Top 15 Things Happening This Ottawa May Long Weekend 2026 (May 15-17, 2026)

Ottawa is heading into one of the busiest spring weekends of the season with festivals, markets, live sports, immersive experiences, and family-friendly activities happening across the city. Whether you are planning a relaxing outing or filling every day of the ottawa may long weekend 2026 with events, there is no shortage of things to do around the capital. From glowing forest walks near Montebello to major food festivals and packed local markets, this weekend offers something for every kind of crowd. If you are staying local for Victoria Day weekend, now is the perfect time to explore new neighbourhood events, outdoor gatherings, and unique entertainment experiences.

Top Ottawa May long weekend 2026 picks

1. Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine

Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine returns for four full days of smoky barbecue, loaded poutines, desserts, live entertainment, and family fun at Clarke Fields Park. This is one of the biggest food events of the ottawa may long weekend 2026, featuring top ribbers, gourmet poutine vendors, live music stages, and a brand-new Kid Zone for families.

• 🍖 Where: Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan St, Ottawa
• 🎵 When: May 15-18
• 💵 Cost: Free admission

2. Oniro – Magical Forest Walk (Night)

Parc Omega transforms into an illuminated storytelling experience with Oniro, a magical nighttime forest walk featuring light projections, soundscapes, and immersive art installations. Visitors exploring the ottawa may long weekend 2026 can enjoy this one-of-a-kind sensory adventure through 17 glowing scenes inspired by the story of wolf cub Oniro.

• 🌲 Where: Parc Omega, Montebello, Quebec
• ✨ When: Friday and Saturday evenings
• 💵 Cost: From $29

3. GoodLife HYROX Ottawa

HYROX makes its Ottawa debut this weekend at the EY Centre with thousands of athletes competing in one of the world’s fastest-growing fitness race formats. Whether you are competing or spectating during the ottawa may long weekend 2026, the energy inside the venue is expected to be intense all weekend long.

• 🏋️ Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr
• 🏃 When: Friday to Sunday
• 💵 Cost: Spectator tickets from $15

4. 613flea

The beloved 613flea market returns to Lansdowne with local makers, artists, vintage sellers, bakers, and food vendors filling the venue with unique finds. It is one of the best daytime shopping events of the ottawa may long weekend 2026 for anyone looking to support local businesses and discover handmade goods.

• 🛍️ Where: Lansdowne Park, Ottawa
• 📅 When: Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM
• 💵 Cost: Free admission

More things happening this Ottawa May long weekend 2026

1. Alone in the Dark – Cumberland Heritage Village Museum

Alone in the Dark offers one of the most atmospheric and unusual experiences happening during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. This immersive paranormal investigation takes place after hours inside the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, where participants explore historic buildings including an old church, schoolhouse, train station, and family home. Unlike traditional ghost tours, this experience focuses on observation, experimentation, and guided investigation techniques rather than scripted scares. Small groups move quietly through the dimly lit village while expert hosts explain paranormal tools, folklore, and investigative methods. The setting itself creates a deeply eerie atmosphere, especially with the village closed to the public for the evening. Participants are encouraged to interpret their own experiences throughout the night, making every tour feel personal and unpredictable. The event is designed for curious adults who enjoy mystery, history, and immersive storytelling. Since spaces are intentionally limited, the experience feels intimate and far removed from crowded tourist attractions. Anyone looking for a memorable nighttime activity this Victoria Day weekend should add this unique paranormal experience to their plans.

