Ottawa proves its strength as a premier sports event destination by hosting the 2025 PWHL Draft and supporting the hometown team, the PWHL Ottawa franchise.
Every Body Plays in Ottawa
Ottawa is redefining what it means to be a leader in sport. Here, success in sports goes beyond the scoreboard. It’s about who’s making the game better for everyone; athletes, fans and organizers.
That spirit is captured in Every Body Plays in Ottawa, a video series highlighting athletes leading the way in inclusive and accessible sport.
From launching women’s sports teams like Rapid FC and the Ottawa Charge, to hosting tournaments including the Canadian Boccia Championships, Bingham Cup and CP Women’s Open, the city continues to champion events that reflect the future of sport.
With world-class venues, strong community partnerships, and a team dedicated to creating welcoming spaces, Ottawa is a growing hub for accessible and inclusive sports events where everyone can play, cheer and thrive.
Every Body Plays in Ottawa: Athlete Stories from Ottawa’s Sport Community
Zoe Boyd on women’s hockey, the PWHL and playing for Ottawa
Zoe Boyd shares her journey as an original Ottawa Charge defenceman in the PWHL and Ottawa’s growing women’s hockey legacy.
Ottawa has long been a passionate supporter of sports at every level, with strong hockey roots and a growing legacy in women’s sports, most recently reflected in the city’s overwhelming support for Ottawa Rapid FC’s debut season.
Kimana Mar three-time world champion with Special Olympics
Kimana Mar shines on the world stage as a Special Olympics rhythmic gymnast, inspiring Ottawa and beyond.
Kimana shares how Ottawa’s supportive coaches, friends, and wider community empower her to thrive as an athlete and as a person with Down syndrome.
Brianna Hennessy paddles for Canada as a Paralympic medallist in para canoe and kayak
Brianna Hennessy’s journey from a life-changing injury to Paralympic silver shows the power of resilience and community support.
Born and raised in Ottawa, Brianna Hennessy is a two-time Paralympian for Canada in para canoe and para kayak. After a catastrophic accident left her paralyzed from the neck down, she found a renewed connection to sport — becoming a silver medalist and a proud flag bearer for Canada.
Josh Gutoskie on finding community in inclusive rugby
Josh Gutoskie builds belonging and community through inclusive rugby with the Ottawa Wolves RFC.
With the Ottawa Wolves and the International Gay Rugby community, he found not just a team but a worldwide movement. Ottawa’s welcoming spirit and proven capacity to host major inclusive events like the 2022 Bingham Cup make it a home for athletes of every background and identity.
Resources for planners hosting in Ottawa
Ottawa’s winning streak: sports events hosted in Ottawa
Ottawa has been putting athletic events on the national and international stage for years.
Why you should pick Ottawa for your next queer business meeting or conference
From queer-owned spaces to inclusive tours and year-round pride, Ottawa is where community, creativity, and celebration come together.
Getting to and around Ottawa is easy for meeting attendees
Ottawa is an easily accessible destination for travellers across Canada, the U.S., and beyond.
Green-er sports facilities in Ottawa
Ottawa's thriving major events and sport scene has shown a growing commitment to sustainability.
Embracing Winter Wonderland: 20 must-do experiences in Ottawa
Canada’s capital city is a beloved destination of those whose hearts belong to arts, history and culture as well as those who enjoy outdoor adventure…
Top 5 bleisure activities to do during the spring in Ottawa
If you find yourself in Ottawa for a business trip in the spring, mix in a little pleasure to maximize your time in a new city.
Top 5 bleisure activities to do during the fall in Ottawa
Cue the fall colours, crisp air, and tasty treats. Autumn is a special time to visit the Ottawa area.
Top 20 Ottawa summertime experiences for conference delegates
Ottawa, Canada’s Capital, is a vibrant city that offers various experiences for visitors. With its rich history, cultural attractions and stunning…
Ottawa’s sports events hosting history
Why host major events and sport in Ottawa
Choose Ottawa, Canada’s vibrant capital city, and put your athletes and event on a national stage at one of our outstanding sport venues.
Sports events hosting history
Ottawa Tourism is proud to host a variety of national and international events.
Upcoming sports events in Ottawa
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Ottawa Charge
Winter 2025, dates to be announcedExperience the Ottawa Charge – Ottawa’s professional women’s hockey team! The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is redefining the game… -
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend
Canada's most popular multi-day running event sees close to 50,000 participants compete in a variety of challenging races—including the country's… -
Ottawa REDBLACKS
Join the roaring crowds at TD Place Stadium at Lansdowne as Ottawa’s Canadian Football League (CFL) team battles for a chance at the Grey Cup. The…
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