What to do in Ottawa this September 2024
20 Minute Read
As the kids return to school and the season of beach days and countless street festivals comes to a close, there are still tons of fun things to do around Ottawa. Many summer events, including markets, outdoor dance classes and cultural festivals, trickle into September. Take advantage of these fun activities while you can!
September is the transition month from sunny day events to spooky evening attractions, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the top things to do in Ottawa this September 2024.
Cirque du Soleil ECHO
Where: Under the Big Top, Place des Festivals ZIBI, Gatineau, QC
When: August 16 – September 22, 2024
Experience daring acrobatics, poetry, stagecraft, and some surprising twists at this Cirque du Soleil show. Audiences are invited to participate in this colourful world full of wonder in a performance fueled by empathy and invention that explores the balance between humans, animals and the world we share.
Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival
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Where: Parc de la Baie, 93 Rue de la Baie, Gatineau, QC
When: August 29 – September 2, 2024
End the summer off on a high at a festival full of rainbow hot air balloons, where you’ll also find live music, events, carnival rides and games. Admire the giant balloons as they lift into the air for free at 6 a.m. from Friday to Monday mornings or evenings with your festival access. Experience the enchantment of fireworks overhead, hop on carnival rides, watch the multimedia night glow, hit up the silent disco, play outdoor lawn games, and watch concert performances, among other activities.
Ottawa Chinatown Night Market 2.0
Where: Chinatown, Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: August 29 – September 1, 2024
Transport yourself to Asia with a street market’s sights, sounds and smells. Chinatown is hosting a second rendition of the Chinatown Night Market this season for another chance to enjoy cultural eats and entertainment. Enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine and fusion dishes, from dim sum, noodles and meat skewers to sweet treats.
Ottawa Chinatown will also be hosting its final Chinatown Bazaar of the season this month, weather permitting, on September 15, 2024. Plus, you can join the Chinatown free walking tour on September 28 at 1 p.m.
Vibe of India
Where: Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Pl., Ottawa, ON
When: August 31 to September 1, 2024
Take yourself to India at this cultural festival filled with special events and delicious food. On day one, there is the Open Air Garba Night, and on day two, there is Bollywood D.J. Fusion Night.
Ottawa Titans game
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: September 1, 2024
This is the last baseball game of the season, so if you’ve been meaning to cheer on the Ottawa Titans this year, now is your chance. Load up on tasty stadium snacks and keep a lookout for Cappy, the mascot. Sundays are family fun days at Ottawa Stadium, with an afternoon start time, meaning there is no late night for your little fans. Kids can run the bases after the game and bounce on an inflatable castle.
Have your CAA Membership card handy when grabbing Titans home game tickets, as members save 30%.
Salsa Sundays
Where: 55 ByWard Market Sq., Ottawa, ON
When: September 1, 2024
Twirl your way to George Street Plaza in the ByWard Market for the last free Salsa Sunday of the year. The community class is for all levels and begins at 3 p.m., followed by a group social dance at 4 p.m. There are multiple instructors and seasoned dancers, so you don’t need a partner to join the fun.
The York Street Market also occurs in the ByWard Market on Sundays, including September 1, 15 and 29, 2024.
Zumba on the Hill
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa, ON
When: September 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2024
The season of free outdoor fitness classes is slowly ending, so catch one of these final Zumba classes on Parliament Hill. Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine as you get active during one of these certified instructor-led classes.
Bougie Birch Dreamcatcher Workshop
Where: ADAAWE, 338 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: September 5, 2024
Create your dreamcatcher in a workshop led by Indigenous artist and educator Ashley Clark. All materials are provided, and as you craft, you’ll learn the significance of dreamcatchers and engage in open discussions about lived Indigenous experiences. The workshop lasts about two hours.
Vegans Who Snack Festival
Where: 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: September 6, 2024
Discover over 60 small businesses, including various tasty treats, self-care items, art, clothing and more. Bring your reusable tote bags to stock up on goodies. Everything is vegan, including spring rolls, sandwiches, ice cream, cookies and poutine. Listen to local D.J. beats as you browse and socialize.
