Another sweaty week, followed by another jam packed weekend! Whether you’re looking for sports, live music, theatre, shopping, or something a little bit different, Ottawa definitely has you coverd this weekend. Stay hydrated, stay safe, and stay cool 613ers!
All Weekend
Ottawa Bluesfest 2025 kicks off this weekend, with four busy stages of international talent including Hozier, Shania Twain, Lainey Wilson, Father John Misty, and the Pixies, on top of some cool local bands to check out like DB Cohen, playing on Thursday. Apt613 will be sharing previews and gig photos from the festival every day, as well as posting on our socials!
The Ottawa Titans are back in town for a homestand this weekend, kicking off on Tuesday when they host the Tri-City Valley Cats until Thursday evening, and then taking on the league-leading Québec Capitales Friday to Sunday. Friday night is Theme Night (Taylor’s Version) with friendship bracelets and T-Swift themes all night, followed by post game fireworks. Saturday is the annual Soirée Francophone celebrating la francophonie. Get your tickets in advance to save money!
A Company of Fools is hitting a park near you with their delightful take on Comedy of Errors. This weekend finds them at Walter Baker Park, Patterson Creek, and Beechwood Cemetery. Performances are BYO Chair, and by donation, beginning at 7pm. There are snacks for sale, or bring your own picnic for optimum enjoyment!
Music and Beyond, Ottawa’s classical music and arts festival is taking over venues downtown this weekend with a wide variety of performances. From Chinese dance, chamber music, and piano trios to a choral singing workshop and more. Tickets and festival passes are available online.
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Thursday
If you’re looking for a social way to read more, without having to read a book you didn’t choose, check out the growing Silent Book Club movement in town. This Thursday the Vanier book club is meeting at Anina’s Cafe in Vanier at 7pm. Bring your book, and settle in for a snack and some good recommendations. Read all about the concept in our piece from 2024 here.
Pack up the camp chair for Lansdowne Park Movie Nights on Thursday this summer. This week catch The Fall Guy playing in the South Court at sunset. The movie is free to attend, of course!
Friday
Maybe you’ve seen the stars of Murdoch Mysteries filming around town (peak Canadian joy) for Season 19 and wondered how you can get even more of the Canadian classic show during the offsesason. The NAC is hosting Murdoch Mysteries in Concert with the NAC Orchestra this Thursday and Friday hosted by Murdoch himself – Yannick Bisson. There are still some tickets available if you hurry!
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Capital Pop-up Cinema is back on Sparks street for Speed, starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. The show starts at 8:45, but get there early to settle into a good spot and get yourself some snacks. As always, the screening is free, and there is popcorn and water to purchase, as well as chairs to rent if you don’t want to bring your own!
The second Friday of every month you can catch Drag BINGO at Beyond The Pale in the Byward Market. Doors open at 6:30, and tickets are available online for $25 each.
Saturday
League leaders Atlético Ottawa are home this Saturday against Forge FC, who are nipping at our heels in second place. The Saturday 3pm game is Superman themed, so you’re encouraged to wear your own superhero costume to blend right in. Tickets are avaiable online starting at $20.
HOPE Volleyball Summerfest takes over Mooney’s Bay Friday and Saturday. The concerts at the main bar start at 12:45 on Saturday with Ottawa band Lazzy Lung, followed by Hawksley Workman, Sloan and headliners The Glorious Sons. Tickets are available online for $59.99, or pay $65 at the gate.
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Celebrate Japanese culture at Natsu Matsuri (Summer Festival) at the Sandy Hill Community Centre Saturday from 11-4pm. There will be Japanese food, live performances, vendors, and family activities, and the event is free to attend.
Sunday
Sunday is market day! Check out the Ottawa Farmer’s Market at Lansdowne, the Barrhavan Farmer’s Market, the Nepean Night Market, the Elgin Street Market and the Marché du Square in Chelsea.
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