Hello Ottawa-Gatineau! The second weekend of July 2026 is here, and it's absolutely bursting with fantastic events across the National Capital Region. From major music festivals to delicious food fairs and family-friendly adventures, there's something for everyone to dive into. Let's make the most of this beautiful summer weekend!
What to Do This Weekend
Get ready to fill your schedule with these incredible events that promise fun, music, and delicious treats:
- 2026 Ottawa Summer Food And Cultural Fair | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM | Major's Hill Park | Sample delicious eats and soak in diverse cultures. | directions | More info
- Bluesfest | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM | Lebreton Flats | The legendary music festival kicks off another weekend of incredible acts! | directions | More info
- NAC Atrium Series | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM | O’Brien Atrium, National Arts Centre | Free | Enjoy captivating music and arts performances in a stunning setting. | directions | More info
- Sunset and Champagne on the Canal | Friday, July 10 at 12:00 AM | Ottawa Boat Cruise : Rideau Canal Cruise Departure | Experience the Rideau Canal like never before with music and bubbly! | directions | More info
- Night Waves | Friday, July 10 at 12:00 AM | Calypso Waterpark | Dive into an evening of music, food, and fun at the waterpark! | directions | More info
- Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market | Friday, July 10 at 4:00 PM | Urban Art Collective | Free | Discover local artists, enjoy live music, and grab a bite at this vibrant night market. | directions | More info
- ABBA Celebration | Friday, July 10 at 8:00 PM | Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy, Gatineau | Get ready to dance and sing along to all your favourite ABBA hits! | directions | More info
- Company of Fools: A Midsummer Night’s Dream | Friday, July 10 at 7:00 PM | Fisher Heights Park, Nepean | Catch a magical outdoor performance of Shakespeare's classic. | directions | More info
Family Events
Looking for fun activities with the kids? Ottawa-Gatineau has plenty to keep the whole family entertained this weekend:
- Jurassic Kingdom Ottawa | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM | Wesley Clover Parks | Free | Step back in time and explore a world of dinosaurs! | directions | More info
- Pirate Life | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM | Mooney’s Bay | Embark on an interactive pirate adventure perfect for young buccaneers. | directions | More info
- Light at Night Kayaking | Friday, July 10 at 7:30 PM | Patterson Creek Park, Linden Terrace, Ottawa | A unique, illuminated paddling experience the whole family will love. | directions | More info
- Canada's Circus Spectacular - Circus Rocks | Saturday, July 11 at 3:00 PM | Arena at TD Place | Prepare for an electrifying show combining rock music and thrilling circus acts! | directions | More info
- Ghana Fest | Saturday, July 11 at 12:00 PM | Brewer Park, Ottawa | Free | Celebrate Ghanaian culture with music, food, and family-friendly activities. | directions | More info
- Summer at The Log Farm | Sunday, July 12 at 9:00 AM | The Log Farm | Free | Enjoy a taste of farm life with animals, activities, and fresh air. | directions | More info
- Hintonburg 5K and 1K | Sunday, July 12 at 9:00 AM | Parkdale Park, Ottawa | Free | Get active with the family in this community run and walk. | directions | More info
- Nepean Night Market | Sunday, July 12 at 5:00 PM | Mr. Lube + Tires | Free | A lively evening market with music, food, and fun for all ages. | directions | More info
Big Events
Mark your calendars for these prominent events that are drawing crowds and making headlines this weekend:
- Bluesfest | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM (runs through Sunday) | Lebreton Flats | One of Canada's biggest music festivals, featuring a stellar lineup of international and local artists. | directions | More info
- Music and Beyond Festival | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM | Various venues across Ottawa | Immerse yourself in a diverse program of classical music and interdisciplinary arts. | directions | More info
- 2026 Ottawa Summer Food And Cultural Fair | Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM | Major's Hill Park | A grand celebration of global cuisines and cultural performances, perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike. | directions | More info
- HOPE Volleyball SummerFest | Saturday, July 11 at 8:00 AM | Mooney’s Bay Beach | Free | Join thousands for Canada's largest one-day volleyball tournament and music festival, all for a great cause! | directions | More info
- Monster Madness: Stadium Series | Saturday, July 11 at 5:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place | Get ready for a roaring good time with monster trucks, thrilling stunts, and high-octane action. | directions | More info
- Ghana Fest 2026 | Saturday, July 11 at 12:00 PM | Brewer Park, Ottawa | Free | A vibrant festival celebrating Ghanaian heritage with live music, traditional dances, authentic food, and artisan crafts. | directions | More info
- Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Brampton Honey Badgers | Sunday, July 12 at 4:00 PM | The Arena at TD Place | Catch some exciting professional basketball action as the BlackJacks hit the court. | directions | More info