Charm Offensive Tour with Jim Jefferies and Jimmy Carr
Where: T.D. Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: September 6, 2024
Have a night of laughs in Ottawa at comedians Jim Jefferies’ and Jimmy Carr’s Charm Offensive Tour. The act is expected to sell fast since both comedians have sold out T.D. Place before, so grab tickets ASAP.
Riverside Festival
Where: Canadian Museum of History, 100 Laurier St., Gatineau, QC
When: September 6 – 8, 2024
This annual electronic music festival is an all-day party with many artists and activities. This year is the first time there is a headliner from a different genre. Sean Paul will be gracing the stage on September 6, Rezz is the headliner on the seven, and you can see Deadmau5 on the 8. Enjoy epic light shows, food vendors, games, and epic music performances against the backdrop of the Ottawa River.
Aero Gatineau-Ottawa
Where: 1717 Arthur-Fecteau, Gatineau, QC
When: September 6 – 8, 2024
Keep your eyes on the sky during this annual air show for a thrilling aerobatic display. Performers include the Red Arrows from the Royal Air Force, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and Ghost Writer during the night show. There are food vendors you can grab and eat from to enjoy the show.
Ottawa ComicCon
Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Gloucester, ON
When: September 6 – 8, 2024
Fans of comic books, sci-fi, horror, anime, and video games come together at this dedicated pop culture event. There are an array of exhibits and vendors to browse as you meet creators and celebrities in between. You’re encouraged to come dressed in cosplay outfits as your favourite characters.
Some fan-favourite stars will be at ComicCon this year, including all four Hobbits from Lord of the Rings – Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, Elijah Woods and Sean Astin. These four actors will be doing photo ops together. Other stars this year include John Cleese, Jennifer Morrison and Robert Patrick.
Capital Pop-Up Cinema
Where: Multiple locations in Ottawa
When: September 6, 13 and 27, 2024
Soak in those remaining warm nights with an outdoor movie screening event. Matilda will be playing at the Churchill Seniors Recreation Centre on September 6. You can watch E.T. in Beechwood Cemetery on the 13th and enjoy The Goonies on Sparks Street on September 27. Movies begin at dusk, and the time varies slightly throughout the month.
Latin Sparks Festival
Where: LeBreton Flats, Ottawa, ON
When: September 7, 2024
Spice things up at the Latin Sparks Festival and feel the energy radiating from every corner. You’ll be shaking your hips to the sounds of live music, joining in on salsa and bachata classes. Keep swaying over by the stage, where there will be a mix of D.J. beats and bands throughout the day. There will be 15 different food vendors serving dishes like paella, empanadas, tacos, and churros.
Grand Opening VPop at Next Door
Where: 955A Gladstone Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: September 7 and 8, 2024
Check out the grand opening of Next Door Market & Event Space, which will feature the first VPop in the new space. There, you can find a variety of treasures, including vintage clothing, accessories, streetwear, home decor, and much more.
Ganesh Mahotsav
Where: Mosaic Convention Centre, 3750 N Bowesville Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: September 7 – 9, 2024
Ganesh Mahotsav is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, and Ottawa hosts the biggest one in Canada. The event will be filled with enthusiasm. Don’t miss out on the cultural performances and cuisine.
Ottawa REDBLACKS game
Where: T.D. Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: September 7 and 21, 2024
As Canada’s football season slowly comes to an end, there are still opportunities left to cheer on Ottawa’s home team. Sport your favourite red and black swag as you indulge in stadium eats, and keep your eyes peeled for the mascot, Big Joe. Decide which side of the stadium Northside versus Southside rivalry you’re on before grabbing tickets.
If you have a CAA Membership, you’ll save up to 30% off REDBLACKS home game tickets and 10% off official merch.
Little Bones - Tribute to The Tragically Hip
Where: Overflow Brewing Company, 2477 Kaladar Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: September 7, 2024
Overflow Brewing Company may be known for its taproom, but it is also a live music venue with concerts throughout the year. One of the September events is a musical tribute to The Tragically Hip, bringing the spirit of Gord Downie back to life. Enjoy a night of musical brilliance and passion as you sing along to some classic hits. You’ll find other performances on September 6, 10, 12, 13, 17, 20 and 21, 2024.
