Looking for something to do in Ottawa this weekend? Whether you're in the mood for live music, outdoor markets, sports, family activities, or simply enjoying the summer weather, there's plenty happening across the city.
From free festivals to local markets and outdoor movies, here's your guide to making the most of your weekend in Ottawa.
🎸 Catch a Live Show by Our Lady Peace
Friday, July 3
Canadian rock legends Our Lady Peace are performing at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa. If you're a fan of classic Canadian rock, this is one of the biggest concerts happening in the city this weekend. Tickets are still available through official ticketing channels.
🏈 Cheer on the Ottawa REDBLACKS
Friday Evening | TD Place
Nothing says summer in Ottawa like Friday night football.
The Ottawa REDBLACKS host the Saskatchewan Roughriders at TD Place, making for a great night out whether you're a die-hard CFL fan or just looking for a fun atmosphere.
🛍️ Shop Local at 613flea
Saturday | Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne
One of Ottawa's most popular markets returns this weekend.
You'll find:
Vintage clothing
Handmade goods
Local artists
Home décor
Food vendors
Unique gifts
If you enjoy supporting local businesses, this is always worth a visit.
🇯🇵 Experience Natsu Matsuri (Japanese Summer Festival)
Saturday
Celebrate Japanese culture at Natsu Matsuri, a lively summer festival featuring:
Authentic Japanese food
Cultural performances
Traditional games
Local vendors
Family-friendly activities
It's one of the more unique events happening in Ottawa this weekend.
🎬 Watch a Free Outdoor Movie
There's nothing better than an outdoor movie on a warm summer evening.
Capital Pop-Up Cinema returns this weekend with a free film under the stars. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a relaxed night outdoors with friends or family.
🚴 Take Advantage of NCC Weekend Bikedays
Every summer weekend, several NCC parkways are closed to vehicle traffic and opened exclusively for:
Cycling
Walking
Running
Rollerblading
Popular routes include:
Kichi Zībī Mīkan
Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway
Queen Elizabeth Driveway
It's completely free and one of the best ways to explore Ottawa.
🥕 Visit a Local Farmers' Market
Fresh produce season is in full swing.
Some excellent markets open this weekend include:
Westboro Farmers' Market
Beechwood Market
Alta Vista Market
Metcalfe Farmers' Market
You'll find local vegetables, baked goods, flowers, coffee, artisan products, and much more.
⚽ Watch Atlético Ottawa
Saturday | TD Place
Soccer fans can catch Atlético Ottawa as they take on Cavalry FC.
The atmosphere at TD Place has been growing every season, making it a fun and affordable sporting event for the whole family.
🌅 Spend the Evening at Zibi
Saturday
Evenings at Zibi returns with live entertainment, food vendors, art installations, and activities along Ottawa's waterfront.
It's a fantastic excuse to explore one of the city's newest waterfront communities while enjoying a beautiful summer evening.
🌊 Escape the Heat at Petrie Island
If temperatures stay high, head east to Petrie Island.
Enjoy:
Sandy beaches
Swimming
Paddleboarding
Kayaking
Walking trails
Picnics
Arrive early if you're planning to spend the day, as parking fills quickly on sunny weekends.
🍝 Enjoy Ottawa's Best Patios
Sometimes the best weekend plan is simply good food and great weather.
Some of my favourite patio areas include:
Little Italy
Westboro
The Glebe
Elgin Street
ByWard Market
Grab lunch, enjoy a cold drink, and take advantage of Ottawa's short but beautiful patio season.
My Ideal Ottawa Weekend
Friday Night
🏈 Ottawa REDBLACKS game
Saturday Morning
☕ Coffee followed by the Westboro Farmers' Market
Saturday Afternoon
🛍️ Browse 613flea
Saturday Evening
🍝 Dinner in Little Italy followed by Evenings at Zibi
Sunday
🚴 NCC Bikedays or a relaxing afternoon at Petrie Island
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest events in Ottawa this weekend?
Highlights include the Ottawa REDBLACKS game, Our Lady Peace in concert, 613flea, Natsu Matsuri, and Atlético Ottawa.
Are there free things to do?
Absolutely. NCC Weekend Bikedays, Capital Pop-Up Cinema, farmers' markets, and Evenings at Zibi are all excellent free or low-cost options.
What's family-friendly?
613flea, Natsu Matsuri, Petrie Island, farmers' markets, outdoor movies, and cycling along NCC parkways are all great choices for families.
Where can I enjoy the outdoors?
Petrie Island, the Ottawa River Pathway, NCC Bikedays, and the city's many parks are perfect for making the most of the summer weather.
Is there live music this weekend?
Yes! Our Lady Peace headlines Friday night, and you'll also find live performances at Evenings at Zibi and Orléans Unplugged.
What's the best date idea?
Start with dinner on a patio in Little Italy or Westboro, then head to an outdoor movie or stroll through Evenings at Zibi by the river.
Final Thoughts
The first weekend of July is packed with everything that makes summer in Ottawa special. Whether you're exploring local markets, cheering on the REDBLACKS, catching a concert, relaxing on a patio, or spending the day outdoors, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the city.
If you're looking for my top three picks this weekend:
🥇 613flea at Lansdowne
🥈 Ottawa REDBLACKS at TD Place
🥉 Natsu Matsuri Japanese Summer Festival
Get outside, support local events, and enjoy another great summer weekend in Ottawa!
