Looking for fun activities in the Ottawa area? Check out these options over the next seven days, starting on Thursday, July 16. Be sure to verify details with the organizers as plans can change at any time.
For festivals, performances and city-wide events…
- Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays | Spend your sunsets with us as inspirational artists share their musical visions of culture, identity and tradition at the Wood Terrace Series Held at the National Arts Centre. FREE!
- Until Sunday, July 19 | Don’t miss Bluesfest, one of the world’s top 10 outdoor music festivals with over 200 acts at LeBreton Flats. Canadian rock giants The Guess Who and special guests to headline Ottawa 200 celebrations at Ottawa Bluesfest July 19, 2026.
- Starting Thursday, July 16 | Don’t miss Parasol Festival, a craft beer festival that has evolved into a full summer experience.
- Friday, July 17 | Enjoy summer evenings filled with live music at Orléans Unplugged, an outdoor concert series showcasing local talent in the heart of the community. Held at Orleans Town Centre. FREE!
- Saturday, July 18 | Experience Ottawa’s local music scene in an inviting outdoor setting at Bistrofest, a festival that celebrates original artists and community connection. FREE!
- Until Sunday, July 19 | Experience the vibrant flavours and rich culture of Lebanon at the Ottawa Lebanese Festival! Held at Saint Elias Centre. FREE entry before 5:00pm.
For marketgoers in search of finds…
- Various dates throughout the week | Find the best fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, hot meals and more from friendly producers in different neighbourhoods at the Ottawa Farmers’ Market at Lansdowne, Main Street, Westboro, Barrhaven and Orléans! FREE!
- Thursday, July 16 |Stroll through the Hintonburg Night Market to pick up local eats, treats and all things handmade. Sit back, relax, eat and be entertained by local musicians, buskers and entertainers. FREE!
For arts, culture and a good time…
- Thursdays through Saturdays | Experience the energy of summer at Metcalfe Plaza, a vibrant downtown gathering place filled with art, music, and cultural programming. FREE!
- Thursday, July 16 | Enjoy complimentary evening admission to the Canadian Museum of Nature and explore fascinating galleries featuring fossils, Canadian wildlife, minerals, and more. FREE!
- Thursday, July 16 | See Ottawa from the water with a collection of specialty cruises that pair scenic views with festive and memorable experiences with Ottawa Boat Cruise.
- Friday, July 17 | Connect with community at Queers & Beers, a welcoming social gathering that celebrates inclusivity and local queer culture.
- Saturday, July 18 | Fanaticcon is Ottawa’s ultimate fan experience, perfect for all pop culture enthusiasts!
- Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19 | Enter into this uniting and empowering experience called MUDGIRL. A 5km walk/run with 17+ obstacles that's achievable by all.
- Saturday, July 18 | Start your weekend with Pure Flow yoga on the patio at Tavern on the Hill.
- Saturday, July 18 | Get hands-on with the machines that power the landscaping industry during Touch-A-Truck, a family-friendly event. FREE!
- Saturday, July 18; Wednesday, July 22 | Hop on a historic bus tour through the streets of Ottawa and uncover the vibrant tapestry of Black history in the capital and across Canada. Starting at the YMCA.
- Wednesday, July 22 | Explore downtown Ottawa through an Indigenous walking tour led by artist and educator Jaime Morse. FREE!
For sports fans…
- Ongoing | Join fellow sports fans and catch professional baseball games from the Ottawa Titans at the Ottawa Stadium.
- Thursday, July 16 | Cheer on the Ottawa Rapid FC, Ottawa’s professional women’s soccer team at TD Place.
- Friday, July 17 | Experience the passion of Atlético Ottawa at the arena at TD Place.
- Sunday, July 19 | Show your support for the Ottawa REDBLACKS at TD Place.
- Wednesday, July 22 | Cheer on the Ottawa BlackJacks at TD Place.
- Until Sunday, July 19 | Experience professional golf at Commissionaires Ottawa Open, a premier tournament that brings top-level competition to Ottawa.
