrageous stage production brings glam, comedy, unforgettable music and plenty of theatrical chaos to Ottawa. Expect bold performances, audience participation and a wildly entertaining night out. Tickets: $69. When: Oct 16-24. Fri 7:30pm; Sat 1:30pm and 7:30pm; Sun 1:30pm; Tue-Thu 7:30pm; Sat, Oct 24, 1:30pm and 5:30pm. Where: The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave., Ottawa. Details: https://thegladstone.ca/
Saturday
25. The Black Keys: Peaches n’ Kream
Rock fans, get ready! Grammy-winning duo The Black Keys are bringing their Peaches n’ Kream tour to Ottawa. Expect gritty blues riffs, garage-rock energy and a set packed with the band’s distinctive sound. Jeremie Albino joins the show. Tickets start at $91.10. When: Saturday Oct 17, 7:30pm. Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa. Details: https://www.
26. Levity
Electronic music fans can catch Levity live at History Ottawa. The Chicago-based trio is known for high-energy sets blending dubstep, trap, future bass and hip-hop influences. Expect powerful beats and a lively night on the dance floor. This is a 19+ event. Tickets start at $88.22
When: Saturday Oct 17, 7:30pm
Where: History Ottawa, 47 Rideau St., Ottawa
Details: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/
27. Red Trillium Studio Tour
Take a scenic drive through rural West Ottawa and discover the studios of local artists and fine craftspeople. This self-guided tour is a wonderful opportunity to see where art is made, meet the creators, and shop for original artwork and handmade pieces. FREE. When: Oct 17-18. Saturday & Sunday, 10am–4pm. Where: Artists’ studios throughout rural West Ottawa, including Dunrobin, Fitzroy Harbour, Constance Bay, Carp and Kinburn. Details: https://www.redtrilliumst.com
28. Fall Finds Market
Get a head start on fall and holiday shopping at this handmade market featuring more than 40 local makers and small businesses. Browse seasonal décor, handmade gifts and tasty treats, or sign up for a bilingual pumpkin-painting workshop. Kids can also take part in a STEM workshop where they’ll build a working Ferris wheel. Admission and parking are FREE. When: Saturday Oct 17, 10am-3pm. Where: J.R. Brisson Complex, 758 Brebeuf St., Casselman. Details: https://artandsoulsportal.ca/
Sunday
29. Sal Vulcano: Everything’s Fine Tour
Best known as a star of Impractical Jokers, comedian Sal Vulcano brings his stand-up tour to Ottawa for an evening of sharp observations, personal stories and laugh-out-loud humour. All ages. Lobby opens at 6pm, doors at 6:30pm. Tickets from $57.25. When: Sunday, Oct 18, 7pm. Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa. Details: https://www.algonquinsa.com/
30. Collective Soul
Get ready for a night of alternative rock as Collective Soul brings its tour to Ottawa. Known for hits like Shine and December, the band has been delivering its signature sound for more than three decades. Jonathan Roy joins the show as the supporting act. This is a 19+ event. Tickets start at $220.80
When: Sunday Oct 18, 7pm
Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, 4837 Albion Rd., Ottawa
Details: https://collectivesoul.com/
31. Spooky Symphony
It’s all treats, no tricks at this family-friendly concert! The NAC Orchestra brings Halloween favourites to life, from The Sorcerer’s Apprentice to the theme from Ghostbusters. Giant visuals add to the magic, and children are encouraged to dress up in their favourite costumes. Recommended for ages 5-12. Tickets: $15. When: Sunday Oct 18, 3:30pm. Where: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa. Details: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/
32. Sunday Swing & KS on the Keys
Love live music and dancing? Spend your Sunday evening enjoying big-band music at KS on the Keys. Listen to live musicians, hit the dance floor or simply relax and enjoy the show while ordering from the restaurant’s food and drink menu. The cover charge is just $5 at the door. When: Sunday Oct 18, 5pm-7:30pm. Where: KS on the Keys, 1029 Dazé St., Ottawa. Details: https://www.ksonthekeys.com/
More recurring events in Ottawa
33. 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
34. 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
35. 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/
36. 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.
37. 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.
38. 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/
39. 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
40. 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
41. 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-
42. 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
43. 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
44. 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
45. 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.
46. 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.