Looking for fun activities in the Ottawa area? Check out these options over the next seven days, starting on Thursday, October 8. Be sure to verify details with the organizers as plans can change at any time.
- Ongoing | Spend the Thanksgiving long weekend exploring One World Bazaar! Shop thousands of unique finds from around the world in our historic barn, with live music Saturday and African dance performances on Thanksgiving Monday. Open Friday–Monday, 10am–5pm. FREE!
- Ongoing | Discover the main Parliament Building, also called Centre Block, at Parliament: The Immersive Experience. This innovative experience includes an exhibition and a 360° multimedia show. FREE!
For Thanksgiving long weekend fun…
- Starting Friday, October 9 | The Elmvale Ward Séance returns to Ottawa, inviting audiences into an immersive Victorian-inspired experience steeped in mystery, suspense and atmospheric storytelling.
- Ongoing | Step into the magic of Pumpkinferno, an enchanting outdoor experience where thousands of handcrafted illuminated pumpkins. At the Upper Canada Village.
- Ongoing| PumpkinFest at Saunders Farm offers family-friendly autumn fun — find the perfect pumpkin, get lost in our hedge mazes, hop on a hayride and enjoy kid-friendly, haunted attractions.
- Fridays and Saturdays | Looking for a spooky group adventure this month? Look no further than sKreamers, a haunted weekend event full of wagon rides and scary surprises... Held at Proulx Maple & Berry Farm.
- Fridays and Saturdays | FrightFest at Saunders Farm is Canada’s top haunted attraction, featuring multiple haunted experiences, street theatre, fresh food, and homemade confections.
- Fridays and Saturdays | Don’t miss Acres of Terror, A terrifying Halloween attraction with four main parts: The Spooky Wagon Ride, House of Terror, Fog Maze and Spooky Village. Held at Cannamore Orchard.
- Friday, October 9 to Sunday, October 11 | Experience a magical forest walk at Parc Oméga as the story of wolf cub Oniro unfolds through light, sound, and immersive storytelling.
- Saturday, October 10 to Sunday, October 11 | Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend at the Robert Plante Greenhouses showcasing more than 200 local vendors and artisans offering handmade goods, seasonal finds, specialty treats and unique gift ideas.
- Tuesday, October 13 | Make sure to catch an incredible music show from the Chamberfest Concert Series.
For fans of performances…
- 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.
- 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.
- Friday, October 9 | Experience Dief the Chief: October ’62, a captivating theatrical journey 75 feet underground at the Diefenbunker.
- Friday, October 9 |The Capital Music Awards has become the city’s largest annual music industry gathering, showcasing the depth, diversity, and excellence of talent across the National Capital Region. Held at National Arts Centre.
- Friday, October 9 |Experience the powerful sound of Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, the GRAMMY Award-winning blues artist celebrated for his extraordinary guitar skills and commanding stage presence. At Algonquin Commons Theatre.
- Saturday, October 10 | Experience the powerhouse vocals of Ann Wilson, the celebrated singer-songwriter and iconic voice behind the legendary rock band Heart. Held at Hard Rock Ottawa Hotel & Casino.
- Until Sunday, October 11 | Discover the next generation of theatre at OFF//SHOOTS, a new festival celebrating the creativity and talent of artists aged 30 and under. Held at Arts Court.
- Until Sunday, October 11 |Discover International artists, onsite tattooing, live bands and more at the Ottawa Gatineau Tattoo Expo.
- Tuesday, October 13 | Enjoy an evening of local comedy at the Carleton with a welcoming open mic that highlights emerging talent and fresh material.
For arts, culture and a good time…
- Thursday, October 8 |Cheer on the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre.
- Thursday, October 8 | Australian comedian, writer and actor Josh Thomas brings Jiggle, Jiggle to Ottawa, a stand-up show that trades life lessons for pure fun and laughter. At Algonquin Commons Theatre.
- Until Friday, October 9 | Ottawa Architecture Week: Festival of Design and Imagination is an annual week-long festival that welcomes everyone to explore architecture, urbanism, art and design in Ottawa.
- Saturday, October 10 |Black Out Night (BON) returns alongside French Theatre's presentation of Neige sur Abidjan, inviting audiences to experience an evening that celebrates culture, conversation, and community. Held at National Arts Centre.
- Ongoing | 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.
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!
