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.
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
Summer hotel deals
For even more savings, check out these limited time hotel deals.
Canada Day events
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Canada Day in the capital
Join the celebrations at LeBreton Flats Park and elsewhere in the heart of Ottawa – Gatineau! A number of activities, animations and shows presented… -
Canada Day Orléans
Celebrate Canada Day in Orléans with a full day of family fun at Petrie Island. Enjoy cultural performances, beachside activities, water competitions… -
Canada Day Barrhaven
Summer 2026, dates to be announcedHead south to Barrhaven for this annual community-run Canada Day celebration, featuring fun activities for the entire family.
Plan your Canada Day weekend
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10 things to do during the Canada Day Long Weekend (2025)
From classic Canada Day traditions to summer-long weekend escapes, Ottawa offers the perfect mix of celebration and relaxation. -
Free or nearly free activities in spring, summer and fall in Ottawa
Free or almost free things to do in Ottawa in the spring, summer and fall seasons. -
Canada Day FAQs
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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!
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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)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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Where can I get the latest closure and travel info?
#MyOttawa
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