Over 100 vendors from within 100 kilometres of Ottawa gather at Lansdowne in the Glebe each week to sell everything from fresh produce to furniture…
History
The Glebe neighbourhood is named after the lands (“glebe”) that belonged to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (circa 1837). As Ottawa’s population grew, the church sold some of its property and the area became one of Ottawa’s first suburbs. In 1898, the Aberdeen Pavilion was built to serve as a central hall for the Central Canada Exhibition. The crystal palace-style structure was originally used for agricultural shows and cattle auctions, hence its nickname of “Cattle Castle”. The Pavilion – the only large-scale exhibition building in Canada surviving from the 19th century – is now a centrepiece of the mixed-use Lansdowne development.
Shopping and dining
The Glebe is centred around Bank Street between highway 417 (“the Queensway”) and Queen Elizabeth Drive. As you stroll along, pop in and out of the unique, locally-owned shops that are full of treasures. Browse vinyl records and other pop culture items at Crosstown Traffic, the latest kitchenware at J.D. Adam Kitchen Co., ladies’ fashion at Delilah and footwear at Glebe Trotters.
Culinary options are equally diverse, including local staple Kettleman’s Bagels, Mexican specialties at Feleenas, gastro pub fare at The Rowan and hundreds of beers on tap at Lansdowne’s Craft Beer Market. Walk off the calories by wandering through the surrounding leafy residential streets lined with brick homes dating from the 1800s.
Entertainment and events
The Glebe’s independent character is complemented by Lansdowne’s brand-name businesses and big events. Catch professional sports games and concerts at TD Place, buy local products at the year-round Ottawa Farmers’ Market and let loose in the outdoor park space. The park and on-site historic buildings like the Aberdeen Pavilion attract events and festivals like CityFolk, Brewfest and the Canadian Tulip Festival. This is one of Ottawa’s favourite gathering places!
