Cultural Events in Downtown
View on MapBrowse 16 events - cultural happenings in the Downtown area including festivals, shows, and activities.
Ottawa Symphony Orchestra: Machines & Myths
The season launches with a powerful program featuring the full symphonic orchestra in its largest performance of the year, exploring themes of heroism, technology, and the human condition.
Black History in Ottawa Streets
Historic bus tour uncovering the vibrant tapestry of Black history in Ottawa and across Canada, sharing stories of resilience, culture, and community.
Free Thursday Nights at National Gallery
Free Thursday evening admission with seasonal refreshments, live music, and art-making activities. Presented by BMO at the Scotiabank Great Hall.
ArohaFest Diwali Dhamaka: Dance from Coast to Coast
Free pop-up performances showcasing classical Indian dances (Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam) at the National Arts Centre, celebrating Diwali - the vibrant festival of lights.
Ghosts of the Bytown Museum
Join us on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ottawa's supernatural past as we explore the Bytown Museum.
Toddler Tuesdays at National Arts Centre
Interactive performing arts program for children aged 18 months - 5 years. Singing, dancing, games, story time and creative play with instructor Jesse Kahat.
Monster Mixtape - Halloween Concert with the NAC Orchestra
The NAC Orchestra turns Southam Hall into a playground of sound and suspense with eerie, epic, and haunted music straight out of your favourite Halloween playlist.
National Remembrance Day Ceremony
The National Remembrance Day Ceremony honouring Canadian veterans and fallen soldiers, featuring dignitaries, two minutes of silence at 11 a.m., wreath-laying, and military flypast.
Christmas with the OSO
Join the Ottawa Symphony for a festive holiday performance featuring heartwarming seasonal favourites and a special audience carol sing-along.
Undercurrents – Contemporary Theatre Festival
Ottawa's innovative contemporary theatre festival showcasing thought-provoking works from local and national artists over 11 days.
Heritage Day 2026 – Voices of a City
Celebrate Ottawa's 200th anniversary with the theme 'Voices of a City,' featuring over 50 historical societies, museums, and heritage organizations at City Hall.
The Beauty in Breaking: Love Is Never Wasted
A multidisciplinary art exhibition exploring heartbreak and grief through paintings, dance, music, poetry, and interactive elements featuring 10+ local Ottawa artists.
Rose - World Premiere Musical
NAC Indigenous Theatre presents the world premiere of Tomson Highway's deeply moving and fiercely funny musical about three Roses on a fictional reserve. Ages 16+.
Ottawa Black Film Festival 2026
6th edition showcasing unique voices in cinema and amplifying Black stories. Features online and in-theater screenings at Library and Archives Canada.
A Day at the Farm
An original Canadian production perfect for children aged four to fifteen, featuring the orchestra with a special spotlight on the percussion section and vivid farmyard narration.
Celtic Cross Ceremonies
Annual ceremony at the Celtic Cross monument honouring Irish immigrants who helped build the Rideau Canal, hosted by the Irish Society of the National Capital Region.