Top things to do in Ottawa this August 2025
11 Minute Read
Before summer winds down, you’ll want to make the most of your golden August days. Luckily, if you’re looking for things to do, there are plenty of fun events and activities.
You won't miss out on markets, fairs and cultural festivals. Spend some time relaxing, going on adventures and discovering new favourite spots in Ottawa with these things to do across the city.
Oniro
Where: Parc Omega, 399 Rte. 323 N., Montebello, QC
When: Thursdays to Sundays until September 1
This immersive nighttime experience tells the story of Oniro, a wolf cub separated from his mother. Combining light, poetry and adventure, this walking trail will bring you into the world of animals and their dreamscapes.
Yoga At The Gallery
Where: Tavern at the Gallery, 380 Sussex Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: Saturdays until September 6
Stretch your muscles in the morning light and feel relaxation take hold on the National Gallery’s beautiful outdoor patio. You’ll listen to the sounds of nature as you engage both body and mind—the perfect start to your weekend.
NCC Weekend Bikedays
Where: Kichi Zībī Mīkan, Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, Ottawa, ON
When: Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays until October 13
This program gives cyclists access to safe, fun bike routes, so you can enjoy a scenic ride down some of Ottawa’s parkways without worrying about cars or other large vehicles. If you don’t cycle, you can walk, use a wheelchair, in-line skate or push a stroller—so don’t miss out this summer!
Did you know CAA offers Bike Assist? All CAA Memberships come with this feature, which includes towing, so you’ll never be stranded by a flat tire or broken chain.
Black History In Ottawa Streets
Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave. W., Ottawa, ON
When: Wednesdays and Saturdays until October 18
As part of the City of Ottawa’s Unearthing Our Roots on Ottawa Routes initiative, this bus tour will take you through landmarks in Ottawa where Black Canadians have made history. Learn about the impacts they’ve had during this informative experience.
Indigenous History Walking Tours
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Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave. W., Ottawa, ON
When: Saturdays until October 18
Hosted by educator Jaime Morse and the City of Ottawa, this tour will teach you to see Ottawa landmarks, monuments and landscapes from an Indigenous perspective. Walking through the city's streets, you will learn how First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples have historically shaped this land and continue to do so today.
Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy
Where: 100 Rue Laurier, Gatineau, QC
When: July 30 to August 16
Watch stunning fireworks displays from Japan, Australia, Mexico and Canada this August at the Casino Lac-Leamy. Grab tickets to guarantee the best views or find a spot along the Ottawa River to see the spectacle over the water. You’ll also want to check out the delicious food trucks on the festival grounds.
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Glengarry Highland Games
Where: 34 Fair St., Maxville, ON
When: August 1–2
Whether you have Scottish roots or want to experience this unique event, the Glengarry Highland Games return for another year of dance, sports, music and tradition. Founded in 1948, this is one of the world’s biggest highland games. Head to the Maxville Fairgrounds to catch displays like elegant highland dancing and strength competitions like sheaf and caber tosses.
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Capital Pop-Up Cinema
Where: Various locations around Ottawa, ON
When: August 1, 8, 9, 15, 16
Experience the magic of cinema under the stars at the Capital Pop-Up Cinema. This event series features classics and family favourites like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Annie. Bring your own snacks and grab a camp chair or picnic blanket for a fun, affordable night out.
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Doors Open At Rideau Hall
Where: 1 Sussex Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: August 2–4, August 30–September 1
Have you ever wanted to explore the off-limits rooms in a historic building? On select weekends this summer, Rideau Hall allows visitors to browse the State rooms, greenhouses and gardens, which are typically closed to the public.
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613flea
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
When: August 2 and 16
If you love a good vintage find, you’ll want to visit the 613flea this summer. Over 150 vendors bring the best of pre-loved, handmade and retro to a bustling marketplace that’s a favourite among Ottawa residents.
Live From The Booth
Where: Sparks St., Ottawa, ON
When: August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Ottawa’s DJs assemble this summer to bring live, energetic electronic music to the pedestrian mall on Sparks Street. Dance to the beat or enjoy the tunes from a patio as you experience the best of Ottawa’s EDM scene.
