Ottawa
Weekend Events & Festivals in Ottawa: May 24 to 26, 2019
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.
More To Do
I. Family & Kids Activities
Odawa Pow Wow
Annual Odawa Pow Wow run by by the Odawa Native Friendship Centre.
Watch competition pow wow dancing and singing, and visit an Indigenous art and craft market and enjoy Indigenous cuisine!
May 25 to 26, 2019. | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Maple Hill Urban Farm, 200 Moodie Drive, Ottawa
free (donations accepted at gate)
Drum Kit Clinic for Girls+ with Sarah Thawer
Yamaha-endorsed drummer Sarah Thawer provides a drum kit clinic with new drummers (of all ages) in mind. In addition to leading her own group, Sarah has performed and recorded with artists such as AR Rahman, Jane Bunnett, George Watsky, Jeremy Ledbetter and Thompson Egbo-Egbo, embracing an impressive range of genres including jazz, fusion, Cuban, Brazilian, gospel, hip hop, soul, Bollywood and more. A graduate of York University, Sarah was awarded the prestigious Oscar Peterson Scholarship. Details
Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 10:00 AM
National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
$10
Cuban Rhythm and Song Workshop with OKAN
Cuban-born Elizabeth Rodriguez and Magdelys Savigne of OKAN, lead an hour-long family-friendly and interactive workshop in which participants will explore Cuban rhythms through body percussion and singing along to some classic Cuban songs in Spanish. Details
Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 12:00 PM
National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
$10+charges
Europe Day in the National Capital
To mark the 69th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration – known as Europe Day – the Delegation of the European Union to Canada and the Embassies of EU Member States are hosting a day-long cultural fair. The celebration features live music, folk dance performances, games and activities for children, in addition to sampling of European traditional foods and beverages. What’s more, outdoor enthusiasts and those in a competitive mood will have the unique chance to brush up on their Irish hurling skills, courtesy of Éire Óg Ottawa Hurling Club, or try their hand at Mölkky – Finland’s traditional skittle-throwing game.
Sunday, May 26, 2019 | 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Lansdowne Park/Horticulture Building, Ottawa
Free
Seussical
Seussical is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! The colourful characters transport us from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. Seussical is fun for the whole family! Details
May 22 to 26, 2019
Meridian Theatres at Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Drive, Ottawa
$27.50 – $35
Orienteering Ottawa Field Day
Learn a new skill in a fun environment with Orienteering Ottawa! Surveying, and by extension orienteering, would have been a key skill for early settlers. This skill was essential not only for finding their way but also for organizing their settlements. Club members from Orienteering Ottawa will be on site to introduce visitors to the sport of Orienteering. Several courses will be set up across the museum grounds from beginner lengths to competitive, hour-long races.
Saturday, May 25 | 9 AM to 2 PM
Pinhey’s Point Historic Site, 270 Pinhey’s Point Rd, Dunrobin
6.75 per person
Heritage Power
xplore the steam engines, antique tractors, and vintage agricultural machinery and equipment on display. Take in an exhibitor demonstration for a first-hand look at how technology has advanced.
Museum activities will include sawmill and print shop demonstrations as well as sunflower planting. Details
Sunday, May 26 | 10 AM to 4 PM
Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Road, Cumberland
$7.75 adults; $5.50 seniors, children and students. Children 5 and under are free.
General Activities
At the library
Ottawa Public library offers plenty of free activities to choose from for all ages including toddler story times. Plan ahead to attend some of the free activities in the following weekends:
Details and link for registration.
2.By Ottawa Recreation – Drop in Programs
3. Cineplex/Landmark
- Upcoming Family Friendly Movies in Theatres
- Family Favourites Cineplex: Visit participating Cineplex theatres near you and watch a family favourite film each week for only $2.99. | Saturdays at 11:00 AM
4. Family Sundays: Natural Wonders
Bring your family to create, learn and have fun. At each Family Sunday, kids ages 0–12 and their adults can experience the national collection through a different theme. Sundays | 10 am – 4 pm @ National Gallery of Canada.
