What's On in Ottawa-Gatineau: Sep 18 - Sep 20, 2026

Hello Ottawa-Gatineau! Get ready for an exciting weekend, September 18-20, 2026, as the capital region truly comes alive! From international sporting events and massive music festivals to local markets and unique cultural experiences, there's something for everyone. Let's dive into what's happening! ### What to Do This Weekend This weekend offers a fantastic mix of local charm and lively entertainment. Whether you're looking to explore new flavours, soak in some art, or simply enjoy the city, we've got you covered. * **Taste of Wellington** * Friday, September 18 at 10:00 AM (continues through the weekend) * Wellington West, from Island Park to the O-Train tracks * (Free) * directions | More info * *Experience the vibrant Wellington West neighbourhood with music, arts, food, and community spirit!* * **Richmond Fair** * Friday, September 18 at 4:00 PM (continues through the weekend) * Richmond Fairgrounds * directions | More info * *A classic community fair with food, entertainment, and market finds for all ages.* * **Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market** * Friday, September 18 at 4:00 PM * Urban Art Collective (1138 Wellington St W) * (Free) * directions | More info * *Discover local arts, enjoy live music, and indulge in delicious food at this lively evening market.* * **Dief the Chief: October '62** * Friday, September 18 at 4:30 PM * Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum * directions | More info * *Step back in time for a unique theatrical experience within the historic Diefenbunker.* * **Salsa Street Seats - Ottawa's Calle del Sabor** * Friday, September 18 at 7:00 PM * Somerset and Cambridge Parking Lot- Precise ParkLink * (Free) * directions | More info * *Get your groove on with a vibrant night of salsa and Latin culture right on the street!* * **Japanese Matcha Workshop 101** * Friday, September 18 at 3:00 PM * Bampot House * directions | More info * *Learn the art of traditional Japanese matcha preparation in an intimate setting.* * **613 Flea** * Saturday, September 19 at 12:00 AM (likely all day, also Friday 10 AM entry) * Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park * (Free) * directions | More info * *A popular market featuring local artisans, vintage finds, and delicious eats.* * **Swing on the Hill** * Saturday, September 19 at 3:00 PM (also 12:00 AM entry) * Parliament Hill * (Free) * directions | More info * *Dance under the open sky to live swing music on Parliament Hill!* ### Family Events Looking for something to do with the kids? Ottawa-Gatineau has a fantastic lineup of family-friendly activities this weekend! * **Taste of Wellington** * Friday, September 18 at 10:00 AM (continues through the weekend) * Wellington West, from Island Park to the O-Train tracks * (Free) * directions | More info * *A vibrant street festival with activities, food, and fun for the whole family.* * **Cirque du Soleil: LUZIA** * Friday, September 18 at 10:00 AM (various showtimes) * Under the Big Top, St. Laurent Shopping Centre * directions | More info * *Be mesmerized by the breathtaking acrobatics and stunning visuals of Cirque du Soleil's LUZIA.* * **Pirate Life** * Friday, September 18 at 10:00 AM * Mooney’s Bay * directions | More info * *Embark on an interactive pirate adventure at Mooney's Bay – perfect for aspiring buccaneers!* * **NCC Weekend Bikedays** * Friday, September 18 at 10:00 AM (continues through the weekend) * Kichi Zibi Mikan, George Etienne Cartier Parkway and Queen Elizabeth Drive * (Free) * directions | More info * *Enjoy car-free parkways for cycling, walking, and rolling in beautiful natural settings.* * **Cat Video Fest** * Friday, September 18 at 3:45 PM * ByTowne Cinema * directions | More info * *An internet sensation brought to the big screen – prepare for adorable feline antics!* * **Zulu Challenge Ottawa** * Saturday, September 19 at 10:00 AM * Hog's Back Park * directions | More info * *An exciting outdoor challenge course perfect for active families and thrill-seekers.* * **Ottawa Senators Fan Fest 2026** * Saturday, September 19 at 4:00 PM * Canadian Tire Centre * (Free) * directions | More info * *A fun-filled day for Sens fans of all ages with activities, player appearances, and more.* * **Cumberland Heritage Village Museum – 50th Anniversary Open House** * Sunday, September 20 at 9:00 AM (also 12:00 AM entry) * Cumberland Heritage Village Museum * (Free) * directions | More info * *Celebrate 50 years with a special open house, exploring heritage and history in a lively village setting.* ### Big Events The Ottawa-Gatineau region is hosting some major events this weekend that you won't want to miss! From world-class sports to highly anticipated music festivals, there's a big event for every interest. * **CityFolk Festival** * Friday, September 18 at 5:00 PM (continues Saturday & Sunday) * RA Centre Grounds * directions | More info * *A premier music festival featuring headliners like Third Eye Blind (Friday), Of Monsters And Men (Saturday), and Alice Cooper (Sunday)!* * **IWBF Wheelchair Basketball World Championships** * Friday, September 18 at 10:00 AM (medal rounds on Saturday) * TD Place and Carleton University * directions | More info * *Witness incredible athleticism as the world's best wheelchair basketball teams compete for gold!* * **Canada Army Run** * Friday, September 18 at 7:45 AM (also Sunday 12:00 AM entry, check for specific race times) * Downtown Ottawa, starting near Ottawa City Hall * directions | More info * *Join thousands in this inspiring event that supports Canadian Armed Forces members and their families.* * **Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa** * Friday, September 18 at 5:00 PM (also 12:00 AM entry) * Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport * directions | More info * *Look to the skies for an exhilarating airshow featuring stunning aerial displays.* * **The Piano Men The Ultimate Tribute To Billy Joel & Elton John** * Friday, September 18 at 7:30 PM (also 8:00 PM entry) * Algonquin Commons Theatre * directions | More info * *Enjoy an unforgettable night celebrating the timeless hits of two legendary piano rock icons.* * **Australian Pink Floyd** * Friday, September 18 at 7:00 PM (also 8:00 PM entry) * Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa * directions | More info * *Experience the magic of Pink Floyd with this highly acclaimed tribute show.* * **Jesse & Joy - El Despecho Tour** * Saturday, September 19 at 7:00 PM * Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa * directions | More info * *Catch the acclaimed Latin pop duo Jesse & Joy live in Ottawa!* * **Ottawa Fashion Week** * Saturday, September 19 at 5:00 PM (also 12:00 AM entry) * Bronson Centre * directions | More info * *Immerse yourself in the world of fashion with runway shows and local designers.* * **Ottawa Anime-Fest** * Saturday, September 19 at 10:00 AM (also 12:00 AM entry) * Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport * directions | More info * *A vibrant celebration of anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture.* * **Stittsville Applefest** * Saturday, September 19 at 10:00 AM (also 12:00 AM entry) * Village Square Park * (Free) * directions | More info * *Celebrate all things apple with a community festival featuring local vendors and family fun.* * **Atlético Ottawa vs. FC Supra** * Sunday, September 20 at 12:00 PM * The Stadium at TD Place * directions | More info * *Cheer on Ottawa's professional soccer team as they take on FC Supra!* * **Ottawa Rapid FC vs. Calgary Wild FC** * Sunday, September 20 at 7:00 PM * The Stadium at TD Place * directions | More info * *Experience the excitement of professional football with Ottawa Rapid FC's home game.*