Your 613 Guide to the Week: July 6–12, 2026
July 6–12, 2026
Welcome back, 613ers! The first full week of July is here, and Ottawa is absolutely buzzing with summer energy. From incredible live music and vibrant community gatherings to family-friendly adventures and opportunities for learning, there’s something for everyone to dive into. Get ready to soak up the sun and discover what makes our city shine!
Summer Kicks Off: Family Fun & Learning
This week is packed with fantastic opportunities for families and kids to learn and play. Start the week with the paid Summer Camp 2026 at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre, or the free Knox Presbyterian Church Manotick - Day Camp in Manotick, both starting Monday. Kids can get creative at the free Street Art Lab - Summer Camp For Kids or the paid Summer Art Camps - Art & About at the Ottawa Art Gallery, Studio. For the younger ones, there's the free Kids & Teens Summer Dance Series at Pure Havana on Monday.
On Saturday, treat the little ones to a magical visit at the free Join Us for a Magical Wayfinder Princess Event at Reverie Princess Palace, or get up close with animals at the free Free Petting Farm for Kids on Bank St. Sunday brings a sweet adventure with the free Berry Basket Adventure at Millers' Farm and Market. For older kids, the paid Tinkering School Summer Camp for 9-12 year olds runs all week at the Ottawa Tool Library.
Tune In: Live Music & Nightlife
The biggest event of the week has to be Ottawa Bluesfest, kicking off its run on both Friday and Saturday at Lebreton Flats (paid). For those looking for free beats on Friday, don't miss the SMOKEPURPP INTO THE VOID TOUR LIVE IN OTTAWA FT YUNG DRED & RICHIE WESS at NUVO Lounge 295, or get down to the legendary sounds of HOLY F@$# IT’S DERRICK CARTER at Sky Lounge. If you're into something a bit heavier, check out the paid Emo Night Ottawa - Divorced Dad Rock Night at The 27 Club. For a local, acoustic vibe, catch Orléans Unplugged on Friday.
Saturday night brings more musical options: for metal fans, the paid Six Feet Under, Kataklysm, Wormhole, Gland are at Overflow Brewery. If you prefer dancing, the free TARG Dance X-Tendamix - 1990-2020 Summer Jamz & Club Classics at 1077 Bank Street will have you grooving. And for some fabulous free drag entertainment, head to Crack the Whip! Drag at Whiprsnapr on Saturday, or the paid Saturday Night Drag with Sunshine Glitterchild & Adrianna Exposée at The Lookout Bar & Nightclub. On Sunday, find your rhythm at the free JUST ME AND YOU. at Armada Lounge, or dance the night away at the free Milonga La Capital: July 2026 Edition on Saturday.
Taste & Discover: Food, Drink & Unique Finds
Kick off your Friday with a sophisticated (and free!) Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Pairing Experience; Vineyard Edition at KIN Vineyards. Alternatively, explore the free Factory to Table Event | De l'usine à la table at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, happening on both Friday and Sunday. On Monday, connect with fellow foodies at the paid Monday Munchies: Ottawa 20's edition. Saturday, browse for treasures at the free Ottawa Retro & Antique Market on Gladstone Ave.
Get Out There: Outdoors & Community
On Monday, dog owners can benefit from the free Hasty Hounds Group Dog Training Workshop. For sports enthusiasts, there's the free WWE Monday Night RAW and the Brewchre Tournament July 6 at Stray Dog Brewing Company on Monday. Friday offers a chance to check out some cool rides at the free Cruise To North Of 9 Truck Show at Cabela's.
Saturday is packed with outdoor activities: find a furry friend at the free Cat and kittens adoption event at Pet Valu in Stittsville, or join the free Pilates in the Park | Pilates dans le parc at Lansdowne Park. For something truly unique, the free Forest and Flow Yoga Festival is happening at 5 Star Camps. Don't miss the free July Monthly Outdoor Event at Experimental Farm Ottawa, or the free Intro to Offroading with OVO - Open Run at Cabela's. On Sunday, explore nature with the free Grounded: A Nature Walk Series - Walk #2 at Hogs Back, or join the free Ottawa Mushroom Society Walk: July in the South March Highlands. And for some gentle movement, the free lululemon Summer Series | Boldly Shine Your Brightest Light Yoga is on Sunday.
Mind & Body: Workshops & Wellness
Monday is ripe for learning: attend the free 🚨Vibe Academy🚨!! With John Gonzalez, or if you're serious about career growth, the paid Fast-Track Corporate Success: 1 Day Workshop | Ottawa. For those interested in the cutting edge, the free The 2026 Great Canadian iGEM Incubator is on Friday at the STEM Complex. Also on Friday, delve into important topics at the free Human Rights, Sustainable Development & the Law conference.
On Saturday, delve into the intricate art of Origami and Kirigami: From Art to Engineering at the Embassy of Japan (free), or hone your media skills at the free BEYOND THE CAMERA: RJM Media Workshop. For a truly unique experience, immerse yourself in the free Sun Up Sound Bath In The Park on Saturday morning.
This is just a glimpse of the incredible week ahead in the 613! Whether you're looking for family fun, a night out, a new skill, or some time in nature, Ottawa has you covered. For all the details and even more events, be sure to check out the full calendar at 613cal.ca. Enjoy your week!