It’s time to soak up all the sunshine because summer is finally here! And what better way to enjoy sunny days than with these 10 free Ottawa events and festivals in June. Check them out below.
The Happening Artspark festival, June 2
Discover what makes Hintonburg so unique! The Happening Artspark festival is full of free live music, dance performances, an art throw down and artisan crafts. Not to mention local and Ontario vendors including Seed To Sausage, Carleton Tavern, Merry Dairy, and Craft beer gardens featuring Beyond the Pale, Vimy Brewing and Tooth & Nail. Donations from the event will be going back into the community and help fund art grants for the Wellington West community. See all the happenings here.
Doors Open Ottawa, June 2 – 3
History Buff or not, anyone can appreciate the true Canadian history that Ottawa has to offer. And for 2 days you can discover the beautiful heritage buildings that have shaped Ottawa to its beauty. From the Supreme Court of Canada to Hydro Ottawa’s new Hydroelectric facility at Chaudière Falls, there’s a story behind all 50 participating structures. There’s even a free shuttle bus service!
Parliament Hill Yoga Sessions, every Wednesday
For all the yoga lovers out there – the event you absolutely need to attend! Every Wednesday up until August 29, come to Parliament Hill and enjoy a yoga practice lead by some of the best teachers around. Don’t forget to bring your yoga mat and water.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BjIynaGgj4I/?taken-by=brandonpotter
Ottawa Italian Week Festival, June 7 – 17
Show your love for all that is Italian and head over to Preston St. For one of Ottawa’s largest free festivals this summer. From Ferraris, to live music, art demos and more, the event celebrates all that is Italian: art, culture, and history — with different shows and events every day.
West Fest, June 8 – 10
For 15 years, West Fest has been Ottawa’s favourite free music festival and it can be yours too! Featuring 100 Canadian Musicians to hit the stage, 2 after parties, food trucks and more!
The New Art Festival, June 9 – 10
Think gallery in the park. If walking through Central Park in Ottawa wasn’t beautiful enough, every year over 200 curated artists set up their tents and sell and display one-of-a-kind masterpieces, in a variety of art form, that you can take home or just breathe in and enjoy as you stroll around, and eat from the many local food vendors there. Don’t miss out!
Glow Fair, June 15-16
Bring your neon coloured shirts and start snapping those glow sticks, wands, and necklaces. With over 10 city blocks closed down, 3 unforgettable days and nights of music and art, there’s something for everyone to enjoy — from an augmented reality experience, mesmerizing murals painted from start to finish, glow yoga, and the famous enchanted forest full of glowing trees. Check out what everyone is “glowing” on about:
Tim Hortons Dragon Boat 25th Anniversary Festival, June 21 – 24
Take part in North America’s largest dragon boat festival. Watch over 200 teams compete, enjoy free concerts from many popular artists such as Sam Roberts Band, Broken Social Scene, Matt Mays and many more. There’s also a variety of amusement attractions, sports demos and delicious culinary treats to feast upon.
The Changing of the Guard Ceremony, June 24 – 28
One of Ottawa’s most recognized traditions that have welcomed thousands of people every summer, is the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Parliament Hill. With Troops of the Ceremonial Guard coming from Canadian Armed Forces units from all around the country, this is a 55-year-old tradition that every Canadian should see. The ceremony starts at 10 a.m. each morning.
Featured image: Instagram/ @haymancallan