• 👻 Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum
• 🌙 When: Friday and Saturday from 8 PM to 10 PM
• 💵 Cost: $67.99

2. CanGames Tabletop Game Convention

CanGames is returning for another packed weekend of tabletop gaming during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. Held at the Rideau Curling Club, this long-running convention has been a staple of Ottawa’s gaming community since 1977 and continues to attract players from across the region. Visitors can participate in hundreds of scheduled games including board games, miniature games, card games, and roleplaying adventures. The convention is known for being extremely welcoming to both longtime hobbyists and curious newcomers who want to try something different. Throughout the weekend, attendees can browse vendors selling games, collectibles, accessories, and hobby supplies while meeting local creators and fellow players. There is also a full-service bar and meal service on site, allowing guests to stay for entire gaming sessions without needing to leave the venue. The atmosphere is energetic, social, and creative, especially during large multiplayer events and tournaments. Because there are games scheduled across multiple time slots every day, visitors can easily spend an entire afternoon or evening immersed in the convention. For anyone looking to connect with Ottawa’s tabletop community this weekend, CanGames is one of the city’s most unique indoor events.

• 🎲 Where: Rideau Curling Club, 715 Cooper St
• 🧩 When: Friday to Sunday
• 💵 Cost: From $15

3. K-Man and the 45s + Joystick + Goat + Chapter 33

Fans of punk, ska, and live alternative music will find plenty of energy at Dominion Tavern during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. Montreal-based K-Man and the 45s headline this lively Friday night concert alongside supporting acts Joystick, Goat, and Chapter 33. Dominion Tavern has long been considered one of Ottawa’s most iconic live music venues for rock and punk performances, creating an intimate atmosphere where crowds are always close to the stage. The lineup promises a fast-paced evening filled with ska rhythms, punk vocals, and high-energy crowd interaction. Concertgoers can expect a packed venue atmosphere that feels authentic, local, and energetic from start to finish. Located in the heart of the ByWard Market, the show also makes it easy to continue the night with nearby bars and restaurants after the performance. This event is best suited for adults looking for a louder and more social Friday night experience. The smaller venue setting often creates memorable performances that feel more personal than larger arena shows. For anyone seeking live music with plenty of personality this weekend, this concert stands out as one of Ottawa’s strongest nightlife options.

• 🎸 Where: Dominion Tavern, 33 York St
• 🍻 When: Friday at 8 PM
• 💵 Cost: $20

4. Th’owxiya: The Hungry Feast Dish

Families looking for meaningful entertainment during the ottawa may long weekend 2026 should consider attending Th’owxiya: The Hungry Feast Dish at the National Arts Centre. This Indigenous theatre production by playwright Joseph A. Dandurand combines masks, storytelling, songs, and dance to bring a traditional Kwantlen First Nations tale to life. The story follows an ogress spirit connected to a magical feast dish while teaching lessons about respect, responsibility, and giving back to the earth. Young audiences are encouraged to engage with the imaginative staging and visually creative performances throughout the show. The production balances entertaining moments with deeper cultural themes that resonate with both children and adults. Families attending the Saturday performance will also benefit from ASL interpretation, making the event more accessible for a broader audience. The one-hour runtime makes it especially manageable for younger children without feeling too long or overwhelming. Visitors to the NAC can also enjoy the surrounding downtown area before or after the performance. This production offers one of the most thoughtful and culturally rich family activities happening in Ottawa this weekend.

• 🎭 Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St
• 👨‍👩‍👧 When: Saturday at 2 PM
• 💵 Cost: Check NAC website

5. Atlético Ottawa vs. Halifax Wanderers FC

Soccer fans can head to TD Place this Sunday as Atlético Ottawa hosts Halifax Wanderers FC during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. The Canadian Premier League matchup brings professional soccer action to Lansdowne with passionate supporters, lively chants, and a stadium atmosphere that continues to grow every season. Atlético Ottawa home games are known for their energetic crowd sections and family-friendly environment, making them appealing for both serious sports fans and casual attendees. Visitors can expect food vendors, pre-game excitement around Lansdowne, and a full afternoon of entertainment beyond the match itself. Spring weather and the outdoor stadium setting make this one of the most enjoyable sporting experiences available in the city right now. The matchup against Halifax also adds competitive intensity as both clubs continue their regular season campaigns. Fans attending early can explore nearby restaurants, patios, and the Sunday market happening around Lansdowne before kickoff. Soccer matches at TD Place provide a strong mix of local community spirit and professional sports excitement. Anyone searching for an active and social outing this weekend should consider adding this match to their plans.

