Top things to do in Ottawa this April 2025
16 Minute Read
As the snow melts and both maple season and hockey season end, spring in Ottawa brings an abundance of new events. Enjoy a performance, whether that's ballet, live music, theatre production or a comedy show, catch a sports game from the final hockey games to the start of the soccer schedule, or discover new festivals and shows like a literary festival, spring markets, food celebrations and much more.
Hop into spring with various things to do this April in Ottawa.
Sugarbush On The Farm
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Where: The Log Farm, 670 Cedarview Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates March 1 to April 6, 2025
Don't miss out on maple season in Ottawa and experience the sweetest time of the year with a farm experience. Take advantage of wagon rides, nature trails, sap gathering (weather depending), taffy on snow, farm animals and hay play structures. You can also go on a guided tour of the pioneer farmhouse and see how maple syrup is made.
Fulton's Sugarbush Season
Where: 399 Sugar Bush Rd., Pakenham, ON
When: March 1 to April 20, 2025
Enjoy an early spring day with the family at Fulton's Sugarbush, experiencing outdoor activities and sweet treats. Explore the eight kilometres of forested trails, watch your little ones play on park structures, learn about maple syrup, and eat single-source syrup and other maple treats.
Stanley's Sugarbush
Where: 2452 York's Corners Rd., Edwards, ON
When: Select dates March 1 to April 20, 2025
If you haven't enjoyed a sweet maple season celebration, visit a 150-year-old sugar shack for food and activities. Savour some taffy on snow, enjoy a tree-lined tractor ride, visit fluffy farm animals and indulge in a pancake breakfast.
Maple Fest
Where: Proulx Farm, 1865 O'Toole Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: March 1 to April 21, 2025
As the days warm up and maple season ends, visit Proulx Farm's Maple Fest for sugarbush activities and treats. Take a wagon ride, or taste some sweet taffy maple butter, maple syrup pie, and maple cotton candy. Go for a weekend brunch to enjoy pancakes and sides.
Canadian Ringette Championships
When: March 30 to April 5, 2025
The best women's ringette athletes from across Canada will come to the capital city to compete in various divisions and games. Some differences exist while playing on a traditional ice rink, such as using a straight stick and rubber ring instead of a puck. The events begin with opening ceremonies and a skill competition, followed by round-robin games, elimination playoffs in three divisions, and the championship games and closing ceremonies.
Ottawa Senators
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 1, 3, 5, 6, 11, 13, 15 and 17, 2025
The month of April means Canada's hockey season is ending, so don't miss one of the season's last games to support the Sens. Rock that red, black and gold merch as you scream 'go Sens go' and indulge in some stadium eats. Enjoy live music between periods and audience contests throughout the game.
CAA Members save big on Ottawa Senators home games and get a 10% discount on official merchandise in addition to $15 off parking in Lot 4.
Now And Then
Where: Ottawa Little Theatre, 400 King Edward Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 2 to 19, 2025
This heartwarming romantic comedy-drama follows the character Jamie in 1981. As he closes his bar, a desperate stranger convinces him and his girlfriend Abby to stay and drink with him by offering each one thousand dollars. As they chat, the young couple starts to realize how deeply invested this older man is in their decisions, and then a second stranger shows up.
Jekyll & Hyde - Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 3 to 5, 2025
You'll be intrigued, disturbed, and unable to look away as this classic horror novella is portrayed through dance. Jekyll's split personality haunts him, but when he tries to separate his good side from his evil one in his lab, the monstrous Mr. Hyde is created. Will his evil twin win the upper hand in the struggle between good and evil?
Signatures Originals Spring Market
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 3 to 6, 2025
Browse this annual handmade market showcasing 150 Canadian makers, artisans and designers. Learn from and chat with creatives nationwide as you shop for various gifts, including jewelry, artwork, clothing, sweet treats, preserves, home decor, pottery, games and more.
Dueling Pianos
When: April 3, 8, 24 and 29, 2025
A constant in Ottawa's music scene, the trio of Dueling Pianos combine keys and guitar for performances filled with hits spanning decades. Showcasing an auditory blend of harmonies, solos, impromptu comedy and audience song requests, enjoy a musical night at one of their various venues.