Best visited during the end of May and early June, the Lilac Tour is the perfect way to celebrate the Lilac blooms of Spring. These fragrant purple ... »
More To Do
II. Live Music
EDM/ Concert Tours/Week day Concerts this Week
- Bear’s Den on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 | 8:30 PM @ The 27 Club
- Slayer, Lamb of God, Amon Amarth, Cannibal Corpse on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 | 6:00 PM @ Canadian Tire Centre
- Toronto Symphony Orchestra on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 | 8:00 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Whitney Rose on Thursday, May 23, 2019 | 8:30 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Rufus Wainwright on Thursday, May 23, 2019 | 8:00 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Shanneyganock on Thursday, May 23, 2019 | 7:30 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Aline Morales with Rommel Ribeiro on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 8:00 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Blink-281 on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 9:30 PM @ babylon
- RedFox & Quirks on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 8:30 PM @ Live on Elgin
- YBN Cordae Live on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 7:00 PM @ The Bourbon Room
- Sarah Thawer on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 8:30 PM @ National Arts Centre
- DUSK JAZZ Pete Woods and Miguel Angel De Armas on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 5:00 PM @ Alpha Art Gallery
- Iliza on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 7:00 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Forever Gentlemen – Garou, Corneille et Roch Voisine on Friday, May 24, 2019 | 8:00 PM @ Theatre du Casino
- OKAN & Patricia Cano on Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 8:00 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Kobo Town on Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 8:30 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Nicole Dollanganger on Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 7:00 [email protected] babylon
- Hawksley Workman on Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 7:30 PM @ National Arts Centre
- Krista Hartman, Kristine St-Pierre, Eniid Goodman on Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 9:00 PM @ Live on Elgin
Lyme Hope Benefit Concert
The inaugural LymeHope Benefit Concert to raise awareness and funds toward continuing LymeHope’s efforts in providing education and outreach to patients, medical professionals, leaders across industries and the general public as well as advancing the knowledge and research into Lyme & related diseases, providing encouragement, hope and support to Canadian families struggling with the devastating effects of these diseases and the challenges accessing care at home.
Thursday, May 23, 2019 | 8:00 PM
National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
$44.75 + Charges
VivaFest
Experience a richly-curated weekend of concerts, workshops, and free events with some of Canada’s most acclaimed Latin, Brazilian and global roots artists including Kobo Town, Aline Morales, OKAN, and many more! Drawing on musical traditions from Latin America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Africa and beyond, VIVAFEST brings together the mosaic of cultures that makes Canada our home.
May 24 to 26, 2019
National Arts Centre, Ottawa
Free & Ticketed Events
Vox Eclectica presents MEN
We’re singing about the strengths and foibles of these characters that we walk the earth with. A mix of new music, jazz, folk, and rock with material from Eden Ahbez, Jussi Chydenius, Joni Mitchell, William Shakespeare, and more. John Dapaah joins us at the piano. Elise Letourneau, music director.
Sunday, May 26, 2019 | 1 PM & 3:30 PM
GigSpace, 953 Gladstone Avenue, Ottawa
$20
Canada Takes Flight
The Museum is more than just aircraft. The world-renowned collection also provides the backdrop for incredible concerts. Three talented musical partners provide unique, inspiring afternoon performances.
Sunday, May 26, 2019 | 22:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Canada Aviation and Space Museum, 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa
Included in Museum Admission
III. Live Theatre & Related Events
Katherine Levac – Velours
Katherine Levac reveals a new side of her personality in her long-awaited first solo performance, and her deadpan humour is just as endearing on stage as it is on television. In her own style, the young comedian shares her thoughts on her life as a young adult with all the spontaneity and authenticity for which she is so well- known. Combining naïveté and candor, honesty and punch, Katherine Levac can best be characterized as an iron fist in a velvet glove.