• ⚽ Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St
• 📣 When: Sunday at 1 PM
• 💵 Cost: From $54

6. Anyone Can Sculpt Ice: Ottawa’s Hands-On Ice Sculpting Workshop

This interactive workshop offers one of the most unexpected creative activities available during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. Hosted by the Canadian Ice Carvers Clubhouse in Nepean, the session introduces participants to the basics of professional ice sculpting in a hands-on environment. Instructors begin with demonstrations covering ice clarity, carving methods, safety practices, and specialized tools before participants begin shaping their own creations. Guests then work directly on prepared ice blocks while receiving guidance from experienced sculptors throughout the session. The workshop is beginner friendly and designed for participants who simply want to try something unique without needing previous artistic experience. Visitors will gain insight into how professional ice sculptures are built for winter festivals, weddings, and major public events. The indoor setting also makes this an appealing weather-proof activity if conditions outside become unpredictable over the long weekend. The final showcase and photo session provide a fun opportunity to display completed pieces under lighting that highlights the ice textures and details. For anyone searching for a memorable creative experience this weekend, this workshop offers something genuinely different from Ottawa’s usual event lineup.

• 🧊 Where: Canadian Ice Carvers Clubhouse, 42 Antares Drive
• ✨ When: Saturday from 10:30 AM to 12 PM
• 💵 Cost: $35

7. Latin American Film Festival Ottawa 2026

The Latin American Film Festival Ottawa wraps up this weekend with its final screenings during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. Presented in collaboration with Saint Paul University and the Group of Embassies of Latin American Countries, the festival showcases films from 14 countries across Latin America. Visitors can experience a wide range of storytelling styles, cinematic traditions, and cultural perspectives through screenings spanning drama, documentary, and independent film. The festival has become an important cultural event in Ottawa, drawing movie lovers interested in international cinema and global artistic voices. In addition to screenings, the event also includes discussions about film industry collaboration between Canada and Latin America. The university setting creates an intimate and community-focused atmosphere that encourages thoughtful conversation between attendees. Since these are the final screening days of the festival, there is added excitement around closing weekend programming. Film fans looking for a quieter but culturally enriching activity will appreciate the diversity and depth of the lineup. This event offers an excellent alternative to outdoor festivals while still providing a lively social experience.

• 🎬 Where: Saint Paul University Amphitheatre
• 🌎 When: Friday and Saturday
• 💵 Cost: Check Eventbrite

8. Ottawa Farmers’ Market – Westboro Opening Weekend

The Ottawa Farmers’ Market officially launches its Westboro outdoor season this Saturday during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. More than 60 local vendors will gather along Byron Linear Park offering fresh produce, baked goods, meat, dairy products, prepared foods, crafts, and seasonal specialties sourced within 100 kilometres of Ottawa. The producer-only format ensures shoppers are buying directly from local farmers, bakers, and artisans rather than resellers. Visitors can stroll through the market while enjoying live music performances and sampling ready-to-eat food from the on-site food court. The atmosphere is relaxed, community-focused, and ideal for anyone looking to spend time outdoors on a spring morning. Families often visit together because the market combines shopping with entertainment and easy access to nearby cafés and Westboro businesses. This opening weekend also gives shoppers a first look at seasonal produce and newly returning vendors for 2026. Since pets are welcome, many locals treat the market as part of their regular weekend routine once warmer weather arrives. For anyone hoping to support local producers and enjoy Ottawa’s spring market scene, this is one of the best daytime events happening this weekend.

