Poppy Drop at the Senate

What’s happening in Ottawa

Looking for fun activities in the Ottawa area? Check out these options over the next seven days, starting on Thursday, November 5. Be sure to verify details with the organizers as plans can change at any time.

Remembrance Day programming…

  • Saturday, November 7 | The Annual Sound of Remembrance returns to the Canadian War Museum for an evening of music, tribute, and unity. This heartfelt event honours the courage and sacrifice of members of the Canadian Armed Forces, first responders, and their families.
  • Until Wednesday, November 11 |Thousands of poppies representing fallen Canadian veterans are projected onto the Senate of Canada Building between 6:30pm and 9:30pm Eastern time at the Poppy Drop. Until Midnight on Tuesday, November 10 and Wednesday, November 11. 
  • Until Wednesday, November 11 |Mark the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion with activities throughout the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, including a self-guided exploration of the Legion’s history and a collaborative mural where visitors can leave a message of thanks. 
  • Wednesday, November 11 | Attend the National Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa to honour Canada’s military members with a wreath-laying, two minutes of silence, and a fly-past (weather permitting).
  • Wednesday, November 11 |Canada's National Military Cemetery is Beechwood Cemetery. All are welcome to attend their Remembrance Day Ceremony, honoring Canadian Armed Forces members and their families.

 

For your next big find…

  • Ongoing | Visit a vintage barn a half-hour drive from downtown Ottawa in Manotick Station to shop for treasures created by artisans from around the world at One World Bazaar. FREE!
  • Saturday, November 7 | Browse unique finds and local treasures at 613flea in the Aberdeen Pavilion. FREE!
  • Saturday, November 7 | Shop local at the Metcalfe Farmers' Christmas Market, featuring handmade, baked, and grown goods. FREE!

 

 

For fans of performances…

  • Friday, November 6 | Experience the powerful storytelling of Les Misérables through a dramatic staged reading of selected excerpts from Victor Hugo’s classic novel. Held at Saint Paul University.
  • Friday, November 6 to Saturday, November 7 | 613RnB is an R&B show that offers a chance to unwind and reconnect with your favourite hits and slow jams.
  • Friday, November 6 to Sunday, November 8 | Celebrate creativity, storytelling and community at ChromaQueer, a festival dedicated to fostering queer artistic expression and meaningful connection in Ottawa.
  • Friday, November 6 to Saturday, November 7 |The Ottawa New Music Festival returns with a celebration of innovative music and sound, bringing together artists and audiences for a dynamic contemporary arts experience. Held at the Ottawa Art Gallery.
  • Saturday, November 7 |Celebrate 50 years of Canadian rock with Streetheart, a band whose powerful sound and enduring catalogue have made them a favourite among generations of music fans.
  • Fridays and Saturdays | Experience unforgettable live entertainment as live bands and DJs bring energy for Rythmik Nights to the dance floor well into the evening. Held at Casino du Lac-Leamy.
  • Fridays and Saturdays | Enjoy live entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. FREE!
  • Monday, November 9 | Enjoy unforgettable musical moments with a Broadway open mic and sing-along at Manor Lounge.
  • Tuesday, November 10 | Enjoy an evening of local comedy at the Carleton with a welcoming open mic that highlights emerging talent and fresh material. 

 

For arts, sports, culture and a good time…

  • Thursday, November 5 | Outstanding in their Fields returns to Sala San Marco, featuring Ontario’s top winemakers, over 100 wines, and local gourmet artisans for an evening of tasting and discovery.
  • Thursday, November 5 to Friday, November 6 |Gather with friends before the holiday season for an evening of fine wine, craft beer, and gourmet bites at the Orléans Cork & Fork Festival.
  • Friday, November 6| Enjoy affordable, family-friendly junior men’s hockey games at TD Place Arena at Lansdowne with the Ottawa 67’s.
  • Friday, November 6 to Sunday, November 8 | The 2026 Ontario Cup showcases the excitement, skill and inclusivity of Blind Hockey, bringing together athletes from across Canada and beyond for a high-level competition in Ottawa. 
  • Until Saturday, November 7 | L’Outaouais au menu returns for its fourth edition, inviting food lovers to enjoy a special dining experience at participating restaurants across the region. 
  • Saturday, November 7 | Discover the fundamentals of ice sculpting in a guided, hands-on workshop experience. Participants are introduced to essential techniques for carving small scale ice sculptures at the Canadian Ice Carver’s Clubhouse. 
  • Saturday, November 7 | Cheer on the Ottawa Rapid FC, Ottawa’s women’s soccer team at TD Place.
  • Saturday, November 7; Tuesday, November 10 | Show your support for the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre.
  • Saturday, November 7| During the Ottawa Children's Storytelling Festival, passionate and professional storytellers tell engaging stories for kids of all ages in English and French.
  • Saturday, November 7 |Step into an elegant masquerade evening filled with music, dancing and an atmosphere of intrigue. Held at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church. 
  • Sunday, November 8 | Discover a Colours & Cocktails experience that blends personal style, shopping and cocktails in a relaxed setting at Bee You Creative Styles.
  • 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.

Find out more great activities to do in and around Ottawa by checking out Ottawa Tourism’s Event Calendar or have a look at the Ottawa Insider Blog!

All details provided for the above events are subject to change at the discretion of event organizers. Ottawa Tourism does not take responsibility for changes which may occur beyond our control.

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