Top things to do in Ottawa this October 2026
17 Minute Read
Summary
- Ottawa in October features Halloween haunts, fall festivals, concerts, markets and outdoor activities.
- Events range from family-friendly pumpkin fests and cultural celebrations to major sports and comedy shows.
- Event highlights include FrightFest, Pumpkinferno, Cirque du Soleil: LUZIA, Kyla Cobbler: Gone Rogue, Ottawa Senators games and One World Bazaar market.
Pumpkins on porches, crisp leaves and hockey signal October in Ottawa. The city’s fall calendar is packed with family events, festivals and live entertainment.
This October, Ottawa offers something for everyone, from pumpkin festivals and colourful parades to world-class concerts, with plenty of ways to make the most of fall. Whether you’re out with family, planning a cozy date, or simply seeking safe seasonal fun, October in Ottawa promises a warm welcome and memories for all ages.
Halloween attractions
Ottawa features a range of Halloween attractions this October, from haunted walks and light mazes to immersive seasonal shows. Many offer family-friendly options.
The Haunted Walk
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Where: Starting at 46 1/2 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON
When: September through November 2026
Uncover some of Ottawa’s dark history on a spooky walking tour. The Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa takes you to some of the city’s most haunted places, sharing ghost stories tied to various landmarks and buildings. You can take the original walk year-round, but this month brings extra dates, seasonal spooky tours, and an eerie chill in the air.
Acres of Terror
Where: Cannamore Orchard, 1480 County Rd. 32, Crysler, ON
When: September 25 to October 31, 2026 (select dates)
Pick your own pumpkins before Cannamore Orchard transforms with four themed attractions. The popular wagon ride, House of Terror, Spooky Village and Fog Maze are designed with a mix of fun and gentle scares.
FrightFest
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates, September 26 to November 1, 2026
Saunders Farm’s FrightFest features nine themed attractions suitable for a range of ages. Circus Macabre and The Cemetery Scare Zone vary in intensity, with some experiences created for families and younger visitors. Costumed characters roam the grounds, and each attraction has detailed age recommendations.
Stittsville Haunted Heritage Tour
Where: Starting at 1549 Main St. S., Ottawa, ON
When: September 26 to November 7, 2026 (select dates)
Walk through the town of Stittsville as you’ve never seen before. A veil of darkness covers the neighbourhood streets as a guide leads you through locations of spooky legends and strange happenings.
SKreamers
Where: Proulx Farm, 1865 Chem. O'Toole, Cumberland, ON
When: Select dates, September 26 to October 31, 2026
Proulx Farm offers pumpkin picking by day, before transforming in the evening into a Halloween attraction with costumed volunteers and themed experiences. The wagon ride passes through a decorated forest and stops at the Side Laboratory and Front Barn, each set up as a haunted house with varying levels of fright. Age recommendations help families select suitable experiences.
Pumpkin Fest
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates, September 26 to November 1, 2026
Saunders Farm turns into a giant Halloween playground, magical for little ones and young at heart. Outdoor mazes to get lost in, charming hayrides to enjoy, unique playgrounds and ziplines for kids to catch thrills, jumbo jumpers for bouncing, haunted attractions for light scares, and strolling characters presenting shows. Grab a snack in the Ciderhouse and bring home a pumpkin.
Behind The Screams: Midway Massacre
Where: 2935 Conroy Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: October 2 to November 1, 2026
Behind the Screams: Midway Massacre is an immersive, carnival-themed event with detailed sets and costumes inside a working film studio. Visitors can select full-intensity hours or opt for “chicken” hours, which offer a lighter, family-friendly experience. Games, prizes and food are available for all guests.
Capital Pop-Up Cinema
Where: Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave., Vanier, ON
When: October 3, 2026
This month is your final chance to get cozy and watch a movie screening outdoors in Ottawa. In honour of spooky season, bring blankets or chairs to watch the film The Mummy’s Tomb surrounded by tombstones.
Pumpkinferno
Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd. 2, Morrisburg, ON
When: Select dates from October 2 to 31, 2026
Stroll under a starlit sky enjoying a magical trail past thousands of glowing, hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns. New pumpkins, themes, and exhibits arrive each year, so Pumpkinferno feels fresh even for returning visitors. Families can hop aboard the life-sized miniature train for a 15- to 20-minute ride, play in the interactive zone, catch a sound-and-light show and enjoy a variety of food options.
