What to do in Ottawa this July 2024
19 Minute Read
Summer celebrations in Ottawa are in full swing, and there is no shortage of festivals, events and activities. You won't have a dull moment once you check out this lineup.
Explore a new region on a day tour, enjoy different Canada Day festivities, hit up multiple live music events, browse local vendors at outdoor markets, cheer on your favourite home team or participate in active events, sing and eat all day at various summer festivals and much more around Ottawa this month.
Don’t miss out on the top things to do in Ottawa this July 2024.
Aventure Outaouais: Kayak Summit Tour
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Where: Pickup locations in Ottawa and Gatineau
When: Various tours available Wednesday through Sunday in July
Embark on a full-day adventure in nature’s playground, exploring the Upper Gatineau Valley. This tour will take you to kayak the beach-lined Picanoc River for a calm five-kilometre paddle. It also stops at Mont Morissette Observation Tower to experience a gorgeous view from 1200 feet of altitude, where you’ll get a tasty local lunch and end with an ice cream stop on the way home. A knowledgeable guide, transportation, necessary equipment and snacks are provided on all tours.
Cirque Italia Water Circus
Where: St. Laurent Shopping Centre, 1200 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: June 27 – July 7, 2024
A story unfolds before your eyes and under a big top tent as you watch epic circus performances, each with a unique water theme. Trapeze artists, roller skating duos, aerial performers, contortionists, a laser man and more will thrill you with magical acts as they push the boundaries of human ability. This aquatic spectacle has a custom-designed water stage with 35,000 gallons of water to be featured in the acts.
Canada Day
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Where: Locations across Ottawa
When: July 1, 2024
The main Canada Day event in the capital will take place downtown, with its daytime and evening shows before a fireworks finale. While it promises to be a festive experience for the whole family, many other Canada Day celebrations are happening around the city. Discover fireworks displays across the region in Stittsville, Gloucester, Kanata, and more, along with new neighbourhood festivals, a free concert at the NAC, boat tours, and free museum visits.
OWL Rafting
Where: 40 Owl Ln., Foresters Falls, ON
When: Daily booking availability in July
Paddle along world-class rapids on the Ottawa River. OWL Rafting offers three trips at varying intensity levels, from a soft adventure channel ideal for families to sport rafting trips with the wildest experience. There is also the possibility of cliff jumping, and the journey concludes with a pontoon boat BBQ meal. Plus, there are tons of beachfront activities to enjoy at the resort.
CAA Members save 10% off whitewater packages and trips with OWL Rafting, Sunday through Friday.
Chief Pinesi Day
Where: New Edinburgh Park, 203 Stanley Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: July 1, 2024
Chief Pinesi Day is full of celebrations to honour Algonquin Anishinabe’s presence in the area. The Pinesi Paddle began on June 25 and will conclude on July 1 with an educational walk along the Rideau to greet the paddlers. A sacred fire will also feature drumming, singing and dancing by the Spirit Wolf Singers.
Ottawa Bagelshop Musicfest
Where: 1321 Wellington St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: Wednesdays and Sundays until August 11, 2024
This annual three-month music fest is back at the Ottawa Bagelshop so that you can enjoy live music twice a week for the entire month of July. Forty artists from the Ottawa Gatineau region will showcase their unique styles throughout this free event. It kicks off on Wednesdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.
Tea On The Lawn
Where: Billings Estate National Historic Site, 2100 Cabot St., Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates until September 1, 2024
Sit amongst the beautiful greenery in the garden at the historic Billings Estate and sip afternoon tea. Transport yourself to regency-era England, enjoying a picturesque experience of tea and baked goods. Seatings are available three times per day, with two menu options: simple cream tea, a pot of tea with a scone and fixings, or a three-tier service that includes finger sandwiches and desserts.
Drive-In Bingo
Where: 3790 Carp Rd., Carp, ON
When: July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2024
Take your wheels to the village of Carp to test your luck at Drive-In Bingo. There is space for many vehicles at the Carp Fair Grounds. The canteen opens at 5:30 p.m., and bingo kicks off at 7 p.m.
