If you get a chance to visit Ontario, you will want to visit Ottawa as there are many Ottawa events that take place throughout the year, featuring cultural exhibitions, fairs and entertainment. In some cases, you may have to pay for admission, while others are free of charge. Ottawa is full of culture and you can experience it all when you attend one of these events.
International Astronomy Day
Every May, you can celebrate national Astronomy Day which takes place on May 2nd. This is an annual event that allows you and your family to explore the wonders of the universe as well as celebrate the beginnings of astronomy. This event is located at the Canada Science and Technology Museum in downtown Ottawa. There is a small admission fee to enjoy this event. In addition to learning about astronomy, you can also enjoy a party afterwards at the museum.
Canadian Tulip Festival
Spring means the budding of tulips throughout Canada and the rest of North America. The official flower in Ottawa is the tulip and the last weekend in April through the second weekend in May features the annual Tulip Festival that takes place at various locations throughout Ottawa. The Ottawa Parkway Park features a fair with vendors selling crafts and foods during the last weekend of the festival. If you enjoy these beautiful flowers that hail the coming of spring, then you will enjoy this festival that is free of charge.
Energy Days
Energy Days is a relatively new annual event in Canada and is fun as well as educational. It takes place during the month of May every year at the Canada Science and Technology Museum. The event displays alternate types of energy, including electric cars on display. If you are interested in learning about energy and alternate means, you will enjoy this fascinating annual event that is in its third year in Ottawa.
National Capital Race Weekend
The National Capital Race is the oldest marathon in Canada and is held each year, usually the first Saturday in June, although it is weather permitting. This event not only includes a 10K run, but also a family fun run and walk. There is also a wheelchair marathon. The event is open to anyone who wants to participate and there are cash prizes for the winners. Whether you want to race or just get some good exercise, this is an ideal event.
National Children Festival
This is an annual event that showcases young people and their talents. Young dancers, artists, and other performers from around Canada as well as the world take place in this event that is held the last weekend of May of every year at the Lebretron Flats Park in downtown Ottawa. This is an ideal event for young audiences as they watch their peers perform.
Carnival of Cultures
This annual carnival celebrates the wide range of cultures that are part of Ottawa. There is an admission for the carnival that has performing arts as well as other entertainment, food and artisans from all cultures that comprise Ottawa. This event takes place at the Astrolabe Theater during the second weekend of June of each year.