Summer Sizzles in the 613: Your Weekly Roundup (July 20–26, 2026)
July 20–26, 2026
Hello, Ottawa! Summer is in full swing, and the 613 is absolutely buzzing with incredible events from Monday, July 20th to Sunday, July 26th. Whether you're looking to learn something new, get active outdoors, enjoy some vibrant culture, or simply unwind, our city has something special waiting for you. Dive into this week’s highlights and make the most of these sunny days!
Monday Momentum: Kickstart Your Week!
Start your week strong with a fantastic mix of learning, wellness, and unique experiences. On Monday, July 20th, you can literally build your future at the free online Build Your AI App + Apply for the $100k AI Prize. For hands-on creativity, the free Watercolour Journaling Workshop at Nepean Museum offers an artistic escape. Get moving with free UOttawa Tango in the Summer - drop-in classes at 50 University Private, or bring your furry friend to the free Patio Pups Group Dog Training Workshop at 245 West Hunt Club Road.
Families can enjoy free Outdoor Forest and Nature Fun / Amusement en plein air at 2 MacNeil Ct, while a tranquil Community Kirtan - Sunset Chanting at the Beach at Britania Beach offers a peaceful evening. For something completely different, catch The Wheel of Whatever (7/20/2026): An Improvised 'Sweded' Movie at Southminster United Church, also free!
Unleash Your Creativity & Curiosity
This week is brimming with opportunities to explore new hobbies and expand your mind. On Friday, July 24th, discover the wonders of biology at the free Secret of life. Make coral and fluorescent dyes in cells in Petri dishes at the Rideau Community Hub. Art enthusiasts can try the free Henna Basics Workshop with Mehendi by Manal at Love Lyla Books, or join the family-friendly OSGC July Book Club: Dandelion at Octopus Books.
The learning continues into Saturday, July 25th with several free workshops. Get practical with WorkSpace Safety: Intro to Power Tools at the Ottawa Tool Library, or refine your photography skills at Henry's Ottawa: 3-Part Beginner's Day and Photo Walk. Wallack's Art Supplies and Framing hosts free workshops like Summer Linocut Workshop: Upcycling & Stamping and Summer Watercolour Workshop: Atmospheric Landscape. Plus, don't miss the family-friendly Black Boys Code Ottawa - Show & Tell Grand Finale at Louis-Pasteur Private.
Weekend Warriors: Festivals & Outdoor Fun
The weekend truly comes alive with a fantastic array of festivals and outdoor activities! On Friday, July 24th, immerse yourself in culture at the free Afro-Caribbean Kinkolé Festival at 2805 Carling Ave. Saturday, July 25th brings the vibrant, free CARIVIBE FESTIVAL at Skate & Play, alongside the free VegOttawa Fest at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre for foodies. For the adventurous, the Mud Hero festival at MARKED Ultimate Family Adventure Park offers an exhilarating challenge.
Enjoy the fresh air with a free European Summer Arts & Crafts Picnic at Commissioners Park, or catch some free live tunes at Evenings at Zibi. Car enthusiasts can admire some beauties at Cars & Coffee Ottawa at TD Place, and find local treasures at the free Stittsville Jamboree FUNdraiser Market at Village Square Park. On Sunday, July 26th, gather the family for OACETT's Pizza Picnic in the Park! at Vincent Massey Park, or enjoy the free and fabulous Drag Bingo Brunch at Broadhead Brewery ORLEANS!.
Nights Out: Music, Laughter & Good Times!
Ottawa’s nightlife and entertainment scene is vibrant this week! On Friday, July 24th, rock out with Canadian legends Trooper at the Hard Rock Casino Ottawa (paid), or catch indie darlings NOBRO, Neon Ghosthouse, Wet For Days at Overflow Brewing Co. ($32). Electronic music fans can enjoy a free energetic night with JOHN 00 FLEMING at City At Night. Comedy lovers have a treat with the Lol Comedy Festival featuring K Trevor Wilson and Steve Patterson Interview Show at Laugh Lounge and Sky Lounge (paid events).
The beats keep going on Saturday, July 25th with hip-hop icons Souls of Mischief at Overflow Brewing Co. ($45) and the wildly popular Shrek Rave at The 27 Club (paid). You can also groove to free Afrobeats Across Time at 36 Bentley Ave, experience the beautiful free Candlelight: Ed Sheeran & Coldplay at La Nouvelle Scène Gilles Desjardins, or check out the free Feel My Texture Kiki Ball at SAW. Cap off your weekend with free live music from Ten02 at The Rainbow Bistro on Sunday, July 26th.
This is just a peek into all the amazing things happening in the 613 this week. For a complete list and more details, be sure to browse our full calendar at https://613cal.ca. Enjoy your week, Ottawa!