Top 15 Things Happening in Ottawa This Week (Apr 7-14)

Ottawa is buzzing this week with everything from lively nightlife and networking mixers to markets, expos, and family-friendly events across the city. Whether you’re heading to the ByWard Market for a night out or exploring local makers in Hintonburg, there’s something happening every day.

Want to see a quick overview? Check out our full guide to things to do in Ottawa this week.

Top picks this week

1. Trivia Night at Level One Game Pub

This popular weekly trivia night is a staple in the ByWard Market and consistently draws a lively, social crowd looking to break up the week with something fun and interactive. Hosted inside a board game bar, the atmosphere is casual but competitive, with teams gathering around tables covered in games and snacks.
You can expect a mix of trivia categories ranging from pop culture and movies to history and niche knowledge, making it accessible whether you are a trivia regular or just trying it out.
Food and drinks are a big part of the experience here, with plenty of shareable options that keep groups settled in for the full evening.
It is especially popular with young professionals and friend groups looking for a midweek outing that feels social without being overwhelming.
Arriving early is a good idea if you want a solid table spot, as it tends to fill up quickly.
The energy builds as the night goes on, with friendly rivalries and plenty of laughs between rounds.
If you are new to Ottawa or just looking to meet people, this is an easy entry point.
It is also a great option for low-pressure group plans.
Overall, it blends games, drinks, and social vibes into one of the city’s most reliable weekly events.

• 🎲 Location: ByWard Market
• 💵 Price: Free
• 📅 Date: Apr 8

2. Ottawa Midweek Makers Market

This small-scale artisan market in Hintonburg offers a cozy and community-driven alternative to larger weekend markets. It focuses on local makers, meaning everything from handmade crafts to baked goods comes directly from Ottawa creators.
The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to browse, chat with vendors, and discover unique items you will not find in big retail stores.
It is an ideal stop if you enjoy supporting local businesses or are looking for thoughtful gifts.
Unlike busier markets, this one allows you to take your time and actually connect with the people behind the products.
You will often find a mix of candles, jewelry, prints, and specialty foods.
It is also a great early evening activity that pairs well with dinner plans nearby.
The crowd tends to be a mix of locals and creatives, adding to the neighborhood feel.
Because it is midweek, it never feels overwhelming or rushed.
Overall, it is a laid-back but meaningful way to spend a Wednesday.

• 🛍️ Location: Hintonburg
• 💵 Price: Free
• 📅 Date: Apr 8

3. Open Mic Night Ottawa

This open mic night in Centretown brings together musicians, poets, and performers in a relaxed and supportive environment. It is one of the better midweek options if you are looking for something creative and low-key.
The format usually includes a rotating lineup of performers, which keeps the evening dynamic and unpredictable.
Some acts are polished, while others are trying the stage for the first time, which adds to the authenticity.
It is just as enjoyable for audience members as it is for performers.
The crowd is typically engaged and respectful, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
You can expect a mix of acoustic music, spoken word, and experimental performances.
It is also a great place to meet people in Ottawa’s creative scene.
Drinks and casual seating make it easy to settle in for the night.
If you are looking for something different from the usual bar scene, this is a strong choice.

• 🎤 Location: Centretown
• 💵 Price: Free
• 📅 Date: Apr 8

4. Ottawa Entrepreneurs Social

This networking event is designed for startup founders, freelancers, and side hustlers looking to connect in a casual setting. It strikes a balance between structured networking and relaxed conversation.
You will meet a mix of early-stage founders, experienced professionals, and people exploring new ideas.
The environment encourages genuine conversations rather than formal pitches.
It is especially useful if you are trying to build connections in Ottawa’s startup scene.
Expect light facilitation, but plenty of freedom to move around and meet different people.
Many attendees come solo, so it is easy to join conversations.
It is also a good place to exchange ideas and get feedback.
The overall tone is welcoming and collaborative.
If you want to expand your network without a rigid format, this is a great option.

• 🤝 Location: Downtown Ottawa
• 💵 Price: Free-CA$20
• 📅 Date: Apr 9

5. Tech Thursday Ottawa Meetup

Located in Kanata, this meetup is a hub for Ottawa’s tech community and regularly attracts a strong turnout. It features speakers, startup discussions, and open networking.
You will find a mix of developers, founders, and tech professionals.
Talks often focus on current industry trends, making it both educational and practical.
It is a great place to stay updated while meeting people in the field.
The setting is professional but still approachable.
Newcomers are welcome and encouraged to participate.
Networking continues before and after the talks.
It is especially valuable if you are working in or trying to enter tech.
Overall, it combines learning with meaningful connections.

• 💻 Location: Kanata
• 💵 Price: Free
• 📅 Date: Apr 9

6. Ottawa Night Market Pop-Up

This evening market in the ByWard Market blends food, crafts, and music into a vibrant pre-nightlife experience. It is a great way to start your Friday night.
Vendors offer everything from street food to handmade goods.
The atmosphere is lively but still easy to navigate.
It attracts a mix of locals and visitors.
You can grab a bite, browse stalls, and enjoy music all in one place.
It transitions nicely into nearby bars and clubs afterward.
Lighting and setup give it a festive feel.
It is ideal for groups or casual dates.
Overall, it is one of the more dynamic Friday evening options.

