ottawa parliament tour tickets

Parliament Hill free tours and programming

Parliament Hill is one of Canada’s most iconic sites and a must-see when visiting Canada’s capital. The historic, neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings stand tall on a hill overlooking the majestic Ottawa River in downtown Ottawa. And although the buildings are home to the country’s federal government (Prime Minister Justin Trudeau works there), visitors are welcome on-site for free tours and programming all year-long. Whether you visit Parliament Hill for a selfie, for a tour, or to experience one of the many free events, you’ll never run out of things to discover!

Visitors can take free guided tours the Parliament Buildings.

• House of Commons (West Block on Parliament Hill):  From 2010 to 2018, traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technologies were used to create a greener, fully accessible and barrier-free West Block. One of the spectacular new spaces is the glass-roofed structure built into the courtyard. The new state-of-the-art, underground Visitor Welcome Centre (located between West Block and Centre Block) is the tour starting point, and also houses the Parliamentary Boutique.
• Senate (Senate of Canada Building):  This Beaux-Arts-style building has a storied past and beautiful architecture: Originally built as Ottawa’s train station in 1912 (the same year as the Fairmont Château Laurier which is located directly across the street), it later became the Government Conference Centre. It was rehabilitated to temporarily house the Senate in part due to its convenient location just one block from Parliament Hill.
• Parliament - The Immersive Experience:  This innovative experience allows you to explore the main Parliament Building, also known as Centre Block. This is a 360 degree multimedia self-guided exhibition that lasts approximately 45 minutes. 

Tours of these new locations are subject to Parliamentary activity and all tour participants must go through security screening, similar to an airport.

Online reservations system

You can  reserve tickets online  for guided tours of the House of Commons and the Senate. The online booking system shows real-time availability and allows advanced reservations. Reservations are also available on a first-come-first-serve basis at the door of each location, dependent on ticket availability.

Most recent Ottawa Insider articles

The best ways to experience Ottawa’s waterways in the summer

Top 10 things to do in Ottawa

See more blog articles

Find articles

General inquiries: 1-833-864-7839 [email protected]

Stay up to date

Stay up to date on upcoming events and ideas to plan your next trip to Ottawa with friends, family or on your own by signing up for the Ottawa Tourism Newsletter.

Our partners:

• Grand Canyon
• Gold Country
• California Coast
• Los Angeles
• Mammoth Lakes
• death valley
• Lassen Volcanic
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon Park
• Yosemite Park
• napa valley
• step Robles
• Santa Cruz Mountains
• Santa Ynez Valley
• Sonoma Valley
• San Francisco
• Silicon Valley
• Shasta & surroundings
• Valley of Fire Park
• Philadelphia
• Monument Valley
• Washington DC
• London outskirts
• Bournemouth
• Deal & surroundings
• Hastings & surroundings
• Salisbury & Stonehenge
• Sandringham
• Sheffield & surroundings
• Southampton
• Stratford-Upon-Avon
• Niagara Falls
• Ottawa & Gatineau
• Québec City
• Trois-Rivières
• Easter Island
• Mexico City
• Playa del Carmen & Cozumel
• Krabi & Phi Phi Islands
• Oberammergau
• Romantic Route
• Knokke-Heist
• Zaanse Schans
• Northern Ireland countryside
• Cinque Terre
• San Gimignano
• NEW ZEALAND
• HOTEL RESERVATION
• TICKETS AND EXCURSIONS
• TICKETS AND TOURS
• SPORTS EVENTS TICKETS
• AIRPORT TRANSFER
• INTERNATIONAL SIM CARD
• BAGGAGE SHIPPING
• TRAVEL INSURANCE
• TOURIST VISAS
• PURCHASE FOREIGN CURRENCY
• INTERNATIONAL PREPAID CARD

• TERMS OF USE

Ottawa: 4 official and free tours of the Parliament of Canada

Last updated: 02/20/2024

Check out the free tours available to explore the Parliament of Canada's interior while the massive, multi-year renovation is underway.

THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

As a Parliamentary Federal Constitutional Monarchy, the Canadian State has a bicameral legislature, divided into the Upper House (Senate) and the Lower House (equivalent to the Chamber of Deputies and also called the House of Commons). The beautiful buildings of the Parliament of Canada were built in neo-Gothic style, between 1859 and 1876, on a hill known as Parliament Hill , located on the banks of the Ottawa River. The site was originally home to a military base and began to develop as a government district after Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as her capital.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

Located on Parliament Hill and surrounded by beautiful statues, monuments and memorials , the main building is known as “ Center Block ” and the side buildings like “ East Block " and " West Block “. In 1927, Parliament gained a central tower, known as Peace Tower (Peace Tower), a tower about 92.2 meters high that houses the Canadian flag. In the Center Block there is also a beautiful library, known as Library of Parliament .

The grassy area in front of Parliament always hosts events such as public ceremonies, political events and national celebrations. There is also the Centennial Flame (Centenary Flame), which was lit in 1966 to begin celebrations of Canada's 100th birthday. Just below the Centennial Flame, there is a reflecting pool that never freezes due to the temperature of the fire.

RENOVATIONS AT THE CENTER BLOCK

Since 2002, the Canadian government has been working on an extensive Center Block renovation project that began in 2018 and which should be completed between 2030 and 2031 (or later)! This is the largest and most ambitious heritage rehabilitation project ever seen in Canada. Because of this, the main areas of the building are closed, including the official rooms of the Senate and House of Commons, the Peace Tower and the beautiful Library. Therefore, visitations to Parliament had to be changed, as the two Chambers were moved to nearby buildings while renovations are underway.

