Posted by: Karim Ali

Coffee with Karim

Tulips and Taxes: How the Canadian Tulip Festival Impacts Local Real Estate

Every May, Ottawa puts on one of its most iconic events: the Canadian Tulip Festival. If you’ve ever walked along the water at Dow’s Lake or through Commissioners Park when the flowers are in full bloom, you know how special it is. But if you’re thinking of buying a home nearby, it’s worth looking past the beauty to understand what living near a major festival site actually feels like – and how it can impact your day-to-day life, your peace and quiet, and your investment.

 

1. The Glebe and Dow’s Lake: What Makes Them So Popular

The Glebe and Dow’s Lake are two of the most in-demand neighbourhoods in Ottawa, and for good reason. You’re close to nature, the canal, great schools, restaurants, and community events. The homes here, whether you’re looking at older detached properties or modern condos, are often walkable to everything.

 

During the Tulip Festival, these areas really shine. But it’s not just locals who come to enjoy it. Tens of thousands of visitors show up, meaning these quiet residential streets transform into packed pedestrian zones for nearly two weeks every year.

 

2. The Foot Traffic Factor

It’s easy to underestimate how many people come to the festival until you live there.

 

For homeowners, that can mean:

 

  • Limited street parking, even if you have a permit
  • Heavier traffic on roads like Queen Elizabeth Drive, Carling, and Preston
  • Crowded paths and sidewalks, especially on weekends
  • Noise from crowds and event programming near the lake

 

If you’re someone who likes peace and quiet, or you’re raising young kids, this can be a real adjustment — especially if your property is right near the water or a main pedestrian route.

 

3. Short-Term Rentals and Condo Turnover

With any major event, there’s always a rise in short-term rentals. That’s true around Dow’s Lake and in condo buildings close to the Glebe, especially low-rise ones typically with fewer regulations. While short-term rental income can be great for investors, it’s not always ideal for full-time residents.

 

In some buildings, this means:

 

  • More noise from unit turnover
  • Less community feeling in the building
  • Potential wear and tear in common areas
  • Higher insurance costs or legal fees if the condo board starts enforcing stricter bylaws

 

If you’re buying a condo, always ask if the building allows Airbnbs or similar rentals. Some do, some don’t. And even if it’s technically not allowed, enforcement can vary a lot by building.

4. Home Prices and Taxes in Festival Zones

Homes near Dow’s Lake and the Glebe often carry a price premium. You’re paying for location, but that location isn’t always perfect year-round.

 

What buyers should know:

 

  • You’re likely paying more per square foot than in other parts of the city
  • Property taxes may be higher due to assessed value
  • Insurance can sometimes cost more if the home is in a higher-traffic or flood-risk area
  • View units or homes near major parks and water can look great, but soundproofing and build quality are sometimes overlooked

 

This doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. It just means you should weigh what you’re actually getting — and whether it matches how you live.

5. Two Things You Could Do Before You Buy

Visit During the Festival

If you’re thinking of buying in the Glebe or Dow’s Lake, try to come visit during peak Tulip Festival hours. Don’t rely on how things look on a quiet Tuesday in February. Seeing the neighbourhood in action helps you understand what it’ll feel like during other busy events like Canada Day, the Dragon Boat Festival, or Winterlude.

 

Talk to the Neighbours

There’s no better source of insight than someone who lives on the street or in the building. Ask them what it’s like during the festival, how traffic is handled, if there are any condo rules that aren’t enforced, or if there’s anything they wish they’d known before moving in.

Final Thoughts

Living near Ottawa’s most beautiful and lively neighbourhoods can be amazing, but it comes with its own set of realities. The Tulip Festival is a great reminder that even picture-perfect locations deserve a second look. 

 

Ask yourself: is the lifestyle here one I’d enjoy year-round, not just for two weeks in May? And if you’re not sure, I’d be happy to help you break it down.

Bonus tips

1

Check flood risk maps if you’re close to the canal or Dow’s Lake. Some properties are in zones where water levels can affect insurance or resale.

2

Ask about road closures and detours during event season – especially if you rely on regular commutes by car.

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