Your guide to Ottawa’s summer festivals

Published on April 3, 2024
Student life
Summer activities
Ottawa
Aerial view of a big crowd at Bluesfest.
Photo credit: Ottawa Tourism
As summer approaches, the city of Ottawa is heating up with exceptional festivals. From musical enchantment to culinary exploration, art appreciation and athletic fervour, our capital city offers a rich array of cultural experiences.

Ottawa Ribfest

A grill master serves a rack of saucy ribs.
Photo credit: Sparks Street

Ottawa Ribfest on Sparks Street: A culinary extravaganza

May 20 to June 2

Satiate your palate at Ottawa Ribfest, a haven for barbecue enthusiasts. Indulge in succulent ribs, pulled pork and savoury barbecue delights from acclaimed pitmasters. Accompanied by live music, this festival promises a delectable experience for discerning food connoisseurs.

Ottawa Fringe Festival

Members of an audience watch a show in a darkened theatre.
Photo credit: iStock.com/Halfpoint

Ottawa Fringe Festival: A showcase of avant-garde creativity

June 13 to 23

Immerse yourself in the arts at the Ottawa Fringe Festival, a platform where creativity knows no bounds. From comedy to experimental theatre to avant-garde performance, this festival spotlights emerging talent and challenges artistic norms. Prepare to be captivated and inspired.

Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival

Festivals_DragonBoat
Photo credit: Ottawa Dragon Boat Foundation

Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival: A fusion of sport and culture

June 21 to 23

Embrace the spirit of teamwork and athleticism at the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival. Witness the thrilling dragon boat races, savour culinary delights from local vendors and enjoy live music performances.

Ottawa Jazz Festival

A backstage view of a jazz orchestra performing for a crowd.
Photo credit: Brian Goldschmied

Ottawa Jazz Festival: A taste of musical elegance

June 21 to 30

Revel in the soulful notes of jazz at the Ottawa Jazz Festival. With performances spanning classic to contemporary jazz, this festival transforms summer nights into a harmonious haven.

RBC Ottawa Bluesfest

A crowd with hands raised in silhouette in front of a brightly lit stage.

RBC Ottawa Bluesfest: A musical extravaganza

July 4 to 14

Take advantage of your summer with RBC Ottawa Bluesfest, a multifaceted celebration of musical genres. From blues and rock to hip-hop and indie, this festival stands as one of the city’s premier events, offering an unparalleled musical journey for enthusiasts of all tastes.

Ottawa Chamberfest

An audience inside a church watches a chamber orchestra.
Photo credit: Ottawa Tourism

Ottawa Chamberfest: Elegance in classical tones

July 25 to August 8

Elevate your summer with the Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival. Experience the timeless beauty of classical music performed by world-class musicians in intimate settings. Whether a seasoned enthusiast or a novice, this festival offers a refined and enchanting musical journey.

Ottawa Greek Fest

Ottawa Greek Fest: A cultural celebration

August 11, 12, 13, 15, 18, 19 and 20  

Immerse yourself in Mediterranean culture at Ottawa Greek Fest. Indulge in authentic Greek cuisine, enjoy traditional music and dance, and bask in the lively ambiance.

Ottawa International Animation Festival

Members of an audience watch a show in a darkened theatre.
Photo credit: iStock.com/gorodenkoff

Ottawa International Animation Festival: A showcase of artistic innovation

September 25 to 29

Immerse yourself in the world of animation at the Ottawa International Animation Festival. Highlighting the art of storytelling through motion, this festival brings together cutting-edge animation from across the globe, offering a platform for creative expression and technological artistry.