HOW TO JOIN CANADA PARLIAMENT TOURS

Although all tours are free, you must reserve a time in advance via official site . Tours are available in English and French at various times each day for a limited number of people in each group. Choose the day, which tour you want to participate in, the language, the time and the number of tickets. You must enter your email to add to the cart before completing the reservation. Once completed, you will receive an email with ticket codes. They needed to be shown on the day of the visit to an employee on your cell phone, tablet or even printed.

4 TOURS IN THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

Due to the reforms, visits to Parliament were divided into 4 free tours distinct, each of which begins in a different location. The four available tours can be seen below and are located on the interactive map. Then see details about each of them.

• House of Commons (West Block)
• Senate of Canada
• Parliament: The Immersive Experience

1. HOUSE OF COMMONS (WEST BLOCK)

The tour of the House of Commons begins in the new Visitor Center , located on the left side of the Parliament Center Block before heading towards the West Block through a tunnel during the guided tour.

After passing through security, go down the escalators to wait for the guide to call the group in the language and time you chose. There are sofas to sit on and wait for the tour time and there are also bathrooms and a gift shop.

The guide will lead the group through a tunnel that connects the Visitor Center to the West Block, where the House of Commons meets during the renovation period. Just like in the British Parliament, government and opposition parliamentarians face each other. The building that temporarily shelters The House of Commons has relatively modern architecture, with stone walls, a glass ceiling and wooden furniture. Our guide provided a series of interesting information and historical data about the parliament. Our guide was very fun, made several funny jokes and made the tour very interesting and light.

• Address:  111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6, Canada (entrance via new Visitor Center)

2. EAST BLOCK

Crossing the lawn of Parliament Hill Square, you reach the East Block . The building is much older than the previous one, as there are preserved historical offices there. There is no space to wait inside the place, and access is only possible during the tour.

You also need to go through security, with metal detectors and searches of bags and backpacks. The tour group is much smaller because space is more limited. During the tour, 4 historical rooms are visited. Are they:

I. OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GENERAL

The Governor General is the representative of the British monarch in Canada. The former grand office was restored to reflect the period around 1872. At that time, the Governor General and visiting royalty accessed the East Block through a special entrance, and a red-carpeted staircase led to the room.

• TIP! Currently, the Governor General's residence is in Rideau Hall (1 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A1, Canada) which can also be visited free of charge.

II. OFFICE OF SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD

In 1867, Sir John A. Macdonald was formally convened by Lord Charles Monck, 4th Viscount Monck and the then governor-general, in order to form the first government of the Canadian Confederation. He was the 1st Prime Minister of Canada  from 1867 until 1873, and again between 1878 and 1883. The office had large Gothic stained glass windows, an elegant, colorful ceiling, and a large oak door. Despite the large windows, Macdonald still needed gas lamps to operate after sunset. Several office furniture are original from the 19th century. The double table and sofa are original.

III. OFFICE OF SIR GEORGE-ÉTIENNE CARTIER

Before Confederation, Sir George-Étienne Cartier served as co-Prime Minister with Sir John A. Macdonald for Canada East in the Union government. The two men became great friends and leaders of the Confederation movement. Cartier was Canada's first minister of militia and defense in 1872. His office was one of six built in the same style and had large Gothic windows and beautiful furniture and was painted in rich colors exemplifying the Victorian era. Every prime minister from Sir Wilfrid Laurier to Pierre Trudeau has used this room . Over that time, its colors and furnishings have been changed to reflect current tastes. The room was vacated in the 1970s. It has since been restored as in the past. Gas lamps, coal fireplaces and beautiful drapes decorate the historic room.

IV. PRIVY COUNCIL CHAMBER

For more than 100 years, the Cabinet met at the Privy Council Chamber to make decisions that would shape the course of Canadian history. During construction, great care was taken in creating the ornate woodwork and moldings that surround the Chamber. The walls were covered with gold-patterned wallpaper. The bookshelves, window drapes, and impressive gas chandelier were very ornate. As the Cabinet grew, the Chamber underwent changes, a larger round table was placed in the room and a chandelier with electric light replaced the old chandelier. The vibrant colors of the walls were repainted white to reflect changing tastes. The Cabinet ended up moving to the Central Block and, in 1966, rehabilitation work began on the old Chamber. Using historic photographs, paint samples and archival documents to determine the correct colors and finishes, fabrics and materials, every effort has been made to faithfully recreate the Chamber as it appeared in 1872.

• Address:  111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6, Canada

3. SENATE OF CANADA

The Upper Chamber, more popularly known as Senate , is temporarily housed in the building built at the beginning of the 20th century that housed Ottawa's old train station and which until recently served as the Government Conference Center. It is located right next to one of the most famous points in the city, the Rideau Canal.

The building is beautiful inside! As soon as you pass through security, you will see a monumental Beaux-Arts style hall with light in the center that has been restored to remember the building's history.

The highlight of the tour is the Senate Room, also known as the “Red Chamber”, which, like the Upper House of the British Parliament, is decorated in red tapestry. Just like the previous buildings, you must go through security before the tour. Therefore, you need to arrive in advance to avoid delays. TIP! One interesting thing we learned during the tour is that the position of senator in Canada is for life.

