Looking for fun activities in the Ottawa area? Check out these options over the next seven days, starting on Thursday, July 30. Be sure to verify details with the organizers as plans can change at any time.
ONGOING | Looking for a free and educational activity for the whole family this summer? Why not take a free guided tour of the Senate of Canada Building and the House of Commons at West Block, enjoy a multimedia show at Parliament: the Immersive Experience or explore the heritage rooms at East Block? Our visitor experiences are available all summer – book your tickets today!
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!
- Friday, July 31 | 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!
- Friday, July 31 | Snack, shop, and soak in the vibes at Vegans Who Snack Food & Art Festival! Indulge in delicious vegan treats, shop local art and self-care goodies. Held at Parkdale Public Market. FREE!
- Saturday, August 1; Wednesday, August 5 | Enjoy pyromusical shows of international calibre, open flame culinary experiences at Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy. Held at the Canadian Museum of History.
- Sunday, August 2 | Experience a vibrant Indian carnival set across a scenic countryside landscape, bringing together culture, flavour and festive energy in one unforgettable day.
- Sunday, August 2 | Experience the excitement of IRONMAN Canada–Ottawa, a high-energy endurance event set against the iconic backdrop of Parliament Hill.
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!
- Discover local produce, artisanal products and more at Beechwood Market, Elgin Market and Parkdale Market. FREE!
- Thursday, July 30 | 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!
- Saturday, August 1; Wednesday, August 5| 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.
- Friday, July 31 to Saturday, August 1 | Witness traditional Scottish events with more than 60 pipe bands, 200 Highland dancers, sports, pageantry and tradition at the Glengarry Highland Games.
- Friday, July 31 | Join the roaring crowds at TD Place Stadium at Lansdowne as the Ottawa REDBLACKS battle for a chance at the Grey Cup.
- Saturday, August 1 to Monday, August 3 | Explore the State rooms, greenhouses, and gardens of Rideau Hall at your own pace during special summer weekends at Rideau Hall. FREE!
- Saturday, August 1; Wednesday, August 5 | Experience the excitement of fireworks from a unique vantage point on the water with the Casino Lac-Leamy Fireworks Cruise.
- Saturday, August 1 | Experience an unforgettable evening with country music star Cole Swindell, known for his chart-topping hits and energetic stage presence. Held at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa.
- Monday, August 3 | Celebrate Ottawa’s rich history and the legacy of Lieutenant-Colonel John By during Colonel By Day with a day of free admission (donations welcome) at the Bytown Museum. FREE!
- Wednesday, August 5 | Catch Daniel Caesar at the Canadian Tire Centre.
- Wednesday, August 5 | Ottawa’s iconic summer lunchtime activity returns. Every Wednesday at 12 pm, join local yoga instructors for a one-hour outdoor yoga on the lawn of Parliament Hill.
- Fridays and Saturdays | Enjoy live entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. FREE!
