Ottawa Events Calendar

Dief the Chief: October '62
2025-08-20, 2025-08-22 | 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa, K0A 1L0, 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa, K0A 1L0
Experience Dief the Chief: October ’62, a captivating theatrical journey 75 feet underground at the Diefenbunker. Follow Canada’s 13th Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker, as he navigates the tense Cuban Missile Crisis, revealing the personal and political challenges faced during history’s closest brush with nuclear war. This unique blend of storytelling and history, performed by Pierre Brault and Peter Haworth, offers an immersive perspective on a defining moment in Canadian and global relations.

Nostalgia Music Festival
2025-08-20 - 2025-08-24 | 1777 Aspenview Way, Orleans, K1C 6S5, 1777 Aspenview Way, Orleans, K1C 6S5
Reconnect with the classic rock songs of your youth at this five day event featuring concerts by the best tribute bands on the planet.
Each summer, the Nostalgia Music Festival presents some of your favourite tunes from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s at Lebreton Flats near downtown Ottawa. Enjoy quality outdoor concerts in an environment customized to provide the best music festival experience possible. All festival-goers have access to a wide variety of quality food and drink vendors, as well as the benefit of large-format screens that provide superior concert visibility from any vantage point. Or opt for the special VIP Section which features a cabaret style seating area with comfortable chairs and tables, plus exclusive bar service and private washrooms.

Five Alarm
2025-08-20 - 2025-09-06 | 400 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa, K1N 7M7, 400 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa, K1N 7M7
At the annual Wayne Rose Memorial Chili Cook-Off in Killaloe, Ontario, Ava Rose is determined to break her 16-year losing streak. With the help of a new assistant, Ava takes on her childhood friend-turned-rival in a heated competition. As she searches for the missing ingredients of her late father’s legendary Five Alarm Chili recipe, Ava uncovers more than just culinary secrets—she begins to unravel the mysteries of her own past.
Described by the London Free Press as “a laugh-out-loud journey” and hailed by the Port Stanley News as “an intriguing and delightfully funny romp that keeps you guessing,” this heartwarming comedy promises a perfect blend of humour, heart, and spice.

Partage Beechwood
2025-08-20 17:30 - 22:00 UTC | 261 Montreal Road, Ottawa, K1L 7C8, 261 Montreal Road, Ottawa, K1L 7C8
Partage Beechwood is hosted under the stars and amongst the trees and souls of historic Beechwood Cemetery, this twilight gathering combines community spirit, beautiful surroundings, and culinary magic.

Queers & Beers
2025-08-21
Queers & Beers returns to Lowertown Brewery for a casual community gathering in the heart of the ByWard Market. Enjoy craft brews in a welcoming space — indoors or outdoors, weather permitting — designed for queer and trans pub lovers to connect, chat, and feel at ease. All genders and sexualities are welcome at this open event, which encourages meaningful conversation, new friendships, and comfort above all.

Big Dyke Weekend
2025-08-21 - 2025-08-23
Maggie May Harder presents the BIG DYKE WEEKEND at Art House, a multi-day celebration of Pride 2025 dedicated to not-cis-man queer communities. Highlights include a low-stimulus craft and social night, an inclusive dance party for trans and gender diverse people, and a dinosaur-themed dance party encouraging creative and playful expression. The venue offers gender-neutral washrooms and one wheelchair accessible washroom; however, there is no wheelchair ramp, and entry involves stairs. A range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available. This event takes place on the traditional unceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin People.

Metcalfe Plaza
2025-08-21 - 2025-08-23
From August 14 to September 20, the Downtown BIA, in collaboration with Aire Commune and AMASHOWZA, is turning this central space into a high-energy hub of art, music, and culture. Think DJs under the stars, live performances, sweat-worthy fitness classes, buzzing markets, and epic weekend vibes. Whether you’re catching a show, grabbing drinks with friends, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Metcalfe Plaza is where the party’s at.

Oniro
2025-08-21 - 2025-08-25 | 399, route 323 North, Montebello, J0V 1L0, 399, route 323 North, Montebello, J0V 1L0
Experience a magical forest walk at Parc Oméga as the story of wolf cub Oniro unfolds through light, sound, and immersive storytelling. Created by artist Michel Lemieux, ONIRO features 17 illuminated scenes along a 60-minute trail. First departures begin at sunset.

Lansdowne Park Movie Nights
2025-08-21 - 2025-09-04
Enjoy free outdoor movie nights in the South Court every Thursday at sunset. Bring your own chair or grab a seat onsite. In case of rain, movies move inside the Aberdeen Pavilion. For updates or rescheduling due to extreme weather, check the event’s Facebook page.

Cinq à sept: A ByWard Concert Series
2025-08-21 - 2025-09-25 | 55 ByWard Market, Ottawa, K1N 9C3, 55 ByWard Market, Ottawa, K1N 9C3
In collaboration with the Ottawa Music Industry Coalition (OMIC), the ByWard Market District Authority is thrilled to present musicians touring through the National Capital Region and local musicians at this free concert series! Enjoy an array of musical acts every Thursday night beside the iconic ByWard clock. This is an accessible, free outdoor event.

