Top things to do in Ottawa this March 2026
11 Minute Read
Summary
- Ottawa is home to dozens of events in March 2026, including concerts, theatre premieres, sports and festivals.
- Maple season is the highlight, featuring multiple sugarbush experiences open through late March–April.
- Arts and culture celebrations like Holi, Eid markets and film festivals spotlight Ottawa’s diverse spring offerings.
Ottawa is beginning to shake off winter’s grip. Spring is nearly here, and with it comes a season of renewal, outdoor fun and brand-new activities to keep us busy all month long.
From sugar bush excursions to religious festivals and bands in town, there’s always something new to experience as the weather warms and the days get longer in the National Capital Region.
Ready to experience these lively activities for yourself? Check out our list of top things to do in Ottawa this March 2026.
Animal Tracking on Snowshoes
Where: Gatineau Park Visitor Centre, 33 Scott Rd., Chelsea, QC
When: Select dates March 1 to 20, 2026. Please see the event site for details.
Who made these prints in the snow? On this guided trail, you can find out how to identify the looping tracks of all your favourite furry and feathered friends. Strap up your snowshoes and explore the winter habitats of local creatures like rabbits, birds and even deer, and learn how these animals survive the winter.
Sugarbush on the Farm
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Where: 670 Cedarview Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: Until March 29, 2026 (select dates)
At the Log Farm, the sugar bush is the sweetest time of year. With maple taffy galore and a close look at how Canada’s favourite sweet treat is made, a trip to the farm is fun for the whole family. Kids can even grab their own pail and collect sap from the trees themselves for a hands-on experience.
Stanley’s Sugarbush
Where: 2452 York's Corners Rd., Edwards, ON
When: Until April 12, 2026
When maple season rolls around, Stanley’s Sugarbush is the place to be. Families can learn about the maple syrup process at the heritage sugar shack, take a relaxing tractor ride through the forest and step into the museum to explore artifacts from the farm. You can even head to the Pancake House for a pay-by-weight breakfast.
Fulton’s Sugar Bush
Where: 399 Sugar Bush Rd., Pakenham, ON
When: Until April 19, 2026
Fulton’s Sugar Bush may be open year-round, but maple season is the time to go. With six generations of expert maple heritage, Fulton’s has perfected the art of the sugar bush. Visitors can sample the different grades of maple syrup, hitch a ride on a horse-drawn sleigh, snowshoe on the trails and unwind by the campfire for a day of delectable fun.
Holi—The Festival of Spring
Where: 102 Greenview Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 1, 2026
The Hindu festival of spring is nearly upon us in all its vibrant hues. Throw colour, groove to Bollywood beats and enjoy delicious food in a joyful environment. During this holiday celebrating love and renewal, make bright memories with your friends and family.
Ottawa Charge
Where: The Arena at TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: March 4, 2026
Experience high-voltage hockey at TD Place as the Ottawa Charge clash with the Seattle Torrent. Join in with the PWHL’s best fans in the stands and get a glimpse of Charge traditions like the iconic kazoos and the Thunder Clap at home game wins.
CAA Members save up to 25 per cent on select Ottawa Charge home games.
Sloan
Where: The Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 5, 2026
Toronto-based band Sloan is coming to Ottawa to play hits from their new record, Based on the Best Seller. The band has been nominated for many Juno Awards, winning one in 1997 for the album One Chord to Another. Head to the Bronson to hear them play for yourself for a night of rock ‘n’ roll.
+LIVE+ Like A Rollin’ Thunder Tour
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: March 6, 2026
Live’s stadium tour is stopping at the Canadian Tire Centre to bring you hits from the nineties and the noughties like “Lightning Crashes,” “I Alone,” “All Over You” and “Lakini’s Juice.” Special guests Big Wreck and Econoline Crush are joining them for a powerful concert of iconic music this March.
Jesus Christ Superstar
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: March 6 to 15, 2026
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece rock opera is coming to Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, courtesy of Orpheus Musical Theatre. The musical follows the last days of Jesus’ life as he struggles with the burdens of fear and leadership, focusing on the relationships between Jesus, Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene.
Chamberfest Concert Series
Where: Carleton Dominion Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper St., Ottawa, ON
When: March 6 and 25, 2026
This concert series is back in March with two classical music events. On March 6, beloved pianist Angela Hewitt is performing the second chapter of her ambitious project, performing all of Mozart’s concertos in venues around the world. On March 25, Hamelin & Hamelin take the stage for an evening of Mozart madness at the CDCC.
Journey: Final Frontier Tour
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: March 7, 2026
Say goodbye to Journey on their farewell tour as they hit the road one last time. World-famous for songs like “Any Way You Want It,” “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Wheel in the Sky,” the band has 25 gold and platinum albums from their nearly 50-year career. Don’t miss your chance to see one of the world’s best-selling bands of all time before their final chapter comes to an end.
2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Where: Please see the event site for the parade route
When: March 7, 2026
Are you feeling lucky? Get ready for Ottawa’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade since 2019, returning to the streets with music, green and Irish cheer as floats march from the Supreme Court to the ByWard Market. If you’re looking to start the celebrations early, dress in green and join Run Ottawa in the Emerald Mile, a festive run through the capital.
Seedy Saturday
Where: 691 Smyth Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: March 7, 2026
Spring has sprung in Alta Vista, and if you want to have a magical garden this year, it’s time to start planting your seeds. Whether you’re an experienced green thumb or a complete beginner, this event has something for everyone. Meet local seed vendors, head to the free seed swap table, attend workshops and check out goods by local artisans to get your empty beds plant-ready.
