Hey Ottawa-Gatineau! Ready for a fantastic long weekend? We’ve got a packed schedule for you from May 22nd to 24th, 2026, with everything from thrilling sports and live music to vibrant markets and family adventures. Dive into our top picks and plan your perfect weekend in the capital!

What to Do This Weekend

Looking for a memorable outing? Here are some standout events to fill your weekend calendar with excitement and discovery!

• Kanata Ribfest | Friday, May 22 at 10:00 AM | 400 March Rd, Kanata | Free entry
  directions | More info
• Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market | Friday, May 22 at 4:00 PM | Urban Art Collective | Free
  directions | More info
• JESSICA KIRSON | Friday, May 22 at 8:00 PM | Bronson Centre
  directions | More info
• Great Glebe Garage Sale | Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 AM | Glebe Neighbourhood | Free
  directions | More info
• LA LA LAND In Concert | Saturday, May 23 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa
  directions | More info
• The Golden voices of Arabia: The Eternal Echoes of Arab Divas | Saturday, May 23 at 8:00 PM | National Arts Centre
  directions | More info
• Chris Tucker Live! | Sunday, May 24 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa
  directions | More info

Family Events

Gather the whole family for some fun! From engaging workshops to thrilling spectacles, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained.

• Step into the Rainbow with Wild Colour | Friday, May 22 at 10:00 AM | Canadian Museum of Nature
  directions | More info
• Annual Traditional Powwow | Friday, May 22 at 12:00 PM & Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 AM | Odawa Native Friendship Centre | Free
  directions | More info
• Tamarack Race Weekend | Friday, May 22 at 1:00 PM, Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 AM, Sunday, May 24 at 2:00 PM | Ottawa Downtown, Parkway and Gatineau | Free to spectate
  directions | More info
• Summer at The Log Farm – Opening Weekend | Saturday, May 23 at 9:00 AM | The Log Farm | Free
  directions | More info
• Pirate Life – Opening Weekend | Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 AM | Mooney’s Bay
  directions | More info
• Monster Spectacular | Saturday, May 23 at 2:00 PM | Canadian Tire Centre
  directions | More info
• Kanata Ribfest and Mac My Cheese Fest | Sunday, May 24 at 11:00 AM | 400 March Rd, Kanata | Free
  directions | More info

Big Events

Get ready for the buzz! These large-scale events are drawing crowds and promising unforgettable experiences across Ottawa-Gatineau.

• Tamarack Race Weekend | Friday, May 22 at 1:00 PM, Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 AM, Sunday, May 24 at 2:00 PM | Ottawa Downtown, Parkway and Gatineau | Free to spectate
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Circus Festival | Friday, May 22 at 1:00 PM | Arts Court
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Titans vs Sussex County Miners | Friday, May 22 at 7:00 PM | Ottawa Stadium
  directions | More info
• Great Glebe Garage Sale | Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 AM | Glebe Neighbourhood | Free
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Rapid FC vs. Roses de Montréal FC | Saturday, May 23 at 1:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place
  directions | More info
• Monster Spectacular | Saturday, May 23 at 2:00 PM | Canadian Tire Centre
  directions | More info
• Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Montreal Alliance | Saturday, May 23 at 7:00 PM | The Arena at TD Place
  directions | More info
• Atlético Ottawa vs. Forge FC | Sunday, May 24 at 2:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place
  directions | More info
• Chris Tucker Live! | Sunday, May 24 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa
  directions | More info

Hello, Ottawa-Gatineau! Get ready for an absolutely packed long weekend, May 15-17, 2026! From blooming tulips and thrilling buskers to lively markets and rockin' concerts, our beautiful region is bursting with activity. Whether you're looking for family fun, a night out with friends, or a cultural deep-dive, we've got something special just for you. Let's dive into what's happening!

What to Do This Weekend

Kick off your long weekend with an incredible array of activities! From musical tributes to bustling markets and vibrant festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the spring energy.