May 23 & 24, 2019
Shenkman Arts Centre
245 Centrum Boulevard
$21.25 to $41
Nunsense
Nunsense follows the crazy antics of five nuns from the Little Sisters of Hoboken convent. When their cook accidentally serves up some tainted soup, 52 of the sisters are poisoned and die, leaving only five living nuns who were not at home the day of the toxic meal.
May 14 to 18 & 21 to 25, 2019 | 8PM
Kanata Theatre, 1 Ron Maslin Way, Kanata
$23.00
Dief the Chief: October 62
The Diefenbunker Museum and Pierre Brault, Ottawa’s multi award-winning playwright and performer, have come together to create a dramatic and dynamic journey through the life and times of one of Canada’s most progressive leaders – John Diefenbaker. Dief the Chief: October 62 is a play unlike anything you have ever experienced.
May 10 to 26, 2019
Diefenbunker Museum 3929 Carp Road, Carp
$35
For the Love of Dance
“For the Love of Dance” is a multi-style dance showcase featuring the work of Ottawa-based dance artists from a variety of disciplines. A joyous celebration of movement and art! A vibrant showcase featuring dance artists performing in their favourite styles! This one-night-only performance will be open to the public.
May 24, 2019 | 7:00 PM
Arts Court Theatre, Ottawa
$20 to $30
Queen Burlesque Show
QUEEN, The famed British glam-rock band. Formed in 1970 in London the band consisted of Brian May, Roger Taylor, John Deacon and the one and only Freddie Mercury. Join us for a night like no other in Ottawa. We will take you through some of the most iconic, extravagant and angelic QUEEN tunes!
Sunday, May 26, 2019 | 7:30 PM & 10:30 PM
Arts Court Theatre, Ottawa
$25–$35
III. Sports & Related Events
The Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend
The Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is Canada’s largest running weekend.
Kick-off the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend along the historic Sparks Street Mall as we celebrate one of Ottawa’s biggest fundraising weekends. Food, live music, and appearances from elite runner will make for a lunch hour party! The Health & Fitness Expo feature a large variety of exhibitors showcasing the latest running gear from running sponsors the Running Room, Saucony, Nuun Hydration, and Timex. Details
May 23 to 26, 2019
Various Venues, Ottawa
Free and ticketed events
Jump into Spring
Show Jumping. OVPSC & Trillium Zone East “Jump into Spring” Hunter Jumper competitions. Details
May 25 & 26, 2019
Wesley Clover Parks, Ottawa
Free
Artistic Gymnastics Canadian Championships
This event will feature the countries best men’s and women’s artistic gymnasts from across the country. The competition will include the women’s Junior Olympic Level 9 and 10, Novice, Junior, and Senior categories. You will be able to see Team Canada athletes compete including those vying for a spot in the Olympics. Details
May 23rd – 26th 2019
Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa
NOKIA Sunday Bikedays
Enjoy summer Sundays cycling along car-free roads, and experience the beauty of Canada’s Capital Region in a fun and environmentally friendly way. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of more than 50 kilometres of scenic parkways in the heart of the Capital Region. Parkways in Ottawa and Gatineau Park are car-free and open exclusively to cyclists, in-line skaters, runners, walkers and people with mobility aids.
Sundays | 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway (9 kilometres)
– Colonel By Drive (8 kilometres)
– Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway (8 kilometres)
-27 kms of various Parkways in Gatineau.