Ottawa Valley Haunted Tour
Where: Multiple pickup options in Ottawa and Gatineau
When: Select dates from October 2 to November 2, 2026
The Ottawa Valley Haunted Tour brings visitors to four historic Quebec villages, where a local storyteller shares site-specific ghost stories and legends. The evening includes bus transportation, snacks, apple pie, and cider.
Bonfire: Improvised Tales of Terror
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: Saturdays, October 3 to November 21, 2026
Bonfire: Improvised Tales of Terror brings ghost stories and local legends to life around a campfire. The performances are recommended for families seeking lighter Halloween entertainment.
Glebe Halloween Village
Where: Glebe Ave. and Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 17, 2026
Explore the neighbourhood with your kids during a free trick-or-treating event. Wear your full costumes and grab treats (food and non-food) at the end of driveways, and visit different arts and crafts tables.
Spooky Symphony
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 18, 2026
Feel the hairs on the back of your neck stand up as you listen to a concert of spooky orchestral tunes, including an excerpt from The Sorcerer’s Apprentice to the theme from Ghostbusters.
Paint Nite
Where: Casa Mexico, 7 Kakulu Rd., Kanata, ON
When: October 21, 2026
Art supplies are included for this spooky paint night, where you’ll be led to create a starry night painting with a Nightmare Before Christmas twist. Beginners are welcome!
Haunt Nights
Where: Watson’s Mill, 5525 Dickinson St., Manotick, ON
When: October 22, 23 and 24, 2026
Watson’s Mill in Manotick presents a multi-level haunted maze with classic monster displays and themed rooms. The experience is best suited for older children, teens and adults. Admission is $10 at the door.
Halloween Barnyard Bash
Where: The Log Farm, 670 Cedarview Rd., Nepean, ON
When: October 29 to November 1, 2026
Throughout October, you can get lost in a corn maze, pick pumpkins, and enjoy fall-themed table activities for kids at the Log Farm. The big Halloween celebration is at the end of the month, including a costume party, candy loot bags and the usual farm activities.
Children’s Halloween Spooktacular
Where: Watson’s Mill, 5525 Dickinson St., Manotick, ON
When: October 31, 2026
Bring your little ones to Watson’s Mill to enjoy crafts, games, photo booths and a light version of the second-floor Haunt Nights maze, without scare actors. It’s recommended for kids ages three to eight.
Festivals and fall events
Celebrate autumn in Ottawa with lively festivals and cultural events featuring local traditions, food, music, art and family entertainment.
Fall Rhapsody
Where: Multiple locations in Ottawa and Gatineau
When: Shuttle runs until October 25, 2026
Watch the NCC colour meter to see when fall foliage around Ottawa and Gatineau is at peak colour. Plan a brisk autumn hike under canopies of red, orange and gold, and climb to new heights for the most stunning views of the trees. Popular hiking trails, especially in Gatineau Park, become very busy in mid-October, so plan accordingly and try to visit on weekdays and in the mornings when possible.
Metcalfe Fair
Where: 2821 8th Line Rd., Metcalfe, ON
When: October 1 to 4, 2026
Experience a day in the country where rural traditions meet family fun activities. Check out livestock shows, enter flower or produce competitions, watch magic shows, explore a corn maze, bring the kids to the pedal tractors, enjoy live performances, hop on midway rides and more.
Dominion City Oktoberfest
Where: 1001 Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa, ON
When: October 2 to 4, 2026
Help bring the fun spirit of Oktoberfest to Ottawa under the festival tents with DJ beats, traditional food, steins and Bavarian-inspired activities. Don’t forget your lederhosen or dirndl.
Join one of three adult sessions on Friday and Saturday, or bring your little ones to Kidtoberfest on Sunday.
Oktoberfest At The Tavern
Where: Tavern on the Hill, 85 St Patrick St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 3, 2026
Feel like you’ve stepped into Germany for the day, with the last Tavern Oktoberfest celebration. Enjoy festive German cuisine, decor and music during a spirited day with activities.
Dalhousie Day
Where: 130 Preston St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 3, 2026
Celebrate Ottawa turning 200 with a community celebration featuring family activities, live music, games, snacks, storytelling, local history, and an Indigenous blessing.
Sparktoberfest
Where: 702 Somerset St. W, Ottawa, ON
When: October 3, 2026
Eat giant pretzels, fuel up with pizza and enjoy the lively Oktoberfest atmosphere as you listen to DJ beats.
Day Of The Dead Festival
Where: 55 ByWard Market Square, Ottawa, ON
When: October 30 to November 1, 2026
Celebrate Mexican culture with their traditional festival honouring loved ones who have passed away through art, music, dance, and other artistic expressions. Enjoy colourful workshops, entertainment and food.
