Ottawa Bluesfest confirms its full July 19th lineup, including free daytime programming and more in celebration of Ottawa 200

Ottawa Bluesfest—in partnership with the City of Ottawa and Ottawa Tourism—will celebrate Ottawa 200 on Sunday, July 19 with a special event to recognize the 200^th birthday of Canada’s capital. It all begins with an afternoon of FREE programming for the whole family from noon to 4 p.m. in the lead-up to an evening of blockbuster performances.

The free Daytime Lineup will feature outstanding musical entertainment by Natalie MacMaster & Family, Choir!Choir!Choir! and Les Petites Tounes, along with Blues In The Schools and Be In The Band Showcases, which are perennial favourites of Bluesfest staff and music fans alike. 

In addition to the music programming above, the July 19^th Daytime Lineup will feature special family-friendly activities onsite, including museum fun hosted by Ingenium (Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Science and Technology Museum, and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum); circus demonstrations and aerial performances by Cirquonscient; and activities and giveaways by Ottawa Fire Services.

From 5 to 11 p.m., ticket holders can buckle up for some serious Canadian star power courtesy of The Guess Who, Connor Price, The Sheepdogs, Elisapie, Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar, 4KORNERS, Banggz, LeFLOFRANCO, Mely Walide, Paolo Stante Band, Rebelle, Savannah Shea, and TYR ONE. All this in addition to a spectacular Drone Show to punctuate an extraordinary evening to remember with family and friends.  

Tickets for the Evening Lineup are already on sale at a discounted price of $40. This price will remain in effect until June, and to further reduce financial barriers to attending the show, the City of Ottawa will distribute up to 2,000 FREE tickets through its Community Safety and Well-Being Office and community partners.

"The Ottawa Bluesfest team is looking forward to being a part of Ottawa 200,” says Ottawa Bluesfest executive and artistic director Mark Monahan. “This is a tremendous opportunity to add to the rich cultural history of our city through music, and we look forward to contributing even more by creating great memories this year and for many years to come."  

“Culture in Ottawa is meant to be experienced together,” adds Michael Crockatt, President and CEO of Ottawa Tourism. “Bluesfest on July 19 is an open invitation to the world to join Ottawans and experience the creativity, community and energy that define our city. As one of our flagship festivals, it’s a moment where residents and visitors alike can come together and discover what makes Ottawa so special as a vibrant and welcoming destination."

“As we mark Ottawa’s 200th birthday, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a special day at Bluesfest,” said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. “July 19 is the 200th day of the year, and Ottawa residents will be treated to free daytime programming that’s ideal for families, followed by a special concert at night, featuring incredible Canadian talent. I can’t wait to see everyone there, as we soak up the music and energy and celebrate our great city. Let’s make July 19 a day to remember!”

A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to CHEO and to the A la Carte Food Program.

For more information about how to celebrate the 200^th anniversary of Bytown, visit: ottawa200.ca.

For more information about the Ottawa Bluesfest, please visit: https://ottawabluesfest.ca/.