Introducing the Black Bird Festival of the Arts for Young People

Presented by The Ottawa Children's Festival de la jeunesse

We have some exciting news to share!

This November, we're launching a special new chapter for the Ottawa Children's Festival de la Jeunesse: Black Bird Festival of the Arts for Young People, presented by the Ottawa Children's Festival.

From November 12-15, 2026, we'll transform the Canadian War Museum into a vibrant gathering place for children, families, and world-class artists from Canada and around the globe. This thoughtfully curated festival celebrates the creativity, curiosity, and connection that live performance inspires in young audiences.

The Black Bird Festival marks an important moment for our organization. While we prepare for the full return of the Ottawa Children's Festival in May 2027, this intimate fall festival allows us to continue bringing exceptional performing arts experiences to our community.

Featured Companies Include

Gale Force Theatre

Halifax, Nova Scotia | © Gale Force Theatre

Known for bold, visually striking productions, Gale Force Theatre brings contemporary storytelling rooted in Atlantic Canada, combining inventive staging with strong narrative and humour. 

Les Soeurs Kif-Kif

Montreal, Quebec | © Adrien Taret

A vibrant and engaging performance blending circus, theatre, and movement, Kif-Kif Sisters create playful, high-energy work that celebrates imagination, connection, and joy.

Cause and Effect Theatre

Vancouver, British Colombia | © Milissa Martin

This company delivers thoughtful, visually rich theatre that explores human connection and transformation through inventive staging and compelling storytelling.  

By Trial and Error

Saint-Thois, France | © Le Cirque Content Pour Peu

Rooted in a long-standing creative partnership, Le Cirque Content Pour Peu combines daring acrobatics, physical comedy, and playful storytelling to celebrate human connection and collaboration.

Click here to learn more.