What to do in Ottawa this June 2024
12 Minute Read
Can you feel that? The bright sun and excitement of summer in the capital region. The longer days are an indication that festival season is officially upon us and there are so many events to enjoy around Ottawa this month.
Festivals packed with music, vendors and food will take you from day to night. There are also dancing events, creative workouts, engaging workshops, sports games, restaurant nights and much more. Here are some of the top things to do in Ottawa this June 2024.
NCC Weekend Bikedays
Where: Kichi Zībī Mīkan, Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway and Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa, ON
When: Weekends and holiday Mondays until October 14, 2024
Each year, from May to October, the National Capital Commission blocks off some of the city's parkways for active use. Enjoy peace of mind as you bike, walk, blade or run along these scenic parkways and admire views of the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River.
Ottawa Chinatown Night Market
https://www.instagram.com/p/CqBgTX2OHGX
Where: Chinatown, Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: May 31 to June 2, 2024
Somerset Street, between Bronson Avenue and Bell Street, will be lined with food stalls selling sizzling meat skewers, savoury dim sum, and other cultural treats. Throughout the festival, enjoy performances including lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and musical shows.
Dickinson Days
Where: Manotick, ON
When: May 31 – June 2, 2024
Venture to the quaint town of Manotick for a weekend celebration of Moss Kent Dickinson’s birthday, the town’s founder. Browse many food and craft vendors as you enjoy some outdoor performances.
Ottawa Asian Fest
Where: Tanger Outlets, 8555 Campeau Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: May 31 to June 2, 2024
Surround yourself with the colours, sounds, and tastes of Asian culture at the Ottawa Asian Fest. Discover tasty food vendors from across Ontario serving bubble waffles, Taiwanese jelly desserts, cotton candy animals, mochi donuts, BBQ meat skewers, fried tofu, Korean corn dogs, pot stickers, and more. Participate in cultural performances and games, too.
Ottawa Titans game
Where: 300 Coventry Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: June 1-2, 4-6, 11-16, 25-30, 2024
Take your family (or friends) to a ball game and cheer on the home team. Indulge in stadium snacks and look for Cappy, the team's mascot.
Join the pre-Canada Day celebration on June 28 and watch a show of fireworks post-game. CAA will be at the game, giving out free popcorn to Members. Save on baseball tickets with your CAA Membership. Members can save up to 30% off Ottawa Titans home game tickets.
The Wizard Of Oz
Where: Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: May 31 to June 9, 2024
Take a trip to the magical world of Oz as you follow Dorothy and her new friends along the yellow brick road to the Emerald City.
Doors Open Ottawa
Where: Multiple locations in Ottawa
When: June 1-2, 2024
Discover hidden gems in the city and explore buildings typically closed to the public (or open with a ticket price) for free. Admire the impressive architecture and learn some Ottawa history as you visit different buildings, many of which will hold special events.
Olive Oil And Balsamic Masterclass
Where: The Chef's Paradise, 1314 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 1, 2024
Whether you are a curious at-home cook or a professional chef, taste something new with this introduction to olive oil and balsamic vinegar with Aurelius Fine Oils. Learn about high-quality kinds of vinegar and oils and proper tasting techniques to distinguish unique flavours and aromas. Light snacks and refreshments will be served to complement flights of oils and vinegars.
Tippmann Challenge D-Day
Where: Commando Action Centre, 4565 Dunning Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: June 1-2, 2024
Register for a massive game of paintball at Ottawa's Commando Action Centre. Participate in games on Saturday before the player's party with DJ tunes and a campfire on Saturday evening. The competitive D-Day game starts at 10 a.m. on Sunday, with check-in beforehand. Both days' events are included in the ticket price. There is also free camping if you want to stay overnight.
The Beechwood Market
Where: New Edinburgh Park, 203 Stanley Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: Saturdays starting June 1, 2024
From June to October, you can browse tons of fresh produce and local products weekly. The Alta Vista Market also opens for the season on June 1 at 2345 Alta Vista Drive, and the Elgin Street Market runs Sundays through the summer at Boushey Square starting June 16, 2024. You can shop online from the markets to pick up your order on the weekend or pay for delivery in Ottawa.