Bingo! At Nan's
Where: Nan's Parlour, 73 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 3 and 17, 2025
You can grab a spot at Nan's Parlour in the Byward Market every other Thursday for a bingo game. Bingo cards are $5 to buy, with the fun beginning right at 8 p.m., so it's best to arrive by 7:30 p.m. to get a spot. Enjoy comfort food or a well-balanced drink as you play.
Niko Moon: These are the Nights
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 4, 2025
Country artist Niko Moon's first single, Good Time, hit number one on country radio. He's known for other songs like Paradise to Me. Special guest Kalsey Kulyk will join him on his These Are The Nights tour, performing songs from his latest EP of the same name, Money Can't Buy, and his popular hits.
Fifty-Five Plus Lifestyle Show
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 4 and 5, 2025
If you're 55 and older in Ottawa, connect with other locals and discover impressive exhibitions with engaging products and services. You will find something to match your needs and elevate your lifestyle. There will be contests with prizes, food samples, swag, and a lineup of entertainment, including music and comedy shows.
Doughnation Day
When: April 5, 2025
Treat yourself and give back to the community. April 5 is Doughnation Day, and when CAA Members buy a 6-pack of hot cross buns, CAA will donate $2 from every transaction to a local charity.
The hot cross buns come in many flavours like raspberry white chocolate, apple cinnamon and cranberry orange.
Atlético Ottawa
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 5, 19 and 29, 2025
The home opener game for Ottawa's Canadian Premier League soccer season is on April 5, 2025, at TD Place Arena. Spring is here, and soccer season is back, so enjoy the game's energy as the crowd roars. The team is wearing red and white gear to support the home team. You'll surely get a chuckle as you look for the mascot, Wally the T-Rex.
If you're a CAA Member, you'll save 20% off Atlético Ottawa home game tickets, plus 10% off merchandise.
Ukrainian Easter Egg Workshop
Where: Art Haven Kanata, 150 Katimavik Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: April 6, 2025
Create an ornate Easter keepsake and learn a traditional technique from pre-Christian times. The workshop will teach you to turn eggs into Pysankas, Ukrainian Easter eggs decorated with hot wax and colourful dyes. The eggs are fragile and require focus, but they will also be meditative as you enjoy a few creative hours.
Lansdowne Farmers' Market
Where: 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
When: April 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2025
Before the seasonal farmers' markets open in May, the winter market at Lansdowne's Aberdeen Pavilion is your spot to shop for fresh produce and handmade goodies in April. Stock your pantry and fridge, grab a hot treat and enjoy some musicians each Sunday.
MASC Young Authors & Illustrators Festival
Where: Canada Science and Technology Museum, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: April 8 and 9, 2025
This literary festival is for students in grades four to eight with a passion for writing and art; they can sign up for one or both days. A panel of authors and illustrators will lead masterclasses, workshops and readings.
Global Holistic Wealth Day Event
Where: The Westin Hotel, 11 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 9, 2025
World-class speakers, including Keisha Blair, Loren Ridinger, Aston Farquharson, and Domenic Cellucci, will bring their expertise and insights into holistic wealth, including financial freedom, wellness and legacy building. This event is for entrepreneurs and professionals ready for networking and growth, with meals included.
Steve-O: The Super Dummy! Eastern Canada Tour
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 10, 2025
Steve-O did whatever it took to become famous, which brought him to the slapstick comedy series Jackass, famous for compiling painful and embarrassing stunts. He's highlighting his bad decisions and some ridiculous stories of his latest and dumbest exploits for his Super Dummy tour.
VPop & Flock – Trunk Show and Market
Where: Next Door Market, 955A Gladstone Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 10 to 13, 2025
Discover new Canadian-designed and made clothing and accessories and unique vintage gems curated by locals. Flock Boutique combines a trunk sale event with VPop613 vendors known for their pre-loved, sustainable items.
We Walk The Line – Tribute to Johnny Cash
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: April 11, 2025
Fans of the Man in Black will love this heartfelt tribute featuring popular hits like Ring of Fire, Boy Named Sue, Walk the Line, Hurt and Folsom Prison Blues. The concert will cover Johnny Cash's entire career, celebrating his life, music, and his wife, June Carter Cash. The show incorporates historical accounts and personal stories about the county music legend.