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Salsa Sundays
Where: 55 ByWard Market Square, Ottawa, ON
When: August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Experience the vibrancy of Ottawa’s Latin dance scene with these free dance lessons in the heart of the ByWard Market. No experience or no dance partner? No problem! Bring your love of movement and get ready to enjoy the good vibes all summer.
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Hamilton
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: August 5–17
Broadway’s celebration of American history and hip hop is back in Ottawa to stun audiences with its energetic dance numbers, blend of music styles and fresh spin on the story of the founding fathers. You’ll want to be in “The Room Where It Happens” when this showstopping production hits the NAC stage in August.
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Navan Fair
Where: 1279 Colonial Rd., Navan, ON
When: August 7–10
Get a taste of good old-fashioned country fun at the Navan Fair. See the 30th anniversary of Navan’s Guinness World Record-Holding 50 horse hitch, cheer on the sidelines of the demolition derby, visit the agricultural exhibitions and ride the midway attractions all weekend.
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The Great India Festival
Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave. W., Ottawa, ON
When: August 7–10
The Great India Festival’s flagship event, Maha Bharatotsav, celebrates Indian heritage and culture in the Capital region. Learn all about Ottawa’s Indian community and experience the best of music, dance, food, wellness and more.
Hintonburg Night Market
Where: 1211 Wellington St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: August 7 & 14
Visit the vendors and have some tasty eats at this weekly market. While shopping in one of Ottawa’s coolest neighbourhoods, you won’t be able to resist taking home something handmade, pre-loved or local.
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Ottawa International Busker Fest
Where: Sparks St., Ottawa, ON
When: August 8–10
Circus, music and magic—what could be better? Ottawa’s Busker Fest brings artists worldwide to Sparks Street to perform death-defying acts in front of your very eyes. This year’s lineup features fire-eating, juggling, acrobatics and clownery galore to bring a little wonder to the city this August. The event is free to attend, though the performers always appreciate donations.
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All Things Bookish Market
Where: 55 ByWard Market Square, Ottawa, ON
When: August 9
Calling all bookworms! Meet your favourite local authors, shop Ottawa’s indie bookstores, browse bookish accessories and go on a blind date with a book at this literary extravaganza. Whether you’re looking to add to your home library or find your next great read, this market is the perfect place to connect with other book lovers on and off the page.
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Water Lantern Festival
Where: Dow’s Lake Pavilion, 1001 Queen Elizabeth Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: August 9
This beautiful community celebration will allow you to decorate a paper lantern and illuminate the Ottawa River with a message of hope, an affirmation of joy or an expression of love. You’ll also listen to live music, enjoy delicious food truck fare and spend an evening under the stars.
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Comic And Geek Night Market
Where: Art Hub, 1088 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: August 9
The Hintonburg Night Market transforms into a hub for Ottawa’s comic lovers on August 9. With vendors peddling everything from kitschy art to video game memorabilia, this market is for fans who just can’t wait until their next comic convention.
Rhythm Culture Festival
Where: Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Pl., Ottawa, ON
When: August 9-10
Music brings people together—and that’s precisely the goal of this Caribbean music festival. Connect with your community and appreciate the sounds of summer as you dance along, savour delicious Caribbean food and jam to music by local and international artists.
Ottawa GreekFest
Where: 1315 Prince of Wales Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: August 14–17, August 22–24
“Live a Day the Greek Way” at Ottawa GreekFest’s 50th anniversary celebration. Taste great Greek eats, listen to live music and watch a traditional Zorba fire show alongside the rest of Ottawa’s vibrant Greek community.
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Masters Indigenous Games
Where: Various locations in Ottawa, ON
When: August 14–17
This sporting event allows Indigenous adults to participate in traditional and contemporary sports alongside their peers. With various tournaments across the city, MIG also hosts a Cultural Village where spectators can learn about the history of Indigenous sports, participate in demonstrations, shop the Vendor Village and watch performances from Indigenous artists worldwide.