Urban Art Collective: Saturday Themed Markets
Where: 1088 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: September 7 and 21, 2024
This month, there are two themed markets in Hintonburg where you can shop for unique local goods and connect with the community. The first is the Antique & Vintage Market, where you’ll browse vintage pieces, including clothing, kitchenware, tools and more. The Kids Art Market is on September 21 and is full of children’s vendors so that you can find creative pieces and art made by local kids.
You can also visit the Hintonburg Night Market each Thursday until September 26, 2024, to browse local vendors and listen to live music.
Beechwood's Annual Historical Tour
Where: 280 Beechwood Ave., Vanier, ON
When: September 8, 2024
Walk through a living library where actors will bring incredible people to life and showcase how they shaped history. To get the most out of the experience, arrive before 3 p.m. and Dress for the weather, as this is an outdoor event.
Yoga in Parkdale Park
Where: 366 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: September 8 and 15, 2024
Wake up to soak in the fresh air at one of Parkdale Park’s last two free yoga classes. Get your stretch on and find peace in the park, whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi. Bring a water bottle and a yoga mat.
Parkdale Park features other September events like the Night Market & Concert Series on Wednesdays and the Ottawa Flower Market Collective pop-up on September 21.
Social Sundays
Where: Various locations in Hintonburg, Ottawa, ON
When: September 8 and 15, 2024
A free and casual Sunday of live music and art will have you outside enjoying the sunshine, community, games and discovering local gems. The event highlights local businesses weekly, so it pops up in various locations around the Hintonburg neighbourhood. More details, including the musician, are posted online in the week leading up to Social Sunday.
CityFolk
Where: The Great Lawn at Lansdowne, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
When: September 11 – 15, 2024
Celebrate at a multi-day music festival featuring different genres of music and about 30 artists on multiple stages. It goes beyond folk music; this year, some headliners include The Beaches, Greta Van Fleet, Rise Against, Jamie Fine and Maren Morris. Sing and dance under one of the last summer night skies, watching some of your favourite artists and enjoying some local eats.
Orléans Ribfest & Poutine
Where: 255 Centrum Blvd., Orleans, ON
When: September 13 – 15, 2024
Eat your heart out at this East-end food festival full of all the gravy, cheesy and saucy goodness. Bites go beyond the basics, and there are almost 50 different kinds of poutine. You can grab sweet treats like donuts and ice cream, too. Listen to live music and bring your little ones to the Kids Zone.
Swing on the Hill
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa, ON
When: September 14, 2024
This is your last chance for the year to join this outdoor swing dance social on Parliament Hill. Step back to the 20s, 30s and 40s with swing music and an afternoon of outdoor dancing. The warmup begins at 1 p.m., and the drop-in solo lesson begins at 1:30 p.m., followed by social dancing. The partner dance lesson starts at 3 p.m.
Cheerfully Made Fall Market
Where: Bell Sensplex, 1565 Maplegrove Rd., Kanata, ON
When: September 14, 2024
Cheerfully Made is known for its bright yellow door, which welcomes you into a shop of colourful Canadian gifts in Almonte. The shop hosts seasonal markets, including the annual fall one; this year, for one day only. Browse over 100 Canadian makers as you support locals and find some unique treasures.
Black and Bluegrass Fest
Where: Rideau Pines Farm, 5714 Fourth Line Rd., North Gower, ON
When: September 14, 2024
Continuous live music, a farm background and cheap food, nothing screams a summer Bluegrass festival more than this. Musicians across Canada will perform on two stages for a full day of music and good times.
Heating Up the Capital
Where: Shaw Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: September 14, 2024
Find out if you can handle the heat. There are 40 different hot sauce makers coming together for a day of samples, treats and entertainment. You can meet the makers, try new sauces and buy some to take home.
Open NCC
Where: Sites to visit to be posted online
When: September 14, 2024
Gain a behind-the-scenes look at what happens at the NCC during the day-to-day and what projects are going on. Take walking and cycling tours and enjoy expert presentations to learn about protecting at-risk species, architecture, landscape design and more.
City Sounds Live
Where: 687 Somerset St. W. and 135 Barette St., Ottawa, ON
When: September 15 and 25, 2024
Check out free concerts across the city to discover new artists performing in various venues. The September 15 show is a 3 p.m. performance featuring Tennyson King and Orchidae. Listen to JOLY and Deflore perform on September 25, starting at 6 p.m.