Ottawa Black Bears
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 12, 2025
Your last chance to catch Ottawa's professional Lacrosse team, the Ottawa Black Bears, compete in their inaugural season is this April game at the Canadian Tire Centre. Discover a new sport and cheer on the home team sporting your best red, gold and black.
Ottawa Record Fair V
Where: 355 Cooper St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 12, 2025
Vinyl lovers and collectors prepare to dig through some crates for some rare record finds. Early bird admission is $10, allowing first dibs at 10 a.m., and $5 general admission opens at 11 a.m.
Raffi
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 12 and 13, 2025
Renowned children's performer Raffi has been the soundtrack to many childhoods, and you can watch him live with your little ones. It is ideal for parents and kids old enough to clap and engage with the music and sing along to songs like Baby Beluga, Bananaphone and Down by the Bay.
Ottawa (LEGO) Brick Expo
Where: Bell High School, 40 Cassidy Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: April 12 and 13, 2025
Enter the world of LEGO as you explore massive custom-made displays, including a train layout, use thousands of bricks to build your creations, race LEGO cars you build down a track and shop for used and new LEGO pieces from vendors.
The Travel and Vacation Show
Where: Shaw Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 12 and 13, 2025
The world is on display! Explore over 60 international destinations and more than 40 Canadian exhibits. Meet representatives from tour companies, tourist boards, resorts, cruise lines, and adventure vacation spots to help you plan unforgettable experiences. With over 200 exhibitors from around the globe, there's something for everyone.
Stop by the CAA kiosk to learn about upcoming group departures and Rocky Mountaineer, Member Choice Vacations, and Uniworld—for your next vacation. And don't forget to grab some free swag while you're there!
Bonus: Seniors get free admission on Saturday, so don't miss the chance to explore.
Lisa B. Band
Where: LIVE! On Elgin, 220 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 13, 2025
A powerhouse vocalist, Lisa Barleben, leads the Ottawa-based band, the Lisa B. Band. Experience a concert performance featuring original songs and select rock hits from artists like Tom Petty and the Rolling Stones. An intimate, sincere musical evening awaits.
Nelly With Ja Rule: Where The Party At Tour
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 14, 2025
Get ready for a night that will bring you back to the parties of the early 2000s and have you on your feet dancing. Chart-topper Nelly will be joined by special guests Ja Rule, Chingy, and others on his Where The Party At Tour.
Canadian Improv Games
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 16 to 19, 2025
An immersive educational experience, the four-day festival is filled with special workshops and learning opportunities from talented Canadian improvisers and instructors. Register your team and participate in evening shows, making up semi-finals and finals.
The Van Halen Invasion
Where: Overflow Brewing Co., 2477 Kaladar Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 18, 2025
Grab tickets to the ultimate tribute show to Van Halen, a night filled with high-energy entertainment and iconic rock hits. The band's voice, costume and attitude will transport you back to the 80s when you can relive the iconic band's sound and stage presence.
Anime Ottawa
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 18 to 20, 2025
Anime fans unite for a fan convention with special events and products to buy, including manga, video games, costuming, and Asian culture in general. Meet some of your favourite creators, whether for an autograph signing or a show performance. You're encouraged to come dressed up for the fun.
Easter At The Farm
Where: The Log Farm, 670 Cedarview Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: April 18 to 21, 2025
Hippity hop to the farm for Easter celebrations, and don't forget to make a reservation. Join an Easter egg hunt through the forest, take a magical wagon ride, visit the farm animals, including cute bunnies and watch your kids play on the gym structures. Bring your basket for your little ones to collect colourful eggs along the trail,
Valleyview Little Animal Farm
Where: 4750 Fallowfield Rd., Nepean, ON
When: April 18 to 21, 2025
If you're looking for a festive outing with the kids, this nearby animal farm has many activities like a train ride, colourful play structures and an animal barn. Opening for the season on Easter weekend, you can make a reservation for their annual Easter egg hunt at 9:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. Children collect fun eggs, and once the hunt is over, they return to the collecting station to exchange for an Easter treat.
Metcalfe Farmers' Easter Market
Where: Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Dr., Greely, ON
When: April 19, 2025
Market season is upon us, and one of the first places you can shop for fresh produce, home decor, clothing, preserves, baked goods, and more is the Metcalfe Farmers' Market. Browse more than 50 producers.
