Top Ottawa Festivals to Visit
Ottawa is packed with fun festivals that celebrate its art, culture, and unique community. What better way to take advantage of the beautiful Ontario weather than to attend a few festivals? We’ve searched high and low, and compiled this list of our favorite festivals happening soon in Ottawa.
Ottawa Greek Festival, August 15th – 25th
Experience authentic Greek culture with mouth-watering food, traditional Greek dances, cooking demonstrations, raffles, and language lessons. With attendance up to 70,000 in recent years, this festival is a city favorite. Located at the Greek Orthodox Church at 1315 Prince of Wales Drive, make sure to arrive early for a decent parking spot. Admission appears to be free, but food will cost extra.
Ottawa Lumière Festival, August 24th
The exciting Ottawa Lumière Festival takes place next to the New Edinburgh Community and Arts Centre. The lantern festival offers a family-friendly and free evening event. Expect eclectic performers and musical entertainment before the lantern send off. Costumes are also happily encouraged. Lantern making workshops are offered year-round to help you construct the perfect lantern.
CityFolk Music Festival, September 12th – 15th
The weather is typically perfect in September for standing outside and enjoying the last moments of sunshine. At the CityFolk Musical Festival, you can do just that. There is a wide variety of music to enjoy from artists like Robert Plant and the Sensational Space Shifters, Leon Bridges Summersault, Lucinda Williams, and The Strumbellas. General admission will cost you around $69, and a festival pass runs at $160.
Beau’s Oktoberfest, September 20th – 21st
Enjoy bavarian inspired cuisine and brews and so much more at Beau’s Oktoberfest. With activities for the entire family, plus educational seminars, this is more than just a beer festival. This Oktoberfest takes place in Vankleek Hill, so this is your chance to get out of town and get some small town fresh air. Tickets range from $32 to $45 for adults, and $5 for kids. Camping and “School of Bock” classes are also offered for an additional fee, so make the most of your time at Beau’s Oktoberfest.
Ottawa International Animation Festival, September 25th – 29th
Ottawa sure loves it art, and the Ottawa International Animation Festival is no exception. With big name sponsors like Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network, the Ottawa International Animation Festival is a big deal. Like, a really big deal. Watch animation screenings, listen to guest speakers, and take in the world of animation around you. Single tickets are only $14 for adults, and $10 for kids, seniors, and students. A range of specialized passea are available, and range from $45 to $590.
We’re excited to attend these festivals and learn more about our awesome city of Ottawa. What festivals are you excited for?