Ottawa is a historic and beautiful city that has the honour of being home to many vibrant and diverse communities. This diversity is reflected in the exciting calendar of events happening in Ottawa year-round. Whether you live in Ottawa, or are just visiting during the summer months, we have gathered together some of our favourite events happening in our Nation’s Capital this summer that are surely not to be missed:
June 2-3
This event offers a valuable lesson in Ottawa’s unique history, culture, and architecture. Over 140 of Ottawa’s oldest heritage buildings are opened to the public for one weekend and, best of all, admission is free!
June 14-16
For one weekend, Bank Street is turned into a festival of colour and light! The ten blocks between Slater and Gilmour play host to musical performances, art installations, and street performers.
25th Annual Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival
June 21-24
This action-packed annual event offers fun for both adults and children alike. Spend a beautiful day outdoors at Mooney’s Bay as over 200 Dragon Boat teams compete in various categories.
RCMP Musical Ride Sunset Ceremonies
June 27-30
Bring the whole family out to see the world-famous RCMP Musical Ride, followed by a flag lowering ceremony at sunset and the singing of Canada’s national anthem. A truly Canadian experience!
Canada Day Celebrations
July 1
What would a summer in Ottawa be without celebrating Canada Day in the heart of our nation’s capital? The festivities are usually focused at three official sites: Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History and Major’s Hill Park.
July 5-15
One of Canada’s largest musical events, RBC Bluesfest is held at LeBreton Flats every year. With over 220 musical acts on several outdoor stages, the event attracts more than 300,000 music fans each year. This year artists include Shawn Mendes, Foo Fighters, Beck and Bryan Adams.
Ottawa Busker Festival
August 2-6
Come and see some truly unique and amazing street performers at the Ottawa Busker Festival, held on Sparks Street. Children will love the jugglers, fire-breathers, clowns, acrobats and magicians!
Casino du Lac-Leamy Sound of Light
August 4-18
Five stunning firework displays, created by five different pyrotechnical designers, light up the night sky above the Canadian Museum of History. This year, firework performances from Spain, Germany, China and the United States are featured!
August 17-26
All the fun of the fair! The Capital Fair at the Rideau-Carleton Raceway boasts a demolition derby, a critter zoo, stunt dogs, daily magic shows and a hypnotist to amuse and delight the whole family.
31st Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival
August 30 – September 3
Canada’s largest balloon festival, and the fifth largest in the world, is a sight not to be missed. Watch as the sky above Baie Park, Gatineau, is filled with spectacular colourful balloons. Meanwhile, on the ground, there are a range of musical and comedy performances as well as amusements and culinary delights.
Ottawa has been consistently ranked as one of the top cities in Canada to live in. Need convincing? Visit for the summer, and we dare you not to fall in love with our Nation’s Capital! If you are looking to purchase a home in Ottawa or the surrounding area, reach out to a member of the Royal LePage Performance Realty team today.