• 🌙 Location: ByWard Market
• 💵 Price: Free
• 📅 Date: Apr 10

7. Ottawa Comedy Night Showcase

This stand-up comedy event features local comedians delivering a mix of polished sets and new material. It is a solid choice for a fun and social Saturday night.
The setting is intimate, which makes the experience more engaging.
You can expect a range of comedic styles.
It is especially good for date nights or small groups.
The crowd is typically upbeat and interactive.
Shows move at a good pace, keeping energy high.
Drinks are usually available throughout.
It supports local talent while offering great entertainment.
Overall, it is a reliable nightlife option with lots of laughs.

• 😂 Location: Downtown Ottawa
• 💵 Price: CA$15-25
• 📅 Date: Apr 11

8. Family Fun Day Ottawa

This indoor family event in Nepean is packed with activities designed for kids of all ages. It is a great daytime option for families looking to stay active and entertained.
Activities often include games, crafts, and interactive stations.
The environment is safe and welcoming.
Parents can relax while kids explore.
It is well-suited for younger children.
There is plenty of space to move around.
It is also a good way to meet other families.
The schedule allows for flexible attendance.
Overall, it is an easy and enjoyable weekend outing.

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Location: Nepean
• 💵 Price: Free-CA$10
• 📅 Date: Apr 11

9. Family Fun Day at Canadian Museum of Nature

This event combines education with entertainment through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. It is perfect for families who want a more enriching experience.
Kids can explore science and nature in engaging ways.
The museum setting adds depth to the visit.
Programming is designed to be both fun and informative.
It works well for a full afternoon outing.
Exhibits are visually impressive and interactive.
Staff and facilitators enhance the experience.
It appeals to a wide age range.
Overall, it is one of the most well-rounded family events this week.

• 🦕 Location: Centretown
• 💵 Price: CA$17
• 📅 Date: Apr 12

10. Ottawa Art & Craft Pop-Up Market

This Westboro market highlights local artisans and a relaxed neighborhood vibe. It is perfect for a slow Sunday outing.
You will find handmade goods, art, and food vendors.
The pace is calm and enjoyable.
It is ideal for browsing without pressure.
Vendors are often happy to chat about their work.
It supports small businesses directly.
The setting feels community-driven.
It pairs well with nearby cafes.
Overall, it is a charming and low-key way to spend Sunday.

• 🎨 Location: Westboro
• 💵 Price: Free
• 📅 Date: Apr 12

11. Ottawa Sunday Social Brunch Events

This brunch networking hybrid is popular with young professionals looking to mix socializing with career connections. It offers a more relaxed alternative to traditional networking.
You can expect good food, casual conversation, and structured mingling.
It is easier to approach people in this setting.
The crowd is social and open.
It works well for solo attendees.
Conversations often extend beyond business.
The format keeps things engaging.
It is both productive and enjoyable.
Overall, it is one of the more unique networking formats this week.

• 🥂 Location: Downtown Ottawa
• 💵 Price: CA$20-40
• 📅 Date: Apr 12

12. Ottawa Creative Meetup Night

This Monday meetup brings together creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs in a relaxed setting. It is ideal for starting the week with fresh inspiration.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
You can share ideas and projects.
It attracts a diverse creative crowd.
There is no pressure to pitch.
It is great for collaboration.
Many attendees return regularly.
It helps build community connections.
Overall, it is a refreshing alternative to traditional networking.

• 🎨 Location: Centretown
• 💵 Price: Free
• 📅 Date: Apr 13

13. Ottawa Young Professionals Networking Night

This event is tailored for young professionals looking to expand their social and professional circles. It blends networking with a social mixer atmosphere.
Expect a lively and engaging crowd.
It is easy to meet new people quickly.
The setting encourages movement and conversation.
It is great for career growth.
Many attendees come solo.
It feels energetic and modern.
You can make meaningful connections.
Overall, it is a strong start-of-week networking option.

• 🧑‍💼 Location: Downtown Ottawa
• 💵 Price: CA$20
• 📅 Date: Apr 13

14. Ottawa Business & Tech Mixer

This mixer brings together professionals from business and tech for an evening of high-value networking. It is ideal for founders, marketers, and industry professionals.
The crowd is focused and motivated.
Conversations are often goal-oriented.
It is a good place to exchange ideas.
You can meet collaborators and clients.
The environment is professional but social.
It attracts a strong turnout.
It is useful for staying connected.
Overall, it is one of the more strategic networking events this week.

• 📊 Location: Downtown Ottawa
• 💵 Price: CA$20-50
• 📅 Date: Apr 14

15. Startup Pitch Night Ottawa

This event features early-stage founders pitching their ideas to an audience, followed by networking. It is both educational and engaging.
You get insight into new startups.
Pitches are often fast-paced and საინტერესო.
It attracts investors and entrepreneurs.
The audience can interact and ask questions.
It is great for learning about innovation.
Networking afterward is valuable.
It is ideal for those in the startup space.
Overall, it is a dynamic and informative event.

• 🚀 Location: Downtown Ottawa
• 💵 Price: CA$10-25
• 📅 Date: Apr 14

Explore all upcoming events in Ottawa