What to Do This Weekend
Get ready for a bustling weekend, Ottawa-Gatineau! From vibrant markets to thrilling performances and unique experiences, July 17-19 is packed with options to explore. Here are some of our top picks:
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Gloucester Night Market
Friday, July 17 at 12:00 AM | Earl Armstrong Arena
Discover local artisans, enjoy live music, and soak in the community atmosphere at this lively night market.
directions | More info -
Bloomsfest Garden Art Show & Sale
Friday, July 17 at 9:30 AM | Whitehouse Perennials (Free)
Immerse yourself in beautiful garden art and unique perennials at this charming show and sale.
directions | More info -
Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market
Friday, July 17 at 4:00 PM | Urban Art Collective (Free)
Experience the artistic pulse of Hintonburg with an evening of music, art, food, and local vendors.
directions | More info -
Th3rd Fridays - All-Styles Dance Battle
Friday, July 17 at 12:00 AM | ByWard Market Square
Witness incredible talent and electrifying energy as dancers battle it out in the heart of the ByWard Market.
directions | More info -
ABBA Celebration
Friday, July 17 at 8:00 PM & Saturday, July 18 at 8:00 PM | Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy
Get ready to dance and sing along to all your favourite ABBA hits in this spectacular tribute show.
directions | More info (Fri) / More info (Sat) -
613flea
Saturday, July 18 at 10:00 AM | Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park (Free)
A treasure trove of vintage, handmade goods, and local eats awaits at Ottawa's popular flea market.
directions | More info -
Ottawa Fight Fest 2026
Saturday, July 18 at 4:00 PM | Rideau Curling Club
Witness intense martial arts action and fierce competition at Ottawa Fight Fest.
directions | More info -
Mirandolina – Theatre Under the Stars
Sunday, July 19 at 8:00 PM | Strathcona Park, Sandy Hill, Ottawa
Enjoy a delightful evening of live theatre under the stars with this classic performance.
directions | More info
Family Events
Looking for fun for all ages? Ottawa-Gatineau has a fantastic lineup of family-friendly activities this weekend, ensuring smiles for everyone!
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Star Party by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada
Friday, July 17 at 9:30 PM | Ottawa Public Library - Carp (Free)
Gaze at the wonders of the night sky with experts from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. An enlightening experience for budding astronomers!
directions | More info -
Ontario Parks Free Use Day
Friday, July 17 at 8:00 AM | Ontario Provincial Parks (Free)
Take advantage of free entry to all Ontario Provincial Parks and explore the beauty of nature with your family.
directions | More info -
Maze Days
Friday, July 17 at 10:00 AM | Saunders Farm
Get lost and have a blast in the famous mazes at Saunders Farm. Perfect for an adventurous family outing!
directions | More info -
Pirate Life
Friday, July 17 at 10:00 AM | Mooney’s Bay
Embark on a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas (or at least Mooney's Bay!). A thrilling interactive experience for kids.
directions | More info -
Touch-A-Truck
Saturday, July 18 at 9:00 AM | Nepean Sportsplex (Free)
Kids can get up close and personal with big trucks, construction vehicles, and emergency service vehicles. Honk the horn and meet the operators!
directions | More info -
Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park
Saturday, July 18 at 10:00 AM | 3468 Old Montreal Road (Cumberland)
Explore a unique outdoor sanctuary filled with stunning sculptures and peaceful nature. A cultural and natural treat for the whole family.
directions | More info -
Summer at The Log Farm
Sunday, July 19 at 9:00 AM | The Log Farm (Free)
Step back in time at this historic working farm, offering a glimpse into pioneer life and plenty of animal encounters for the little ones.
directions | More info
Big Events
This weekend, Ottawa-Gatineau is home to some major festivals, thrilling sports action, and significant cultural celebrations. You won't want to miss these marquee events!
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Ottawa Bluesfest
Friday, July 17 - Sunday, July 19 | Lebreton Flats
One of Canada's most iconic music festivals continues this weekend with a diverse lineup of local and international artists.
directions | More info -
Music and Beyond Festival
Friday, July 17 - Saturday, July 18 | Various venues across Ottawa
Experience a world of classical and contemporary music in stunning venues across the city as this acclaimed festival showcases incredible talent.
directions | More info -
Stewart Park Festival
Friday, July 17 at 10:00 AM | Stewart Park (Perth)
Just a short drive away, this beloved festival offers a fantastic mix of music, arts, food, and community spirit in a beautiful park setting.
directions | More info -
Atlético Ottawa vs. Inter Toronto FC
Friday, July 17 at 7:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place
Cheer on our home team as Atlético Ottawa faces off against Inter Toronto FC in an exciting soccer showdown!
directions | More info -
Fanaticcon
Saturday, July 18 at 11:00 AM | Ottawa Conference and Event Centre (Free)
Dive into the world of pop culture, comics, and collectibles at this fan convention, offering something for every enthusiast.
directions | More info -
Ottawa Lebanese Festival
Saturday, July 18 - Sunday, July 19 | Saint Elias Centre (Free on Sunday)
Celebrate Lebanese culture with delicious food, traditional music, captivating dance, and warm hospitality.
directions | More info -
Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Sunday, July 19 at 7:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place
Experience the thrill of CFL football as the REDBLACKS battle the Blue Bombers in a highly anticipated game.
directions | More info -
Ottawa’s 200 Anniversary Celebration
Sunday, July 19 at 4:00 PM | LeBreton Flats (Free)
Join the grand celebration of Ottawa's 200th anniversary, featuring music, arts, and festivities for the entire community.
directions | More info