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What's On in Ottawa-Gatineau: Jul 31 - Aug 2, 2026

calendar_today Jul 31 - Aug 2, 2026
Hey Ottawa-Gatineau! Get ready for a fantastic kick-off to the Civic Holiday long weekend! From vibrant festivals to thrilling sports, live music, and family adventures, our beloved region is buzzing with incredible events this July 31st to August 2nd, 2026. Let's dive into what's happening!

What to Do This Weekend

Looking for a standout experience? Here are some top picks to make your weekend unforgettable:

  • Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Montreal Alouettes | Friday, July 31 at 7:30 PM | The Stadium at TD Place | Catch the CFL action as the REDBLACKS battle their rivals! directions | More info
  • Mamma Mia! (Touring) | Friday, July 31 at 7:30 PM; Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM; Sunday, August 2 at 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM | National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts | Sing along to your favourite ABBA hits in this feel-good musical! directions | More info
  • Vegans Who Snack Food & Art Festival | Friday, July 31 (All Day) | Parkdale Public Market | Indulge in delicious plant-based treats and admire local art at this unique festival. directions | More info
  • Ottawa Tech Mixer and Social (Tech / AI / Data / IT) ✨ | Friday, July 31 at 6:00 PM | Pubwells on Sussex | Connect with fellow tech enthusiasts and expand your network in a relaxed setting. directions | More info
  • Salsa Street Seats - Ottawa's Calle del Sabor - Curated by SalsaRehab | Friday, July 31 at 7:00 PM | 666 Waverley St W | Spice up your Friday night with an evening of vibrant salsa music and dancing! directions | More info
  • 613flea | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park (Free) | Discover local artisans, unique finds, and delicious food at this beloved Ottawa market. directions | More info
  • Cole Swindell | Saturday, August 1 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa | Don't miss this acclaimed country music star live in concert! directions | More info
  • Ottawa Chamberfest | Sunday, August 2 (All Day) | Various locations | Immerse yourself in exquisite classical music performances as this renowned festival continues. More info

Family Events

Gather the kids and make some memories with these family-friendly activities across the capital:

  • Beekeeping Experience | Friday, July 31 (All Day) | Gibbs Honey | Learn all about the fascinating world of bees and honey production. directions | More info
  • See the Bees | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Gees Bees Honey Company | Get up close with these amazing pollinators and discover their vital role. directions | More info
  • Strathmere Family Fun Day | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Strathmere | Enjoy a day of fun, food, and activities perfect for the whole family. directions | More info
  • Storytime at Rideau Hall | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Rideau Hall | Delight in captivating stories in the historic setting of Rideau Hall. directions | More info
  • IRONKIDS | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Confederation Park | Cheer on young athletes as they participate in this inspiring event for kids. directions | More info
  • Ottawa Titans Baseball Club | Sunday, August 2 (All Day) | Ottawa Stadium | Take the family out to the ball game and enjoy some exciting baseball action. directions | More info
  • Fungi For Families | Sunday, August 2 (All Day) | Various locations | Explore the wonders of the natural world with a guided mushroom walk designed for all ages. More info
  • The Great Indian Carnival | Sunday, August 2 (All Day) | Strathmere | Experience a vibrant cultural festival with food, music, and activities for the entire family. directions | More info

Big Events

From major sports to grand festivals, here are the large-scale happenings that will define your long weekend:

  • Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Montreal Alouettes | Friday, July 31 at 7:30 PM | The Stadium at TD Place | Don't miss this epic rivalry game as the REDBLACKS host the Alouettes in a must-see CFL showdown! directions | More info
  • Mamma Mia! (Touring) | Friday, July 31 - Sunday, August 2 (Multiple Showtimes) | National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts | The global sensation Mamma Mia! is here, bringing a jolt of feel-good energy and irresistible ABBA songs to the NAC stage all weekend long. directions | More info
  • Carivibe Street Festival | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Skate & Play | Immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and tastes of the Caribbean with this lively street festival! directions | More info
  • Parasol Festival | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Casino du Lac-Leamy, Gatineau | Enjoy a fantastic festival atmosphere with food, drink, and market stalls across the river. directions | More info
  • Glengarry Highland Games | Saturday, August 1 (All Day) | Location TBD | Experience the rich Scottish heritage with traditional music, dance, and athletic competitions. Please check the website for venue updates. More info
  • Cole Swindell | Saturday, August 1 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa | Don't miss this opportunity to see multi-platinum country artist Cole Swindell deliver an electrifying performance. directions | More info
  • IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa | Sunday, August 2 (All Day) | Various locations | Witness incredible feats of endurance as athletes from around the world compete in this challenging triathlon event. More info
  • The Great Indian Carnival | Sunday, August 2 (All Day) | Strathmere | A spectacular celebration of Indian culture with music, food, and family fun, promising a vibrant end to your weekend. directions | More info

Enjoy your long weekend, Ottawa-Gatineau! Stay tuned for more exciting events next week!

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