Heritage Day 2026 – Voices of a City

About

2026 is a big year for heritage in Ottawa! The City is marking the 200th Anniversary of the founding of Bytown and the start of the construction of the Rideau Canal.

This year's Heritage Day theme is "Voices of a City: Celebrating Two Centuries of Collective Histories and Local Heroes in Ottawa."

Details

• Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
• Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
• Location: Jean Pigott Place, Ottawa City Hall

What to Expect

• Over 50 local historical societies, museums, and heritage organizations
• Heritage Showcase
• Volunteer recognition awards
• 2026 Proclamation recipient: Bytown Museum

Dress Up!

Come dressed in your most creative, authentic, and fun historic costume representing any era or local figure from the city's past!

Heritage Week

Heritage Day is part of Heritage Week (February 16–22), with activities and events showcasing Ottawa's diverse and vibrant cultural history.