10 Things to Do in Ottawa This Week (April 1-7, 2026)

Ottawa is easing into April with a week that covers just about every mood: trivia in the Market, networking downtown, a big family weekend at Saunders Farm, and a few easy excuses to get out of the house after work. Whether you want something social, something family-friendly, or something that ends with a dance floor, there is a solid mix on the calendar this week.

Here are the best events, festivals, activities, and experiences happening across the city
from April 1-7.

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 Clocktower Brew Pub

A go-to midweek plan in the ByWard Market, this trivia night keeps things casual, social, and just competitive enough. Great for groups looking to break up the week with drinks and some light brainpower.

Details

• When: April 1
• Where: ByWard Market
• Category: Nightlife
• Price: free

2. Ottawa Networking Night for entrepreneurs and creators

A relaxed downtown networking event that brings together entrepreneurs, creatives, and startup-minded folks. Expect easy conversation, drinks, and a low-pressure way to meet new people.

Details

• When: April 2
• Where: Downtown Ottawa
• Category: Networking
• Price: CA$15

3. Easter Weekend at Saunders Farm

One of the biggest family events of the week, with egg hunts, outdoor activities, and plenty of food options. A full outing that’s especially popular with kids and families.

Details

• When: April 3 to 5
• Where: Munster
• Category: Family event
• Price: CA$20

4. Ottawa Farmers’ Market, Lansdowne opening day

The Lansdowne market returns for the season with fresh produce, baked goods, and local vendors. Opening day always draws a lively crowd and a strong community vibe.

Details

• When: April 4
• Where: The Glebe
• Category: Market
• Price: free

5. Free museum evening at the National Gallery

A great chance to explore one of Ottawa’s top galleries without paying admission. Expect a busy but enjoyable evening wandering exhibits at your own pace.

Details

• When: April 4
• Where: Downtown Ottawa
• Category: Free event
• Price: fre

More things to do this week

1. Trivia Night at Clocktower Brew Pub

If you are looking for something easy and social on a Wednesday night, trivia at Clocktower is a reliable choice. The vibe is casual and welcoming, making it just as suitable for a group of friends as it is for coworkers or even a last-minute plan. Teams compete across a mix of categories, and while there are prizes on the line, most people are there for the atmosphere as much as the competition. It is one of those nights that feels low effort but still gets you out of the house.

Details

• When: April 1
• Where: ByWard Market
• Category: Nightlife
• Price: free

2. Ottawa Networking Night for entrepreneurs and creators

This event leans into a more modern, relaxed version of networking, with a crowd that typically includes freelancers, founders, and creatives. Conversations tend to flow more naturally than at traditional business events, and the setting encourages people to actually connect rather than just exchange quick introductions. If you are building something, exploring ideas, or just looking to meet people in similar spaces, this is a comfortable place to start.

Details

• When: April 2
• Where: Downtown Ottawa
• Category: Networking
• Price: CA$15

3. Live DJ Night at City at Night

Friday night at City at Night is all about energy. The music is loud, the dance floor fills up quickly, and the crowd is there to move. It is a staple in the ByWard Market nightlife scene, especially for a younger crowd looking to kick off the weekend properly. If you are in the mood for something lively and a little chaotic in the best way, this is where you go.

Details

• When: April 3
• Where: ByWard Market
• Category: Nightlife
• Price: CA$15

4. Easter Weekend at Saunders Farm

Saunders Farm turns into a full Easter destination this weekend, with egg hunts, outdoor games, and food vendors spread across the property. It is designed as an all-day outing, especially for families with younger kids who want space to run around and lots to do. It is one of the more popular seasonal events just outside the city, so expect a busy but festive atmosphere.

Details

• When: April 3 to 5
• Where: Munster
• Category: Family event
• Price: CA$20

5. Ottawa Farmers’ Market, Lansdowne opening day

The Lansdowne market’s opening day always brings a strong turnout, and for good reason. Local vendors return with fresh produce, baked goods, and specialty items, while live music adds to the overall atmosphere. Even if you are not shopping for anything specific, it is an easy and enjoyable way to spend part of your Saturday and soak in that early spring energy.

Details

• When: April 4
• Where: The Glebe
• Category: Market
• Price: free

6. Free museum evening at the National Gallery

Free admission nights at the National Gallery are a great reminder of how much there is to explore right in the city. Whether you are interested in specific exhibits or just want a quiet evening walking through the galleries, this is a flexible plan that works for almost anyone. It can get busy, but that shared energy often adds to the experience.

Details

• When: April 4
• Where: Downtown Ottawa
• Category: Free event
• Price: free

7. Sunday Family Fun Day at the Canadian Museum of Nature

This weekly program is designed to keep kids engaged with hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences. It is a strong option for families looking for something educational that still feels like a fun outing rather than a structured activity. The museum itself adds to the experience, making it easy to turn this into a longer visit.

Details

• When: April 5
• Where: Centretown
• Category: Family event
• Price: CA$17

8. Ottawa Vintage Pop-Up Market

Vintage pop-ups like this one tend to attract a mix of serious shoppers and casual browsers, all looking for something a little different. The selection is usually curated, which makes it easier to find standout pieces, and the Hintonburg setting adds to the overall appeal. It is as much about the experience as it is about the shopping.

Details

• When: April 5
• Where: Hintonburg
• Category: Market
• Price: free

9. Ottawa Business Networking Social

For those looking for a more structured networking environment, this event offers a clear opportunity to meet professionals and build connections. The format encourages actual conversation rather than quick exchanges, making it useful for anyone serious about expanding their network in Ottawa.

Details

• When: April 6
• Where: Downtown Ottawa
• Category: Networking
• Price: CA$20

10. Open Mic Night at Irene’s Pub

Open mic nights at Irene’s Pub have a reputation for being welcoming and community-driven. With a mix of music and comedy, the night offers a rotating lineup of local talent in an intimate setting. It is a great way to enjoy a low-key evening while supporting Ottawa’s creative scene.

Details

• When: April 7
• Where: The Glebe
• Category: Nightlife
• Price: free

Plan your time in Ottawa