Ottawa Bluesfest
Where: Lebreton Flats, 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, ON
When: Jul 4 – 14, 2024
Let the music and the good times flow at the ultimate summer festival, Ottawa Bluesfest. Over ten days, artists will hit multiple stages on the grounds, where you’ll find refreshment tents and other activities. Some of the 2024 lineup includes 50 Cent, Carly Rae Jepsen, Chelsea Cutler, Down with Webster, Maroon 5, Nickelback, Tokyo Police Club, Zac Brown Band and many others.
Ottawa BlackJacks
Where: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 4, 18, 20, 25 and 29, 2024
A slam dunk evening is in your future with a summer basketball game. Soak in the lively atmosphere of Lansdowne and cheer on the Ottawa Blackjacks, sporting your best black and red attire.
Enjoy a discount on your next basketball game in the city as CAA Members save 20% on Ottawa BlackJacks home games tickets.
Gatineau Comedy Festival
Where: Place de la Cité, 570 Bd. de la Cité, Gatineau, QC
When: July 4 – 6, 2024
A night of laughs awaits you at an outdoor comedy show. You can buy a daily ticket or a three-day pass to enjoy the full programming. Multiple comics take the stage each evening for a variety of humour. The site opens a few hours before the show starts, so get there early since seating is first come, first served.
Art Battle Ottawa City Championship
Where: Overflow Brewing, 2477 Kaladar Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: July 5, 2024
Watch artists’ creativity at work as they battle it out to be the ultimate winner. You can walk around the showroom admiring their masterpieces, as each artist has 20 minutes per round to complete a painting. There will be a silent auction for the opportunity to bring home an original piece.
Almonte Celtfest
Where: Gemmill Park, 182 Bridge St., Almonte, ON
When: July 5 – 7, 2024
Celebrate Celtic traditions and entertainment with some local performers and unique artisan vendors. Rum Ragged will be headlining this year’s opening night along with special guests Mariner’s Curse. Your little ones will enjoy activities like face painting and dance lessons in the kids’ area. Keep a lookout for Liam, the leprechaun!
Capital Pop-Up Cinema
Where: Various Ottawa locations
When: July 5, 12, 26, and 27, 2024
Epic summer movie nights are in your future, with extensive outdoor screenings in fun locations around Ottawa. Watch Dr. Strangelove at Beachwood Cemetery, The Truman Show in Westboro, Home Alone on Sparks Street and Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World on Albert Island this month.
613 Flea
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 6 and 20, 2024
This massive market is filled with vintage pieces, antique gems, handmade crafts, home goods, tasty eats and more. Browse over 100 vendors for free and enjoy the Saturday morning atmosphere.
The Alan Jackson Experience
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: July 6, 2024
Alan Jackson may no longer be touring, but that doesn’t mean you can’t jam out to his greatest hits. Enjoy popular songs, crowd favourites, and originals with similar sounds at this Ottawa concert. Get your cowboy boots and hats ready, y’all.
The Oz Escape: An Interactive Ottawa Experience
Where: The exact Ottawa location sent before the event
When: July 6, 2024
Follow the yellow brick road as the magical, mystical world of Oz comes alive on the streets of Ottawa. This outdoor escape room-type experience will have you solving hidden clues and theme puzzles around the city, either against the clock or at your own pace. Costumes are not required, but a prize for the best dressed is awarded at the end.
Thai Street Food Festival
Where: Horticulture Building, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
When: July 7, 2024
Transport yourself to the cultural streets of Asia and delight yourself with something the continent is known for – street eats. Discover the delicious tastes, sounds and culture as you indulge in Thai cuisine, listen to traditional music and watch performances. Don’t get too full too soon because you can learn things like Muay Thai and Thai massage techniques.
Greely Good Market
Megan Johnson | CAA North East Ontario
Megan Johnson | CAA North East Ontario
When: July 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2024
This new artisan market near Manotick, Ottawa, runs every Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Discover quality goods perfect for treating yourself or searching for unique gifts. Grab a drink and a fresh bouquet as you browse ceramics, cards, jewellery, clothing, candles, bath and body items, accessories, hot food and more.
York Street Market
Where: Byward Market, York St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 7 and 21, 2024
Stroll through the buzzing Byward Market and browse over 40 market vendors every other Sunday from May through October. As you explore the different tents, you’ll find home decor, handmade art, jewellery, spice blends, fresh produce and much more.
Head to the market in the afternoon and stay for Salsa Sundays, which starts at 3 p.m. This free summer event begins with a dance class, and the energy turns up for a social dance.
