Celebrate the season of love with these creative Valentine's Day events in Ottawa
4 Minute Read
Summary
- Valentine’s Day 2026 guide highlights curated, creative experiences for couples, singles and friends.
- Events run February 7–15, spanning workshops, food tours, concerts, mixers and dance classes.
- These 10 Ottawa events emphasize inclusive, hands-on activities, from cookie decorating to craft classes.
The best Valentine’s Day celebrations come from the heart. That might mean a dance class with your partner, an artsy brunch for you and your pals or a family-friendly cookie decorating workshop—but either way, love is in the air in Ottawa.
Whether you’re planning Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day or just want to treat yourself to something special, there are so many imaginative things to do in Ottawa this February 14.
Don't know where to start? Here are our top creative picks to celebrate the season of love.
Chocolate Lover’s Tour
https://www.instagram.com/p/DFnnJLHPPO7/
Where: 200 Dalhousie St., Ottawa, ON
When: Saturdays and Sundays in February 2026
The ByWard Market is a food lover’s dream, and if you have a sweet tooth, this walking tour is for you. Included is a pain au chocolat, a Mexican mole enchilada, chocolate cake, gelato and locally crafted chocolate, plus a knowledgeable local guide who will teach you everything you could ever want to know about the world’s favourite sweet treat.
Valentine’s Collage Card Workshop
Where: 5460 Canotek Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: February 7, 2026
If you appreciate the value of a handmade card or want to give something special to someone special, this workshop is for you. You'll create collage artwork with thrifty materials, curating a mini masterpiece ready just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Vegan Valentine’s Cookie Decorating Workshop
Where: Keepin’ it Vegan, 3 Chartwell Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: February 8, 2026
Want to learn the fundamentals of vegan cookie decorating? This beginner-friendly class is the perfect introduction to beautiful confectionery creations. You'll get half a dozen cookies to decorate with vegan royal icing, and all the tools you might need will be provided. At the end of the class, you get to take home your designs to snack on or share.
Valentine’s Linocut Workshop with Vanessa Delaveau
Where: Wallack’s Art Supplies and Framing, 305 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 8, 2026
Customize a piece of clothing at this linocut printing workshop, where you’ll learn to carve your own Valentine’s-themed block. The instructor will guide you through fundamental techniques for safely carving and hand-printing fabric to create a unique piece of wearable artwork. Bring a piece of clothing to the workshop and get ready to fall in love with a new skill!
Valentine’s Cookie Decorating Class
Where: Jonny Canuck’s Bar & Grill, 4768 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 11, 2026
At this intermediate class, each aspiring baker gets six Valentine ’s-themed cookies to decorate. A live instructor will walk you through the techniques, offering tips and tricks along the way so you can craft your delicious designs. This event is great for date night, an outing with friends or even some family fun.
Hearts on Fire: A Valentine Rock & Romance Experience
Where: The Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 14, 2026
Reckless Fire brings the music of Bryan Adams to the Rainbow Bistro for a night of nostalgia and heart. Whether you’re reminiscing on the day you met your sweetheart or dreaming of times gone by, this tribute band brings an unforgettable rock and roll experience for dreamers everywhere.
Tender Hearts—A Queer Valentine’s Mixer
Where: 18 Louisa St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 14, 2026
This mixer could be where you find your perfect match—whether that’s a new love interest or a good friend. The craft table is the perfect place to chat with new connections while flexing your creative muscles, and the dance floor is the perfect place to mingle and groove. With a relaxed atmosphere, this 2SLGBTQIA+ event is the ideal place to expand your social circle or meet someone special.
La Fiesta—Ottawa's Parliament Hill Latin Dance Event
Where: 240 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 14, 2026
There's nothing more romantic than taking a dance class together, which is why this Latin dance event is the perfect way to spend your Valentine’s. The first hour of the night is an intro to Salsa and Bachata, with the rest of the night reserved for social dancing. Bop ‘til you drop and enjoy a night of movement and music on Sparks Street!
Galentine's Day Brunch & Candle Painting
Where: 1000 Perrault Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: February 15, 2026
If your Valentine’s Day weekend is reserved for the girls, this candle painting and brunch is perfect for you. With three candles each to paint and a delicious brunch charcuterie board to snack on while you craft, this is the ideal event for you and your best pals.
Share the love with CAA
From shopping to dining, entertainment and more, your CAA card is your pocket-sized guide to fun in Ottawa. Get discounts on hundreds of Rewards Partners across the city to save on your Valentine’s plans—and your lifestyle year-round.
The best part? Memberships start at just $30 a year.