Thievery Corporation
Where: The Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 7, 2026
If you love electronic music, dub duo Thievery Corporation is bringing the party to the Bronson Centre this March. With musical influences ranging from reggae to hip hop to bossa nova, their unique style will have you grooving and moving to the beat all night long.
Rise Against
Where: Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy, 1 Casino Blvd., Gatineau, QC
When: March 8, 2026
Get loud. Get angry. Rise Against. This hardcore punk band is bringing their rapid tempos and social commentary to the Casino du Lac-Leamy as they tour their 10th album, Ricochet. Tune in to their counterculture messaging and progressive lyrics as they play alongside guests Destroy Boys and Koyo.
Vanier Sugar Festival
Where: Vanier Museopark, 300 des Pères-Blancs Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 9, 28 and 29, 2026
For 41 years, this event has brought the community together to celebrate Canada’s maple heritage at the only urban sugar shack in the country. Head out to Vanier Museopark for live music, lumberjack skills competitions, community art projects and much more! You can also attend Soup Splash, a culinary competition where local cooks go head-to-head to create the best maple-based soup.
International Film Festival of Ottawa (IFFO)
Where: Various locations, please see the event site for details
When: March 11 to 22, 2026
In its sixth season, the IFFO is showcasing dozens of Canadian and international feature films, many of which are accompanied by a Canadian short film. The lineup swings wildly between period pieces, love stories and coming-of-age narratives, so there is truly a film for everyone at this festival.
Ottawa Senators
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: Various dates, please see event dates for details
The Sens are ready to rumble at six home games in March. Don your jersey and hit the stands to cheer for your favourite players as they battle teams like the Montreal Canadiens on March 11 and the Pittsburgh Penguins on March 26.
Plus, CAA Members save big on tickets this season.
Ottawa Multicultural Eid Bazaar
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 14, 2026
This one-stop shopping event for all things Eid will help you prepare for family gatherings, find the perfect gifts and dress to impress. Visitors can also get their faces painted and check out the shoe showcase. For one-of-a-kind goods in a welcoming, multicultural environment, this market invites all Canadians to participate in the festivities.
Lights: Come Get Your Girl Tour
Where: The Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 18, 2026
Lights is a Canadian singer-songwriter with over two decades of experience in the electropop and contemporary synth-pop scene. After winning three Junos and multiple Canadian Independent Music Awards, she’s stopping in Ottawa to perform her album A6 Extended.
Ottawa Home & Garden Show
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: March 19 to 22, 2026
As spring approaches, you might be looking to spruce up your home. Whether you want to repair that leaky faucet or overhaul your wilted garden, this is your one-stop shop for new products, inspiration and face-to-face advice from real people. Exhibitors will showcase everything from flooring to fashion to financing to help your home updates go off without a hitch.
Dylan Scott: Till I Can’t I Will Tour
Where: Hard Rock Casino Ottawa, 4837 Albion Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: March 21, 2026
Louisiana-born, Nashville-bred country star Dylan Scott is making the trek up to Ottawa to perform his rumbling hits live. With twanging tunes like “Makin’ This Boy Go Crazy” and “New Truck,” he’s a vocalist with soul. On the Ottawa leg of his tour, he’s accompanied by duo 12/OC.
Ottawa Storytellers Signature Series
Where: Arts Court Studio, 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 22, 2026
The Ottawa Storytellers’ annual long show event will take you on a dark and twisting journey through the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. Their most enduring yarns will come alive through the words of four captivating tellers, reflecting their relevance for listeners today.
The Watsons
Where: Kanata Theatre, 1 Ron Maslin Way, Ottawa, ON
When: March 22 to April 4, 2026
What happens to a Jane Austen heroine whose ending was left unwritten? This metatheatrical adaptation of Austen’s unfinished work questions: what is the author's role? And what happens when her characters rebel? A philosophical comedy wrapped up in a Regency romance, this play will make you laugh, swoon and think.
& Juliet
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: March 24 to 29, 2026
What if Juliet got a second chance at life after Romeo? In this audience favourite jukebox musical, Shakespeare’s most famous leading lady finds life and love—and a moment in the spotlight all on her own. You can bop along in your seat to iconic pop hits like “Since U Been Gone,” “Roar” and “I Want It That Way” at a show that sparkles with non-stop fun.
Rose
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: March 25 to April 4, 2026
The world premiere of Tomson Highway’s Rose comes to the NAC this March, concluding his “rez” cycle that began with The Rez Sisters. Motorcycle gang leader Emily Dictionary is caught in a web of ghosts and grief. But when the Sudbury Mafia sets eyes on her resolve to build a casino, Emily must fight for the very soul of her home.
July Talk: Touch X Tour
Where: The Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 26, 2026
On the 10th anniversary of their sophomore album, Touch, Toronto-based band July Talk is bringing their music back to Canada’s music venues in March. With three Junos under their belts, their fresh blues-rock sound and explosive stage presence will immerse you in a world of chaotic emotion.
Brother Yes! Eid Standup Comedy Show
Where: The Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: March 27, 2026
Celebrate the end of Ramadan with this side-splitting comedy show from Canadian funny people Alex Wood and Abdullah Usman. Between the two of them, these high-energy comedic veterans boast credits like NBC, Just for Laughs, CBC, and This Hour Has 22 Minutes, and they’ve toured venues across the nation.
Save this spring with CAA
No matter where you go this spring, your CAA Membership can go with you. For deals on shopping, dining, sports, entertainment and more, flash your card at businesses around the city.
Visit CAA Rewards to learn more about how you can save with your Membership, starting at just $30 a year.