• Canadian Tulip Festival
  Friday, May 15 at 10:00 AM | Commissioners Park-Dow’s Lake (Free)
  Experience the beauty of millions of tulips in bloom at Ottawa's most iconic spring festival. Stroll through vibrant displays and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
  directions | More info
• Barrhaven Ribfest & Poutine World
  Friday, May 15 at 11:30 AM | Clarke Field, Barrhaven, Ottawa, ON (Free)
  Indulge in mouth-watering ribs and delicious poutine at this popular Barrhaven event, complete with live music and a lively crowd.
  directions | More info
• Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market
  Friday, May 15 at 4:00 PM | Urban Art Collective (Free)
  Explore unique creations from local artisans, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Hintonburg after dark.
  directions | More info
• Los Desperados – Canada’s Premier Tribute to the Eagles
  Friday, May 15 at 8:00 PM | Harold Shenkman Hall, Shenkman Arts Centre
  Relive the magic of The Eagles with Canada's top tribute band. An evening of classic rock hits awaits!
  directions | More info
• 80s Dance Party w/ DJ Remi Royale + The Start (80s UK Hits)
  Friday, May 15 at 8:00 PM | House of Targ
  Put on your dancing shoes and travel back in time with DJ Remi Royale and The Start for an epic 80s UK hits dance party!
  directions | More info
• Westboro Farmers’ Market – Opening Day
  Saturday, May 16 at 9:00 AM | Byron Linear Park (Free)
  Celebrate the opening day of the Westboro Farmers' Market! Stock up on fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and enjoy the community vibe.
  directions | More info
• Kemptville Buskerfest 2026
  Saturday, May 16 at 10:00 AM | Downtown Kemptville (Free)
  Head south for a day of incredible street performances, music, and entertainment for all ages at the Kemptville Buskerfest!
  directions | More info
• 613 Flea
  Saturday, May 16 at 10:00 AM | Aberdeen Pavilion (Free)
  Discover unique treasures, vintage finds, and local crafts at the always popular 613 Flea market.
  directions | More info

Family Events

Looking for fun that the whole family can enjoy? This weekend is packed with options, from outdoor adventures to engaging museum exhibits and festive celebrations!

• Canadian Tulip Festival
  Friday, May 15 at 10:00 AM | Commissioners Park-Dow’s Lake (Free)
  A perfect outing for all ages, the Tulip Festival offers stunning photo opportunities and plenty of space for kids to run around amidst the beautiful blooms.
  directions | More info
• Step into the Rainbow with Wild Colour
  Friday, May 15 at 10:00 AM | Canadian Museum of Nature
  Bring the kids to the Canadian Museum of Nature for an interactive and vibrant experience exploring the world of colours in nature. Always a hit!
  directions | More info
• Orléans Fun Fair
  Friday, May 15 at 5:00 PM | Ray Friel Recreation Complex (Free)
  Enjoy classic fair attractions, games, and treats, perfect for an evening of family fun in Orléans!
  directions | More info
• Carp Farmers’ Market
  Saturday, May 16 at 8:00 AM | Carp Fairgrounds (Free)
  Explore the Carp Farmers' Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and a fun, rural experience that kids will love.
  directions | More info
• Summer at The Log Farm – Opening Weekend
  Saturday, May 16 at 9:00 AM | The Log Farm (Free)
  Visit The Log Farm for its opening weekend! Enjoy farm animals, historic buildings, and plenty of space for outdoor play.
  directions | More info
• Pirate Life – Opening Weekend
  Saturday, May 16 at 10:00 AM | Mooney’s Bay
  Set sail on a pirate adventure at Mooney's Bay! This interactive show is sure to delight young buccaneers and their families.
  directions | More info
• Ottawa REDBLACKS Fan Fest 2026
  Saturday, May 16 at 1:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place (Free)
  Meet your favourite REDBLACKS players, enjoy family-friendly activities, and get hyped for the upcoming season at this free fan event!
  directions | More info
• Queen Victoria Birthday Celebrations
  Sunday, May 17 at 10:00 AM | Upper Canada Village
  Travel back in time to experience a traditional Victorian celebration, with historical re-enactments and fun activities for the whole family.
  directions | More info

Big Events

Get ready for some major action! From world-class theatre to thrilling sports and sprawling festivals, this weekend is delivering big experiences across the capital region.