• Address:  2 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4, Canada

4. PARLIAMENT: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

Since the main Parliament building, the Center Block, is closed for renovations, it's a good idea to check out the Parliament: The Immersive Experience , an innovative experience that includes an exhibition and a 360° multimedia show that lasts around 45 minutes. This immersive experience takes place on a single floor, accessible to wheelchairs and service animals. There are limited seating spaces. Unlike other tours that are led by a specialized guide, this tour is self-guided, although it has an appointment, and is divided into two parts.

• PART 1: Lasting approximately 25 minutes, the first part of the visit is an exhibition, with interactive and multimedia displays that allow you to freely wander and discover the role of the Parliament of Canada and its history.
• PART 2: The second half of the tour, lasting approximately 20 minutes, is an impressive 360° multimedia show that takes visitors to the different rooms of the Parliament building virtually. The show is presented in English and French.
• Address:  211 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5B9, Canada

TIPS FOR ATTENDING TOURS AT THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

• Book tickets in advance to guarantee your desired day and time. Each tour has specific tickets and booking one of them does not automatically entitle you to the others. If you want to do all 4 tours, make reservations for each of them.
• You can book tickets for up to 9 people at the same time. For groups of 10 or more people, visit this link .
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes because you will have to stand and walk for a long time.

• Use the bathroom before tours as there are no stops during the tour.
• It is prohibited to take food and drinks (except water) during the tours.
• It is not permitted to bring bags, suitcases or very large luggage.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early to the tour location as you will need to go through security with a metal detector.

Save these tips to Pinterest!

• Canada: What to do in Toronto – Itinerary for 2, 3, 4+ days
• Canada: How to get from Toronto Airport to downtown
• Accommodation in Toronto: One King West Hotel & Residence
• Toronto: Amazing Vegan Food at Hawker Restaurant
• PLANT: Vegan restaurant chain in Toronto
• Cafe Landwer: Restaurant chain in Toronto
• Osteria Du: 1st vegan Italian restaurant in Toronto
• Canada: La Bartola Mexican Restaurant in Toronto
• Kupfert & Kim: vegan food chain in Toronto
• Casa Loma: Complete guide to visiting Toronto's castle

NIAGARA FALLS

• Canada: Accommodation at Embassy Suites Niagara Falls
• Skylon Tower: Panoramic Views at Niagara Falls
• Journey Behind the Falls: Incredible Views of Niagara Falls
• Canada: Table Rock House Restaurant in Niagara Falls
• Canada: How to get from Toronto to Niagara Falls
• Canada: Stay at the Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront
• Canada: Atomica Kitchen Restaurant in Kingston
• La Grande Roue de Montréal: Canada's largest Ferris wheel
• Bvrger by Christian Ventura: Vegan burger restaurant in Montreal
• Burger Fiancé: Vegan burger restaurant in Montreal
• Lola Rosa: Vegan restaurants in Montreal

OTTAWA/GATINEAU

• Canada: Stay at Courtyard by Marriott Ottawa Downtown
• Canada: Vegan Restaurant Astoria Bistro Botanique in Gatineau
• Canada: Italian food at The Grand Pizzeria & Bar in Ottawa
• Canada: Pure Kitchen Vegan Restaurants in Ottawa
• Parliament of Canada: 4 official and free tours in Ottawa

QUEBEC CITY

• Accommodation in Quebec City at the great Hôtel Le Priori
• Observatoire de la Capitale: The highest view in Quebec City
• Don Vegan: vegan restaurant in Quebec City
• Nina Pizza Napolitaine: delicious pizzas in Quebec City
• Amazing tasting menu at Bistro L'Orygine in Quebec City
• Canada: What to do in Vancouver – 4 or 5 days itinerary
• Canada: Panoramic Views at the Vancouver Lookout
• Canada: Vancouver Museum of Anthropology

ARE YOU GOING TO TRAVEL? SCHEDULE YOUR TRIP HERE!

  hotel reservation :  use the  booking.com to book your accommodation,   car rental : get a quote at  rentcars   and check the price at the main rental companies in the world,   tickets & tours :  buy tickets to the world's top attractions online with get your guide ,   tickets & tours :  buy tickets for tours and guided tours online at civitatis ,   sports events tickets :  buy tickets to major us sporting events online with hellotickets ,   travel insurance :  quote with the  promo insurance  for different plans and destinations. use code "viajonarios5" to guarantee 5% off,   train in europe :  buy your train tickets at the best prices at  trainline ,   international cell phone chip  with the easysim4u  and leave with the chip working  before travelling,   purchase of foreign currency with the best exchange rates with exchange now , related articles more from the author.

Copper Branch: chain of vegan restaurants in Canada

Canada: 5 vegan bakeries in Montreal

Canada: How to visit the Montreal Olympic Park

Leave your comment cancel comment.

Save my name, email and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Peace Tower

Ottawa Canada Visitor Information and Guide

The Peace Tower is one of Canada's most emblematic symbols.  Visitors to Ottawa can climb the historic tower and enjoy a spectacular view of the city.

If you visit Parliament Hill between September and June, you can enjoy a carillon performance from noon until 12:15 on weekdays. There is a one hour recital beginning at 11 AM during the summer months.

The Peace Tower Carillon was inaugurated on Canada Day (July 1) in 1927.  It was built to commemorate the Armistice of 1918 and Canada's 60th anniversary of Confederation.  The carillon has 53 bells.

