Canada Day

Canada Day 2025 – fireworks, parties, music and more

Canada Day 2025 falls on a Tuesday, making it the perfect excuse to turn the weekend before into a full-on Canada Day celebration in Canada’s capital. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, joining a lively party, or seeking out live music, fireworks, street food, and family-friendly events, there are countless ways to enjoy the festivities across the city.

This year, the downtown core will come alive with energy and variety. You’ll find heritage and patriotic programming on Parliament Hill, vibrant live music and fireworks at LeBreton Flats Park, a high-energy street party in Hull featuring The Strumbellas, and hands-on activities for families in front of the Supreme Court of Canada.

Keep reading for a guide to Canada Day in Ottawa, with highlights, tips, and inspiration for making the most of your long weekend. 

Limited time summer savings in Ottawa

Visit Ottawa Pass
Visit Ottawa Pass
Make the most of your Canada Day long weekend with the Visit Ottawa Pass! Choose 5 top attractions to visit over 3 days — perfect for a full weekend of exploring. A child 17 and under can accompany an adult for free.
hotel
Hotel Summer Deals
For even more savings, check out these limited time hotel deals.

Canada Day events

Plan your Canada Day weekend

Canada Day FAQs

  • Who is performing in Ottawa for Canada Day 2025?

    Starting at noon, the Canada Day lineup includes Sarah McLachlan, Coeur de pirate, Tom Cochrane, Mitsou, Roch Voisine, TALK and more!

  • Are Ottawa museums free on Canada Day?

    The following museums are free on Canada Day: 

    • Canadian Museum of Nature – Free admission
    • Canada Agriculture and Food Museum – Free admission
    • Canada Science and Technology Museum – Free admission
    • Canada Aviation and Space Museum – Free admission
    • Canadian War Museum – Free admission
    • Canadian Museum of History – Free admission
    • Bank of Canada Museum – Open (always free)
    • Watson’s Mill and Dickinson House – Open (always free)
  • Where can I watch the fireworks?

    Popular viewing areas include:

    • LeBreton Flats
    • Parliament Hill
    • Capital Pathway (near LeBreton Flats)

    Arrive early – these sites fill up quickly and access becomes limited.

  • What roads will be closed in the ByWard Market on Canada Day?

    From 7 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, the following streets will be closed:

    • George St. (ByWard Market Sq. to William St.)
    • York St. (Sussex Dr. to Dalhousie St.)
    • William St. (George St. to York St.)
    • ByWard Market Square (George St. to Clarence St.)

    William Street between George and York is also closed June 28–30 due to a seasonal pedestrian zone.

  • What roads will be closed near Parliament Hill and LeBreton Flats?

    From 6 a.m. on July 1 to 2 a.m. on July 2, expect closures on:

    • Wellington St. (Elgin to Vimy Pl.)- Metcalfe, O’Connor, Bank, Kent, Lyon, Bay (between Wellington & Albert)
    • Booth St. (Chaudière Crossing to Albert)
    • Fleet St., Lett St., Lloyd St., Commissioner St.

    Additional closures on Albert and Slater St. begin at 7 p.m. on July 1.

  • Which bridges will be affected?

    • Portage Bridge: Closed to vehicles; open to pedestrians
    • Chaudière Crossing: Fully closed to all traffic
    • Alexandra Bridge: Northbound lane open and pedestrian access available; southbound lane closed from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 1
  • How can I get around on Canada Day?

    Use OC Transpo’s free service on all buses, trains, and Para Transpo.

    • O-Train Line 1: 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.
    • Lines 2 & 4: 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.
    • Para Transpo: Until 3 a.m.

    Note: Between 9:30 p.m. and the end of the fireworks, trains will not stop at Pimisi Station. Use Lyon Station or Bayview Station instead to access LeBreton Flats and fireworks viewing areas. 

    More: octranspo.com

  • Where can I get the latest closure and travel info?

Make the festival extra special and do these activities, too

Great patios by Ottawa neighbourhood
Check out some of the best restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs with outdoor spaces.
Cycling in the Ottawa region
Learn about gear rentals, fun tours, great events and picturesque routes within the city and nearby countryside.
Best ice cream (and other frozen treats) in Ottawa
Check out some of the best ice cream (and delicious alternatives) that are made with love in Ottawa.
A guide to Ottawa’s street food spots
Discover Ottawa’s best street eats, from food trucks to takeout spots—perfect for a quick bite between museums or after a day outdoors.
Family-friendly restaurants and places to eat in Ottawa
Discover Ottawa restaurants, diners, pubs and self-serve options the whole family will love.
Ottawa’s seven national museums
Visit seven of Canada’s nine national museums in Ottawa!
Nightlife in Ottawa's ByWard Market
Canada’s capital awakens when the sun goes down! If you’re looking to go out in downtown Ottawa, the ByWard Market neighbourhood is where you want to be.
Parliament Hill free tours and programming
Parliament Hill is one of Canada’s most iconic sites and a must-see when visiting Canada’s capital.
A Taste of Canadiana in Ottawa
If you’re looking for an authentic Canadian experience on the go, Ottawa’s ByWard Market neighbourhood is not to be missed. The ByWard Market is one…
Epic whitewater adventures on the Ottawa River
Get your whitewater fix—a gentle splash or world-class high adventure—by rafting, tubing and kayaking within the city or in Ottawa’s nearby countryside.
Hiking highlights in the Ottawa area
Looking to explore scenic trails on foot in the Ottawa region? Choose from walking on easy urban pathways, hiking on rugged rural terrain and much more.

Stay up to date

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