• Canadian Tulip Festival
  Friday, May 15 at 10:00 AM | Commissioners Park-Dow’s Lake (Free)
  As one of the world's largest tulip festivals, this event is a monumental celebration of spring and friendship, drawing visitors from all over.
  directions | More info
• Moulin Rouge! The Musical
  Friday, May 15 at 7:30 PM | National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts
  Don't miss the spectacular Broadway hit "Moulin Rouge! The Musical" as it electrifies the National Arts Centre stage. A dazzling experience!
  directions | More info
• Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Niagara River Lions
  Friday, May 15 at 7:00 PM | The Arena at TD Place
  Catch the Ottawa BlackJacks in action as they face off against the Niagara River Lions for an exciting night of professional basketball.
  directions | More info
• Kemptville Buskerfest 2026
  Saturday, May 16 at 10:00 AM | Downtown Kemptville (Free)
  A full day of world-class street performers, musicians, and entertainers takes over Downtown Kemptville, offering continuous spectacle.
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Polish Fest
  Saturday, May 16 at 10:00 AM | Ottawa, ON
  Celebrate Polish culture with traditional music, dance, food, and crafts at the Ottawa Polish Fest – a vibrant community gathering.
  directions | More info
• The Fray - Summer of Light Tour
  Saturday, May 16 at 7:00 PM | Hard Rock Casino Ottawa
  Grammy-nominated band The Fray brings their "Summer of Light Tour" to the Hard Rock Casino for an evening of their beloved hits.
  directions | More info
• Atlético Ottawa vs. Halifax Wanderers FC
  Sunday, May 17 at 1:00 PM | The Stadium at TD Place
  Cheer on Atlético Ottawa as they battle the Halifax Wanderers FC in Canadian Premier League action. A thrilling match for soccer fans!
  directions | More info

What to Do This Weekend

Get ready for a fantastic weekend, Ottawa-Gatineau! From live music to unique cultural experiences, there's something for everyone as we ease into May. Don't miss these highlights:

• Fresh Horses: Garth Brooks Tribute | Friday, May 8 at 12:00 PM | Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe | More info | directions
• Object//Project Art Book Fair 2026 | Friday, May 8 at 11:00 AM | Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre (Free) | More info | directions
• Ontario Guild of Town Criers Competition | Friday, May 8 at 12:00 PM | Commissioners Park (Free) | More info | directions
• Urban Art Collective Hintonburg Night Market | Friday, May 8 at 4:00 PM | Urban Art Collective (Free) | More info | directions
• Sooshi Mango: The Home Made World Tour | Friday, May 8 at 8:00 PM | National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts | More info | directions
• Retro Silent Disco | Saturday, May 9 at 7:30 PM | National Gallery of Canada | More info | directions
• Dwayne Gretzky | Saturday, May 9 at 8:00 PM | The Bronson ($63) | More info | directions
• Strung Out, Belvedere, MAJORS | Sunday, May 10 at 7:30 PM | Overflow Brewing Co. ($47) | More info | directions

Family Events

Looking for fun for all ages this weekend? With Mother's Day on Sunday, there are plenty of special activities for the whole family to enjoy. Here are some top picks:

• Canadian Tulip Festival | Friday, May 8 - Sunday, May 10, various times | Commissioners Park | More info | directions
• NCC Weekend Bikedays | Friday, May 8 - Sunday, May 10 at 10:00 AM | Kichi Zibi Mikan, George Etienne Cartier Parkway and Queen Elizabeth Drive. (Free) | More info | directions
• Saunders Farm Tulip Fest | Saturday, May 9 at 10:00 AM | Saunders Farm | More info | directions
• A Glow of Love: Mother’s Day Market and Concert | Saturday, May 9 at 1:00 PM | Shenkman Arts Centre | More info | directions
• Mother’s Day Train Rides at RMEO | Sunday, May 10 at 10:00 AM | Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario | More info | directions
• Mother’s Day Brunch at the NCC River house | Sunday, May 10 at 9:00 AM | 502 George Etienne Cartier Parkway | More info | directions
• Mothers Day Flower Fun Run | Sunday, May 10 at 12:00 PM | Dow’s Lake | More info | directions
• Live Chess on Parliament | Sunday, May 10 at 2:00 PM | Parliament, great lawn. (Free) | More info | directions

Big Events

Mark your calendars for these major happenings in the capital region! From celebrated festivals to thrilling professional sports, there's no shortage of large-scale excitement:

