The entire region in and around Ottawa is packed with activities and adventure to enjoy all summer long with your whole family. Whether you enjoy outdoor festivals, BBQs, or exciting exhibits to explore – there’s something for you here! If you’ve been looking for a few fun things to put in your calendar this season, check out our list of summer activities for both adults and kids that you won’t want to miss.
Ottawa Children’s Festival 2019
Start the summer off right at the Ottawa Children’s Festival that’s held at Lebreton Flats Park from May 8th to 12th. This event features exciting and lively performances from different theatre acts, along with live music, acrobatics, and child-friendly puppet shows (for ages 2 to 15). It’s educational and a whole ton of fun. Take a look at all the exciting acts on the program here.
Canada Day!
This year it’s our country’s 152nd birthday on July 1st, and Ottawa is the best place to celebrate. You’ll find a wide range of activities at Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History and Major’s Hill Park including parades, fireworks, concerts, and even unique circus performances. There’s a range of activities for everyone to enjoy! You can also take advantage of free transportation with free bus service on the OC Transpo all day and a free shuttle from 9 am to 6:30 pm between Ottawa and Gatineau. Take a look at the details as well as the Canada Day program here. (Pro tip: Best viewing spot for the fireworks is the Major’s Hill Park that overlooks the Ottawa River.)
Mothercraft Ottawa 12th Annual Touch a Truck Event
Mothercraft Ottawa is a non-profit family support service for parents of children of any age. From prenatal classes to care programs for children ages from 6 weeks to 12 years, the agency focuses on education and development. On June 9th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Lincoln Fields Shopping Centre, Mothercraft Ottawa is holding their 12th annual fundraising event – Touch a Truck – with different vehicles, activities, performances and more. OML will have a truck there! Come meet us and see what our moving trucks look like in real life.
Ottawa International Buskerfest
During August 1st to 5th, Sparks Street turns into a magical place of circus performers, buskers, jugglers, fire breathers, face painters, stilt walkers and memorizing shows. You’ll find talent from all across the globe, including musical acts like Rockabilly Joe and Matt Ricardo. Vendors and restaurants will also be serving up delectable menus throughout the street.
Navan Fair
The following weekend on August 8th to 11th, runs the Navan Fair, a summer tradition that is always a treat for kids and adults alike. Over 4 days, visitors can experience agricultural exhibitions, a colourful parade, rides, carnival games, shows and competitions. The kids will love watching the Ultimutts’ stunt dogs and cats, as well as the Rock The Arts puppet show. Just be sure you get your tickets ahead of time, as this fair often sells out!
Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival
Don’t miss this exciting end of summer event for the whole family! The Baie Park in Gatineau, Quebec will host the Hot Air Balloon Festival on the weekend of August 29th to September 2nd. Watch as balloons take to the sky and then enjoy a variety of activities and shows afterwards. Rides, fireworks, DJs – it’s a big family-friendly party that’s perfect for ending off the summer festivities.
There’s so much to see and do here in the Ottawa area. If you’re planning to move to this region this year, contact us at Ottawa Moving Logistics. We’ll help you get settled in quickly and comfortably. Learn all about our moving services here before booking!
