Changing Course – Navigating Life After Politics – Wed. May 20th

 Join the Ottawa Women’s Canadian Club for an engaging panel discussion exploring how public figures reinvent themselves after political life. Nancy Peckford, Mayor of North Grenville moderates a conversation with The Honourable Sheila Copps, P.C. and The Honourable Lisa MacLeod, who will share personal stories, lessons learned, and reflections on leadership,

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta – Sun. May 3rd

 Cinco de Mayo takes over the ByWard Market District with live Mexican music and dance, family-friendly cultural activities, community storytelling, a vibrant public art installation and a special exhibition. Expect engaging performances and experiences, bringing together culture, creativity, and community in the heart of the city.

Ottawa PoutineFest – Fri. May 1st until Sun. 3rd

 Bring the family for some local, backyard fun at Ottawa PoutineFest on the big lawn at the RA Centre location. Make sure to save room for dessert—the festival also features the Ontario Buttertart Festival!

Ottawa Rapid FC vs Calgary FC – Sat. May 2nd

 Expect an electric atmosphere as Ottawa Rapid FC kicks off its home season with high-tempo action, passionate supporters, and a thrilling showdown against Calgary FC.

Jane’s Walk – Fri. May 1st until Sun. May 3rd

 Jane’s Walk is an annual festival of free, community-led walking conversations inspired by the late urbanist, activist, and journalist Jane Jacobs. The walking tours encourage people to share stories about their communities, discover unseen aspects of their city, and use walking to connect with neighbours. Click here to see the

Martini Madness – Thurs. May 7th

 Come for the martinis, stay for the good vibes, great people, unbeatable auction items and raising money for an incredible cause. The 19th annual Ottawa Martini Madness event in support of Crohn’s and Colitis Canada’s Ottawa-Gatineau chapter promises to be a fabulous evening in support of the GEM Project at

Red Dress Day – Mon. May 4th & Tues. May 5th

 The Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition invites all community members to our annual Red Dress Day Gathering in honour of the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit+ (MMIWG2S+). The May 4th gathering features educational displays, art installations, commemorative activities, and creative projects to foster healing

Sherri Harding – Tues. June 16th

 Join Sherri Harding for a special evening celebrating the release of her highly anticipated new album, Storyland. With an all-star 12-piece band behind her, Harding brings depth, nuance, and her signature vocal performance to the stage. Rooted in blues, soul and R&B, the show offers a compelling mix of stellar

Arts Carleton Place Spring Fine Art Exhibition & Sale – Sat. May 2nd & Sun. May 3rd

 Discover the work of local painters, sculptors, photographers, and mixed‑media artists at this two‑day spring showcase. The annual exhibition fills the upper level of the Carleton Place Arena with original fine art, all available for purchase, making it a great opportunity to support regional creators and find a one‑of‑a‑kind piece

613Flea – Sat. May 2nd

 Fresh air and fresh finds will be abundant at the next 613flea as the marketplace heads outdoors. Visitors will find 150 colourful pop-up tents at the Aberdeen Square* in Lansdowne Park for the first time this year. Saturdays at 613flea are for strolling, snacking, and discovering. Check out these great

Live Events at Motel Chelsea – Until Thurs. May 28th

 Motel Chelsea offers you an escape to nature where locals, music-lovers, foodies, culture-seekers, and travellers intersect. Nestled in the Gatineau Hills, where the river and forest trails merge with a vibrant arts culture, the Motel Chelsea is a hub of natural and man-made beauty, and local community. Here’s what’s on the

Comedian Jon Gagnon – Fri. May 1st & Sat. May 2nd

 Jon is an internationally touring comedian who has performed at the New York, Paris and Burbank Comedy Festivals. Jon has a fun energy and is known for his 'society takes', as well as crowd work and improvisational style comedy. Jon is the writer/creator of the animation series Stickman, the host

Live Music at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Fri. May 1st & Sat. May 2nd

 Catch the vibe at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino this weekend, where live music takes the stage at the Hard Rock Cafe Center Bar. For high-energy performances, it’s the perfect soundtrack to your night out. Hard Rock Cafe Center Bar Friday – The Vanduras: Ottawa's Jayla Kirkey Band: 9:30 p.m.

Ottawa Swing Dance Society – Fri. May 1st

 The Ottawa Swing Dance Society’s Friday Swing Dance Night is the perfect place to experience the joy and energy of swing dance. No partner or experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and a smile! Oh, and don't forget comfy, flat indoor shoes! WHAT TO EXPECTFirst time? The evening starts with

Barrow Gang – Fri. May 1st

 The band has been bringing joy to people's lives since they first began playing together on local street corners or in city parks during the Covid lockdowns. They are still at it, spreading good vibes across the city, but now you can catch their energetic rockabilly show at the Atomic

The Lucky Ron Show – Every Saturday

 The Lucky Ron Show is a beloved ByWard Market ritual — a rowdy, foot‑stomping, sing‑along Saturday tradition at the Chateau Lafayette where Ottawa’s favourite country troubadour turns the city’s oldest bar into a packed, joyful circus of beer, banter, and classic tunes. No cover, no reservations, no tickets required! Photo: Jean