Visitors wising to visit the Peace Tower only must obtain a ticket in advance.  The free passes are available at 90 Wellington Street in Ottawa on a first-come first-serve basis.

Tickets are not required if you visit the centre block on a guided tour.

• Visit Parliament Visit
• Français FR

Visit Canada's Parliament

• Senate Tours
• House of Commons Tours
• East Block Tours
• Immersive Experience

Parliament Funkadelic feat. George Clinton

George Clinton is an American treasure. As one of the foremost innovators of Funk, Clinton is the mastermind behind the legendary Parliament/Funkadelic, creating a uniquely identifiable and timeless art which has lifted Funk to an internationally recognized and respected musical genre. His ingenuity has earned Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic a prominent seat in music history: Clinton was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. Clinton started his career with the Parliaments, a barbershop doo-wop ensemble, which scored a major hit with "I Wanna Testify" in 1967. Clinton developed a sound which merged the polish of Motown acts, the rawness of James Brown, the bohemian style of Sly Stone and the pop sensibility of the Beatles, and forever set himself apart from the Motown era.

By the early ’70s, the group's songs evolved into sprawling jams drenched in funky rhythms. They dropped the "s" from the band’s name and Parliament was born. Around the same time, Clinton spawned Funkadelic, a rock group which fused acid-rock guitar, bizarre sound effects and cosmological rants with danceable beats and booming bass lines. Funkadelic recorded a number of influential concept albums, including Free Your Mind and Your Ass Will Follow, Maggot Brain and America Eats Its Young. Rolling Stone and Spin recently named Parliament/Funkadelic as one of the top bands of all time.

1975 was a revelatory year for Clinton. With the country engrossed in the fallout from Watergate and the Space Race, Clinton was busy redefining the possibilities of Funk music and advancing the rise of Afrofuturism. That year, Parliament released two albums: Chocolate City, which envisioned a post-Watergate America with Muhammed Ali as president and Aretha Franklin as First Lady, and Mothership Connection, a sci-fi tale in which Black aliens land on Earth with a simple message to earthlings: “Ain’t nothin’ but a party y’all.” With music designed to “put a dip in your hip and a glide in your stride,” the album included songs like “P-Funk (Wants to get Funked Up),” “Mothership Connection (Star Child)” and the group's first gold single, “Give Up the Funk (Tear the Roof Off the Sucker).”

These releases became instant dancefloor anthems and sparked Funk's biggest movement to date. The live performances were equally otherworldly, as Clinton would emerge from a giant spaceship at center stage as “Dr. Funkenstein” to transport listeners into a different dimension.

​Clinton's dancefloor dominance continued throughout the ’70s and into the ’80s with releases like “Flashlight,” “One Nation Under a Groove,” “(Not Just) Knee Deep” and “Aqua Boogie,” eventually culminating with the 1983 solo release of “Atomic Dog,” which took his vision to new heights. With its infectious beat and unique melodic structure, “Atomic Dog” remains as popular with young audiences today as it was when it was first released. Today “Atomic Dog” can be heard not only in the clubs, on campuses, and at the cookout, but also in commercials for brands such as E-Trade and numerous movies including 102 Dalmatians, Trolls World Tour, Menace II Society and more. It was sampled countless times, most notably by Snoop Dogg on his smash-hit “Snoop Dogg (What’s My Name Pt. 2).”

Indeed, Clinton’s P-Funk, with its infectious groove and irresistible beats, became a go-to source for countless early Rap recordings. As Clinton has said, "Funk is the DNA of Hip-Hop and Rap." Being one of the most sampled artists, Clinton has become recognized as the godfather of modern urban music. Beats, loops, and samples of P-Funk have appeared on albums by 2Pac, OutKast, Dr. Dre, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliot, De La Soul, Fishbone, Ice Cube, Public Enemy and Childish Gambino, to name but a few. Clinton has collaborated with Kendrick Lamar on the influential rapper’s Grammy-winning album To Pimp a Butterfly.

Through it all, Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic have maintained a rigorous touring schedule that would test artists 50 years his junior. Considered by many to be one of the original jam bands, Parliament/Funkadelic’s hours-long performances draw attract many of the same fans that populate concerts by The Grateful Dead, Phish, and Dave Matthews.

Approaching his 83rd birthday this summer, Clinton is as busy as ever. In addition to touring, he is working on three recording projects that feature collaborations with a “who's who” of top artists from the last four decades.

Recently, Clinton has ventured into a prosperous career as a fine artist. His body of work reflects the same adventurous and diverse spirit found in his music, gaining prominence through a solo exhibition at the Jeffrey Deitch gallery titled The Rhythm of Vision. Additionally, he received acclaim at Art Basel in Miami.

What's happening in Ottawa this weekend: June 21-23

CTV News Ottawa looks at things to do in Ottawa during the first weekend of summer.

• Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

Ottawa Jazz Festival

The sounds of jazz will fill Confederation Park, Marion Dewar Plaza and the National Arts Centre this weekend.

The Ottawa Jazz Festival kicks off this weekend, with musical performances nightly until June 30.

Here is a look at some of the acts:

• Friday: Bellbird, Brass Queens, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Begonia
• Saturday: The Senators – A Tribute to Tommy Banks – Hutchinson Andrew Trio, Smelloship, Hand to Earth, Moon Hooch
• Sunday: The Beeched Wailers, Deborah Davis and Segue to Jazz, Miguel de Armas and the Ottawa Jazz Latin Orchestra, Flavia Nascimento, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Nation Beat

For tickets, visit www.ottawajazzfestival.com .