Atltico Ottawa
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 7 and 21, 2024
Catch the capital city’s soccer team, Atlético Ottawa, take the pitch and bring the heat this summer. The energy from the stands will lift you as you hear the cheering, chanting and drumming surrounding you. Enjoy themed matches in the summer, including a Beach Party on July 7 and the Legends and Heros theme on July 21. Both games begin at 2 p.m.
Save money with your CAA Membership and receive a 20% discount on Atlético Ottawa home game tickets.
Broadway Nights
Where: SAW, 67 Nicholas St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 8, 2024
Do you love a good night at the theatre and wish you could sing along to your favourite musical numbers? You’re in luck; this Broadway-themed open mic and sing-along night is a welcoming and energetic evening you won’t forget. You can sign up to sing on stage with the band — selecting a song from their list of over 230 beloved Broadway tunes or bring your sheet music — or enjoy the show from the audience and sing background vocals from your seat.
WWE Monday Night Raw
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: July 8, 2024
Wrestling fans, don’t miss this chance to watch your favourite WWE Superstars live in Ottawa. Some superstars you’ll see, including many champions, are Damian Priest, Sami Zayn, “The Ring General” GUNTHER, Becky Lynch, Drew McIntyre, Awesome Truth, Liv Morgan, Sheamus, The New Day, and Damage CTRL, among others.
A Company of Fools Presents: Macbeth
Where: Various Ottawa park locations
When: July 8 – August 24, 2024
Enjoy Shakespeare in the park, an accessible and affordable way to experience the theatre. This “foolish” approach to storytelling runs based on pass-the-hat donations, and this summer, is bringing the tale of MacBeth alive in Ottawa. MacBeth is a Scottish thane who receives a prophecy that he will become king, and instead of brushing it off, he and his equally ambitious wife dive headfirst into making it a reality. Plotting, hallucinations and a touch of murder, what more would you expect from a Shakespearean play?
Ottawa Titans
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: July 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 26, 27, and 28, 2024
Take your family to the ballpark and support the Ottawa Titans as they swing against various opponents. Find souvenirs, indulge in game day eats and keep a lookout for Cappy the mascot. Select games also have a fireworks finale, such as the July 12 game.
Enjoy the perks of having a CAA Membership and get a discount of up to 30% on tickets for Ottawa Titans games.
Wendover Western Festival
Where: 5000 Centre St., Wendover, ON
When: July 10 – 14, 2024
Your toes will be tapping away at this long weekend country festival filled with musical acts and some activities like bingo. Enjoy a single day or grab yourself a four-day pass, with the option to camp onsite and keep the good times rolling. There will be an ode to the francophone roots of the region with some of the performances.
Ottawa Comedy Cabaret Cruise
Where: Pirate Life, 588 Hog’s Back Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: July 11, 2024
Experience a night of laughter as you float near the shore of Mooney’s Bay beach as the sun sets around you. Festivities begin on the shore an hour before the ship sets sail. The hour-long set will feature stand-up comics, improv sets and musical comedy.
The Chef's Table
Where: 1 Elgin Patio – National Arts Centre, Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates from July 11 – 27, 2024
A specialty curated evening filled with farm-to-table cuisine and musical entertainment will be a feast for all your senses. The series runs for three weekends this summer, showcasing world-class chefs on the picturesque patio at the NAC, which overlooks the Rideau Canal. Different chefs and menus are featured each weekend, so check which one appeals most to you.
Where: Mooney’s Bay Beach, 2960 Riverside Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: July 12 and 13, 2024
This massive volleyball tournament is an epic party with a concert stage stacked with Canadian talent all day. This year, The Trews are headlining the show, performing at 5:30 p.m. with other acts kicking off the music at noon. According to the event, they are the largest one-day volleyball tournament in the world! The kit pickup party is on Friday, with Saturday game day.
Swing On The Hill
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa, ON
When: July 13, 2024
Whether you’re a beginner or an absolute pro, this free dancing event on Parliament Hill will have you swinging and smiling all afternoon. Throw it back to the ’20s, ’30s and ’40s eras with swing music and lessons for newbies. The event begins at 1 p.m. with a warmup, continuing with multiple lessons (solo and partner) and social dancing periods until 5:30 p.m.