Woodworking and Hand Tools Event
Where: Lee Valley Tools, 900 Morrison Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: August 15-16
Want to learn more about woodworking? Whether you’re an expert or new to the craft, this event will teach you something. Shop handmade goods and discounted woodworking tools, watch demonstrations from local groups like the Ottawa Tool Library and get advice on your own projects from Lee Valley’s experts.
The Capital Fair
Where: 3981 Navan Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: August 15–24
Nothing says summer like a day at the fair! Head midway for an electrifying ride or try your luck at a carnival game. An armwrestling championship, clownery and even a demolition derby await—the perfect way to spend an August day.
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Ottawa Flower Market
Where: Parkdale Market, 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: August 16
Ottawa’s foremost flower vendors are bringing their blooms to the Parkdale Market on August 16. Browse fragrant bouquets curated by expert florists or build your arrangement of local flowers to spruce up your home.
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Faerie Picnics
Where: Strathcona Park, 25 Range Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: August 19
Enter an enchanting faerie world with local circus collective Cirquonscient. The performers will become magical creatures as they twist, twirl and fly through the air in a stunning display of skill. You’ll want to dress up, grab a picnic blanket and join the fun at this family-friendly event.
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Rainbow Storytime
Where: Various Ottawa Public Library branches in Ottawa, ON
When: August 19-20
If you and your kids want to celebrate Pride in Ottawa, this age-appropriate event is the perfect way to highlight different kinds of families, relationships, and identities. At this joyful story time for the whole family, explore the beauty of the LGBTQ+ community and learn about the importance of accepting who we are.
Nostalgia Music Festival
Where: LeBreton Flats, Ottawa, ON
When: August 20–24
Featuring professional tribute bands, this event is perfect for lovers of ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s music of all kinds. Enjoy hits from Pearl Jam, the Beatles, and the Tragically Hip. Whether you grew up in that era or wish you had, the Nostalgia Music Festival is for anyone who wants to imagine themselves in a cooler time.
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Five Alarm
Where: Ottawa Little Theatre, 400 King Edward Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: August 20 to September 6
The Ottawa Little Theatre takes audiences to Killaloe, Ontario, where a cutthroat culinary competition occurs. Follow as a 17-time cookout loser tries to (finally) win the title and make her dad proud. You'll leave the theatre with stitches in your sides and a hankering for a good bowl of chilli.
NFB Film Screening: Parade: Queer Acts of Love & Resistance
Where: Ottawa Public Library Main Branch, 120 Metcalfe St., Ottawa, ON
When: August 23
This documentary retells Canada’s LGBTQ+ history through rare archival footage and conversations with activists. Watch the film for free in the Main branch’s auditorium and learn more about the struggles that have gotten the queer community where it is today and the ongoing fight for equality.
Bark In The Park
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: August 23
If your dog loves to play fetch, they’ll love this baseball event catered to pooches and their parents. At this annual dog-friendly Titans game, pups from across the city will take over the stadium to watch the Ottawa Titans play the Brockton Rox.
CAA Members save up to 30 per cent on Titans tickets. Remember to flash your card at the CAA Kiosk for a free bag of popcorn at the game!
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North Lanark Highland Games
Where: North Lanark Fairgrounds, 267 Edmund St., Almonte, ON
When: August 23
Don your kilt and put on your plaid for the North Lanark Highland Games. You can attend—or compete in—dance, strength, and music competitions for children and adults. This event also has activities for kids, including face painting and a dress-up tent.
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Festival de Montgolfières de Gatineau
Where: 988 Bd. de la Carrière, Gatineau, QC
When: August 28–September 1
Have you ever wanted to ride in a hot air balloon? Now you can attend this festival that is dedicated to them. If you’re afraid of heights, don’t worry. There's still plenty to do, including watching performances by artists like Flo Rida and Alessia Cara, dancing at the silent disco, trying out graffiti art and much more!
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Explore Ottawa with CAA
Before you set out on your August adventures, grab your CAA Membership. With discounts on hundreds of rewards partners, including restaurants, retailers and attractions, you can save big for as little as $30 a year.