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Ottawa Jazz Festival (@ottawajazz)

Escapade Music Festival

Escapade Music Festival returns to Lansdowne this weekend, with three days of electronic dance music.

Here is a look at some of the DJs appearing:

Friday: Zedd, Diesel (Shaquille O'Neal), Celo, AC Slater, Levity, Knock2

Saturday: Steve Aoki, Seven Lions, Pretty Pink, Maddix, Lucas and Steve

Sunday: The Chainsmokers, Armin Van Buuren, Goodboys, Sammy Virji, Slander, No Thanks

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Escapade Music Festival (@escapademf)

Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon boats hit the water this weekend at Mooney's Bay for the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival.

The festival includes races, free concerts and more. Musical acts include Rare Americans, The Blue Stones, Luella and Nobro.

For more information, visit dragonboat.net .

Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival

The Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival celebrates Canada's diverse Indigenous culture through interactive activities, live performances and free family fun.

The festival will include a Indigenous Day Celebration on Friday, with a traditional long table dinner, glow-in-the dark Pow Wow, all day cultural entertainment and Metis games.

On Saturday and Sunday, don't miss the Introduction to Pow Wow, an international competition Pow Wow, a drone show themed "The Seven Grandfather Teachings" and more.

The festival runs Friday to Sunday at Mādahòkì Farm. For more information, visit summersolsticefestivals.ca .

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Solstice Festivals (@solsticefestivals)

Ottawa Fringe Festival

The Ottawa Fringe Festival unites artists and audiences in a fun, exploratory environment.

Events will be held at several venues across Ottawa until Sunday.

For more information, visit www.ottawafringe.com .

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Ottawa Fringe 🧿 (@ottawafringe)

Kanata Fun Fair

Celebrate the start of summer at the Kanata Fun Fair this weekend.

Don't miss the midway at the Kanata Recreation Complex on Charlie Rogers Place until July 1.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/p/Kanata-Fun-Fair-100065731680399/ .

Fiddles on the Rideau Festival

Don't miss the Fiddles on the Rideau Festival this weekend at the Manotick United Church and Flotilla on the Rideau River.

Concerts and workshops are planned for Friday and Saturday, with the Fiddles on the Rideau Flotilla River Run set for Sunday at 10 a.m.

For more information, visit www.fiddlesontherideau.com .

Festival L'Outaouais en Fete

Don't miss  Festival L'Outaouais en Fête  in Parc des Cedrics in Gatineau Friday to Monday.

For more information, visit https://festivaloutaouaisenfete.com/ .

NCC Bikedays

The National Capital Commission's Weekend Bikedays continue all weekend.

Roads will be closed to vehicles along the Ottawa River and Rideau Canal for active transportation. Here is a look at the schedule for Saturday and Sunday.

• Queen Elizabeth Driveway, between Fifth Avenue and Somerset Street – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Kichi Zībī Mīkan, westbound lanes between Vimy Place and Carling Avenue – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, between Aviation Parkway and St. Joseph Boulevard -  8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Lansdowne Farmers' Market

The Lansdowne Farmers' Market is open this weekend.

Visit the vendors at the Aberdeen Pavilion on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sweetly Affordable Art Fair

Don't miss the Sweetly Affordable Art Fair on Saturday and Sunday at Wesley Clover Parks.

Visit over 120 booths, filled with a wide range of unique artistry.

Admission and parking are free.

Farmers Markets in Ottawa

• The Parkdale Market is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• The Beechwood Market is every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• The Westboro Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• The Barrhaven Market is open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• The Kanata Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Visit the Barrhaven Farmers Market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Check out the Metcalife Farmers Market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• The Carp Farmers' Market is open Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Click on the links for the schedule at museums in Ottawa and eastern Ontario:

• Canadian Museum of Nature
• Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
• Canada Science and Technology Museum
• Canada Aviation and Space Museum
• Canadian War Museum
• Canadian Museum of History
• National Gallery of Canada
• Ottawa Art Gallery

Oh Crap! Rethinking Human Waste

The Canada Science and Technology Museum invites you to explore human waste.

The 'Oh Crap! Rethinking Human Waste' exhibit runs until Jan 5, 2025, taking visitors on a journey into the environmental and social issues surrounding human waste.

You can even leave a souvenir of your visit in the "fart room."

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Canada Science And Tech Museum (@scitechmuseum)

The Canadian Forces Artists Program

The Canadian War Museum hosts the Canadian Forces Artists Program – Group 9 until Sept. 2.

Experience the creative reflections on war and conflict of four civilian artists chosen to deploy with the Canadian Forces during 2018 and 2019.

Bug Adventure

The Canadian Museum of Nature presents Bug Adventure until Oct. 14.

This larger-than-life exhibition is from the design team behind The Lord of the Rings and Avatar.

You must get a ticket combo to visit the exhibition.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Canadian Museum of Nature (@museumofnature)

Parliament of Canada Tours

Enjoy a free, guided tour of the Senate at the Senate of Canada Building, the House of Commons in the West Block and the East Block.

For tickets and tour times, visit  https://rts.parl.ca/ .

Parliament: The Immersive Experience

Explore the main Parliament Building, also called Centre Block, in this new innovative experience.

Parliament: The Immersive Experience at 211 Sparks Street includes an exhibition and a 360-degree multimedia show that takes you on a tour through Centre Block, which has been closed since 2019.