• Canadian Tulip Festival | Friday, May 8 - Sunday, May 10, various times | Commissioners Park and other city locations | More info | directions
• Ottawa Charge PWHL Playoffs Round 1 Home Game 1 & 2 | Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM & Sunday, May 10 at 3:00 PM | Canadian Tire Centre | More info (Fri), More info (Sun) | directions
• Bestfest Ottawa | Friday, May 8 at 10:00 AM (continues through the day) | Aberdeen Pavilion | More info | directions
• Cranium Conference & Showcase | Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM & Saturday, May 9 at 8:00 PM | Various locations (incl. National Arts Centre) | More info | directions
• Spring Art Festival 2026 | Saturday, May 9 at 10:00 AM | Jim Tubman Chevrolet Sens Rink, Canterbury Recreation Complex (Free) | More info | directions
• Ottawa Titans vs Quebec Capitales | Saturday, May 9 at 6:00 PM | Ottawa Stadium | More info | directions

Oh hey there, Ottawa-Gatineau! Can you believe it's already April? We're diving headfirst into a fantastic long weekend, packed with spring festivities, thrilling sports, and some truly memorable nights out. From Easter egg hunts for the little ones to high-energy concerts and thought-provoking performances, our vibrant city has something for everyone. Let's make the most of April 3rd to April 5th, 2026! ***

What to Do This Weekend

Get ready to shake off those lingering winter blues with a curated selection of some of the best events happening around town. Whether you're a music buff, a market enthusiast, or a sports fanatic, we've got your weekend plans covered!

• Anime Ottawa 2026
  Friday, April 3 at 10:00 AM (and ongoing throughout the weekend)
  Venue: EY Centre
  Dive into the world of anime, manga, and Japanese culture at this hugely popular convention! Expect cosplayers, vendors, panels, and much more. This is a family-friendly event with free admission for some elements.
  directions | More info
• Ravel and Shostakovich
  Friday, April 3 at 8:00 PM
  Venue: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre
  Experience an evening of profound classical music. The National Arts Centre Orchestra brings to life the works of Ravel and Shostakovich for a truly moving performance.
  directions | More info
• 80s Dance Party w/ DJ Remi Royale + The Start (80s UK Hits)
  Friday, April 3 at 8:00 PM
  Venue: House of Targ
  Dust off your leg warmers and get ready to boogie! House of Targ is throwing an epic 80s dance party with DJ Remi Royale and live 80s UK hits by The Start. It’s going to be tubular!
  directions | More info
• 613 Flea
  Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 AM
  Venue: Aberdeen Pavilion (Free)
  Hunt for unique treasures, local crafts, vintage finds, and delicious treats at the always popular 613 Flea market. It's a fantastic way to spend your Saturday supporting local vendors.
  directions | More info
• George Thorogood & The Destroyers - The Baddest Show On Earth
  Saturday, April 4 at 7:00 PM
  Venue: Hard Rock Casino Ottawa
  Get ready to rock and roll! The legendary George Thorogood & The Destroyers bring their "Baddest Show On Earth" to the Hard Rock Casino. Expect a night of classic hits and electrifying blues-rock.
  directions | More info
• Dirty Dancing in Concert
  Saturday, April 4 at 8:00 PM
  Venue: Southam Hall, National Arts Centre
  Have the time of your life with Dirty Dancing in Concert! Watch the iconic film on a big screen while a live band and singers perform the songs. It's a unique experience that combines cinema with a concert.
  directions | More info
• Easter Brunch at the Museum
  Sunday, April 5 at 10:00 AM
  Venue: Canadian Museum of History
  Cap off your long weekend with a delightful Easter Brunch at the beautiful Canadian Museum of History. Enjoy delicious food in a stunning setting.
  directions | More info

Family Events

This Easter long weekend is absolutely bursting with family-friendly fun! Get out and make some memories with these egg-cellent activities designed for all ages.

