What’s Happening in Ottawa This Weekend: August 8–10, 2025
Looking for something fun to do in Ottawa this weekend? Whether you're planning a date night, a family outing, or just looking to explore more of the city, we've got you covered with this detailed guide to the best events and activities happening around town from Friday, August 8 to Sunday, August 10, 2025.
From vibrant street festivals to outdoor movies, live music, lantern festivals, and community fairs, there's something for everyone this weekend. Here’s your ultimate guide to what’s happening in Ottawa:
Friday, August 8
🎪 Ottawa Busker Festival (August 8–10)
📍 Sparks Street & World Exchange Plaza
One of Ottawa’s most beloved summer events returns! The Ottawa International Busker Festival fills downtown with jugglers, fire-breathers, acrobats, magicians, and musical performers from around the world. With performances all weekend long and no admission fees, it’s a fun, family-friendly way to explore the heart of the city. Performers rely on donations, so bring cash to tip your favourites!
🎬 Capital Pop-Up Cinema: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
📍 Dundonald Park (Centretown)
Bring your lawn chair or picnic blanket and enjoy an outdoor screening of the ‘80s classic Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Free to attend and perfect for a laid-back Friday evening under the stars. Movies begin at sunset—around 8:30 PM.
🎡 Navan Fair (Day 1)
📍 Navan Fairgrounds
Just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, the Navan Fair is a long-standing tradition in the region. Friday kicks off with midway rides, carnival games, food vendors, and beer gardens. Expect local entertainment and a festive atmosphere that continues all weekend long.
Saturday, August 9
🎤 Demarco Live at The Palace
📍 The Palace, 400 Dalhousie Street
Get ready to dance! Jamaican dancehall artist Demarco will be performing live, delivering hits like “I Love My Life” in a high-energy show that promises big vibes and great music. Doors open at 9 PM—tickets available online.
🎸 House of TARG Rock Show
📍 House of TARG, 1077 Bank Street
Local alternative and punk rock bands take over House of TARG, including Lazzy Lung, Trenchfoot, Juventud, and Sun Dried Flies. With pierogies, pinball machines, and one of the city’s best underground music scenes, this is a Saturday night favourite for music lovers.
🧘 Yoga at the Gallery
📍 National Gallery of Canada
Start your Saturday morning off right with a peaceful outdoor yoga session on the National Gallery patio. Surrounded by beautiful views of the Ottawa River, it’s a great way to move your body and reset before a busy day.
🚴 NCC Weekend Bikedays (Saturday & Sunday)
📍 Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway & Queen Elizabeth Drive
Ottawa’s scenic parkways are closed to cars on weekends, offering wide-open paths for cyclists, walkers, skaters, and runners. Whether you’re planning a solo ride or a family outing, it’s one of the best ways to explore the city at your own pace.
✊ Walking Tour: Black History in Ottawa
📍 Starting point: Parliament Hill
This guided walking tour shares the rich and often overlooked stories of Ottawa’s Black community, past and present. Led by knowledgeable local guides, it’s an eye-opening and educational experience that brings Ottawa’s streets to life in a new way.
🎬 Capital Pop-Up Cinema: The Princess Bride
📍 Hintonburg Park
Another nostalgic screening under the stars, this time featuring The Princess Bride. Perfect for all ages and completely free. Pack a snack, grab a blanket, and get cozy.
🎡 Navan Fair (Day 2)
Day two of the Navan Fair includes a large parade, horse pulls, demolition derby, agricultural competitions, and more live music. This is one of the fair’s biggest days and a must-visit if you love a traditional country fair atmosphere.
Sunday, August 10
🕯 Ottawa-Gatineau Water Lantern Festival
📍 Andrew Haydon Park
End your weekend on a serene and magical note with the Ottawa-Gatineau Water Lantern Festival. Watch hundreds of glowing lanterns float across the water as the sun sets. The event includes food trucks, live music, and a lantern kit with every ticket. This is one of Ottawa’s most picturesque summer events.
🚴 NCC Weekend Bikedays (Continued)
Sunday offers another full day of car-free parkways. Whether you're hitting the loop again or just getting out for the first time this weekend, it’s a beautiful way to experience Ottawa's green spaces.
🌿 Walking Tour: Indigenous History Experience
📍 Downtown Ottawa
Take a powerful guided tour that explores Indigenous history and storytelling across downtown Ottawa. A meaningful and educational way to connect with the city’s deeper cultural roots.
🎡 Navan Fair (Final Day)
Don’t miss your last chance to experience this summer classic! Sunday is the final day of the Navan Fair, with continued shows, rides, competitions, and food.
Planning Your Weekend
There’s no shortage of things to do in Ottawa this weekend, whether you’re craving music, movies, outdoor adventure, or meaningful cultural experiences. Don’t forget to:
Bring cash for buskers and fair vendors
Book tickets in advance for concerts and festivals
Pack sunscreen, snacks, and water for all-day events
Check weather forecasts and plan accordingly
More Things to Do in Ottawa This Summer
Looking ahead to more events or planning your next weekend outing? Stay tuned to our blog for updated event guides, neighbourhood spotlights, and local favourites across the city.
Looking to make a move to Ottawa or want to live closer to all the action? Get in touch with a New Purveyors real estate agent today—we’ll help you find the perfect home in the heart of it all.
