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A 150-vendor flea market at Lansdowne Park, a festival devoted to Canadian cinema, and a French-language Greek tragedy with roughly 30 performers are all competing for attention across Ottawa this weekend. Over in Orléans, the Cork and Fork Festival is pairing local wines and craft spirits with gourmet food, while the Glebe hosts both vintage shopping and junior hockey. Ottawa events this weekend range from free markets and family-friendly theatre to major concerts, comedy, and late-night entertainment. Whether you’re exploring Bank Street, catching a performance at the National Arts Centre, or heading outside the downtown core, the Ottawa events calendar has plenty of variety. Here are 15 Ottawa events this weekend, November 6-8, 2026.
One of Ottawa’s most popular independent markets returns to Lansdowne Park on Saturday, bringing together approximately 150 vendors selling vintage clothing, handmade goods, records, comics, artwork, and food. The not-for-profit market is known for its eclectic mix of local makers, bakers, collectors, and artisans, making it easy to spend an afternoon browsing unexpected finds. Admission is free, dogs are welcome, and visitors should check the organizer’s website for the exact building location because the Aberdeen Pavilion is undergoing renovations.
The Shenkman Arts Centre transforms into a destination for food and drink enthusiasts as the Orléans Cork and Fork Festival brings together local wines, craft spirits, gourmet food, and live music. Visitors can explore tastings, chef-led cooking demonstrations, workshops, and culinary experiences across three Friday and Saturday sessions, with an after-party option featuring DJ Mace at Mexicali Rosa’s. This is a 19+ event, and organizers are advertising a 50% discount on the Saturday afternoon session with the code AFTERNOONUNCORKED.
The Ottawa Canadian Film Festival returns for OCan26 with a weekend of homegrown cinema screened at the ByTowne Cinema and Mayfair Theatre. Opening night begins Friday at the ByTowne, followed by Saturday and Sunday screenings, giving film lovers several opportunities to discover Canadian storytelling on the big screen. Single tickets cost $25, with discounted $12.50 admission for seniors, students, and artists, while a $75 festival pass covers the full programme.
Comedian Matteo Lane brings his We Gotta Catch Up Tour to the National Arts Centre’s Southam Hall for a Friday night of sharp observational stand-up. Named one of Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch, Lane blends his musical abilities with stories about relationships, everyday absurdities, and his experiences as a gay man. The English-language performance begins at 7 PM, with tickets available through Ticketmaster.
Holiday shopping gets an early start in Greely as the Metcalfe Farmers’ Christmas Market gathers more than 80 local producers and artisans. Vendors are spread between Parkway Church and the Greely Community Centre, with indoor and outdoor shopping featuring locally produced goods and handcrafted items. The market builds on 33 years of supporting regional producers, and free parking is available at both locations.
The National Arts Centre presents an ambitious French-language production of L’Orestie, directed by Alice Ronfard. Based on the ancient Greek tragedy by Aeschylus, the production explores the devastating consequences of revenge and the difficult pursuit of justice. Approximately 30 performers bring the epic story to life in the Babs Asper Theatre.
The trilogy follows Agamemnon, Clytemnestra, and Orestes through a cycle of violence that ultimately leads to a trial under the goddess Athena. A large chorus and three live musicians add scale to the production. The combination of classical storytelling and contemporary theatrical direction offers a distinctive experience for audiences interested in ambitious stage work.
The Saturday performance begins at 3 PM and runs approximately three hours and 15 minutes, including intermissions. Friday’s 7 PM performance includes an after-show discussion with cast members. For theatre lovers seeking something substantial among Ottawa events this weekend, this production offers an opportunity to experience one of the foundational works of Greek drama.
Canadian singer-songwriter Ben Dunnill performs at the National Arts Centre’s Fourth Stage on Friday evening. Known for a voice described as a blend of gravel and silk, Dunnill combines old-school soul influences with contemporary songwriting. His performance is part of the NAC’s Sicard Artist Series.
Dunnill has attracted attention for jazz-inspired reinterpretations of songs such as Many Men and Gangsta’s Paradise. His repertoire also includes original compositions like Till the Credits Roll and Encore. That mixture of familiar material and personal songwriting makes the concert appealing to listeners who enjoy hearing popular music through a different musical lens.
The Fourth Stage offers a smaller performance setting than the NAC’s main concert halls. At $20 per ticket, this is one of the more affordable live-music options downtown on Friday night. It’s also an appealing Ottawa date idea for couples who appreciate intimate concerts and soulful vocals.
Canadian singer Roch Voisine pays tribute to legendary songwriter Gordon Lightfoot with The Lightfoot Sessions at the National Arts Centre. The acoustic concert celebrates Lightfoot’s influence on Canadian music through a selection of his most recognizable songs. Audiences can expect a performance focused on songwriting, melody, and musical storytelling.
The programme includes Lightfoot classics such as Sundown and If You Could Read My Mind. Voisine also incorporates favourites from his own catalogue, including Kissing Rain. The combination gives longtime fans an opportunity to revisit music from two well-known Canadian artists.
The concert begins Saturday at 8 PM in Southam Hall. It runs approximately two hours, including an intermission. With tickets starting at $56, the show is particularly appealing to listeners who enjoy acoustic performances, Canadian music history, and familiar songs presented in a new setting.
Saturday night hockey returns to Canadian Tire Centre as the Ottawa Senators host the Utah Mammoth. The NHL regular-season matchup gives local fans another opportunity to support Ottawa on home ice. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 PM.
A Senators home game offers more than the action on the ice. The atmosphere inside Canadian Tire Centre makes the experience appealing to longtime supporters and people attending their first NHL game. Groups of friends and families can make an evening of the matchup in Kanata.
