During the warm summer days and evenings, Canada’s capital beats to the sound of countless outdoor and indoor music festivals. From June through September, you can see big name stars in massive concerts or intimate shows, attend fun sporting events that feature free live music acts from across the country and discover events that highlight local, regional and international culture and talent. Here are some of Ottawa’s annual music festivals you won't want to miss during the summer months.
June
-
Festival Franco-Ontarien
Summer 2026, dates to be announcedCelebrate francophone culture through concerts, street art and entertainment at this annual outdoor event in Canada’s capital. During one weekend each… -
Festival L'Outaouais en Fête
Summer 2026, dates to be announcedIt's the pleasure of getting together, sharing local culture and discovering others from elsewhere. With more than 40 years of existence, the festival… -
Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival
Summer 2026, dates to be announcedThis free multi-day summer festival on the Rideau River—the largest event of its kind in North America—features racing, concerts, family fun, local… -
Escapade Music Festival
Summer 2026, dates to be announcedEscapade Music Festival is the first festival of its kind in the NCR. It is an event dedicated to the development of the electronic music scene and… -
Ottawa Jazz Festival
Summer 2026, dates to be announcedFounded in 1980, the Ottawa Jazz Festival is one of Canada’s premier music events, renowned for presenting world-class talent in the heart of the…
July
-
Canada Day in the capital
Join the celebrations at LeBreton Flats Park and elsewhere in the heart of Ottawa – Gatineau! A number of activities, animations and shows presented… -
Almonte Celtfest
Summer 2026, dates to be announcedA fun weekend of Ottawa Valley and Celtic entertainment, a time to share the historical Celtic traditions with today’s local performers. Celtfest also… -
H.O.P.E. Volleyball SummerFest
North America’s largest one-day outdoor beach volleyball tournament, with more than 25,000 players and spectators and a wide variety of entertainment… -
Wendover Western Festival
A rural festival with music, crafts and more! Everyone is invited to join the fun for a wonderful week! -
Music and Beyond
This unique summer cultural festival—which links classical music to visual art, drama, poetry, science and more—draws audiences to performances in… -
Stewart Park Festival
Three days of free music by the water held in the beautiful Stewart Park located in downtown heritage Perth. -
Ottawa Bluesfest
Every summer, some 300,000 music fans gather to see more than 200 acts on multiple stages. No wonder Billboard Magazine has ranked this event among…
August
-
Ottawa Chamberfest
During the world's largest chamber music festival each summer, you can delight in 120 concerts in Canada's capital by leading international ensemble… -
The Great India Festival
Experience the multicultural splendor and heritage of India through diverse programming highlighting music, dance, cuisine, wellness and more. The… -
Nostalgia Music Festival
Reconnect with the classic rock songs of your youth at this five day event featuring concerts by the best tribute bands on the planet. Each summer… -
Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (FMG)
Every year in late August, FMG brings the Ottawa-Gatineau region to life with an electrifying music lineup, performances for all ages, fireworks, and…
September
-
Latin Sparks Festival
Don’t just watch as Ottawa turns into a night in Havana - be there! Join the thousands at Latin Sparks Festival for a night entrenched in Latin… -
Riverside Festival
This three-day electronic music festival is back and bigger than ever with its largest stage and epic lineup. Do not miss your chance to get tickets… -
CityFolk
This four-day September celebration of music, dance and community at Lansdowne Park and throughout the Glebe area features an eclectic mix of musical…