Live music and performances
Ottawa's October entertainment calendar is packed with concerts, comedy shows, circus performances, and unforgettable live events across the city.
Cirque du Soleil: LUZIA
Where: St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St Laurent Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates, September 24 to October 18, 2026
Set in a fictional Mexico, experience the acrobatics, theatrics and stunning performances of movement and colour that Cirque du Soleil is known for. Enter a colourful world of beautiful visual surprises, from urban movie sets and smoke-filled dance halls to a barren desert.
Cirque A La Carte
Where: LabO Theatre, 60 Waller St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 2 and 3, 2026
Refined circus acts will delight you in an intimate setting, now with a Halloween twist. Mystery and mayhem await in the spooky performance of aerial acrobatics, juggling, hand balance, hooping, and more.
Capital Music Week
Where: Various locations in Ottawa, ON
When: October 2 to 10, 2026
Live music concerts and soulful events fill the week, and it’s a great chance to uncover new (to you) Ottawa artists. Look forward to a long list of performers including Jamie Fine, Cadence Weapon, Bif Naked, Tyler Shaw and many others.
Metric With Broken Social Scene And Stars
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 5, 2026
Sing and dance your heart out along with three iconic Canadian indie bands on their All the Feelings Tour. Metric and Broken Social Scene both have new albums released in 2026, so enjoy new tunes along with hits like Metric’s Dead Disco and Broken Social Scene’s Anthems for a Seventeen-Year-Old Girl.
Danny Bhoy
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: October 6 to 8, 2026
This “sparkling wit” is performing for three nights in Ottawa, so you have ample opportunity to enjoy the Scottish comedian’s set.
Relive the Music 50s, 60s & 70s Show
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: October 13, 2026
Throw it back decades, wearing your best poodle skirts, grease leather jackets, bold bell bottoms, glitter or fringe vests for an evening of energy and dance. Enjoy hits from the 50s, 60s, or 70s, with rock, disco, and funk.
Vengaboys & Prozzäk
Where: Hard Rock Live, 4837 Albion Rd. S, Gloucester, ON
When: October 15, 2026
With iconic dance hits from the 90s like We Like to Party and Boom Boom Boom Boom, the Vengaboys are ready to deliver an energetic throwback night, joined by Canadian pop duo Prozzäk.
The Black Keys: Peaches n' Kream World Tour
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: October 17, 2026
Performing songs from their latest studio album, Peaches, as well as hits from their 12 albums, including Lonely Boy and Howlin’ for You, experience an evening of raw blues and soul power.
Kyla Cobbler: Gone Rogue
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: October 21 and 22, 2026
Irish comedian Kyla Cobbler is on her first Canadian tour after overwhelming demand since exploding on the scene and her viral social media success. Expect an unpredictable, completely unfiltered comedy experience featuring Kyla’s fearless storytelling, razor-sharp crowd work and honest perspective.
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny Tour
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 22, 2026
Known for his quick wit, dark one-liners, and unmistakable laugh, Jimmy Carr returns with his fifth and most ambitious Canadian tour yet.
Jonathan Van Ness: Hot & Healed
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: October 22, 2026
Award-winning television personality Jonathan Van Ness brings an unfiltered comedy tour to the stage. Expect social commentary, topics ranging from modern fashion to current events and personal storytelling.
Mike Epps
Where: Hard Rock Live, 4837 Albion Rd., Ottawa, ON2
When: October 24, 2026
A dynamic force in comedy and film, known for his quick wit and engaging storytelling, Mike Epps is sure to entertain and give you a night of laughs.
Disney Descendants, ZOMBIES & Camp Rock: Worlds Collide Concert Tour
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: October 30, 2026
Bringing together three Disney worlds, this pop concert features a talented lineup of stars performing hits, including fresh mashups and fan-favourite songs.
Sports and fitness events
Cheer on Ottawa's home teams, join an outdoor dance class or recharge at a wellness festival with these sports and fitness events in October.
Latin Thursdays
Where: Bar 7, Casino du Lac-Leamy, 1 Bd. du Casino, Gatineau, QC
When: October 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2026
Head across the bridge on Thursday for a free live Latin music show. Dance the night away to lively beats.
Salsa Street Seats
Where: Somerset St. W. and Cambridge St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 2, 2026
Dance the night away at this free outdoor dance class followed by an open dance celebration. Learn the basics if you’re a beginner and feel the rhythm at one of the last free outdoor fitness and dance events of the season.