The self-guided tour is 45 minutes.

Tickets are available at no cost at  visit parl.ca .

Kingston Farmers' Market

The Kingston Memorial Centre Farmers Market is every Sunday.

The market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Memorial Centre.

Skeleton Park Arts Festival

Checkout the Skeleton Park Arts Festival in Kingston on Friday and Saturday.

The festival is a free, grassroots, multi-disciplinary art experience in McBurney Park and the surrounding neighbourhood. The event includes local food vendors and music.

For more information, visit https://skeletonparkartsfest.ca/2024festival/ .

Kingston's Princess Street Promenade

Take a stroll down Princess Street on Saturday for the ultimate outdoor street festival.

Enjoy live music, free samples and shopping.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Downtown Kingston (@downtownkingston)

Don't miss PaddleFest in Arnprior on Saturday.

There will be free guided paddles on the Ottawa River from McLean Beach. Enjoy live music, family games and see local vendors.

Ottawa Top Stories

38 complaints about noise at Escapade Music Festival this weekend

Pennsylvania resident dies after falling overboard from boat in the Ottawa Valley

Ottawa Humane Society takes in 21 kittens from Windsor area

9 kg of cocaine seized in Ottawa drugs, firearm bust

First Crumbl Cookies location in Ottawa opens Friday

The Chainsmokers perform popup show in Ottawa after Escapade performance cancelled

Person allegedly posing as Realtor breaks into Ottawa home for fake showing

Ottawa MP apologizes for mailing map to constituents missing a province and a territory

Ctvnews.ca top stories.

Stanley Cup stage set for McDavid, Oilers in final game of roller-coaster season

Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers face the Florida Panthers in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final Monday - the last hurdle in an improbable journey this season.

Canada's population forecast to reach 63 million, as people over 85 set to triple

New projections by Statistics Canada suggest the nation's population could reach 63 million by 2073.

Teen girl pleads guilty to manslaughter in death of Toronto homeless man

A fourth teen accused in the fatal stabbing of a Toronto homeless man has pleaded guilty.

Bad credit? Here's what you should know if you're trying to get a mortgage

What is a bad credit score, and will you still be able to get a mortgage if you have one? A broker has advice on what you should know if you're looking to buy a home but are worried about your credit.

Bonus payment being added to B.C. benefit for thousands of families: premier

Thousands of B.C. families who receive a benefit from the province will get a little more money this year, Premier David Eby announced Monday.

Lifeguard and 'Pirates of the Caribbean' actor dies after apparent shark attack in Hawaii

A lifeguard and surf instructor – who also appeared in movies including 'Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides' and 'Blue Crush' - died Sunday following an apparent shark attack on the North Shore of Ohau, Hawaii, according to officials.

Princess Anne's planned trip to Newfoundland cancelled following injury

An injury has forced Princess Anne to cancel a trip to Newfoundland this weekend to mark the 100th anniversary of the unveiling of the National War Memorial in St. John's.

BREAKING | 14-year-old boy facing two counts of first-degree murder in connection with Toronto shooting

A 14-year-old boy has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and seven counts of attempted murder in connection with a shooting that took the lives of two men in Rexdale and wounded three others earlier this month.

This is what an 'incredibly difficult' heat wave was like inside one of Canada's densest neighbourhoods

This is what it was like in a Toronto neighbourhood where 30,000 people live during a scorching heat wave.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

The 5 best ice cream makers in canada in 2024, tested and reviewed, our guide to the best portable air conditioners in canada in 2024 (and where to get them), 17 stylish things from gap that’ll help you complete your summer capsule wardrobe, we tested 17 portable grills: our top 5 in canada in 2024, the 5 best beach tents in canada, tested and reviewed, this waffle weave shower curtain is a best-seller on amazon canada — here's why, if you have no idea what to get them for their birthday, try one of these gifts, 13 brilliant budget-friendly gifts that cost less than $25, 15 of the best graduation gifts you can get online right now, if you want smooth, glowy skin, you'll want to order at least one of these 15 products, i was skeptical, but this bio-oil skincare oil is actually magic for scars and stretch marks, 10 of the best detangling brushes you can get online right now, according to reviewers, health & fitness, 15 of the most comfortable camping mats you can get online right now, if you have an anxious dog, you probably need these anxiety-relief products, 15 bug bite relief products that actually work.

Weather system stretching from Gulf States to Atlantic Canada continues risk of thunderstorms

A weather system extending across Atlantic Canada continues to bring periods of showery weather along with a risk of thunderstorms.

Youth turns themselves in to police after N.S. trail bridge fire

A youth has claimed responsibility for a fire on a trail bridge in Bridgewater, N.S., last Thursday.

40-year-old N.S. man dies in highway crash

A 40-year-old man from Italy Cross, N.S., died in a highway crash on Sunday.

'Everything is Oilers. Everything is Connor': McDavid's hometown abuzz ahead of Game 7

The Ontario elementary school that Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid once attended is abuzz with excitement ahead of Monday night’s Stanley Cup Final.

Displaced Quebec residents can return to Port-Cartier as forest fires continue to burn

Around 1,000 Port-Cartier residents who were evacuated on Thursday evening due to the forest fires can now return to their homes, although two forest fires are still out of control in the area, and a state of emergency remains in force.

Torrential rains north of Montreal wreck roads, cut off citizens

Torrential rains over the past few hours have damaged some twenty sections of road in Chertsey, in the Lanaudière region, while four sectors have left more than a hundred citizens landlocked.