• Easter at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
  Friday, April 3 at 9:30 AM
  Venue: Canada Agriculture and Food Museum (Free)
  Celebrate Easter on the farm! Enjoy special activities, animal encounters, and learn about spring on the farm. A fantastic free outing for the whole family.
  directions | More info
• Easter at The Log Farm & Sugar Bush
  Friday, April 3 at 9:00 AM
  Venue: The Log Farm [Family-friendly]
  Experience the joy of an old-fashioned Easter at The Log Farm. Enjoy classic sugar bush activities, farm animals, and festive Easter fun in a charming setting.
  directions | More info
• Easter Egg Hunt at Valleyview Little Animal Farm
  Friday, April 3 at 9:30 AM
  Venue: Valleyview Little Animal Farm [Family-friendly]
  Combine the excitement of an Easter egg hunt with adorable farm animals at Valleyview! A perfect spring activity for kids.
  directions | More info
• Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario – Easter Eggspress
  Friday, April 3 at 10:00 AM
  Venue: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario [Family-friendly]
  All aboard the Easter Eggspress! Head to Smiths Falls for a unique Easter experience at the Railway Museum, featuring family activities and railway fun.
  directions | More info
• Hop Into Spring
  Saturday, April 4 at 9:00 AM
  Venue: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum [Family-friendly]
  Step back in time and celebrate spring with heritage activities and Easter fun at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum.
  directions | More info
• Carp Farmers’ Easter Market
  Saturday, April 4 at 8:00 AM
  Venue: Carp Fairgrounds (Free) [Family-friendly]
  Enjoy a vibrant family-friendly market featuring local goods, crafts, food, and plenty of Easter cheer. A great spot to pick up some last-minute treats!
  directions | More info
• Easter at the Bunker
  Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 AM
  Venue: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
  For a truly unique Easter adventure, explore Canada's Cold War Museum and participate in their special Easter activities. A blend of history and holiday fun!
  directions | More info

Big Events

Ottawa-Gatineau is buzzing with major events this weekend! From national championships to professional sports action and large-scale festivals, there's no shortage of excitement.

• Anime Ottawa 2026
  Friday, April 3 at 10:00 AM (and ongoing throughout the weekend)
  Venue: EY Centre
  As mentioned above, this is a massive convention drawing fans from all over for a celebration of Japanese pop culture. Expect a vibrant atmosphere and a huge turnout!
  directions | More info
• Canadian Ringette Championships
  Friday, April 3 & Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 AM
  Venue: Various locations in Nepean and Kanata.
  Witness top-tier ringette action as teams compete for national glory right here in Ottawa! Support these incredible athletes.
  directions | More info
• Montreal Victoire At Ottawa Charge
  Friday, April 3 at 7:00 PM
  Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
  Catch exciting professional women's hockey action as the Ottawa Charge take on the Montreal Victoire. It's bound to be a thrilling match-up!
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Senators vs. Minnesota Wild
  Saturday, April 4 at 1:00 PM
  Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
  Cheer on the Sens as they hit the ice against the Minnesota Wild in an afternoon clash. Grab your jerseys and head to Kanata for some NHL excitement!
  directions | More info
• 2026 Ottawa 67's Playoffs: Round 1, Game 5
  Saturday, April 4 at 7:00 PM
  Venue: The Arena at TD Place
  The Ottawa 67's are fighting for playoff glory! Join the passionate crowd at TD Place for Game 5 of Round 1 and help cheer our junior hockey team to victory.
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Senators vs. Carolina Hurricanes
  Sunday, April 5 at 5:00 PM
  Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
  Another chance to see the Senators in action as they wrap up the weekend with a Sunday evening game against the Carolina Hurricanes.
  directions | More info

That’s a wrap for this week's event lineup! Have an absolutely wonderful Easter long weekend, make some incredible memories, and enjoy all that Ottawa-Gatineau has to offer. We'll be back next week with more local happenings!

What to Do This Weekend

Get ready for a fantastic weekend, Ottawa-Gatineau! From captivating theatre to unique outdoor adventures and vibrant music, March 27-29, 2026, is packed with events that will spark your interest. Here are some of our top picks:

• & Juliet (Touring)
  Multiple dates and times (Friday, March 27 at 7:30 PM; Saturday, March 28 at 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM; Sunday, March 29 at 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM)
  Venue: National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts (Southam Hall or Babs Asper Theatre)
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info (Check Ticketmaster for specific dates and halls)
• Nature Nocturne
  Friday, March 27 at 8:00 PM
  Venue: Canadian Museum of Nature
  Cost: Free
  directions | More info
• Candlelights Concerts. Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
  Friday, March 27 at 9:00 PM
  Venue: First Baptist Church Ottawa
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• Maple Fest
  Friday, March 27 at 9:00 AM (Ongoing)
  Venue: Proulx Maple & Berry Farm
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• Snowshoes under the stars in Gatineau Park
  Friday, March 27 at 12:00 AM (Check website for specific times)
  Venue: TBD
  Cost: Free
  More info
• AnesthesiA - Hommage à Metallica symphonique
  Saturday, March 28 at 8:00 PM
  Venue: Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy, Gatineau
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• Paint your Own Chocolate
  Friday, March 27 at 12:00 AM (Check website for specific times)
  Venue: TBD
  Cost: Free
  More info