Richmond Fair
Where: 6121 Perth St., Richmond, ON
When: September 19 – 22, 2024
Experience some small-town fun at a community fair with agricultural shows, a demolition derby, rock climbing, live entertainment, midway rides, and games. The Richmond Fair Parade is on September 21 at 11 a.m., and you can watch floats, antique vehicles, livestock, and bands.
Le Tour de Gatineau
Where: Downtown Gatineau, QC
When: September 20 – 22, 2024
This prestigious three-day cycling event for women includes a road race and an individual time trial. Riders will race along the streets of Gatineau, each day ending with an awards ceremony, plus a concert on Friday evening. Spectators can spend time in the Fan Zone to watch the action and grab refreshments.
Autumn Treasures Market
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: September 21, 2024
One of the first autumn events of the season is a free market filled with local vendors and door prizes. Well-behaved pups are welcome, and they can even get a nail trim while you browse.
West End Studio Tour
Where: Multiple locations in Ottawa
When: September 21 – 22, 2024
Organized by local artists who love their trade and want to showcase their unique art pieces, take a free tour of their West End studios. Go beyond the usual echo of galleries and get a personal look at artists’ creative spaces. From Preston Street to Woodroffe Avenue, you’ll find 18 locations to tour within two days.
OLMC Gem and Mineral Show
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Nepean, ON
When: September 21 – 22, 2024
Wander a sea of vendors offering gemstones, minerals, fossils, jewelry, crystals, beads, equipment, carvings, and more. Beyond gems and minerals of different sizes, shapes and styles to browse, there will be demonstrations, seminars and hands-on workshops to join.
Ottawa Mystic Market – Autumn Equinox
Where: 955 Gladstone Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: September 21 – 22, 2024
Everyone from thifters to witches will want to gather at this neighbourhood market. Shop 20 unique vendors that are sure to help satisfy your mystical, spiritual and occult curiosity. In addition to items you can bring home, like candles, home decor, clothing and books, you can also receive a tarot card reading and visit a psychic.
PumpkinFest & FrightFest
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd. A, Ottawa, ON
When: Select dates from September 21 – October 31, 2024
Halloween season around Ottawa kicks off in late September, and the haunted attractions at Saunders Farm are some of the first to open. Bring the entire family to the daytime PumpkinFest, where you can take a wagon ride, eat seasonal treats, play games like Pumpkin Skee and pick out a pumpkin for your porch. Nighttime means FrightFest for those who want to be spooked in multiple haunted house-style activities.
Atlético Ottawa game
Where: T.D. Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: September 22 and 29, 2024
As part of the Canadian Premier League, you can cheer on Ottawa’s very own soccer team during these two of the final three home games of the season. Team colours are red, white and blue, with the crest featuring the Parliament Hill Peace Tower, so any Ottawa-themed swag will show that you’re a fan. Indulge in some stadium snacks and feel the energy radiating from the pitch and within the fan zone.
CAA Members get a 20% discount on Atlético Ottawa home game tickets.
Willow Pill Presents God's Child
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre (E Building), 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: September 23, 2024
Willow Pill, season 14 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, is going on her first solo tour. She’ll be telling the (mostly true) story of her religious childhood up to her current stardom as a D-list celebrity.
Canadian Culinary Championship
Where: Fairmont Château Laurier, 1 Rideau St., Ottawa, ON
When: September 25, 2024
A regional qualifier for the Canadian Culinary Championship, you can savour dishes created by some of the city’s best chefs as they compete to be on the podium. Enjoy a delicious dinner followed by dessert.
Ottawa International Animation Festival
Where: Various locations in Ottawa, ON
When: September 25 – 29, 2024
North America’s largest and oldest animation festival is held throughout Ottawa annually, and you’ll discover screenings, workshops and interactive talks. Locations such as Bytowne Cinema, the National Arts Centre, the Ottawa Art Gallery and Château Laurier, among others, will be transformed into an epicentre of animation. Awards will be given to the best short and feature, along with other categories, determined by three official juries.
