October 2025 Events (53 events)
Browse festivals, concerts, cultural events, sports, and more in Ottawa during October 2025.
Butterflies in Flight
Over 100 live butterflies from 20+ species flutter in the museum solarium. New pupae arrive weekly from Costa Rica and Philippines. Included with museum admission.
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.
Dreamcatcher Workshop with Bougie Birch
Craft your own dreamcatcher with Indigenous artist Ashley Clark. Learn about Indigenous artistry and resilience in this 1.5-2 hour hands-on workshop. All materials supplied.
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.
Magic At The Manor
Intimate 90-minute interactive magic and mentalism show with magician Michael Bourada. Mind-blowing mental feats, amazing visuals, and non-stop audience participation!
The Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa
Experience Ottawa's most iconic ghost tour! This 75-minute outdoor walking tour visits haunted locations including Grant House, Château Laurier, and the city's infamous haunted high school.
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.
Antiquarian Book Fair Ottawa
Peruse and purchase antique and rare books, maps, and paper ephemera from 20+ dealers. Live presentations on historic bookbinding and book collecting history.
Trick or Treat with the Mayor
Come trick or treat with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe at Ottawa City Hall! Witches and reapers guard the entrance as visitors explore the shadowy halls and courtyard pumpkin patch.
LEGO Halloween Witch Make & Take
Free LEGO Witch building event for kids! Build and take home your own LEGO Halloween creation while supplies last.
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.
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.
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.