Family Events

Looking for fun with the whole crew? Ottawa-Gatineau has a fantastic selection of family-friendly activities this weekend, perfect for all ages:

• Rink of Dreams
  Friday, March 27 at 7:00 AM (Ongoing)
  Venue: City Hall
  Cost: Free
  directions | More info
• Sugar Bush at the Log Farm
  Friday, March 27 at 9:00 AM (Ongoing)
  Venue: The Log Farm
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• Easter Egg Hunt at Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm
  Friday, March 27 at 10:30 AM (Ongoing)
  Venue: Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• The Great Egg Race
  Saturday, March 28 at 9:00 AM
  Venue: Horticulture Building, Lansdowne Park
  Cost: Free
  directions | More info
• Riveroak’s Sugar Bush Season
  Saturday, March 28 at 9:00 AM (Ongoing)
  Venue: 2900 York’s Corners Road, Ottawa.
  Cost: Free
  directions | More info
• North Gower Spring Market
  Sunday, March 29 at 9:00 AM
  Venue: Alfred Taylor Rec Centre
  Cost: Free
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Symphony Orchestra
  Sunday, March 29 at 3:30 PM
  Venue: Carleton Dominion Chalmers Centre
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info

Big Events

Get ready for some major action and buzz! This weekend is packed with high-energy sports and large-scale gatherings that you won't want to miss. Here are the big events on our radar:

• Ottawa Wedding Show
  Friday, March 27 at 11:00 AM (Ongoing)
  Venue: EY Centre
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• 2026 Ottawa 67's Playoffs: Round 1, Game 1
  Friday, March 27 at 7:00 PM
  Venue: The Arena at TD Place
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• Senators vs Pittsburgh Penguins
  Friday, March 27 at 7:00 PM
  Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• VerseFest
  Friday, March 27 at 10:00 AM (Ongoing)
  Venue: Various locations
  Cost: Varies
  More info
• Ottawa Black Bears vs. Georgia Swarm
  Saturday, March 28 at 7:00 PM
  Venue: Canadian Tire Centre
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info
• 2026 Ottawa 67's Playoffs: Round 1, Game 2
  Sunday, March 29 at 3:00 PM
  Venue: The Arena at TD Place
  Cost: Varies
  directions | More info

What to Do This Weekend

Get ready for a vibrant weekend, Ottawa-Gatineau! From live music to unique nature experiences and bustling markets, March 27-29, 2026, is packed with opportunities to explore our fantastic region. Here are some of our top picks to get you out and about:

• Nature Nocturne | Friday, March 27 at 8:00 PM | Canadian Museum of Nature | Immerse yourself in a sophisticated evening of music, arts, and nature after hours.
  directions | More info
• Candlelights Concerts. Coldplay & Imagine Dragons | Friday, March 27 at 9:00 PM | First Baptist Church Ottawa | Experience the hits of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a breathtaking candlelit setting.
  directions | More info
• Strip Cheese IV: The Meltdown | Friday, March 27 at 9:00 PM | The Rainbow Bistro | Get ready for a night of incredible music and good vibes at this unique community nightlife event.
  directions | More info
• Geeked Out: Ottawa’s Toy and Collectible Sale | Saturday, March 28 at 10:00 AM | Nepean Sportsplex | Hunt for treasures and unique finds at this must-visit market for collectors and enthusiasts.
  directions | More info
• Shinrin-Yoku: Guided Nature Walk | Saturday, March 28 at 1:00 PM | Gatineau Park | Reconnect with nature and find tranquility on a guided forest bathing walk.
  directions | More info
• SMELLS LIKE NIRVANA | Saturday, March 28 at 8:00 PM | The 27 Club ($27) | Pay tribute to a rock legend with this high-energy Nirvana experience.
  directions | More info
• North Gower Spring Market | Sunday, March 29 at 9:00 AM | Alfred Taylor Rec Centre (Free) | Discover local artisans, fresh produce, and community spirit at this charming spring market.
  directions | More info
• CKCU’s Got Talent | Sunday, March 29 at 2:00 PM | Robo Lounge | Support local talent and enjoy a fantastic afternoon of performances at this community showcase.
  directions | More info