Emily Rose Michaud and Marie Drolet – Illuminated Seasons exhibit
2025-08-21 - 2025-11-02
Illuminated Seasons invites audiences to reflect on the natural beauty woven into the urban fabric of Ottawa and Gatineau. Through their “ecological reflections,” the exhibition celebrates the quiet wonder of rivers, forests, and marshes that shape our everyday surroundings. Artists Marie Drolet and Emily Rose Michaud explore local plant life not as distant subjects, but as living collaborators in both art and life. Their work is rooted in personal connection to the Outaouais region, where memory and landscape intertwine. Free.

Saunders Square Dance
2025-08-21 19:00 - 22:00 | 7893 Bleeks Road, Ottawa, K0A 3P0, 7893 Bleeks Road, Ottawa, K0A 3P0
The Saunders Square Dance is a lively evening of music, movement, and celebration under the pavilion at Saunders Farm. Presented by Saunders Cider, the event features live music, a professional caller, and a welcoming atmosphere that brings people together. Open to dancers of all levels, it offers the perfect opportunity to connect with friends, family, or the community while learning traditional square dance steps in a fun and spirited setting.

Capital Pride Pageant
2025-08-21 20:00 - 23:00 | 403 Bank Street, Ottawa, K2P 1Y6, 403 Bank Street, Ottawa, K2P 1Y6
Local drag talent competes for the crowns of Mr., Mx., and Ms. Capital Pride 2025 at the National Arts Centre. Hosted by Cyril Cinder and judged by Kiki Coe, Hercusleaze, and Grand Marshal Miss Patience Plush. The 2024 Royal Court returns for unforgettable step-down performances.

Indian Food Festival of Ottawa
2025-08-22 - 2025-08-24
The biggest celebration of Indian cuisine is making its grand return to Ottawa! Enjoy the sizzling sounds (and tastes) of street food, live music, and community coming together to celebrate the rich and diverse flavours of India. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious first-timer, this is your chance to taste, dance, and celebrate like never before.

Gaiafest
2025-08-22 - 2025-08-24
GAIAFEST returns for 2025 with a weekend dedicated to connection, movement, breath, and music. The festival offers yoga, meditation, workshops, guided movement, acro, breathwork, sports, art, nature, and a diverse musical lineup. Set in the beautiful Gatineau hills, GAIAFEST invites attendees to deepen their connection to the land, community, ancestral roots, and themselves.

Public Archaeological Digs
2025-08-22 - 2025-08-24
This Archaeology Month, take part in public archaeological digs. Help recover artifacts at Leamy Lake Park and learn more about the pre-contact (before the arrival of Europeans) history of the region.

Tate McRae: Miss Possessive Tour
2025-08-22 19:00 - 22:33 | 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa, K2V 1A5, 1000 Palladium Drive, Ottawa, K2V 1A5
Singer, songwriter, and dancer Tate McRae has amassed over 11.3 billion career streams and multiple #1 Top 40 hits. She has received numerous accolades, including Artist of the Year at the 2024 JUNO Awards, three MTV VMA nominations, two Billboard Music Awards, multiple People’s Choice Awards, and iHeartRadio Music Awards. She was also featured on Variety’s 2022 Power of Young Hollywood list, Billboard’s 21 Under 21 list for four consecutive years, and Forbes’ 2021 30 Under 30 list, where she was the youngest musician on the list.
Tate’s #1 RIAA certified 4x Platinum single “you broke me first” has garnered over 2.3 billion streams since its release in 2020. She has collaborated with various artists, including Regard & Troye Sivan on their #1 dance hit “You,” Khalid on “working,” Tiësto on “10:35,” and Jeremy Zucker on her viral single “that way”.

Tate McRae
2025-08-22 19:00 - 23:00 | Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa, Ontario, K2V 1A4, Canada
Tate McRae: Miss Possessive Tour
Fri Aug 22, 2025 @ 7:30 p.m.
Tickets available starting Fri Nov 22nd @ 11am

