Looking for fun activities in the Ottawa area? Check out these options over the next seven days, starting on Thursday, September 17. Be sure to verify details with the organizers as plans can change at any time.
NEW | Experience Wild Colour, a limited-time exhibition at the Canadian Museum of Nature! Explore the science of colour in nature through nearly 200 specimens, colourful spaces and hands-on fun for all ages. Step into the rainbow!
NEW | Take in Ottawa’s stunning fall colours from the comfort of a wheelchair-accessible Gray Line sightseeing bus, with an easy way to discover the city’s most iconic sights this season.
For festivals and city-wide events…
- Until Saturday, September 19 | IWBF Wheelchair Basketball World Championships is over 11 action-packed days of competition with 336 of the world’s top athletes from 28 men's and women's teams at TD Place.
- Ongoing | Experience SoundScape, a month-long celebration of music, art and creativity set beneath Ottawa’s historic Plaza Bridge.
- Ongoing | For more than 45 years, One World Bazaar welcomes visitors each fall. Wander through the barn and discover an ever-changing collection of unique clothing, jewellery, pottery, home décor, furniture, textiles, art and more. FREE!
- Ongoing | Step into the vibrant and imaginative world of LUZIA, a breathtaking production inspired by the culture, landscapes and spirit of Mexico. Under the Big Top, St. Laurent Shopping Centre.
- Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20 | Ganesh Mahotsav is one of the most celebrated festivals in India.
- Saturday, September 19 | Celebrate all things anime at Ottawa Anime-Fest, a gathering that brings together fans of Japanese animation, pop culture and cosplay for a day of fun and creativity. Held at the Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport.
- Starting Wednesday, September 23 | Don’t miss the Ottawa International Animation Festival, the world’s second largest animation festival presents films as well as industry talks and exhibits throughout Ottawa in September each year.
For fans of performances…
- Fridays and Saturdays | Enjoy live entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. FREE!
- Thursdays | Feel the rhythm of Latin music every Thursday at an energetic dance night filled with vibrant beats and a lively atmosphere at Casino du Lac-Leamy.
- Tuesday, September 22 | Enjoy an evening of local comedy at the Carleton with a welcoming open mic that highlights emerging talent and fresh material.
- Wednesday, September 23 | Get ready to experience an intimate and interactive 90-minute magic and mentalism show with feats you never thought were possible; you don't just watch the show - you become a part of it! It’s Magic at the Manor!
For marketgoers…
- 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!
- Various dates throughout the week | Discover local produce, artisanal products and more at Beechwood Market, Elgin Market, Metcalfe, and Nepean. FREE!
- Thursday, September 17 |Stroll through the Hintonburg Night Market to pick up local eats, treats and all things handmade.
- Saturday, September 19 | 613flea is an ever-evolving marketplace that brings together Ottawa’s creative and sustainable communities FREE!
- Wednesday, September 23 | The Parkdale Night Market welcomes new producers and growers offering unique products, creating an opportunity to connect with the community into the evening. FREE!
For arts, culture and a good time…
- Thursday, September 17 | See Ottawa from the water with a collection of specialty cruises that pair scenic views with festive and memorable experiences with Ottawa Boat Cruise.
- Thursday, September 17 to Saturday, September 19 | Experience the energy of summer at Metcalfe Plaza, a vibrant downtown gathering place filled with art, music, and cultural programming.
- Thursday, September 17 | Enjoy the Tour de Gatineau, the most prestigious event in North America for women’s road racing and will be classified as a 1.1 race by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) which is the third highest level beneath the World Tour.
- Friday, September 18; Wednesday, September 23| Experience Dief the Chief: October ’62, a captivating theatrical journey 75 feet underground at the Diefenbunker.
- Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20 | Don’t miss Aero Gatineau-Ottawa, the annual air show featuring awe-inspiring aerobatic displays, historically rich military aircraft and new aerospace technologies.
- Friday, September 18 | Connect with community at Queers & Beers, a welcoming social gathering that celebrates inclusivity and local queer culture.
- Friday, September 18 to Saturday, September 19 | Le Petit Chef brings its imaginative dining experience to Ottawa, blending 3D projection with creative gastronomy. Held at the Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Ottawa Downtown.
- Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 20 | Step back in time for an immersive 1860s Fall Fair Weekend and Quilt Show at Upper Canada Village.
- Saturday, September 19 |Celebrate Ottawa Fashion Week 2026, an immersive showcase of local creativity, craftsmanship and style that highlights the work of talented designers from the region. Held at the Bronson Centre.
- Saturday, September 19 |Explore Ottawa’s Chinatown with local artist Don Kwan, who grew up in the neighbourhood and shares his unique perspective on this dynamic area. FREE!
- Saturday, September 19 | Swing on the Hill brings Ottawa’s beloved summer swing dance social back to Parliament Hill. FREE!
- Saturday, September 19 |The Spin City Cup is an exciting table tennis tournament that brings together athletes, coaches, officials and fans for a dynamic celebration of the sport.
- Saturday, September 19 |Experience a silent disco in an extraordinary setting as Silent Discos in Incredible Places transforms the Canadian Museum of History into a vibrant after-hours dance floor.
- Saturday, September 19 |More than 50 Hintonburg and Wellington Village restaurants and shops will be offering free food samples, discounts, sales and entertainment in Wellington West neighbourhood for Taste of Wellington.
- Sunday, September 20 | Celebrate 50 years of Cumberland Heritage Village Museum with a special open house that brings Ottawa’s rural past to life through immersive historical experiences and hands-on discoveries. FREE!
- Sunday, September 20 | From the cannon used as a starter's pistol to the "dog-tag" medals all participants receive when they cross the finish line, Canada Army Run is military in flavour from beginning to end.
- Sunday, September 20 | Catch the action at TD Place with Atlético Ottawa where the crowd roars and every goal fuels the city’s soccer fever.
- Starting Wednesday, September 23 | Join the Ottawa Art Gallery to celebrate Ottawa 200 Day for a weekend of drop-in workshops, art markets, animations, and art events. FREE!
