6 free things to do in Ottawa this weekend, March 22 to 24

Time to make some plans!

Downtown Ottawa at night.

Downtown Ottawa at night.

Lead Writer, Travel

With the weekend coming up, it's time to start making some plans. There are lots of free things to do in Ottawa this weekend so you can have fun without spending a dime.

Enjoy maple syrup festivals, trivia nights and more while saving some cash.

If you're looking for some inexpensive activities to enjoy, here are six things to do in Ottawa this weekend that won't break the bank.

Celebrate maple season

Price: Free

When: March 18 to 24, 2024

Address: 300 Pères-Blancs Ave., Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: The Vanier Sugar Festival is returning for another year and you can enjoy all sorts of maple-themed fun. From musical performances to a petting zoo and maple sampling, there's lots to enjoy.

Muséo Parc website

Explore a market

Price: Free admission

When: March 23, 2024

Address: 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: 613flea is a cute marketplace with lots to offer, including "eclectic goods, handmade, antiques, vintage clothing, great foods and one-of-a-kinds." It's a fun place to hang out and explore unique items.

613flea website

Enjoy some poetry

Price: Free to $12

When: March 21 to 24, 2024

Address: Multiple locations

Why You Need To Go: VERSeFest, Ottawa's International Poetry Festival, is happening this weekend and there are a number of free events you can attend. The festival offers a "range of award-winning performers in English and French."

VERSeFest website

Play some board games

Price: Free

When: March 22, 2024

Address: 363 Lorry Greenberg Dr., Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: The Ottawa Public Library is hosting a Game Café for Adults this Friday. You can take part in a number of board games and unwind from your work week.

Ottawa Public Library website

Sing your heart out

Price: Free admission

When: March 22, 2024

Address: 61 York St. Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: Get your singing voice ready and head to the Laugh Lounge this Friday. The venue has 40,000 songs on its Karaoke list and admission is free.

Eventbrite website

Test your knowledge with trivia

Price: Free

When: March 23, 2024

Address: 2006 Carp Rd. Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: The Wiches Cauldron is hosting its first official trivia night. You and your team can "brew up some fun" while testing your knowledge.

Eventbrite website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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