Open fire ban lifted in Bas Saint-Laurent, Gaspesie; still in effect in Northern Quebec

The Quebec Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has lifted the ban on open fires in the Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine regions.

Northern Ontario

BREAKING | Sault police investigating after missing tourist found dead

Detectives in Sault Ste. Marie are investigating after the body of a missing tourist was found in St. Marys River on Sunday.

How a Sudbury man was convicted of triple murder for orchestrating arson

A Sudbury, Ont., judge has explained why first-degree murder charges against a local man weren't thrown out in a recent fatal arson case, even though the men who actually started the fire had no intention to kill anyone.

This U.S. company is selling products with human fecal matter to Canadians. What does Health Canada think about it?

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning letter to a company appearing to sell products containing human fecal matter without approval from the agency.

OPP search for missing swimmer in Leamington

Members of the Essex OPP detachment are actively searching for a missing swimmer in Leamington.

Two suspects arrested after theft of Chrysler Pacifica

Windsor police say they have charged two suspects who were in possession of a stolen vehicle.

Road reopens after fire and explosions in Merlin

Chatham-Kent police say emergency crews responded to a fire and explosions in Merlin.

Two vehicle collision in Malahide sees pet dog fatally injured

A two-vehicle collision in Malahide resulted in fatal injuries to a pet passenger on Saturday. The T-Bone collision on Talbot Line near Walker Road saw one driver extricated from the vehicle by fire services and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

RIDE program leads to drug charges for 60-year-old driver

A RIDE program in the eastbound lanes of the 401 at Wellington Road on Sunday evening lead to a long list of charges for a 60-year-old driver. At 2:30 a.m., a routine traffic stop yielded turned sour after officers searched the vehicle and located controlled substances – at which time two individuals were placed under arrest.

Charges laid after woman found deceased in London apartment

Police said the accused and the victim were known to each other and the accused is being held in custody pending a court appearance.

Ornge responds after child falls from bridge near Cambridge, Ont.

An Ornge air ambulance was called in after a young child reportedly fell off a bridge and into a creek.

LCBO extending hours across province ahead of possible strike

The LCBO says it will be extending store hours starting this week in response to a potential strike involving its unionized workers.

Driver crashes into storefronts in Cambridge plaza

Police are investigating after a driver crashed into a building in a Cambridge plaza.

One person seriously injured in Barrie crash

One person was hospitalized following a collision on Essa Road in Barrie early Monday morning.

Wrong-way driver charged with being impaired after Hwy 400 crash

Police charged a driver accused of travelling the wrong way for quite a distance along Highway 400 after a collision early Monday morning.

Latest on historical sex crime charges against former deaf association president

The former president of the Toronto Association of the Deaf, accused of historical sex crimes, including sexual assault and exploitation, could be heading to trial or resolution.

Fire burns northern Manitoba community's only nursing station

The nursing station in a northern Manitoba community is a complete loss after a fire tore through the facility early Monday morning.

North End wastewater plant cost could hit $3 billion

Upgrades to the North End Water Pollution Control Centre, once pegged at $795 million, could now cost $3 billion.

78-year-old woman dead after being hit by train during parade

One person has died after being struck by a train in a Manitoba community as it was celebrating Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.

'We thought of each other as brothers': Friend of victim testifies at Calgary murder trial

A friend of an 18-year-old who was pepper sprayed, stabbed and beaten at a southeast basketball court in September testified Monday at the trial for one of two teenage brothers charged in the killing.

Skier hurt after falling down Mount Temple in Banff National Park

A pair of skiers was fell about 550 metres down the side of Mount Temple after they broke through a cornice last week.

More than 100 people displaced in McKenzie Towne condo fire

More than 100 residents of a McKenzie Towne condo building are without a home now following a devastating overnight fire.

Canadians throw parties, gather with friends to cheer on Oilers in Stanley Cup final

The Edmonton Oilers may not be on home ice when they try to clinch the Stanley Cup against the Florida Panthers on Monday night, but screams of support will resound across Canada from rinkside watch parties, bars, seniors homes and ordinary living rooms.

Car dealerships in North America revert to pens and paper after cyberattacks on software provider

Car dealerships in North America continue to wrestle with major disruptions that started last week with cyberattacks on a software company used widely in the auto retail sales sector.

Hail, wind damage reported in Estevan following province-wide storms

Residents in Saskatchewan's southeast took to social media to show off the damage caused by Sunday's province-wide storms.

Regina Riot receive new jerseys ahead of WWCFL final

Following the theft of their jerseys earlier in the season – the Regina Riot were decked out in new uniforms for their final match up of the season against the Saskatoon Vanguard.

Riders remain perfect on season with win over Hamilton

Despite losing starting quarterback Trevor Harris to the sidelines following an apparent leg injury, the Saskatchewan Roughriders defeated the Hamilton Tiger Cats 36-20 to remain 3-0 on the 2024 season.

Viewers share images of funnel clouds and storms that swept Saskatchewan

The skies were truly alive in Saskatchewan Sunday, and photos and videos are pouring in from residents who got a front row seat to the show.

Watch from above as Saskatoon police track a man who tried to jack an Uber at knifepoint

A 20-year-old Saskatoon man faces a slew of charges after he allegedly stole an Uber vehicle at knifepoint on Saturday.

Saskatoon's iconic Blue Diamond restaurant has sold

An iconic Saskatoon landmark will soon be under new ownership.

