Introducing Black Bird Festival of the Arts for Young People
A new chapter. A belief in extraordinary art for young audiences.
The Ottawa Children’s Festival de la jeunesse is proud to introduce the BlackBird Festival of the Arts for Young People, a new artistic identity that builds on more than four decades of bringing exceptional performing arts to young audiences. Inspired by the curiosity, freedom, and unexpected spirit of a black bird, this new chapter reflects a belief at the heart of everything we do: young people deserve great art. Art that makes them laugh, sparks their imagination, asks questions, challenges perspectives, and opens doors to new ways of seeing the world. BlackBird Festival brings together professional artists from Canada and around the world, celebrating creativity, discovery, and the power of live performance. While our identity evolves, our commitment to presenting extraordinary artistic experiences for young audiences remains the same. Join us November 12–17, 2026, at the Canadian War Museum and discover the unexpected!
The Shows Are Revealed! Explore the 2026 Festival Lineup
Four distinctive productions invite young audiences and families to experience the performing arts through circus, physical theatre, puppetry, and imaginative storytelling. Discover this year's lineup!
Featured Performances Include:
Cause & Effect Circus, British Colombia | Ages 4+
Step into a solarpunk future with Luminarium, a visually spectacular circus theatre experience filled with juggling, physical comedy, and inventive stagecraft. When two workers arrive to restore a forgotten facility, their mission takes an unexpected turn into a world of play, discovery, and transformation. This wordless performance invites young audiences to explore the power of imagination, curiosity, and connection.
Le Cirque Content Pour Peu, France | Ages 4+
Get ready for a playful, wordless circus adventure with By Trial and Error! Through physical comedy, movement, and circus artistry, this imaginative performance invites audiences into a world of surprises, unexpected twists, and discovery. A fun-filled experience for young audiences and families alike.
The Kif-Kif Sisters, Quebec | Ages 4+
What happens when everyday objects become part of an extraordinary adventure? Find out in Returns Department by The Kif Kif Sisters! Blending physical theatre, puppetry, and playful comedy, this imaginative performance invites young audiences to discover the unexpected. Presented in English.
Gale Force Theatre, Nova Scotia | Ages 5+
Sometimes, the magic is in the waiting. While We Wait by Gale Force Theatre takes audiences into Leo’s magical garden shed for a heartfelt story about change, connection, and the beauty of watching things grow. Featuring puppetry and live music, this thoughtful theatrical experience is presented in English.
Plan Your Festival Visit
November 12–17, 2026 | Canadian War Museum, Ottawa
Explore the performances and find tickets at ottawachildrensfestival.ca.
The Black Bird Festival of the Arts for Young People is presented by the Ottawa Children’s Festival de la jeunesse.
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