Looking for some exciting things to do in Ottawa this weekend that won't burn a hole in your pocket? You're in luck, because there are lots of ways to have fun around the city without going broke.
Ottawa has plenty of free events happening around the town this weekend for you and your friends to take part in. Whether you're up for a karaoke jam or some European films, you can enjoy your time off without worrying about spending a dime.
Here are fifteen free things to do in Ottawa this weekend to keep you and your bank account happy.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
Price: Free
When: May 2 to 5, 2024, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Address: 22 ByWard Market, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: It's time for some Mexican festivities! ByWard Market is hosting its inaugural Cinco de Mayo festival complete with "mouthwatering tacos, refreshing margaritas, and festive street food" as well as "live music performances, DJs, and by authentic Mariachi bands," according to the event page.
Check out some robots
Price: Free
When: May 4, 2024, 10 a.m.
Address: 100 Malvern Dr., Nepean, ON
Why You Need To Go: Calling all robot enthusiasts! This weekend, the Ottawa Public Library is hosting RoboRevolution: An Epic Smart Mobility Showcase, and you can learn all about "advances in robotics, smart mobility, and other next-gen technology from researchers, industry specialists, and local students."
Explore the Ottawa area
Price: Free
When: May 4 and 5, 2024
Address: Multiple locations
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy some free walking tours around Ottawa this weekend and it's a great way to stretch your legs and learn more about your city.
Jane's Walk is "a festival of free neighbourhood walking tours that help put people in touch with their city, the things that happen around them," and more, according to the website.
There are a range of tours happening, including Rideau Street and the Arts District and Ottawa's Chinatown.
See some European films
Price: Free
When: May 3 to 4, 2024
Address: 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: The European Union Short Film Festival is returning to Ottawa and you can see a bunch of free screenings. The event will showcase 22 films from 22 EU countries, including short dramas, documentaries, animation, and experimental films.
Before the shows, you can indulge in European food and drinks provided at the Tastes of Europe Reception.
Relax with meditation
Price: Free
When: May 3, 2024, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 212 Somerset St. E., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy some self-wellness at this musical mantra meditation. It offers an "incredible evening of live spiritual music (kirtan), wisdom of the East and more."
Visit a clay festival
Price: Free
When: May 3 to 5, 2024
Address: 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This three-day Ottawa Clay Festival features over 30 potters selling handcrafted ceramics. You can find everything from decorative pieces to functional items.
The event includes a Mug Market where you can shop for the perfect morning coffee accessory.
Unwind with yoga
Price: Free
When: May 5, 2024, 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Address: 605 Longfields Dr. Unit #1303, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can totally unwind at this Yoga for Beginners event this weekend. The experience includes seven "powerful yet simple practices" to help you relax and get grounded.
Go to an arts show
Price: Free
When: May 4 to 5, 2024, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Address: 75 Neelin St., Carleton Place, ON
Why You Need To Go: Arts Carleton Place’s Annual Spring Fine Art Show "celebrates art, artists, and community in our wonderful town and surrounding areas," according to the event page.
You can explore a range of pieces, meet artists, and chat to them about their works.
Check out a stamp exhibit
Price: Free
When: May 4 to 5, 2024
Address: 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: The ORAPEX Stamp Exhibition "is one of only a few national-level stamp shows held annually in Canada" and features around 30 stamp dealers.
The event includes society meetings, seminars, study groups and an awards reception.
Unleash your inner rockstar
Price: Free
When: May 3 and 4, 2024, 9 p.m.
Address: 384 Flora St., Carleton Place, ON
Why You Need To Go: Get that singing voice ready! Final Score Sports Bar is hosting karaoke with DJ Dawn this Friday and Saturday and it's free to enjoy. You can also treat yourself to food from the kitchen until 11 p.m.
Explore a spring pop-up
Price: Free
When: May 5, 2024, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Address: 67 Nicholas St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can head to BEING Studio's PETALPALOOZA and browse through a variety of local art. The event has free admission and you can find everything from paintings, prints and sweatshirts to tote bags, brooches and more.
See a matinée
Price: Free
When: May 4, 2024, 2 p.m.
Address: 2500 Campeau Dr., Kanata, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can celebrate "May the 4th Be With You" by enjoying a screening of Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens hosted by the Ottawa Public Library.
Ottawa Public Library website
Get your sweat on
Price: Free
When: May 3, 2024, 6:29 a.m.
Address: Prince of Wales Dr., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Rise and shine! You can kickstart your weekend early with a free 31minute workout at the Dominion Arboretum. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.
Indulge at a food festival
Price: Free admission
When: May 3 to 5, 2024
Address: 255 Centrum Blvd., Orleans, ON
Why You Need To Go: Celebrate Canada's iconic dish at the Orléans PoutineFest & Street Food Frenzy this weekend. The event features over 75 kinds of poutine to choose from and it's a foodie paradise.
Admission is free, but there is a charge for food.
Enjoy a craft market
Price: Free
When: May 5, 2024, 11 a.m.
Address: 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This Spring Craft Market features more 60 local vendors from Ottawa and Gatineau. You can enjoy hand-curated items and "beautiful sun-filled spaces."
From exploring neighbourhoods around the city to singing your heart out at karaoke, there's lots to enjoy around Ottawa this weekend.
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.