'Kind of felt like we were on our own': B.C. family rebuilds decades-old resort destroyed by wildfire

A decades-old resort in B.C.’s Fraser Valley is welcoming guests back, eight months after the uninsured site was decimated by the Kookipi Creek wildfire.

Man stabbed in Kelowna, suspect at large: RCMP

Mounties in Kelowna say a suspect is at large after a man was stabbed in the city Sunday afternoon.

Vancouver Island

Suspects arrested in Port Hardy, B.C., drug-trafficking investigation

Mounties say two people were arrested during a drug-trafficking investigation that yielded a "significant amount" of drugs and cash on northern Vancouver Island.

Environmental groups opposed to B.C. port expansion hold rally ahead of court date

Environmental groups that launched a legal challenge against a port expansion in B.C. are heading to court Monday morning.

Police still investigating cause after woman found dead in Kelowna park

Police are remaining tight-lipped about a woman’s death in a Kelowna park on Friday.

Man shot dead in Princeton, B.C., was high-ranking gang member, court records suggest

Police have identified a man found dead in B.C.’s Interior last weekend as Donald “Donnie” Lyons.

Stay Connected

• Visit Parliament Visit
• Français FR

Visit East Block

• Senate Tours
• House of Commons Tours
• East Block Tours
• Immersive Experience

• Newsletters
• News Insiders

What’s on in Ottawa this weekend?

By Alex Black

Posted Jun 21, 2024 09:48:07 AM.

Last Updated Jun 21, 2024 11:14:37 AM.

As the first day of summer kicks off the weekend, there are so many events and festivals residents of Ottawa can enjoy, from celebrating the river to music events.

Ottawa Paddle Fest – Friday to Sunday Celebration of the river we call home at our annual Ottawa Paddle Fest. Originally called the Kitchissippi / Kichi-Sìbì by the Algonquin people. There will be activities on and off the water for everyone, including live music, story panel with Ottawa River experts, paddling film festival, vendor marketplace. Learn more here .

Festival L’Outaouais en Fête – Friday to Monday at Des Cèdres Park, Gatineau It’s the pleasure of getting together, sharing local culture and discovering others from elsewhere. With more than 40 years of existence, the festival continues to grow.

Enjoy performances by top Francophone artists from Quebec and beyond, an amusement park, volleyball, strolling entertainers, bonfire, fireworks, Grand Ecological Parade, inflatable games, face painting stand, the emerging artists stage, and more!

Learn more here.

Escapade Music Festival – Friday to Sunday at Lansdowne Park This event is dedicated to the development of the electronic music scene and demographic in the National Capital region. This year’s lineup includes Zedd, Steve Aoki, and the Chainsmokers

Ottawa Fringe Festival – June 13-23 The Fringe Festival is a celebration of the arts and an opportunity for local, national and international artists to showcase their original work. Various locations around Ottawa

Ottawa Valley Roller Derby – Saturday, June 22 at St. Laurent Complex, 525 Côté Street Ottawa Valley Roller Derby is back presenting another a terrific season of full-contact roller derby games to the coolest fans in Ottawa.

Breakfast on the Farm – 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 22 Blackrapids Farm, 2600 Prince of Wales Drive.

The Ruiter family invites you to visit their farm to tour a fully robotic dairy barn, get up close and personal with farm animals, enjoy an all-Ontario farm breakfast and participate in family-friendly activities.

Tickets are a $5 per person and each ticket includes one breakfast sandwich, milk and a piece of fruit.

Visit  https://ottawatourism.ca/en/event-calendar  for a full rundown of events in the National Capital Region.

Top Stories

The Killaloe detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police, based in the Ottawa Valley, released some alarming statistics. In a post on X, the force said they laid four charges against individuals in...

A 22-year-old student and a 32-year-old registered nurse from Ottawa are two of 13 athletes who will be representing Canada at the Olympics in just over a month. Toshka Besharah-Hrebacka and Natalie...

There are no injuries after a fire in Rockcliffe Park over the weekend. Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) responded to a two-storey single family home in the 0-100 block of Crescent Road around 12:50 p.m....

Ottawa police were called to a "disturbance" over the weekend where they found a man suffering from gunshot wounds. On June 22 at 2:36 a.m. officers responded to the 100 block of Besserer Street. They...

Most Watched Today

Lindsay Dunn spoke with award-winning group Midland about their new single and making their grand return to Boots & Hearts this summer.

Figures from the 2022 anti-vaccine mandate protests & Rolling Thunder motorcycle rally are back in Ottawa - with new priorities.

Joe Biden and Donald Trump are spending the weekend preparing for the first Presidential debate. Julia Benbrook looks at the strategies the two candidates are likely using.

Legendary Canadian actor William Shatner is lending his name to a campaign that opposes open-net salmon farming. Glen McGrgeor breaks down Shatner's foul-mouthed rant.

You need to stay cool and hydrated during hot and sticky weather, and so do our pets. The Toronto Humane Society provides tips on how to keep our pets comfortable during the summer months, and we introduce you to Beetroot, an American bulldog.

Adjust preferences

With your consent we may collect cookies and information to enhance our service, and improve your experience.

These cookies and data are essential for browsing our website and allowing services. Examples include, session, authentication, and security cookies.

These cookies and data enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalized content.

These cookies and data inform us which pages are most informative and engaging via analytics.

These cookies may track data across websites for marketing and interest-based advertising to provide personalized content, offers, and advertisements.