Resale tickets were listed from $59, although prices may fluctuate depending on availability. Fans should plan their transportation and arrival time before heading to the arena. For sports enthusiasts looking for Ottawa events this weekend, this Saturday night matchup is one of the major live sporting attractions.
Che_nous brings an inventive blend of acoustic hip-hop, reggae, and world music to the National Arts Centre’s Fourth Stage. The performance features D-Track and Dumis9ne I, who exchange vocals in French, English, and Chewa. Their multilingual approach gives the concert a distinctive musical identity.
The group is joined by Quest, pianist Jean-François Tremblay, and turntablist Eazy El Dee. The combination of live piano, turntables, and vocals creates a sound that draws from several musical traditions. Audiences can expect an approach to hip-hop that emphasizes collaboration and live musicianship.
The Saturday concert starts at 8 PM, with tickets priced at $25. It is a strong choice for listeners interested in discovering music that crosses cultural and genre boundaries. The intimate Fourth Stage setting also provides an opportunity to experience a different side of Ottawa’s contemporary music scene.
The Ottawa 67’s welcome the Windsor Spitfires to The Arena at TD Place for Friday night Ontario Hockey League action. The game takes place at Lansdowne Park in the Glebe, bringing junior hockey to one of Ottawa’s most familiar sports venues. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 PM.
OHL games offer an opportunity to watch developing hockey talent competing at a high level. The fast pace of junior hockey makes the experience entertaining for dedicated fans and casual spectators alike. It’s also an accessible introduction to live hockey for families with younger sports enthusiasts.
The location makes it convenient to explore the surrounding Glebe neighbourhood before or after the game. Tickets are available through the 67’s box office and resale platforms. For families looking for a Friday evening activity, the matchup provides an energetic alternative to concerts or theatre.
Three Canadian rock acts share the stage at Hard Rock Live Ottawa for a Saturday night celebrating decades of rock music. Streetheart headlines the concert as part of its 50th anniversary celebration. Fellow Canadian bands Harlequin and Helix complete the lineup.
The concert brings together artists associated with Canada’s classic rock tradition. Fans can expect an evening centred on recognizable songs and the energy of live guitar-driven music. Having all three acts on the same bill makes the show especially appealing to listeners who grew up with Canadian rock.
Doors open at 6 PM at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Ottawa on Albion Road. The event is restricted to guests aged 19 and older. For anyone looking for a classic rock night out, this anniversary concert offers a chance to see several established Canadian acts in one venue.
Classical music takes centre stage at Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre with Music for a Sunday Afternoon: Fall Edition. The concert features string players from the National Arts Centre Orchestra alongside Music Director John Storgårds, who performs on violin. The programme brings together compositions spanning approximately three centuries.
Audiences will hear music ranging from Purcell’s Chacony to Stravinsky’s Apollon musagète. Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings is also featured in the programme. The selection provides an opportunity to experience different periods of classical music through the expressive sound of string instruments.
The performance begins at 3:30 PM on Sunday and runs approximately two hours with an intermission. Tickets start at $39, with $15 Under30 admission available. A free livestream is also offered, making this an accessible choice for listeners who would rather enjoy the concert from home.
Beechwood Cemetery hosts the RCMP Annual Veterans’ Week Memorial Service on Sunday morning. The ceremony honours members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police who dedicated their lives to protecting communities across Canada. It is organized by the RCMP Veterans Ottawa Division in partnership with the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation.
The service takes place at the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery, providing a meaningful setting for remembrance. The gathering recognizes service, sacrifice, and the continuing importance of honouring those who have served. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
The ceremony begins at 10:45 AM, and attendees are asked to arrive no later than 10:30 AM. Admission is free, making it one of the accessible commemorative Ottawa events this weekend. It is particularly meaningful for veterans, families connected to the RCMP, and residents interested in participating in Veterans’ Week observances.
The Lakeside Players Ottawa bring a fresh theatrical interpretation of The Sleeping Beauty to the Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre in Britannia. Written by Ben Crocker, this production revisits the familiar fairy tale through a stage adaptation. It offers families a chance to enjoy a classic story performed by local theatre artists.
The show is listed as suitable for all ages, making it an option for families looking for a shared Sunday activity. Its fairy-tale foundation should be familiar to younger audiences, while the theatrical presentation offers a different experience from watching an animated film. The community theatre setting also gives visitors an opportunity to support local performers.
Doors open at 1:30 PM, with the matinee beginning at 2 PM. The performance runs approximately three hours, so families with younger children should plan accordingly. Free parking is available on site, and the Britannia location makes it a convenient option for residents in Ottawa’s west end.
613flea offers free admission on Saturday, while the RCMP Annual Veterans’ Week Memorial Service is free on Sunday, and Music for a Sunday Afternoon offers a free livestream. Find more options in our guide to free events in Ottawa.
The Orléans Cork and Fork Festival is a great choice for food and wine lovers, while Ben Dunnill’s intimate concert and the Ottawa Canadian Film Festival offer alternatives for couples who enjoy music or cinema. Explore more ideas in our Ottawa date ideas guide.
Matteo Lane’s Friday comedy show, Che_nous at the NAC, and the Streetheart, Harlequin and Helix anniversary concert are three options for evening entertainment. Discover more in our Ottawa nightlife guide.
Families can browse 613flea, attend the Ottawa 67’s game against Windsor, or enjoy The Sleeping Beauty at the Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre. Find more family activities in our Ottawa events calendar.
New listings get added constantly, check the complete calendar of Ottawa events.
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