Stop Overthinking Your Weekend Plans in Ottawa (August 1–3, 2025)
Looking for things to do in Ottawa this August long weekend? Whether you're a local or just visiting for the Civic Holiday, there’s no shortage of events, activities, and festivals happening across the city from Friday, August 1 to Sunday, August 3, 2025.
We’ve rounded up the best long weekend events in Ottawa so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying summer. From fireworks and festivals to live music and family-friendly fun, here’s your weekend guide.
Friday, August 1: Fireworks, Film & Rugby
Capital Pop-Up Cinema: Say Anything on Sparks Street
Kick off your weekend with a free outdoor movie night in the heart of downtown Ottawa. Sparks Street becomes an open-air theatre for a screening of the 80s classic Say Anything at 8:30 PM.
📍 Sparks Street, Block 5 (between Kent & Lyon)
🕗 Arrive early for a good spot
✅ Free, inclusive, and family-friendly
More Info
Women’s Rugby: Canada vs USA at TD Place
Catch the energy as Canada takes on the USA in this international women’s rugby match at TD Place Stadium.
📍 TD Place Stadium, 1015 Bank Street
🕖 Friday, August 1 @ 7:00 PM
🎟️ Ticketed event
More Info
IRONKIDS Fun Run + Ironman Village
Celebrate the Ironman Canada–Ottawa weekend with a fun kids’ run, an athlete expo, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
📍 Confederation Park & surrounding area
🕑 IRONKIDS Run @ 2:00 PM
✅ Free to attend
More Info
Saturday, August 2: Music, Culture & Outdoor Vibes
Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy (Fireworks Festival)
One of the most anticipated summer events in Ottawa-Gatineau returns! Watch stunning fireworks light up the sky over the Ottawa River.
📍 Best viewed from Canadian Museum of History or downtown Ottawa
🕘 Saturday, August 2 @ ~9:15 PM
🎟️ Free with premium viewing available
More Info
NCC Weekend Bikedays
Enjoy scenic Ottawa roads car-free. Ride, run, or rollerblade along routes like the Kichi Zībī Mīkan or Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway.
📍 Various routes across the city
🕗 All day, Saturday & Sunday
✅ Free
More Info
Yoga at the Gallery
Start your Saturday morning with a relaxing yoga session on the National Gallery patio.
📍 380 Sussex Drive
🕘 Morning session, ~9:00 AM
✅ BYO mat, donation suggested
More Info
Ottawa Chamberfest Concert Series
Experience world-class chamber music in beautiful, intimate venues around the city.
📍 Various locations including churches, Rideau Hall & NAC
🕢 Evening performances
🎟️ Ticketed
More Info
Sunday, August 3: Heritage + Family Fun
Pinhey’s Point Historic Site
Visit this 200-year-old riverside manor for a peaceful, scenic day of history and exploration.
📍 Pinhey’s Point, Dunrobin
🕚 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
✅ Free admission
More Info
Glengarry Highland Games (Ongoing)
Not far from Ottawa, these traditional Scottish games feature piping competitions, Highland dancing, heavy athletics, and a full cultural experience.
📍 Maxville, ON (approx. 1 hr from Ottawa)
🕘 Friday–Saturday, daylong events
🎟️ Ticketed
More Info
More Ironman Festivities & Finish Line Events
If you missed Friday’s events, the Ironman buzz continues through the weekend with athlete celebrations, food vendors, and activities for spectators.
📍 Confederation Park & Ottawa River pathways
🕗 All day
✅ Free to attend
Bonus: Make a Day of It
Why not pair one of these events with a stop at a local café, patio, or picnic spot? Try brunch in Hintonburg, bike the Rideau Canal, or wander through the ByWard Market between activities.
Final Tips for the Long Weekend in Ottawa
Transit: OC Transpo runs on a holiday schedule Monday (Civic Holiday).
Parking: Downtown parking lots may fill up quickly during fireworks and major events—consider biking, walking, or transit.
Pack smart: Bring water, sunscreen, and a blanket or chair for outdoor events.
Be early: Events like outdoor movies and fireworks fill up fast!
Looking for more Ottawa events, neighbourhood guides, and real estate tips?
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