Weekend Events & Festivals in Ottawa
A weekly digest of what’s on this weekend in Ottawa, including free fun family & kids’ activities, live music, theatre & performing arts, sports, and exhibitions. – April 26 to 28, 2024.
Before You Travel:
- Weather:
- Ottawa Road Conditions/Traffic/Road Closures: Details
Submit the event online (free) to add to the Ottawa Events Calendar.
- Spring/April:
I. Family & Kids Activities
Ottawa PoutineFest & Mac My Cheese
April 26 – April 28, 2024
Ottawa City Hall Plaza, 110 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa
Free Admission
Festival of Maples
Maple products and taffy sales displays of maple syrup production maple awards, entertainment, pony rides & children’s activities. Live musical entertainment, over 100 Craft & Artisan Vendors, Food Vendors Enjoy the talents of our local musicians as you roam around the festival. Details
Saturday, April 27th, 2024 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Downtown Perth, Gore Street East, Perth
Free
At the library
Ottawa Public Library offers plenty of free activities for all ages, including toddler storytimes. Plan to attend some of the free activities during weekends:
Details and link for registration.
By City of Ottawa Recreation – Programs
At the library
II. Live Music
EDM/Concerts Tours
- Kiran Ahluwalia on Thursday April 25 at 8:00 PM @ Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Ottawa
- Sarah Pagé, Nick Schofield, and Charbonneau / Amato on Thursday April 25 | 8:00 PM @ NAC
- Vanessa Collier on Thursday April 25 | 8:00 PM @ NAC
- Lolina (UK) / Man Made Hill / Please / Jules Filmhouse on Friday April 26 | 8 pm @ Lounge 164
- Back To Black: A Tribute To Amy Winehouse on April 26 & 27 @ Irene’s Pub
- Jonathan Roy – Nice To Meet You Tour on Friday, April 26, 2024 | 7:00 PM @ Bronson Centre
- LOVEU2 – A Tribute to U2 on April 26 & 27 @ Shenkman Arts Centre
- Guy Bélanger on Friday April 26 @ Azrieli Studio
- Jonathan Roy – Nice To Meet You Tour on Friday April 26 | 7 pm @ Bronson Centre Theatre
- The Cooper Brothers 50th Anniversary with Special Guests on Friday, April 26 at 8:00 PM @ Meridian Theatres
- Abbamania on Saturday, April 27 | 8:00 PM @ Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy
- Amanda Martinez on Saturday April 27 | 8:00 PM @ Azrieli Studio
Thorgy Thor and the Thorchestra
Sass, style, and serious classical chops: that’s what the dragnificent Thorgy Thor brings to Southam Hall when she and Principal Youth Conductor and NACO Creative Partner Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser join the NAC Orchestra for an evening of virtuoso violin playing and fabulousness! Fresh from a star-making turn on Season 8 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, the “Queen of Classical Music” will slay you with her outrageous fashion and julienne you with her wit in this dazzling, theatrical symphonic extravaganza. Don’t miss it! (Oh, and Thorgy Thor will be looking thorgeous—will you?) Details
April 25 to 27, 2024
Southam Hall, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
$31.00 +
Ottawa Grassroots Festival
The Ottawa Grassroots Festival is a non-profit, community-based, volunteer-run organization dedicated to cultivating community at the local level through a vibrant annual festival of concerts and participatory workshops. Headlining this year’s event are Lynn Miles, Charlie A’Court and Connie Kaldor. The trio of renowned Canadian musicians will bring a tantalizing range of personalities, performance styles and musical genres to the festival’s stages. Details
April 25 to 28, 2024
First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa & Irene’s Pub, Ottawa
Free & Ticketed Events
Capital Chamber Choir – Canadian Connections
The Capital Chamber Choir is an auditioned ensemble of advanced singers from the Ottawa region. The choir and Artistic Director, Jamie Loback, are committed to bringing a diverse range of choral music—in particular, modern, Canadian, and local works—to audiences through high-caliber and engaging performances. For this performance focus will be on Canadian composers, including local composers! There may also be an interpretation of a mainstream pop/rock/folk song or two. Details
Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 8:00 PM
Les Lye Studio Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Dr., Ottawa
$34.50
Show Tune Showdown
Show Tune Showdown™ is a popular musical theatre performance and trivia competition– a unique blend of the best of Broadway and show tune trivia similar to Name That Tune. Three teams of singers from Orpheus Musical Theatre, Suzart Productions and Broadway Nights Ottawa will perform in front of three celebrity judges for the chance to win. Our judges are Lynn Miles (singer/songwriter), Matt Skube (CTV Ottawa), and Jeff Leiper (Ottawa city councillor). The teams perform show tunes for points from the judges. Details
Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 7:30 PM
Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Dr., Ottawa
$35.00
III. Live Theatre
Rose et la machine
Wednesday April 24 to Saturday April 27, 2024
Babs Asper Theatre, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa
$31.00 – $60.00
Shorthanded: A Ladies Game
Eight women battle the other team (and each other), after finding themselves short-handed for their championship game. Throw in some mid-life problems, friendships, some teasing, some tenderness, chocolate, beer, and hockey. presented by Phoenix Players By Michael Grant Directed by Rachel Worton Details