The Big Bounce Canada
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates July 13 – 21, 2024
You’ve never jumped on bouncy castles and structures like this before! Hop around on the world’s largest inflatable castle — a massive landscape featuring multiple attractions, check your speed on a giant bouncy track more than 900 feet long, and dive under the water on a sea-themed inflatable that’s also a foam party, along with other inflatable creations. There are four different age-based sessions: toddler, junior, bigger kids and adult only. The various sessions are offered at specific time slots. Participating caregivers can join their kids for the younger sessions.
Ottawa Valley Roller Derby
Where: St. Laurent Complex, 525 Côté St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 13, 2024
Enjoy watching full-contact roller derby games and bring your energy to the crowd of fans. Feel free to bring a lawn chair to get close to the action with trackside seating or grab a spot in the tiered stands. You can get tickets at the door. The first game starts at 6 p.m. and the second at 8 p.m.
Mud Hero Ottawa
Where: Commando Paintball, 4565 Dunning Rd., Navan, ON
When: July 13, 2024
Show off your skills competing in an obstacle course event where you’ll get head to toe covered in mud. Test your limits by participating in the 6-kilometre or 12-kilometre track; all ages and fitness levels are welcome. The post-race activities are their fun event with DJ tunes playing, demonstrations around you and food vendors selling goodies.
St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival
Where: Kinsmen Amphitheatre, 101 Water St. W., Prescott, ON
When: July 13 – August 10, 2024
Immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare along the lovely St. Lawrence River. Delight in a performance under the stars by enjoying one of the classic plays that will be on this summer: The Tempest, She Stoops to Conquer or Play On! A Shakespeare Inspired Mixtape.
Fanaticcon
Where: Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, 200 Coventry Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: July 14, 2024
Many exhibitors will be present at this top fan convention, which features vintage toys, epic costumes, unique artwork, retro games, various comics, and special guests and will be surrounded by entertainment. Visit celebrity guests like Leslie Hoffman and Matt Austin, the different exhibitors, and admire various cosplay costumes.
Cars & Coffee Ottawa
Where: Lansdowne, 1015 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON, Canada, ON
When: July 14, 2024
Car enthusiasts will delight in this world of automotive artistry, where you can admire around 150 cars and network with fellow participants. If you have been in previous years, the format will remain the same, with new entertainment, more collector cars and a fresh look. Proceeds support the OSEG Foundation.
Hintonburg 5K and 1K
Where: Parkdale Park, 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: July 14, 2024
The streets of Hintonburg will be transformed into a funky road race, so prepare to lace up and hit the pavement. All levels of runners can join in on the 5K run for adults and youth, and the 1K race is perfect for your young kids. There will be prizes, cake and refreshments afterward!
Ottawa Lebanese Festival
Where: Saint Elias Centre, 750 Ridgewood Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: July 17 – 21, 2024
Five delicious days of celebrating the best of Middle Eastern cuisine await. This diverse event will be a festival featuring cultural entertainment, traditions, and tasty eats. Your kids can catch thrills on midway rides as you enjoy the surrounding performances and food.
CAA Members can get free admission on July 17 when they show their CAA card at the front gate. Look out for CAA’s kiosk table at the festival, where we’ll be handing out some free swag.
Ottawa REDBLACKS
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 19 and 26, 2024
The lively atmosphere of a football game at TD Place Stadium is unbeatable, so make sure you catch a match this season. Break out for best plaid attire or red and black colours to cheer on the home team, hoping to hear those glorious chainsaw sounds near the endzone. The only question is — team North side or South side? During the July 26 game, CAA will have a table and be handing out free swag.
Purchase your Ottawa REDBLACKS tickets online using your CAA Membership and enjoy up to a 30% discount. Plus, you’ll also save 10% on merchandise.
City Sounds Live
Where: Ogilvy Square, 3 Nicholas St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 19, 2024
There are 20 opportunities this summer, from June to September, to check out free concerts in neighbourhoods across the city. There is one show in July where you can enjoy performances by Prehistoric, Friday Skye, and DJ Kid Koncussion.
Panda Fest III
Where: Dominion Tavern, 33 York St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 19 and 20, 2024
Get yourself a weekend pass or day ticket for this live music event for the third year. The best of Ottawa’s metal and hard rock bands will be hitting the stage, in addition to talented out-of-town acts. You can buy tickets at the door, but securing them ahead of time is cheaper.