FREE
IV. Exhibitions, Festivals & Other Events
More To Do
- Yoga on Parliament Hill on Wednesdays | May 15 to August 28 | 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Pint of Science from May 20 to 22, 2019 @ Various Pubs
Wheels on The Street
To celebrate the warmer weather and the start of the New Clay Conference, we will be putting the pottery wheels on the sidewalk! invite you to come and watch, as local ceramic artists and pottery students come together in friendly competition in various pottery challenges! Details
Thursday May 23, 2019 | 6:00 PM– 8:00 PM
1242 1/2 Wellington Street West, Ottawa
Free
Kanata Ribfest
Featuring a new beverage bar, delicious feature foodies, more live entertainment, best in ribs, rib cutting competition, and more. Details
May 24 to 26, 2019
Community Hub, 400 March Road, Kanata
Free
Glebe Sidewalk Sale
Come early and check out amazing deals from your favorite Glebe merchants. The area will be bursting with activity all day with live music, food, kids’ games and a free tree sapling giveaway at Ecology Ottawa’s Great Glebe Green Garage Sale. The Sidewalk sale runs in conjunction with the famous Great Glebe Garage Sale.
May 25, 2019 | 8:00 AM to 03:00 PM
Glebe Neighbourhood, Ottawa
Free
200 Pizza Giveaway
Panago Pizzas celebrating its 200th store opening with a 200 FREE MEDIUM pizza giveaway at all of their Ottawa locations. Starting from 11 a.m., medium pizzas will be given away on a first come first serve basis, and while quantities last.
May 25, 2019 | starts at 11am until pizza quantities last
1069 Bank St, Unit 1, 4285 Strandherd Drive & 458 Rideau Street Ottawa
Free
The Happening
The Happening celebrates and promotes businesses, the arts and the community of Wellington West – from Island Park to the Bayview Bridge.
Launch Party: Join us for a night of craft beer, live music, skateboarding, crafts and fun for the kids. The folks from Birling Skateboard Shop will be on site offering free skateboard lessons to anyone interested (7pm to 9pm). Skateboards and helmets will be provided to those who do not have them. PLUS GT Express will be onsite with some fun kids’ activities. Live music by none other than Drive in Radio. Something for everyone, so stop by for a fun night in the hood with friends and neighbours. This will kick off a great week of celebrating our Wellington West neighbourhood. Details
May 24 to June 1, 2019
Launch Party: Friday, May 24, 2019 | 7 PM-10 PM
#HappeningHood: May 25 to 31
Various Venues, Ottawa
Launch Party: Vimy Brewing Co., 145 Loretta Avenue, Ottawa
Free & Ticketed events
The Ottawa Kennel Club Dog Show
The Dog Show consists of a Conformation Show, Obedience and Rally trials, Fun Barn Hunt, Scent Detection and Good Neighbour testing as well as Canine Good Citizen testing. Details
May 24 to 26, 2019
Richmond Fair Grounds, 6095 Perth St, Richmond
$5
Spring meets Summer in the City
This special event celebrates Ottawa’s rich collection of visual, live performances, champagne, and gourmet soul food cocktails. The event is aimed at bringing people of diverse cultures, background and musical preferences together through the power of entertainment! Encounter live local musical performances, including, soul, jazz, R&B, Reggae, Soca, fashion installation, poetry, Champagne, cocktails, party, giveaways and a raffle all under one roof Downtown Ottawa. Details
Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 9:00PM – 2:00 AM
The Cross On Elgin, 360 Elgin St. Ottawa
$10 to $15
Rooftop Beats + Brunch
Come and join us for an afternoon party the last Sunday of every month featuring passed bite size brunch favourites and food stations. Dress to impress and enjoy a fancy brunch buffet, with themed canapés, a complimentary mimosa, DJ, and the best views of our city! Details
Sunday, May 26, 2019 | 11 AM – 3 PM
Copper Spirits & Sights – Andaz, 325 Dalhousie Street, Ottawa
A la Carte Menu
A Noteworthy Woman
This exhibition exploring the theme and imagery on Canada’s new $10 bank note highlights the life and work of Viola Desmond, the first Canadian woman on a regular bank note. Details
Through September 2, 2019
Bank of Canada Museum
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.
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Thanks for the list!!! It really helps me plan my activities with my kids on the weekend.