Red Trillium Studio Tour
Where: Multiple locations
When: June 1-2, 2024
Discover new artists and galleries in the area by embarking on a free, self-guided tour around the countryside. You'll discover hidden gems, including paintings, pottery, photography, cultures, ironwork, outdoor gardens, woodturning, and more.
Zumba On The Hill
Where: Parliament Hill, Wellington St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2024
From May to September, most Sundays, you can head to the spacious lawn at Parliament Hill for a free Zumba class. Dress in activewear and bring your water bottle in preparation for dancing outdoors.
Taproom Trivia
Where: Stray Dog Brewing Company, 501 Lacolle Way, Orléans, ON
When: June 5, 2024
Gather a team of up to six friends and test your knowledge of music, current events, and other trivia themes each Wednesday. Email to reserve your spot, and it's free to play. You can bring snacks or order takeout to enjoy as you play.
Italian Week
Where: Preston St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 6-16, 2024
Celebrate the best of Italy at this annual festival in Ottawa's Little Italy. With over 11 days of programs, events and fun, there is much to discover during Italian Week. Learn more about the culture and join events like masterclasses, food tastings and restaurant specials. If you like gelato, espresso, pizza or pasta, this is a not-to-miss festival.
Art In The Park
Where: Central Park, 19 Clemow Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: June 8-9, 2024
Head to the Glebe with your family to enjoy the park setting and chat with local artists about the work on display. You can shop for sculptures, ceramics, paintings, glass, jewelry, crafts, photographs, and more to add to your home or as a gift. There is no admission fee, and there will also be food available.
613 Flea
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 8 and 15, 2024
Add a stop by the Aberdeen Pavilion to your weekend plans and explore an ever-changing marketplace overflowing with one-of-a-kind finds. From vintage clothing and antiques to handmade goods and tasty food, 613 Flea has tons of unique finds. It's always free to visit.
PBR Canada Cup Series
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: June 8, 2024
Even if you're just a cowboy at heart, enjoy a night of bucking and bull riding for one night only in Ottawa. Returning for the first time since 2018, Professional Bull Riders will hold its classic in the capital, where you can watch some of the organization's best athletes go head-to-head against 2,000-pound bulls.
Ottawa Food Festival
Where: Tanger Outlets, 8555 Campeau Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: June 8-9, 2024
Save your appetite for a food festival featuring cuisine from all over the globe. Sway to the live music and watch performances as you eat your heart out from unique vendors and food trucks.
Governor General's Performing Arts Awards Gala
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 8, 2024
Dress to impress and join an elegant celebration of Canada's highest honour in the performing arts. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., followed by red carpet arrivals at 7 p.m. Experience a series of heartfelt tribute performances that will highlight the accomplishments of this year's Laureates. The evening of entertainment continues post-show with an afterparty featuring a live band in the lobby.
Ottawa Pet Expo
Where: The EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: June 8-9, 2024
Pet parents, mark your calendars to experience this massive pet show in Ottawa. There will be interactive installations, such as the cat show, creative grooming demos, and a pet-focused marketplace where you can shop from over 150 vendors.
Rock Star Karaoke
Where: The Heart & Crown Barrhaven, 3161 Strandherd Dr. #300, Ottawa, ON
When: June 10, 2024
Hit the stage and take your turn in the spotlight at Rock Star Karaoke. The event starts at 8:30 p.m., so prepare for a fun-filled Monday night.
Ottawa Blackjacks
Where: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 11, 15, 27, and 29, 2024
Catch a basketball game and enjoy Ottawa's CEBL team; the Blackjacks hit the court. Enjoy the ambiance of the TD Place Arena at Lansdowne. CAA Members save 20% on tickets for the June 15 game.
Sade Awele: The Intuition Tour
Where: LIVE on Elgin, 220 Elgin St. #2, Ottawa, ON
When: June 12, 2024
Immerse yourself in a world of R&B and Afro-soul at Sade Awele's tour. This Nigerian-born visionary will share the stage with Banggz and Ottawa-based rapper Ttrills.
Ottawa REDBLACKS Games
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 13 and 30, 2024
Cheer on the Ottawa REDBLACKS as they compete on home turf.
Look for the CAA kiosk at the June 13 game and stop by for some free swag. CAA Members can enjoy savings of up to 30% off home game tickets and a 10% discount on merchandise.