Carivibe - Reach The Beach Weekend
Where: Petrie Island, 795 Trim Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: July 19 – 21, 2024
Celebrate Carribean culture all weekend long with a colourful party. Transport yourself to the islands. This festival features everything tropical, from food and drinks to comedy, music, and dancing. The entertainment will be non-stop, and the vibes will be immaculate.
Stewart Park Festival
Where: Stewart Park, Perth, ON
When: July 19 – 21, 2024
This small-town festival has been taking place for over three decades, honouring community and music. Shop the artisan market, grab food from different vendors, and enjoy the surrounding musical performances. Your little ones will enjoy playing games and joining in on workshops in the kids’ area, and adults 19+ can keep the party going in the evening with more live music in Crystal Palace.
Ottawa Flower Market Collective
Where: Parkdale Market, 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: July 20, 2024
Build your bouquet at this market stall bursting with blooms from local florists. The OFM is a special event at the Parkdale Market on select days and is just one of the various events the market offers.
Liven up your Wednesday evening with a stop by the Parkdale Night Market that goes all summer in October. The July 10 market celebrates its centennial birthday with even more local delights and live music. These are all free to enjoy.
Comic & Geek Night Market
Where: Urban Art Collective Parking Lot, 1088 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: July 20, 2024
Urban Art Collective hosts markets throughout the summer where you can browse handmade goods, taste some local treats and enjoy the sights and sounds of rotating entertainment. Visit the Hintonburg Night Market on Thursdays or check out one of their themed Saturday markets. The Maker Market happens on July 6, and the Comic & Geek Night Market takes place on July 20. Gamers, pop culture geeks and comic nerds unite.
Ottawa Beatlemania with The Liverpool 4
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: July 20, 2024
Take yourself back to the best times of the ’60s with a night of music and entertainment honouring The Beatles. The band The Liverpool 4 brings this iconic band’s high energy and musical sounds back to life so you can travel through all the eras of their impressive careers. Prepare to sing along and dance the night away.
Full Moon Yoga
Where: Great Lawn, Lansdowne, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
When: July 21, 2024
Namaste and good vibes only. Head to the spacious lawn at Lansdowne for a gentle yoga practice under July’s full moon. This all-level yoga class begins at 9 p.m. to delight in the sunset and admire the moon. It’s a free event!
July Sunburst Market
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: July 21, 2024
The radiance of summer is the theme of this Sunday market. Browse various vibrant goods and vendors that hold the spirit of sunshine. It’s free to visit, pet-friendly and offers door prizes.
Crackup Comedy Festival
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Nepean, ON
When: July 24, 2024
Laughter for a good cause: this Ontario comedy festival was born from a desire to do a comedy show supporting mental health. This year’s proceeds support Hilarity for Charity. The full festival runs from July 22 to 27, 2024, in cities around the capital: Pembroke, Cornwall, Smiths Falls and Kingston. The Ottawa show takes place on July 24; the same comics are performed in each location.
Side By Side Weekend
Where: Club SAW, 67 Nicholas St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 26 – 28, 2024
A festival of music for indie lovers is coming to the capital. Three days filled with 30 musical acts performing on both indoor and outdoor stages await you. You can grab a full weekend pass or go to your preferred night.
Discovery Sundays
Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Rd., Cumberland, ON
When: July 28, 2024
You won’t want to miss this event if you or your little one are a train enthusiast. The Ottawa Valley Live Steamers and Model Engineers are back at Cumberland Heritage Village Museum on the last Sunday of every month until September. Special programming, demonstrations and activities will fill the day.
Beginner - Intro to Latte Art Milk-Based Coffee
Where: Chef’s Paradise, 1314 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: July 28, 2024
Looking to up your morning coffee game or start a new café job? Turn those cups into beautiful coffee art and learn new skills at this beginner class hosted by Little Victories Coffee. You will get hands-on experience, leave the class with new skills, and receive exclusive goodies valued at $50, including coffee beans and tools.
Carry your CAA Membership
Starting at just $30 a year, CAA Members can grab discounts on everything from dining out and fueling up to savings on car rentals and travel insurance, among other benefits. You can view the list of 126,000 partner locations worldwide and join online.