• 🥕 Where: Byron Linear Park, Westboro
• 🎶 When: Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM
• 💵 Cost: Free entry

9. Main Street Farmers’ Market

Old Ottawa East comes alive again this Saturday with the return of the Main Street Farmers’ Market during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. Hosted at Grande Allée Park, this producer-only market highlights local growers, bakers, food vendors, and artisans from within 100 kilometres of Ottawa. Visitors can browse fresh vegetables, baked treats, pantry staples, flowers, handmade products, and ready-to-eat meals while listening to live music throughout the morning. The market has built a loyal following because of its smaller neighbourhood atmosphere and strong sense of community connection. Many visitors use the market as an opportunity to meet local producers directly and learn more about where their food comes from. Families with children often appreciate the relaxed park setting and open green space nearby. The market is also conveniently located for visitors exploring Old Ottawa East, the Rideau River pathways, and surrounding cafés. Seasonal programming and community activities help make each weekend feel slightly different from the last. Anyone looking for a slower-paced but enjoyable weekend outing should consider adding this local market to their plans.

• 🌿 Where: Grande Allée Park, 185 Main Street
• 🛒 When: Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM
• 💵 Cost: Free entry

10. Ottawa Farmers’ Market – Lansdowne Outdoor Season

The Lansdowne outdoor market continues this Sunday as part of the busy ottawa may long weekend 2026 lineup. Featuring more than 85 local vendors, the Ottawa Farmers’ Market at Lansdowne is one of the city’s largest weekly outdoor shopping experiences. Visitors can browse fresh produce, local meats, dairy, baked goods, prepared foods, artisan crafts, and specialty products while enjoying the lively atmosphere around Aberdeen Square. Live music and buskers add extra energy throughout the day, making the market feel more like a festival than a traditional shopping trip. Many attendees combine the market with brunch, shopping, or walks through the Glebe neighbourhood and Rideau Canal pathways nearby. Because the event is producer-only, shoppers have the chance to connect directly with farmers and small business owners from the Ottawa region. The market is also pet friendly, which contributes to its welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere. Spring weekends at Lansdowne are especially busy because so many other events happen nearby at the same time. For visitors looking to spend a relaxed Sunday outdoors, this market remains one of Ottawa’s most reliable weekend favourites.

• 🍓 Where: Lansdowne Park, Aberdeen Square
• 🎵 When: Sunday from 9 AM to 3 PM
• 💵 Cost: Free entry

11. Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Niagara River Lions

Basketball fans can extend their ottawa may long weekend 2026 plans into Victoria Day Monday with the Ottawa BlackJacks taking on the Niagara River Lions at TD Place Arena. This matchup features the back-to-back CEBL champions visiting Ottawa for what is expected to be one of the season’s most exciting home games. The Canadian Elite Basketball League has continued to grow rapidly across the country, and BlackJacks games now deliver a lively mix of sports, entertainment, music, and crowd engagement. Fans attending can expect energetic introductions, halftime performances, interactive contests, and a fast-paced basketball atmosphere throughout the evening. The arena’s compact setting keeps spectators close to the action and creates a louder, more intense environment than many larger venues. Families, groups of friends, and casual sports fans often enjoy BlackJacks games because the experience feels accessible and highly entertaining even for people who do not regularly follow basketball. Victoria Day games also tend to attract larger crowds and extra energy from holiday weekend visitors. The location at Lansdowne makes it easy to pair the game with dinner or drinks before tipoff. Anyone searching for a fun holiday Monday activity should consider spending the evening at TD Place Arena.

• 🏀 Where: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St
• 📅 When: Monday at 7 PM
• 💵 Cost: From $25

613flea returns to Lansdowne this Saturday with one of the city’s most popular independent shopping events during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. The monthly market brings together more than 150 local vendors selling handmade goods, vintage clothing, records, artwork, jewellery, baked treats, specialty foods, and collectibles. Visitors can spend hours browsing through carefully curated booths while discovering Ottawa-based artists, makers, and small businesses. The atmosphere is energetic but relaxed, attracting a mix of longtime flea market fans, casual shoppers, tourists, and families exploring Lansdowne for the day. Since the Aberdeen Pavilion remains under renovation, attendees should confirm the exact building location before arriving, though the event remains centred around Lansdowne Park. Food vendors and coffee stands throughout the market make it easy to turn the visit into a full morning or afternoon outing. One of the best parts of 613flea is the variety, as every booth offers something completely different from the next. The market is also dog friendly, adding to its community atmosphere and making it a fun stop for pet owners enjoying spring weather. Anyone looking for unique local shopping and creative Ottawa talent this weekend should make time for 613flea.