Ottawa Fringe Festival
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: June 13–23, 2024
Pushing the boundaries of traditional theatre, immerse yourself in a hub of creativity and performances at the Fringe Festival. Catch endless shows at multiple venues throughout the festival and events like open mic nights and a silent disco.
FCA Ottawa Ferrari Festival
Where: Preston St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 14–16, 2024
During the last three days of Italian Week Ottawa, you can join fellow spectators and visitors to check out a fleet of Ferraris and celebrate all things from Italy. Preston Street transforms into a laneway of rare cars, including Ferraris and other exotic sports cars. Join the Italian car parade and other events include special dinners and lucheons.
It's Showtime - With the Capital City Chorus
Where: St. Thomas The Apostle Anglican Church, 2345 Alta Vista Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: June 15, 2024
If you love Broadway tunes, grab tickets for either the matinee or evening show for a singing performance by the Capital City Chorus. Not only will you enjoy a great show, but you'll be also supporting charities and have the chance to win raffles and door prizes.
The Preston Street Bike Race
Where: Preston St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 16, 2024
Preston Street will turn into a bustling racecourse as bikers cruise beside each other in this massive Ottawa race. Various bike events are open to people of all ages and skill levels. Experience the excitement at every turn, whether you're participating or watching.
Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival
Where: Mādahòkì Farm, 4420 West Hunt Club Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: June 19–23, 2024
Celebrate and honour National Indigenous Peoples Day and the new beginnings of the Summer Solstice with a festival full of events, food, and cultural showcases. Watch competitions, live music, cultural performances, and demonstrations throughout the festival. You can also join creative workshops like beading and canoe-building demonstrations, food experiences, and a kids' area.
Ottawa Jazz Festival
Where: Several stage locations in Ottawa, including Confederation Park
When: June 21 – 30, 2024
Sing and dance the night away under the stars at Ottawa's annual summer jazz festival. The city will be abuzz with cool sounds as the outdoor stages are filled with musical talent. Artists hitting the stages in 2024 include Norah Jones, George Clinton, Veronica Swift, The Yussef Dayes Experience, Laufey, Mali Obomsawin, Huntertones and many others.
Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival
Where: Mooney's Bay Park, 2960 Riverside Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: June 21 – 23, 2024
More than a cultural tradition and boat race where paddlers compete in teams on the Rideau River, the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival has a full festival lineup with events and entertainment. Catch the outdoor concert shows and visit the family fun zone, where you'll find a playground, busking performers, face painting and crafts. Enjoy classic festival eats like BeaverTails, spring chips, tacos, lemonade, and pizza.
Fiddles On The Rideau Festival
Where: Manotick United Church, 5567 Manotick Main St., Manotick, ON
When: June 21 – 23, 2024
Forget about fiddlers on the roof; musicians will enchant you with tunes along the Rideau River in Manotick. Enjoy three days of concerts and musical workshops (bring your own instrument) with the featured Flotilla River Run on Sunday the 23rd. Feel free to follow the Flotilla pontoons with your kayak or canoe and enjoy tunes on the water.
Friday Swing Dance + Eclectic Swing Party
Where: 174 Wilbrod St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 21, 2024
If you want to learn swing dance or are looking for a group setting to showcase your moves, spend the evening dancing to swingable beats and classic hits. The beginner lesson occurs from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m., immediately followed by a social dance party.
Sweetly Affordable Art Fair
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: June 22 and 23, 2024
Browse over 100 vendor booths offering unique and affordable artwork. Enjoy free admission as you hunt for the perfect painting to complement your home’s space. Most pieces are available for under $1,000, and options are under $50.
Jurassic Park in Concert
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: June 27 to 29, 2024
Fans of the action-filled, prehistoric adventure can experience this iconic film in concert. Projected before you in high definition, a full symphony orchestra will perform the score for you as you watch the film.
Festi Griot
Where: 70 Bongard Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: June 30, 2024
Celebrate Haitian culture through food and music at this summer festival. The day will be filled with beats as you listen to various DJs and performers hit the stage.
Make sure to bring your CAA Membership
Starting at just $30 a year, CAA Members can enjoy discounts on everything from dining out and fueling up to savings on cars and travel insurance, among other benefits. You can view the list of 126,000 partner locations worldwide and join online.