Carp Fair
Where: 3790 Carp Rd., Carp, ON
When: September 26 – 29, 2024
There are fun events, entertainment and attractions for everyone at this annual small-town fair. You’ll be amazed at the rural exhibitions and livestock contests such as the Heavy Horse Pull, Dairy Heifer Show and Lawn Tractor Pull. Experience carnival thrills with games and midway rides, including a Ferris wheel, drop zone and cliffhanger. There will be tons of food options, as well as evening concerts.
Les Producteurs
Where: Théâtre du Casino Lac-Leamy, 1 Casino Blvd., Gatineau, QC
When: September 26 – 28 and October 3 – 5, 2024
This show, performed in English and French, is an adaptation of Mel Brooks’ film and award-winning Broadway musical The Producers. The story follows a formerly successful producer on the brink of bankruptcy who, with the help of a young accountant, devises an investor scam and must put on the worst musical of all time. Don’t expect anything to go according to plan.
Learn more
Sam Hunt - Locked Up Tour
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: September 27, 2024
Country sensation Sam Hunt is headlining a North American summer tour named after his latest E.P. release – Locked Up. He’s known for hits like Breaking Up Was Easy in the 90’s, Take Your Time, House Party and Outskirts. Artists Russell Dickerson and Dalton Dover will join him in opening the show.
Pumpkinferno
Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd. 2, Morrisburg, ON
When: September 27 – October 27, 2024
Stroll along a twinkling trail of orange and gold, where you’ll admire over 9,000 hand-carved pumpkins against the backdrop of the historic Upper Canada Village. The artistry and talent in these unique, lively designs are sure to amaze. New exhibits are added annually, so there will be new themes and designs to check out even if you’ve visited before. There are also fall treats for you to enjoy.
Pumpkinferno isn’t the only spooky activity that opens in late September, so stay tuned for CAA’s October events article for more Halloween attractions around Ottawa.
Acres of Terror
Where: Cannamore Orchard, 1480 County Rd. 32, Crysler, ON
When: Select dates September 27 – October 30, 2024
Float into spooky season with a visit to Cannamore Orchard’s iconic Acres of Terror attraction. Four haunted components will keep you on your toes or the edge of your wagon ride seat as scares get you from every angle. Over 30 actors are involved in the Spooky Wagon Ride. The House of Terror is a fun house that meets a haunted house. The Spooky Village has seven Halloween buildings to check out, and you’ll do your best not to get lost in the Fog Maze.
There are many more Halloween events around Ottawa come October, so stay tuned for the Things to Do in October article from CAA.
Ottawa Cat Show
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: September 28 – 29, 2024
Cats parents can enjoy a curated Cat Show that showcases remarkable purebred and household cats competing for various titles. After winners from different classes (Kitten, Championship, Premiership and Household Pet) have received their ribbons, the judge presents the Final Awards to the best of the best.
Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run
Where: The Great Lawn at Lansdowne, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
When: September 29, 2024
Experience a day filled with furry friends and race to raise funds for pets supported by the Ottawa Humane Society. Fundraise and choose between a 1K Kids Fun Run, a 2K Furry Fun Run where you can bring your pet, a 3K Walk, a 5K Run or a 10K Run. Routes follow along the Rideau Canal, and you can celebrate at festival grounds post-race with pet vendors, a family fun zone and more.
The Ottawa Doll and Miniature Sale
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Nepean, ON
When: September 29, 2024
Find over 70 vendors to browse and shop for items, including miniatures, dolls, doll accessories, mini furniture, teddy bears and collectibles. Some types of dolls you can find include Barbie, American Girl, Disney, and porcelain dolls. Door proceeds go to the Ottawa Food Bank.
Pumpkin Fest
Where: Proulx Farm, 1865 O’Toole Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: Exact opening date in September TBA
Proulx Farm transforms into a Halloween playground each autumn where families can spend the day playing on hay bales, navigating mazes, taking a wagon ride, getting their faces painted and bouncing on inflatable structures. Head out to the pumpkin patch to pick one for the season.
Your CAA Membership can help you save along the way
Starting at just $30 a year, CAA Members will discover discounts on everything from dining out and fueling up to savings on car rentals and travel insurance, among many other benefits. You can view the list of 126,000 partner locations worldwide and join online.
