Ottawa’s festival scene is vibrant, diverse and above all — fun! Fantastic food, culture and entertainment combine at these Ottawa area festivals coming your way this summer.
Ottawa Lebanese Festival
For 33 years, the Ottawa Lebanese Festival has celebrated the rich diversity of the Ottawa Lebanese community with marvelous food, Middle Eastern entertainment and heritage. Running from July 17-21, 2024 at the St. Elias Cathedral across from Mooney’s Bay, the festival is a chance to enjoy a little taste of Lebanon right here in the nation’s capital. You can order your favourite dishes online for pick up on-site. While you’re there, be sure to grab a 50/50 raffle ticket for a chance to win the daily draw — proceeds from the raffle support programs and organizations offered through the Cathedral.
Carivibe Ottawa Caribbean Carnival
From July 19-21, 2024, embrace the Caribbean vibes at the weekend-long Carivibe / Reach the Beach Weekend at Petrie Island. You’ll be in the groove all weekend long as you enjoy the very best in tropical cuisine, drinks and music. An all-access pass gives you admission to all the festivities. Individual event tickets are also available.
Halal Ribfest
The Halal Ribfest Tour is back! From July 26-28, 2024, get your hands saucy at North America's largest Halal food event. From juicy ribs and barbeque to innovative street food, the Halal Ribfest features local Ottawa vendors and flavours, all 100% halal. With family-friendly entertainment, shopping and exciting activities for all ages, this event celebrates the vibrant culture and traditions that make halal food so special.
Ottawa Greek Fest
This popular annual festival is an Ottawa institution, featuring live Greek music, traditional dances, excellent Greek cuisine, language lessons and demonstrations. Held over two weekends in August (August 15-18 and August 23-25) at the Hellenic Event Centre on Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa Greek Fest is the place to be for a fun-filled celebration of all things Greek. Don’t miss the famous Zorba show, which recreates a classic Greek “taverna” atmosphere complete with an amazing fire display. Admission to the festival is free, but on-site parking is limited so consider taking one of the festival’s complimentary shuttles from several nearby parking areas.
The Chef’s Table
Foodies, mark your calendar for The Chef’s Table. This multi-weekend event runs from July 11-27, 2024, and will showcase world-class chefs, great live music and a table alongside the Rideau Canal on the terrace of the NAC’s 1 Elgin Restaurant. The 2024 Chef’s Table lineup will include some of the region’s most celebrated musical acts, with menus curated by Chef Kenton Leier (of the National Arts Centre) along with several of Canada’s finest chefs. Get ready for an unforgettable farm-to table experience!
