Ottawa’s 200th birthday will come with a full day of music, and Ottawa Bluesfest is at the centre of it.
On July 19, the festival is teaming up with the City of Ottawa and Ottawa Tourism to mark the milestone with a mix of free daytime events and a ticketed evening concert. The daytime portion runs from noon to 4 p.m. and is open to everyone.
That afternoon lineup includes Natalie MacMaster & Family, Choir!Choir!Choir!, and Les Petites Tounes. There will also be returning favourites like the Blues In The Schools and Be In The Band showcases. Around the site, families can expect hands-on activities.
Ingenium museums are bringing interactive exhibits, Cirquonscient will stage circus and aerial performances, and Ottawa Fire Services will host activities and giveaways.
Things shift in the evening. From 5 to 11 p.m., the focus turns to a full concert lineup led by The Guess Who. The bill also includes Connor Price, The Sheepdogs, Elisapie, Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar, 4KORNERS, Banggz, LeFLOFRANCO, Mely Walide, Paolo Stante Band, Rebelle, Savannah Shea, and TYR ONE. A drone show is planned to close out the night.
Tickets for the evening show are priced at $40 for now, with that rate available until June. To make the event more accessible, the city plans to distribute up to 2,000 free tickets through community partners.
July 19 is also the 200th day of the year, something Mayor Mark Sutcliffe pointed out as fitting timing for the celebration.
Part of the ticket revenue will support CHEO and the A la Carte Food Program.