About Tate McRae:
Singer, songwriter, and dancer triple threat Tate McRae has garnered over 11.3 billion career streams and multiple #1 Top 40 hits. She’s received countless accolades including Artist Of The Year at the 2024 JUNO Awards, nominations for three MTV VMAs, two Billboard Music Awards, multiple People’s Choice Awards, and iHeartRadio Music Awards among others. She’s been featured on Variety’s 2022 Power of Young Hollywood list, Billboard’s 21 Under 21 list for four consecutive years along with Forbes 2021 30 Under 30 list where she was the youngest musician on the list.
Tate’s #1 RIAA certified 4x Platinum single “you broke me first” has amassed over 2.3 billion streams since its release in 2020. She’s collaborated with various artists including Regard & Troye Sivan on their #1 dance hit “You,” along with Khalid on their track “working,” Tiësto’s “10:35” and Jeremy Zucker on her viral single “that way.” Her 2022 debut album, i used to think i could fly landed at #1 on Spotify’s Global Top Albums Debut Chart and charted in the Top 10 in multiple countries upon its release. Featuring her certified Platinum single “she’s all i wanna be,” the stunning album received praise from the likes of Billboard who said “…Tate McRae steps into stardom on her long-awaited debut album” while GRAMMY.com stated, “…each track shows McRae is ready to be one of her generation’s most raw-and-real superstars.”
Last year, the Calgary native released her highly anticipated sophomore album THINK LATER, catapulting Tate into pop stardom. It debuted at #4 on Billboard’s album chart and has garnered over 3.7 billion streams worldwide. Steeped in pop appeal and infectious toplines, the album features her certified 3x Platinum single “greedy” which earned the star #1 on the Billboard Global 200 chart, Global Excl. US chart, Spotify’s Global chart, and hit #1 at Top 40 radio. The Los Angeles Times stated that she’s “…poised for pop stardom” while Vogue declared she’s “Taking Over the World.”
Her versatility as a performer has captivated audiences around the world. Whether she’s delivering a powerful vocal performance or executing high-energy choreography, Tate brings a unique blend of artistry and authenticity to every stage.

Ottawa RedBlacks
2025-08-22 19:30 - 22:30 | TD Place, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 3W7, Canada
Ottawa’s Canadian Football League (CFL) team home game

North Lanark Highland Games
2025-08-23
The North Lanark Highland Games is a one day event celebrating the Scottish culture and heritage of the Ottawa Valley.
The annual games will be held in the picturesque town of Almonte, Ontario.
The Games offer twenty pipe bands, a hundred dancers and champion heavyweight athletes combining to present what is recognized as one of the Ottawa Valley’s premier summer events.

Driven Ottawa Aftermarket Car Show
2025-08-23 | 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa, K1V 2N6, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa, K1V 2N6
Visit the Driven Ottawa Aftermarket Car Show to celebrate Canadian car culture! Featuring over 300 vehicles and displays.

Summer Volley & Salsa
2025-08-23
Spend your Saturday evening on the beach with volleyball, an intro salsa lesson, and dancing. Equipment, music, and good vibes are provided—just bring your swimsuit, water, and sunscreen. Free event.

Indigenous Walking Tours
2025-08-23
Explore downtown Ottawa through an Indigenous lens during these guided walking tours led by artist and educator Jaime Morse. Learn how monuments, art, and landscapes reflect the presence and histories of Indigenous Peoples in the city. Tours are offered in English and French, and designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities.

Stittsville Sweet Corn Festival
2025-08-23
Get ready to go crazy with corn at the festival that’s perfect for corn lovers! This event is about everything Corn! There are many booths dedicated to Corn: Corn Relish, Popcorn, Corn-dogs, Corn Decor, Corn Bread, Corn Salsa and more Corn!

Shake The Room: Breaking and Hip Hop battles
2025-08-23 | 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa, K1V 2N6, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa, K1V 2N6
Breakers of all ages take the stage in a high-energy showdown featuring 2 vs 2 Breaking, 1 vs 1 Kids Breaking, and 1 vs 1 Hip Hop battles. Winners walk away with cash prizes and plaques, but the top 2 vs 2 Breaking duo earns a spot at the international finals in France this November. Expect fierce moves, bold styles, and a celebration of street dance culture. Ticketed event.

Connecting Seniors: Cultural Exhibition and Festival
2025-08-23
This one-day festival celebrates the creativity and contributions of ethno-cultural seniors through performances and culinary arts. It promotes healthy aging by showcasing cultural expression in vibrant and engaging ways. Organized by a network of over 30 grassroots cultural groups under the Social Planning Council of Ottawa, the event is supported by the City of Ottawa’s Equity and Inclusion in the Arts Fund. Free.

Savour the Field at Les Vergers Villeneuve and Blueberry Farm
2025-08-23 | 1341 Rollin Road, Saint-Pascal Baylon, K0A 3N0, 1341 Rollin Road, Saint-Pascal Baylon, K0A 3N0
Escape the city and experience the charm of rural life with Au cœur du champ, a farm-to-table culinary journey set in the scenic Eastern Ontario countryside. The farm offers a variety of activities alongside food from Café Euphie d’ici, including apple, pear, and rhubarb picking, live music by Martin Lacelle with drummer accompaniment, a boutique featuring 20 fruit wines, and a small market showcasing local products. Children can enjoy face painting and a mini petting zoo, while all visitors can take wagon rides to the fields or participate in a tree identification game in the farm’s wooded area, suitable for all ages and presented in collaboration with Boisés Est.

Under The Stars
2025-08-23
Enjoy music each Saturday in August in the Club SAW courtyard. All ages admitted, 19+ w/ photo ID to drink. Severe weather location inside Club SAW.

Carp Farmers’ Market
2025-08-23 08:00 - 13:00 | Carp Farmers’ Market
The largest producer-based farmers’ market in Eastern Ontario, with over 100 vendors offering produce, baked goods and crafts.
