Things to do in Ottawa this week

A full week of things to do in Ottawa starting May 11, 2026. Free weekly drop-in Afro-Caribbean dance workshop kicks things off Monday evening, and the NAC has shows running back to back. If you’re after something musical that’s also free, Francophone pop artist Sophie Grenier is performing at Free Jukebox Lunch Concert SeriesThursday evening. Scroll down for the full list.

🔥Handpicked events in Ottawa this week

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⚡All things to do in Ottawa this week

Toddler Tuesdays – NAC
Family
May 12, 2026 Peter A. Herrndorf Place, National Arts Centre

Toddler Tuesdays – NAC

Free weekly drop-in program for children aged 18 months to 5 years and their parents/caregivers. Singing, dancing, games, and story time led…

Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Calgary Surge
Sports
May 12, 2026 Glebe · The Arena at TD Place

Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Calgary Surge

Ottawa BlackJacks home opener for the 2026 CEBL season. Professional basketball — Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). TD Place Arena seats 5,500–8,585.…

Voice of Desert
Concerts & Live music
May 13, 2026 – May 14, 2026 Babs Asper Theatre, National Arts Centre

Voice of Desert (Contemporary Dance Work)

Contemporary dance work by acclaimed Japanese choreographer and dancer Saburo Teshigawara and his company KARAS. Described by Teshigawara as "a piece created…

Gloucester Night Market
Markets
May 15, 2026 Gloucester · Earl Armstrong Arena

Gloucester Night Market

Outdoor evening market celebrating local artisans, makers, and small businesses. Relaxed atmosphere with music, unique finds, and a neighbourhood vibe. Recurring monthly…

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Free things to do in Ottawa

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Ottawa events this weekend

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Upcoming in Ottawa next week

Powwow Workout with Amanda Fox
Workshops & Classes
May 18, 2026 Centretown · Canal Lobby Stage, National Arts Centre

Powwow Workout with Amanda Fox

Free weekly drop-in fitness workshop led by Amanda Fox integrating powwow dance traditions into a full-body workout. Held Mondays at the NAC.…

Toddler Tuesdays – NAC
Family
May 19, 2026 Peter A. Herrndorf Place, National Arts Centre

Toddler Tuesdays – NAC

Free weekly drop-in program for children aged 18 months to 5 years and their parents/caregivers. Singing, dancing, games, and story time led…

While you’re out this week

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Frequently asked questions

What is happening in Ottawa this week?

Ottawa has events running throughout the week including gallery openings, live music, networking events, markets, pop-ups, and community gatherings. This page is updated every Monday with a full breakdown of what’s on from Monday through Sunday.

What is on in Ottawa on weeknights this week?

Ottawa weeknights typically feature live music at venues on Elgin Street and ByWard Market, trivia nights, networking events, theatre performances at the NAC, and local pop-ups. This guide lists weeknight events updated every Monday.

How do I find out what’s happening in Ottawa this week?

613 Times updates this page every Monday with a curated list of the best events happening in Ottawa throughout the week. You can also subscribe to the 613 Times newsletter to get Ottawa’s weekly event picks delivered to your inbox every Thursday.

What are some free things to do in Ottawa this week?

Free things to do in Ottawa this week include drop-in events at local libraries, free museum admission days, outdoor markets, and community events across neighbourhoods like Hintonburg, Glebe, and ByWard Market. The free section of this guide is updated weekly.