• 🛍️ Where: Lansdowne Park, Ottawa
• 🎨 When: Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM
• 💵 Cost: Free admission

13. GoodLife HYROX Ottawa

GoodLife HYROX Ottawa makes its highly anticipated debut at the EY Centre this weekend and is expected to draw thousands of athletes and spectators during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. HYROX is one of the fastest-growing global fitness racing events, combining endurance running with functional workout stations in a competitive indoor format. Participants rotate through eight one-kilometre runs paired with demanding workout challenges including sled pushes, rowing, wall balls, SkiErg, sandbag lunges, and farmers carries. The event welcomes everyone from elite athletes to first-time competitors participating in singles, doubles, relay, mixed doubles, and adaptive divisions. Even spectators who are not competing will find the atmosphere exciting because of the loud crowd support, energetic music, and nonstop action happening across the venue floor. Fitness fans often attend simply to watch competitors tackle the physically demanding course and experience the growing HYROX community firsthand. The EY Centre’s large indoor space allows multiple races and workout stations to operate simultaneously, creating an intense event environment throughout the weekend. Since this marks the first HYROX event ever hosted in Ottawa, there is added excitement surrounding the launch. Anyone interested in fitness culture, endurance competition, or high-energy spectator events should strongly consider checking this out.

• 🏋️ Where: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr
• 🏃 When: Friday to Sunday
• 💵 Cost: Spectator tickets from $15

14. Oniro – Magical Forest Walk (Night)

Oniro at Parc Omega offers one of the most visually immersive experiences available during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. This nighttime forest trail combines storytelling, projections, music, lighting effects, and nature into a 60-minute guided walk through illuminated woodland scenes. Created by renowned artist Michel Lemieux, the experience follows the story of wolf cub Oniro as the forest around visitors transforms into a living theatrical environment. Throughout the walk, trees glow with projection mapping while voices, soundscapes, and carefully designed installations create a dreamlike atmosphere unlike anything else near Ottawa. The event appeals to couples looking for a unique date night, families seeking something memorable, and photography enthusiasts hoping to capture the striking nighttime visuals. Since the first departures begin at sunset, the changing evening light adds an extra level of atmosphere as darkness settles across the trail. Parc Omega’s natural surroundings help make the experience feel immersive and peaceful at the same time. Visitors should plan for comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing since the event takes place entirely outdoors. For anyone wanting a magical and cinematic escape from the city this weekend, Oniro stands out as one of the region’s most memorable attractions.

• 🌲 Where: Parc Omega, Montebello, Quebec
• ✨ When: Friday and Saturday evenings
• 💵 Cost: From $29

15. Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine

Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine returns this weekend with four days of barbecue, comfort food, desserts, and live entertainment during the ottawa may long weekend 2026. Clarke Fields Park will once again fill with the smell of smoked ribs, grilled chicken, pulled pork, gourmet poutine creations, and classic festival snacks from vendors across the region. Guests can sample everything from traditional poutine recipes to overloaded specialty versions topped with creative ingredients and rich sauces. Beyond the food itself, the event also features expanded live music programming, giving visitors entertainment throughout the day and evening. Families attending this year’s festival can also enjoy the newly added Kid Zone, which introduces extra activities designed specifically for younger visitors. The relaxed outdoor atmosphere makes this event ideal for groups of friends, families, and anyone looking to spend time outside over the holiday weekend. Since admission is free, many locals stop by multiple times across the four-day event to try different food vendors and catch different performances. Dessert stands serving mini donuts, churros, funnel cakes, and deep-fried cheesecake add another layer of indulgence to the festival experience. Anyone craving classic long weekend comfort food should make Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine one of their top priorities this weekend.

• 🍖 Where: Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan St
• 🎵 When: Friday to Monday
• 💵 Cost: Free admission

Find more upcoming events in and around Ottawa.