Oh hey there, Ottawa-Gatineau!
Can you believe it's already April? We're diving headfirst into a fantastic long weekend, packed with spring festivities, thrilling sports, and some truly memorable nights out. From Easter egg hunts for the little ones to high-energy concerts and thought-provoking performances, our vibrant city has something for everyone. Let's make the most of April 3rd to April 5th, 2026!
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What to Do This Weekend
Get ready to shake off those lingering winter blues with a curated selection of some of the best events happening around town. Whether you're a music buff, a market enthusiast, or a sports fanatic, we've got your weekend plans covered!
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Anime Ottawa 2026
Friday, April 3 at 10:00 AM (and ongoing throughout the weekend)
Venue: EY Centre
Dive into the world of anime, manga, and Japanese culture at this hugely popular convention! Expect cosplayers, vendors, panels, and much more. This is a family-friendly event with free admission for some elements.
directions | More info
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Ravel and Shostakovich
Friday, April 3 at 8:00 PM
Venue: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre
Experience an evening of profound classical music. The National Arts Centre Orchestra brings to life the works of Ravel and Shostakovich for a truly moving performance.
directions
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80s Dance Party w/ DJ Remi Royale + The Start (80s UK Hits)
Friday, April 3 at 8:00 PM
Venue: House of Targ
Dust off your leg warmers and get ready to boogie! House of Targ is throwing an epic 80s dance party with DJ Remi Royale and live 80s UK hits by The Start. It’s going to be tubular!
directions | More info
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613 Flea
Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 AM
Venue: Aberdeen Pavilion (Free)
Hunt for unique treasures, local crafts, vintage finds, and delicious treats at the always popular 613 Flea market. It's a fantastic way to spend your Saturday supporting local vendors.
directions
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George Thorogood & The Destroyers - The Baddest Show On Earth
Saturday, April 4 at 7:00 PM
Venue: Hard Rock Casino Ottawa
Get ready to rock and roll! The legendary George Thorogood & The Destroyers bring their "Baddest Show On Earth" to the Hard Rock Casino. Expect a night of classic hits and electrifying blues-rock.
directions | More info
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Dirty Dancing in Concert
Saturday, April 4 at 8:00 PM
Venue: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre
Have the time of your life with Dirty Dancing in Concert! Watch the iconic film on a big screen while a live band and singers perform the songs. It's a unique experience that combines cinema with a concert.
directions | More info
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Easter Brunch at the Museum
Sunday, April 5 at 10:00 AM
Venue: Canadian Museum of History
Cap off your long weekend with a delightful Easter Brunch at the beautiful Canadian Museum of History. Enjoy delicious food in a stunning setting.
directions | More info
Family Events
This Easter long weekend is absolutely bursting with family-friendly fun! Get out and make some memories with these egg-cellent activities designed for all ages.
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Easter at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Friday, April 3 at 9:30 AM
Venue: Canada Agriculture and Food Museum (Free)
Celebrate Easter on the farm! Enjoy special activities, animal encounters, and learn about spring on the farm. A fantastic free outing for the whole family.
directions
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Easter at The Log Farm & Sugar Bush
Friday, April 3 at 9:00 AM
Venue: The Log Farm [Family-friendly]
Experience the joy of an old-fashioned Easter at The Log Farm. Enjoy classic sugar bush activities, farm animals, and festive Easter fun in a charming setting.
directions
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Easter Egg Hunt at Valleyview Little Animal Farm
Friday, April 3 at 9:30 AM
Venue: Valleyview Little Animal Farm [Family-friendly]
Combine the excitement of an Easter egg hunt with adorable farm animals at Valleyview! A perfect spring activity for kids.
directions
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Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario – Easter Eggspress
Friday, April 3 at 10:00 AM
Venue: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario [Family-friendly]
All aboard the Easter Eggspress! Head to Smiths Falls for a unique Easter experience at the Railway Museum, featuring family activities and railway fun.
directions
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Hop Into Spring
Saturday, April 4 at 9:00 AM
Venue: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum [Family-friendly]
Step back in time and celebrate spring with heritage activities and Easter fun at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum.
directions
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Carp Farmers’ Easter Market
Saturday, April 4 at 8:00 AM
Venue: Carp Fairgrounds (Free) [Family-friendly]
Enjoy a vibrant family-friendly market featuring local goods, crafts, food, and plenty of Easter cheer. A great spot to pick up some last-minute treats!
directions
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Easter at the Bunker
Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 AM
Venue: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
For a truly unique Easter adventure, explore Canada's Cold War Museum and participate in their special Easter activities. A blend of history and holiday fun!
directions
Big Events
Ottawa-Gatineau is buzzing with major events this weekend! From national championships to professional sports action and large-scale festivals, there's no shortage of excitement.
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Anime Ottawa 2026
Friday, April 3 at 10:00 AM (and ongoing throughout the weekend)
Venue: EY Centre
As mentioned above, this is a massive convention drawing fans from all over for a celebration of Japanese pop culture. Expect a vibrant atmosphere and a huge turnout!
directions | More info
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Canadian Ringette Championships
Friday, April 3 & Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 AM
Venue: Various locations in Nepean and Kanata.
Witness top-tier ringette action as teams compete for national glory right here in Ottawa! Support these incredible athletes.
directions
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Montreal Victoire At Ottawa Charge
Friday, April 3 at 7:00 PM
Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
Catch exciting professional women's hockey action as the Ottawa Charge take on the Montreal Victoire. It's bound to be a thrilling match-up!
directions | More info
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Ottawa Senators vs. Minnesota Wild
Saturday, April 4 at 1:00 PM
Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
Cheer on the Sens as they hit the ice against the Minnesota Wild in an afternoon clash. Grab your jerseys and head to Kanata for some NHL excitement!
directions | More info
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2026 Ottawa 67's Playoffs: Round 1, Game 5
Saturday, April 4 at 7:00 PM
Venue: The Arena at TD Place
The Ottawa 67's are fighting for playoff glory! Join the passionate crowd at TD Place for Game 5 of Round 1 and help cheer our junior hockey team to victory.
directions | More info
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Ottawa Senators vs. Carolina Hurricanes
Sunday, April 5 at 5:00 PM
Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
Another chance to see the Senators in action as they wrap up the weekend with a Sunday evening game against the Carolina Hurricanes.
directions | More info
That’s a wrap for this week's event lineup! Have an absolutely wonderful Easter long weekend, make some incredible memories, and enjoy all that Ottawa-Gatineau has to offer. We'll be back next week with more local happenings!