Events and Culture:
The Capital of Culture
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Ottawa offers a rich tapestry of events throughout the year. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a foodie, or someone looking to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, Ottawa’s festivals have something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of some of the city’s most anticipated annual festivals
1. Ottawa Bluesfest
Held over 10 days in July, Ottawa Bluesfest is one of the largest outdoor music festivals in Canada. Despite its name, the festival covers all genres, featuring everything from rock and pop to hip-hop and electronic. It attracts top international acts and thousands of fans each year to LeBreton Flats. With food trucks, vendors, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a summer highlight for music lovers of all ages.
When: July 10–20, 2025
Where: LeBreton Flats Park
Who It’s For: Music lovers of all ages
Description: One of Canada’s largest music festivals, featuring a diverse lineup from rock to hip-hop. Past headliners include Green Day and Shania Twain.
Link: ottawabluesfest.ca
2. Ottawa Jazz Festival
This festival transforms downtown Ottawa into a haven for jazz fans every June. With performances ranging from traditional jazz to experimental fusion, it features both legendary names and emerging talent. Concerts are hosted in Confederation Park, clubs, and concert halls, offering intimate and large-scale settings. It’s a sophisticated yet accessible event, perfect for a relaxed evening out.
When: June 20–29, 2025
Where: Various venues in downtown Ottawa
Who It’s For: Jazz aficionados and casual listeners
Description: A celebration of jazz music, showcasing international and local talent in intimate and large-scale performances.
Link: ottawajazzfestival.com
3. Cityfolk
CityFolk is Ottawa’s indie darling, taking over Lansdowne Park every September. The festival blends folk, rock, country, and alternative music in a relaxed, urban setting. With artisan vendors, gourmet food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere, it appeals to music fans looking for a more grassroots experience. It’s also known for its Marvest series, which brings free shows to local businesses in the Glebe.
When: September 10-14, 2025
Where: Lansdowne Park
Who It’s For: Fans of folk, indie, and alternative music
Description: An urban festival blending music, art, and community, featuring both renowned and emerging artists.
Link: cityfolkfestival.com
4. Music and Beyond
Taking place in early July, Music and Beyond is unique for combining classical music with other art forms like visual arts, poetry, and dance. The festival includes performances by world-renowned orchestras and chamber ensembles, along with thought-provoking collaborations. It’s ideal for patrons of the arts who enjoy experiencing music in new and innovative contexts.
When: July 4–17, 2025
Where: Various venues across Ottawa
Who It’s For: Classical music enthusiasts and families
Description: A festival that combines classical music with other art forms, including dance, poetry, and visual arts.
Link: musicandbeyond.ca
5. Canadian Tulip Festival
A symbol of friendship between Canada and the Netherlands, the Tulip Festival is a vibrant celebration each May. Featuring over one million tulips, it brightens up Commissioners Park and other locations across Ottawa. Historical exhibits, art installations, and family-friendly events complement the floral displays. It’s a beautiful way to welcome spring and learn about wartime history.
When: May 9–19, 2025 (going on now!)
Where: Commissioners Park and various locations
Who It’s For: Garden lovers and history buffs
Description: Celebrating the historic gift of tulips from the Netherlands, this festival features over a million blooming tulips across the city.
Link: tulipfestival.ca
6. Winterlude
Ottawa embraces winter with style during Winterlude, held in February. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with ice sculpture competitions, snow playgrounds, and skating on the Rideau Canal. It’s a family favorite and a must-see for anyone who enjoys embracing the snowy season. Downtown parks and local museums also host indoor and outdoor programming.
When: Late January to Mid February
Where: Various locations including Confederation Park and Rideau Canal
Who It’s For: Families and winter enthusiasts
Description: A winter celebration featuring ice sculptures, skating on the world’s largest rink, and snow playgrounds.
Link: canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/winterlude.html
7. Capital Pride
Celebrated each August, Capital Pride is a joyful and inclusive festival that champions the LGBTQ+ community. The event features a vibrant parade, live performances, drag shows, and educational workshops. With participation from local organizations and allies, it’s a welcoming celebration of diversity and equity. The Pride festivities also include youth and family-oriented programming.
When: August 2025 (Exact dates TBD)
Where: Various locations in Ottawa
Who It’s For: LGBTQ+ community and allies
Description: A vibrant celebration promoting inclusivity, featuring a parade, performances, and community events.
Link: capitalpride.ca
8. Ottawa International Children's Festival
Taking place each spring, this festival is designed for children and their families. It showcases world-class theatre, music, and dance performances aimed at young audiences. Held primarily at LeBreton Flats, it also offers hands-on workshops and outdoor play zones. It’s a fantastic cultural outing for families with kids.
When: May 2025 (Exact dates TBD)
Where: LeBreton Flats Park and other venues
Who It’s For: Children and families
Description: A festival dedicated to young audiences, offering performances in theatre, dance, and music.
9. Ottawa Ribfest
Each June, Sparks Street fills with the scent of sizzling BBQ during Ottawa Ribfest. Competitors from across North America serve up ribs, pulled pork, and more, all vying for top honours. The festival also features live music, street performers, and beer gardens. It’s a meat-lover’s paradise and a great excuse to indulge.
When: June 2025 (Exact dates TBD)
Where: Sparks Street
Who It’s For: BBQ enthusiasts and foodies
Description: A mouth-watering event featuring ribbers from across North America, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Link: sparksstreet.com
10. Tacos and Tequila Festival
This newer addition to Ottawa’s summer scene takes place at the Ottawa Stadium in July. Celebrating the bold flavours of Mexican cuisine, it offers creative taco recipes, tequila tastings, and festive live music. It’s an adult-oriented event (19+) and a perfect night out for foodies. Expect high energy and plenty of photo ops.
When: July 18–20, 2025
Where: Ottawa Stadium
Who It’s For: Adults 19+ who enjoy culinary delights
Description: A festival celebrating Mexican cuisine and culture, with a variety of tacos, tequila tastings, and live entertainment.
Link: ottawatourism.ca
11. Great Glebe Garage Sale
A beloved spring tradition, the Great Glebe Garage Sale happens annually in May. Residents across the Glebe set up shop on their lawns, selling everything from antiques to clothes. It’s more than just a garage sale—local businesses, food vendors, and community organizations join the fun, and many participants donate proceeds to charity. It’s an amazing day for treasure hunting and community spirit.
When: May 24, 2025
Where: Glebe neighborhood
Who It’s For: Treasure hunters and bargain seekers
Description: A massive community garage sale where residents sell items, with proceeds often going to charity.
Link: glebeca.ca
12. Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival
Held at Mooney’s Bay each June, the Dragon Boat Festival is the largest of its kind in North America. Teams compete in high-energy races, but there’s more than just sport—there’s also free concerts, a children’s area, and cultural performances. It’s a fun, inclusive event that combines athleticism with community celebration. Great for families, spectators, and anyone looking to enjoy the waterfront.
When: June 20–22, 2025
Where: Mooney’s Bay Park
Who It’s For: Sports enthusiasts and families
Description: North America’s largest dragon boat festival, featuring races, concerts, and cultural performances.
Link: dragonboat.net
13. Canada Day in Ottawa
No place celebrates Canada Day quite like the nation’s capital. On July 1st, downtown Ottawa becomes a massive party zone with concerts, ceremonies, and family-friendly activities. The day ends with a breathtaking fireworks show over Parliament Hill. It’s a bucket-list experience for anyone living in or visiting Canada.
When: July 1, 2025
Where: Parliament Hill and surrounding areas
Who It’s For: Everyone
Description: A national celebration with live performances, ceremonies, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Link: canada.ca
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