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Your home for the latest Ottawa festival, special event and fair announcements, previews, updates, and reviews. You'll also find related industry news and research from around the world.
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City and partners launch new ACE District to showcase vibrant arts, culture, and entertainment downtown
Photo: City of Ottawa The City of Ottawa, in collaboration with the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG), has launched the city’s first Arts, Culture and Entertainment (ACE) District. This new initiative represents a shared vision to connect Ottawa’s unique downtown cultural and entertainment assets and experiences – supporting a lively, safe, and resilient downtown where culture is visible, every day and for everyone. Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and OAG Director and CEO Alexandra Bad
Jun 186 min read


Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival announces 2026 ODBF Pledge Challenge recipient charities
The Ottawa Dragon Boat Foundation (ODBF) is proud to announce the recipient charities of the 2026 ODBF Pledge Challenge and to officially launch its annual summer fundraising campaign in support of essential local programs. The ODBF Pledge Challenge raises critical funds for Ottawa-based charities delivering frontline services to thousands of residents across the city. Funds will be raised through June 30 in support of: Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa (Walk This Way program), N
Jun 152 min read


5 Reasons to Check Out the Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival this weekend
The Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival returns to Mooney’s Bay Park this weekend, June 19-21! Here are five reasons to stop by the park this year. Be sure to share your photos using #OttFestLive! Challenge Cups: Celebrate community through competition The heart of the Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival beats through its Challenge Cups — thrilling races that celebrate diversity, community spirit, and shared purpose. These signature races offer organizations, cultural
Jun 153 min read


Check out the program for Canada Day 2026!
Canada is ready to celebrate in a big way! Make the most of your day filled with music, discoveries and memorable moments with family and friends. A sea of red and white in Canada’s Capital Region Grab your flag, wear your colours and join the celebration! In Ottawa and Gatineau, enjoy a full lineup of shows, ceremonies and activities for all ages, capped off by the iconic Tim Hortons Canada Day Fireworks. Canada Day activities include… Om Canada! Festive Avenue Ottawa Senato
Jun 152 min read


ByWard Square to Animate the Heart of the ByWard Market This Summer
As the ByWard Market continues its evolution, a new outdoor venue will bring live music, local food, markets, and community programming to the heart of one of Ottawa's most iconic neighbourhoods. The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), in partnership with the City of Ottawa, designed and imagined by Belleville Placemaking and executed by Aire commune, ByWard Square, designed to reanimate public space while creating new opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs.
Jun 113 min read
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