What to Do This Weekend
Happy July, Ottawa-Gatineau! The first weekend of the month, July 3-5, 2026, is absolutely packed with fantastic events to kick off your summer. Whether you're in the mood for electrifying live music, a vibrant drag brunch, or connecting with fellow professionals, our city has something exciting calling your name!
- 1999 The Ultimate Prince Experience - Friday, July 3 at 12:00 PM | Shenkman Arts Centre | Get ready to party like it's 1999 with this incredible tribute to the one and only Prince! Immerse yourself in his legendary hits. directions | More info
- Ottawa Tech Mixer and Social (Tech / AI / Data / IT) ✨ - Friday, July 3 at 6:00 PM | TBD | Connect with innovators, share ideas, and make new professional contacts at this dynamic tech social. directions | More info
- Our Lady Peace - Friday, July 3 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa | Canadian rock icons Our Lady Peace hit the stage for a night of their timeless anthems. Don't miss out! directions | More info
- Nora Kelly Band, Touch Grass, Leeny Jones - Friday, July 3 at 7:30 PM | The 27 Club ($26) | Dive into some fantastic live music with Nora Kelly Band, Touch Grass, and Leeny Jones at this intimate venue. directions | More info
- Bistrofest - Saturday, July 4 at 12:00 AM | TBD | Get ready for a lively festival atmosphere, featuring music, delicious food, and a wonderful sense of community. directions | More info
- Illusions The Drag Brunch Ottawa - Drag Queen Brunch Show - Ottawa - Saturday, July 4 at 4:30 PM | TBD | Spice up your Saturday afternoon with a spectacular drag queen brunch show! Expect dazzling performances and fun. directions | More info
- The Tea Party - Saturday, July 4 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa | Experience the powerful and unique sound of The Tea Party as they perform live. directions | More info
- The Chinese Traditional Music Concert - Sunday, July 5 at 7:30 PM | Algonquin Commons Theatre | Enjoy an evening of beautiful and culturally rich traditional Chinese music. directions | More info
Family Events
Looking for fun that the whole family can enjoy this weekend? Here are a few options, plus some general ideas to make the most of your time together!
- Spa Pool Sale - Friday, July 3 at 12:00 AM | EY Centre | Dreaming of a backyard oasis? Check out the Spa Pool Sale to find the perfect addition for endless summer family fun! directions | More info
- Bistrofest - Saturday, July 4 at 12:00 AM | TBD | Festivals are often fantastic for families, with diverse food options, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere. Keep an eye out for specific kid-friendly activities! directions | More info
- The Chinese Traditional Music Concert - Sunday, July 5 at 7:30 PM | Algonquin Commons Theatre | Introduce your family to the beautiful sounds and cultural heritage of traditional Chinese music – a wonderful experience for all ages. directions | More info
Beyond these, consider exploring Ottawa's fantastic parks and splash pads, or cheering on our local sports teams – often a hit with the younger crowd!
Big Events
Get ready for some serious excitement! This weekend is packed with major concerts, thrilling sports matchups, and large-scale community happenings. You won't want to miss these big events across Ottawa-Gatineau!
- Spa Pool Sale - Friday, July 3 at 12:00 AM | EY Centre | Kicking off the weekend with a splash! This large-scale sale is the perfect opportunity to find great deals on spas and pools. directions | More info
- Our Lady Peace - Friday, July 3 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa | Rock out with one of Canada's most beloved bands in what promises to be a memorable concert experience. directions | More info
- Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders - Friday, July 3 at 7:30 PM | The Stadium at TD Place | Experience the thrill of CFL football as the REDBLACKS battle the Roughriders in a highly anticipated game! directions | More info
- Bistrofest - Saturday, July 4 at 12:00 AM | TBD | Immerse yourself in this vibrant festival, offering a fantastic blend of music, food-drink, and community spirit throughout the day. directions | More info
- Atlético Ottawa vs. Cavalry FC - Saturday, July 4 at 3:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place | Catch some exhilarating Canadian Premier League soccer action as Atlético Ottawa faces off against Cavalry FC. directions | More info
- The Tea Party - Saturday, July 4 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa | Join the crowd for a powerful performance by The Tea Party, known for their captivating stage presence and distinctive sound. directions | More info
- Ottawa Rapid FC vs. Calgary Wild FC - Sunday, July 5 at 2:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place | Cap off your sports-filled weekend with more high-energy soccer as Ottawa Rapid FC takes on Calgary Wild FC. directions | More info
- The Chinese Traditional Music Concert - Sunday, July 5 at 7:30 PM | Algonquin Commons Theatre | A grand cultural event showcasing the rich heritage and beautiful melodies of traditional Chinese music. directions | More info