Family Events

Looking for fun ways to spend quality time with the family this weekend? Ottawa-Gatineau has you covered with maple-themed adventures, egg hunts, and cultural experiences perfect for all ages:

• Rink of Dreams | Friday, March 27 at 7:00 AM | City Hall (Free) | Enjoy some outdoor skating fun right in the heart of the city.
  directions | More info
• Maple Fest | Friday, March 27 at 9:00 AM | Proulx Maple & Berry Farm | Indulge in all things maple, from delicious treats to farm tours, a quintessential spring experience!
  directions | More info
• Sugar Bush at the Log Farm | Friday, March 27 at 9:00 AM | The Log Farm [Family-friendly] | Explore a traditional sugar bush and learn about maple syrup production.
  directions | More info
• Butterflies in Flight | Friday, March 27 at 10:00 AM | Canadian Museum of Nature | Wander through an enchanting exhibit filled with colorful butterflies.
  directions | More info
• Easter Egg Hunt at Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm | Friday, March 27 at 10:30 AM | Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm [Family-friendly] | A festive and fun outdoor activity for the little ones!
  directions | More info
• The Great Egg Race | Saturday, March 28 at 9:00 AM | Horticulture Building, Lansdowne Park (Free) [Family-friendly] | Join in the excitement with this lively and engaging family event.
  directions | More info
• Riveroak’s Sugar Bush Season | Saturday, March 28 at 9:00 AM | 2900 York’s Corners Road, Ottawa. (Free) [Family-friendly] | Another wonderful option to enjoy the maple season outdoors.
  directions | More info
• 24-Hour Puzzle Social Fundraiser | Saturday, March 28 at 11:00 AM | Holiday Inn Ottawa Downtown – Parliament Hill by IHG (Free) [Family-friendly] | A unique and engaging event for puzzle lovers of all ages, supporting a good cause.
  directions | More info
• Ottawa Symphony Orchestra | Sunday, March 29 at 3:30 PM | Carleton Dominion Chalmers Centre [Family-friendly] | Introduce your family to the beauty of classical music with a captivating afternoon performance.
  directions | More info

Big Events

From thrilling playoff action to major theatrical productions and cultural festivals, this weekend is bursting with significant happenings across Ottawa-Gatineau. Don't miss these large-scale events!

• Ottawa 67's Playoffs: Round 1, Game 1 | Friday, March 27 at 7:00 PM | The Arena at TD Place | Cheer on our junior hockey team as they kick off their playoff journey!
  directions | More info
• Senators vs Pittsburgh Penguins | Friday, March 27 at 7:00 PM | Canadian Tire Centre | Catch the excitement of an NHL clash as the Sens take on the Penguins.
  directions | More info
• & Juliet (Touring) | Friday, March 27 at 7:30 PM (and multiple shows Sat/Sun) | National Arts Centre / Centre national des Arts | The acclaimed touring musical " & Juliet" makes its anticipated stop in Ottawa. Get your tickets fast!
  directions | More info
• Footloose: The Musical | Friday, March 27 at 6:30 PM (and multiple shows Sat/Sun) | Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa | Cut loose and enjoy the classic musical brought to life by the Greely Players!
  directions | More info
• VerseFest | Friday, March 27 at 10:00 AM | Various locations | Dive into the world of poetry and spoken word at Ottawa's international poetry festival.
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• Ottawa Black Bears vs Georgia Swarm | Saturday, March 28 at 7:00 PM | Canadian Tire Centre | Experience the fast-paced action of NLL lacrosse as the Black Bears hit the home floor.
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• Dreamer - The Supertramp Experience | Saturday, March 28 at 12:00 AM (check venue for showtimes) | Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe | Relive the magic of Supertramp with this incredible tribute show.
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• AnesthesiA - Hommage à Metallica symphonique | Saturday, March 28 at 8:00 PM | Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy | A unique and powerful symphonic tribute to Metallica in Gatineau!
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• Ottawa 67's Playoffs: Round 1, Game 2 | Sunday, March 29 at 3:00 PM | The Arena at TD Place | Don't miss Game 2 of the playoffs as the 67's continue their quest for victory!
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• The Great India Festival presents Maha Vasan... | Sunday, March 29 at 12:00 AM (check venue for schedule) | Shenkman Arts Centre | Experience the rich culture and vibrant traditions of India at this exciting festival.
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