April 19-27, 2024
The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Avenue
$24-$27
Aries Spears
Out for a Rip Comedy Tour. Ever since New York native Aries Spears was 14 years old, he has been a force to be reckoned with in the comedy scene throughout America. His quick wit, charisma and ferociously aggressive style of comedy have earned him critical acclaim, high accolades, and above all, a busy schedule. Details
Saturday, Apr 27 2024 | 7 PM
Bronson Centre Theatre, 211 Bronson Avenue, Ottawa
$39.45 – $63.11
Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show
This two-hour show features all-Canadian music: from maritime folk songs to modern pop. Come meet our singing Mountie, Hockey Player, Anne of Green Gables, Klondike Kitty and more. This high-energy production features over 70 songs from all-Canadian artists including music from Paul Anka, Celine Dion, Shania Twain, the Bare Naked Ladies, Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber and many, MANY more. Details
Various Dates
Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Theatre, 330 Kent Street, Ottawa
$20 to $94.95
IV. Sports/Outdoor Activities
PWHL Ottawa vs. PWHL Montréal
Professional Women’s Hockey League Details
Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 12:30 PM
The Arena at TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
$10 – $58.96+fees
Stars on Ice
The 2024 Stars on Ice tour promises to be the best place to experience live performances by many of the reigning World Champions immediately after competing at the 2024 World Figure Skating Championships in Montreal. Leading the list of contenders will be Canada’s own Piper Gilles & Paul Poirier, two-time World medalists and two-time Canadian Dance Champions. Details
Sunday, April 28, 2024 | 4:00 PM
Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa
$16 – $162+fees
General Activities
- Scenic Lookouts: 15 Scenic Lookouts In and Around Ottawa
- Waterfalls: 15+ Waterfalls to Visit in and Around Ottawa
- Hikes: 25 of the Best Hikes in and Around Ottawa
- Family Hikes: 20 Family Hikes and Walks in and Around Ottawa
- Nature Areas: 25 Must-Visit Nature Attractions and Nature Hotspots in and Around Ottawa
V. Festivals & Other Events
Ottawa Humane Society Auxiliary Spring Sale
April 25 to 27, 2024
Carlingwood Shopping Centre, 2121 Carling Avenue, Ottawa
Free
Ottawa International Food and Book Expo
Discover a wide range of books by talented Canadian and international authors, spanning various genres and subjects. Engage in lively discussions, meet the authors, and have your books signed. Whether you’re a passionate reader or simply curious about Canadian literature, this event offers something for everyone. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the expo, browse through book stalls, and uncover hidden literary gems. Details
April 27 and 28, 2024 | 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Horticulture Building, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa
Varies
AutoEdge Car Show
You’re invited to the AutoEdge Car Show on April 27th! Spring is on the horizon, and we’re gearing up for the biggest, loudest, and best season opener! Stay tuned for exciting announcements on prizes, food trucks, DJs, vendors, and more. All proceeds will be matched and donated to CHEO. Details
Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
AutoEdge, 2185 Robertson Road, Ottawa
$10
613flea
613flea is an ever changing, twice-a-month marketplace that returns to Lansdowne Park with makers & bakers, crafters & creators, antiques dealers & vintage clothing vendors, vinyl records & comics – plus great food! Details
April 27 | 10 AM – 4 PM
Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
Free
ORCHIDOPHILIA 2024: The Ottawa Orchid Society Annual Show and Sale
April 27 to 28, 2024
Algonquin College, 1385 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa
$12 – $15+fees
Submerge Social
Join us for an unforgettable evening that will transport you into a world of wellness like never before. Submerge, and The Westin Ottawa have partnered to bring you an evening experience of connection, deep relaxation and revitalization. This exclusive special edition of the Submerge Social takes place in the heart of downtown Ottawa in the spectacular venue of The Westin. As the sun sets on breathtaking views of our beloved city, you will embark on a journey with our expert instructors, who will guide you through meditation, movement, breathwork, and cold exposure. Details
Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Westin Ottawa, 11 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa
$100.57
Shrek Rave
Unleash your inner ogre at Shrek Rave! It’s dumb just come and have fun. Who cares. Cool is dead. Details
Friday, April 26 | 10 PM
The Brass Monkey, 250 Greenbank Avenue, Ottawa
$26.69 – $32.34
GLOW Party
Get ready to light up the night at GLOW – Ottawa’s ultimate glow-in-the-dark party! We’re flipping the switch on our UV black lights to transform the venue into a neon wonderland! Dress in your best glow-in-the-dark gear and join us for an electrifying evening of vibrant colors, immersive decorations, and endless fun. Details
Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Preston Event Centre, 523 Saint Anthony Street Ottawa
$23.70
GHOSTS: Do You Believe?