Harlem Globetrotters
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 19, 2025
The famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their world tour to Ottawa, so you can witness the World-record-breaking trick shot stars of basketball as they perform their signature spins, dunks, and slams on the court. Watch them take on their rivals, the Washington Generals.
Bytown Antique & Vintage Show
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 19, 2025
Hunt for timeless treasures at the 50th anniversary antique and vintage show. Discover antiques, collectibles, vintage pieces, art, jewelry, and more.
Ottawa Grassroots Festival
Where: 30 Cleary Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 24 to 27, 2025
This annual music festival is a community-based event. All daytime shows and workshops are free. Some evening headliners include The Barrow Gang Buskers, Lynn Miles, and the Devin Cuddy Band.
Transistor Festival
Where: 120 Principale St., Gatineau, QC
When: April 24 to 27, 2025
This annual event invites Guests to celebrate podcasts, artists, producers, and sound creation. Works of fiction, comedy, documentary, and theatre will be showcased during meetings, listening sessions and performances.
Irish Film Festival
Where: Arts Court Theatre, 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 25 to 27, 2025
The festival also presents Irish dance, music, and other arts by featuring recent films by Irish filmmakers of various genres. Irish heritage, language, humour and history are promoted and celebrated.
Orléans PoutineFest
Where: Centrum Plaza, 255 Centrum Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: April 25 to 27, 2025
A delicious weekend awaits where you can taste a world of poutine featuring more than 75 different kinds of cheesy, gravy-covered dishes. This year, the event will also have a new dessert feature to complement the variety of poutine.
Ottawa Charge
Where: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 26 and 30, 2025
As the PWHL season ends, support women's hockey and see how they change the game. Enjoy the energy on the rink and off the ice throughout the stadium and Lansdowne area.
Orchidophilia - Ottawa Orchid Show
Where: Algonquin College, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 26 and 27, 2025
Whether you are an orchid fanatic or a general lover of florals, you'll be impressed by the variety of beautiful orchids, admiring hundreds of them blooming together. Shop flower vendors (you can also preorder), join workshops on orchid care and discover unique displays.
Festival Of The Maples
Where: Perth, ON
When: April 27, 2025
Downtown Perth will be lively with sweet entertainment and activities for the annual festival. Sample from maple syrup producers, eat some taffy on snow, browse local vendors, try out a bungee run and rock-climbing wall, bring the kids to the petting zoo and bouncy castles, watch the 'sap tapping' and 'cross-cut saw' competitions and more.
Stars On Ice
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 27, 2025
With an electrifying new theme, Stars on Ice will fill the stadium with commanding energy during the Rock Stars on Ice performance. The power of rock n' roll will be combined with dazzling world-class figure skating featuring songs by legendary rock artists and moves from some of the most popular names in figure skating today.
Black Business Expo
Where: Rogers Centre Ottawa, 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: April 27, 2025
The Black Business Expo creates a space for Black-owned businesses to promote their products and services. Discover local businesses, network, shop and enjoy some entertainment.
Josh Johnson
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 27, 2025
With experience working on The Daily Show and The Tonight Show, which stars Jimmy Fallon, Josh Johnson's comedic set will surely bring laughter.
Ottawa Rapid FC
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 27, 2025
Spring is the start of soccer season, and you can catch the first Ottawa Rapid FC game in their inaugural season in Ottawa this month. As part of the Northern Super League, this home team competes at the highest level of Canadian women's soccer. Prepare for action-packed matches centred around the energy of Lansdowne.
Mountains On Stage
Where: Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: April 28, 2025
Adventurers and thrill seekers buckle up for a film festival that brings the mountains into cities. The selection will showcase team building and stunning locations in the world's best films related to mountain sports.
Menopause The Musical
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 29, 2025
Millions of women have been laughing at and applauding this smash hit for years. It is about four women who, on the surface, have nothing in common and realize they have much more to share than they thought.
Dragons And Mythical Beasts Live
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: April 30, 2025
A fantastical show for the whole family, suitable for ages three and older, you will enter a mythical world of monsters and beasts. From the stone troll and tooth fairy to a magical unicorn and Griffin, you can take your place among the heroes, trying not to wake the dragon. The creators bring to you a magnificent show filled with fairytale creators in the form of puppets.
