The inaugural Capital Music Week (CxMW) has just been announced, and it promises to be a major celebration not only of Ottawa’s music scene, but its entire nightlife.
Headline performers include Elijah Woods and Skydiggers. The whole week is organized by the Ottawa Music Industry Coalition (OMIC).

Elijah Woods at Bluesfest 2022. Photo by Landon Entwistle/Apt613.
When asked why they were starting Capital Music Week, OMIC’s Executive Director Melanie Brulée replied “why not?”
“Ottawa is becoming the epicentre of the conversation around nightlife economy and revitalization,” says Brulée. “There are so many things happening in the city, and we’re all looking for interesting partnerships and strategies to make the region a place people want to visit, work, and play in.”
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In addition to great music, CxMW will also feature the Canada After Dark Summit, led by Ottawa’s Nightlife Commissioner Mathieu Grondin.
“The City of Ottawa’s Nightlife Office, in collaboration with OMIC and its partners, is eager to leverage Capital Music Week to boost late-night programming and champion policies that empower Ottawa’s live music scene,” says Grondin in a press release.

City Fidelia performs at the 2023 Capital Music Awards. Photo: Curtis Perry/APT613
Other initiatives include Sound x Summit, a full day of panels, workshops, and a market for music profesionals; the Ontario Music City Showcase, two free lunch-hour concerts on May 21 and 22; and the 6th annual Capital Music Awards.
And don’t forget, a number of local artists will be supporting the headline performances—who also have a strong connection to Ottawa.
“I’m stoked to have so many artists showcasing before headliners throughout the week — it’s important for us to shake up the industry model a bit and help artists develop audiences,” says Brulée.
More information, including tickets, can be found at the Capital Music Week website.