Prepare for an extraordinary live show hosted by paranormal expert Dustin Pari of Ghost Hunters, where the boundaries of reality and the supernatural blur. Join us as we dive deep into the world’s most riveting paranormal evidence and share perplexing ghost stories that defy explanation. Brace yourself for an interactive journey through haunted encounters, mind boggling phenomena, and first-hand accounts that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew. Details
Sunday, April 28th | 7 PM
Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave, Ottawa
$39.50-$59.50
Bytown Antique & Vintage Show
You will find tons of amazing antiques, collectibles and vintage items at the 48th annual Bytown Antique & Vintage Show organised by Bytown Antique & Bottle Club. Details
Sunday, April 28, 2024 | 9 AM – 3 PM
Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa
$5
Festival Transistor
Transistor Festival is presented by Amazon Music. Festival-goers are invited to take Gatineau to celebrate podcasts and sound creation.
Whether it is comedy shows or carte blanche given to emerging creators, the festival wants to provide the public with a unique experience.
April 24 to 27, 2024
Centre culturel du Vieux-Aylmer, 120, rue Principale, Gatineau
Varies
April Exhibitions at Wall Space Gallery
Wall Space Gallery is proud to present “Sky Poetry” by Erica Hawkes and “New Works” by Nicole Allen. Details
April 13 to 27, 2024
Wall Space Gallery, 1090 Bank St., Ottawa
Free
Art Exhibition
Upcoming art exhibition Wildflowers Haikus, Kaleidoscope Sky Studio, Hintonburg. Paintings and poetry. Details
March 25 to May 12, 2024
Kaleidoscope Sky Studio, 1106 Somerset St W, Ottawa
Free
We do try to make the listings as accurate as possible, but there might be oversight errors/Events might be cancelled or postponed without any notice. Verify all details from concerned Event Websites/officials.
To add events to this list – Submit Event.
me and my buddy are going next weekend. I cant wait for updated list. lots of fun items to do in Ottawa
Great resource. Thanks a lot!
Thank you
Hello
Does subscribe work?
tried twice, always an error (nothing in my inbox or spam)
thank you
Does subscribing still work? I have checked my spam folders and nothing.
Great site, I look at it almost every week to get ideas on what to do with the kids.
Just to note, there’s a fair with carnival rides this weekend (Aug. 20-22) at the Earl Armstrong Arena. You can see it from the costco parking lot.
Here’s the address for those interested:
Earl Armstrong Arena
2020 Ogilvie Rd, Gloucester, ON K1J 7N8
To allay any confusion–when you click on “details” under “Shakespeare in the Park–A Midsummer Night’s Dream” there is an error suggesting that the play is “Cymbeline.” That was last year’s Bear production! This year’s show is, indeed “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Join us for one of our final three performances, Aug 2, 3, & 4!
Wow wish I had found this site much sooner. So many great events happening in Ottawa this weekend. Thanks for providing this list.
Thanks for the list!!! It really helps me plan my activities with my kids on the weekend.
Great listings! Thanks!
Thanks for including the Ottawa Canadian Film Festival http://ocanfilmfest.ca/ocanfilmfest2018
Useful. Thanks for sharing.
Why is it that the “Subscribe to our newsletter” – on the right hand side of this newsletter/webpage…
https://www.todocanada.ca/things-ottawa-weekend/
… does not include Ottawa in the “Select City News letter list”?
Boom