Ottawa 
Ottawa’s biggest summer tradition is turning 51, and you’re invited to be part of it.
Head to Albion Road and Rideau Road for ten sunny days of midway rides, eats, treats and entertainment from August 14 to 23, 2026.
Credit: Capital Fair
The 2026 edition of the Capital Fair kicks off this Friday, and you can roam around the grounds, cotton candy in hand, taking in the sights and sounds of a traditional fair. This year’s edition blends long-time favourites with fresh attractions, making it a gathering where you can eat, cheer, dance, and discover something new every day.
What to See and Do
- Ride Eastern Ontario’s Largest Midway: Operated by World’s Finest Shows, the midway offers over 25 rides, from heart-stopping coasters to gentle spins for younger visitors. Advance ride wristbands cost $42.90 until August 13, increasing to $55 when purchased onsite during the event.
- Extreme Lumberjack: Watch professional lumberjack athletes battle in a spectacular showcase of strength, precision and speed, featuring axe throwing, log rolling, chainsaw carving, speed climbing and hot saw racing. Blending raw power, precision and tradition, this high-energy showdown transforms classic forestry skills into an thrilling live spectacle.
- Aces Flying Pig Races: Cheer on adorable piglets as they dash toward photo finishes in this hilarious crowd favourite. With pop-culture-inspired names, playful commentary and surprising twists between races, Aces Flying Pig Races delivers fast-paced family fun, plenty of laughs and unforgettable fairground entertainment.
- iFLIP Acrobatic Show: Defy gravity with iFLIP’s electrifying mix of aerial artistry and fearless acrobatics. From Trampo-Wall and Power-Track to trapeze, aerial elastic and a breathtaking 18-metre high dive, this pulse-pounding spectacle delivers soaring thrills and precision.
- Extreme Dogs Stunt Dog Show: Watch remarkable rescue and adopted dogs steal the spotlight with soaring dock dives, agility challenges and high-flying tricks. Guided by expert trainers, Extreme Dogs combines athletic talent, heartwarming stories and nonstop action while celebrating animal rescue and pet adoption.
- Experience the Capital Fair Blues Revue: Feel the rhythm at the 4th Annual Capital Fair Blues Revue, where Ottawa’s blues scene takes centre stage. Enjoy River City Junction, Werth It, The Low Profiles and Joe Ray McDonald in an afternoon and evening of soulful live music.
- Watch the Demolition Derby: On Sunday, August 23, at 1 p.m., the fairgrounds turn into a roaring arena as drivers smash and grind for victory in a high-energy spectacle of noise, speed, and steel.
- Join in Special Needs Day: On Tuesday, August 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the fair provides a quieter, more accessible experience for children with developmental or physical disabilities, featuring gentle rides, a BBQ lunch, ice cream, and animal encounters.
In addition, you can find merchandise like local arts and crafts and various food options such as hot dogs, hamburgers, corn, French fries, fried onions, donuts, popcorn, ice cream, and much more.
Capital Fair admission is $15 for ages 13+ and $7 for children ages 5–12. Early Bird passes reduce prices to $10 and $5, respectively. On Monday, August 17, half-price admission is $8 for adults and $4 for children, while Wednesday, August 19, admission for ages 13+ costs $10.
It all happens at 4899 Albion Rd S, Ottawa, corner of Albion and Rideau Roads. $8 cash parking is available on-site.