The workshop and dance experience is part of Street Seats, free summer programming in Centretown and Chinatown featuring different classes, meetups and events.
Ottawa 67's
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 3, 17, 25, 28 and 30, 2026
Hockey season is in full swing! Feel the vibrant energy of Lansdowne, indulge in stadium eats and cheer on the home team with fellow fans as you keep an eye out for the mascot, Riley the Raccoon.
Panda Game
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 4, 2026
The rivalry game returns, so paint your face, wear your team colours and watch the Carleton Ravens and the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees battle it out. Carleton University fans should grab South Side tickets, while University of Ottawa fans should plan to sit on the North Side of The Stadium.
Ottawa Senators
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: October 8, 10, 13, 15, 21, 22 and 24, 2026
Hockey season is back. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of an NHL game as the Ottawa Senators take on rivals like the Montréal Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs, among other North American teams. Prepare your voice to chant, “Go Sens Go!”
CAA Members save big on select Ottawa Senators home games!
Atlético Ottawa
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 17, 2026
This month is the final soccer home game of the season, so if you want to watch our Canadian Premier League team bring their energy to the pitch, this is your chance. Wear your best red and white to cheer along with the crowd.
CAA Members save 20 per cent on home game tickets, plus 10 per cent off Atlético Ottawa merchandise.
Forest And Flow Yoga Festival
Where: YMCA Outdoor Centre, 1620 Sixth Line Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: October 17, 2026
Breathe in nature vibes as you unwind and flow. Browse local vendors and makers, relax with food, and enjoy entertainment between yoga classes, sound baths, and elemental breathwork.
Ottawa Rapid FC
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 18, 2026
Catch the last Northern Super League soccer game of the home season as Ottawa Rapid FC takes on Vancouver Rise FC. These women are competing at the highest level of Canadian women’s soccer and are igniting the city’s sports scene with action-packed matches.
Enjoy a 20 per cent discount on Ottawa Rapid FC home games with a CAA Membership.
The Rugby Rematch Tour
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: October 23, 2026
See some of the world’s best rugby players hit the field as Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team faces England in an international matchup in Ottawa. Enjoy an electric atmosphere as these two powerhouse teams compete.
Local markets and fairs
Shop local this October at Ottawa-area markets and fairs offering seasonal produce, handmade goods, art, global treasures and tasty treats.
One World Bazaar
Where: 6110 Mitch Owens Rd., Manotick, ON
When: Select dates, September 17 to November 22, 2026
Travel the world by shopping for thousands of unique handcrafted treasures. Linens, furniture, toys, jewelry, clothing, ceramics and much more globally crafted goods are ready to be explored. On select Saturdays, food vendors and live entertainment will also be available.
Hintonburg Night Market
Where: 1088 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: October 1, 8, 15 and 29, 2026
Enjoy a crisp autumn evening while you shop for handmade, local, vintage and yummy goods! This is your last chance to experience this night market this year. This month, we have two themed nights: Comic and Geek on October 8, and Halloween on the 29.
Main Street Farmers' Market
Where: Grande Allée Park, 185 Main St., Ottawa, ON
When: Saturdays until October 31, 2026
Outdoor farmers’ market season ends in October, so grab your last chance to shop for seasonal produce and local goodies at one of the Ottawa Farmers’ Markets. The Main Street Market gathers every Saturday with more than 20 vendors selling regional food and more.
Expressions of Art
Where: Carp Fairgrounds, 3790 Carp Rd., Carp, ON
When: October 3 and 4, 2026
Browse an exhibition of artwork created by more than 30 Ottawa region artists. Discover a range of quality pieces including fine art, photography and woodwork.
Parkdale Night Market
Where: 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: October 7, 2026
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of an evening market complete with shop vendors, live music, fresh food and community activities.
Stittsville’s Gobblefest
Where: Johnny Leroux Arena, 10 Warner-Colpitts Ln., Ottawa, ON
When: October 10, 2026
Celebrate Thanksgiving with an annual market fundraiser featuring more than 30 unique vendors. There will be door prizes, music, crafts, food and gifts.
Vegans Who Snack Food & Art Festival
Where: 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: October 24, 2026
This lively market focuses on all things vegan, including a variety of foods, local art and self-care products. Show up hungry to enjoy tons of treats.
Bring your CAA Membership with you this fall
Wherever your fall adventures take you, bring your CAA Membership along. As a Member, you'll get discounts on sporting events, online shopping, entertainment and dining out.
Sign up today for as low as $30 a year, or stop by your nearest CAA Store, such as CAA Ottawa.
