Your 613cal Weekly Round-Up: September 14–20, 2026
September 14–20, 2026
Welcome back, Ottawa! As we settle into mid-September, the 613 is absolutely buzzing with an incredible array of events for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a night out with friends, or a chance to learn something new, this weekend, particularly Friday the 18th and Saturday the 19th, is packed with possibilities. Let’s dive into some highlights!
Festivals & Community Fun
This week is a festival lover's dream, with many opportunities to celebrate community and culture. Kicking off the weekend in spectacular fashion is Cirque du Soleil - Luzia at St. Laurent Shopping Centre on Friday, September 18th, offering a free theatrical experience that promises to dazzle. Also on Friday, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the Ontario Culture Days Festival, or celebrate Mexican independence at El Grito de Independencia 2026 at the Bronson Centre.
- For unique finds, don't miss the HANDMADE FINDS FESTIVAL at 55 Byward Market Square on Friday.
- The Hellenic Event Centre hosts Yowfest on Friday, a vibrant festival for all.
- On Saturday, the LabO Theatre presents Alchemy Fest 2026, another free festival to explore.
- Join the fun at Queers & Beers on Friday, or dance the night away at Bi Vis! A Dance Party & Social to Celebrate Bi+ Visibility Week at Ottawa Bike Cafe, both free.
- For families, Ganesh Mahotsav on Friday offers a wonderful cultural festival experience.
Rhythms of the City: Live Music & Nightlife
Get ready to tap your feet, sing along, or hit the dance floor, because Ottawa's music scene is alive and well this week! On Friday, September 18th, enjoy free tunes with The Piano Men The Ultimate Tribute To Billy Joel & Elton John, or catch Switchfoot at the RA Centre. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa also has Free Live Entertainment.
- For a nostalgic night, head to Kanata for a free Pub Night (60's Music and Trivia!).
- If you're looking for paid concert experiences, UB40 plays History Ottawa, and The Australian Pink Floyd Show is at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, both on Friday.
- The 27 Club hosts two exciting shows on Friday: Moon Walker with Runaway Kit & Girlboything ($26) and Can You Feel My Heart? The Ultimate Bring Me The Horizon Dance Party ($14).
- On Saturday, September 19th, House of TARG offers a free show with THE GRUESOMES + The Reverb Syndicate + Gerard Van Herk + DJ Shanker.
- Overflow Brewery presents Hammerfall, Evergrey, Elvenking ($45) on Saturday for metal fans.
- Don't miss DYNA (DANCE YOUR NIGHT AWAY) at 36 Bentley Ave on Saturday for a free music event.
Culinary Delights & Market Treasures
Foodies and market enthusiasts, rejoice! This week offers a delicious mix of culinary experiences and chances to explore local vendors. On Friday, September 18th, treat your taste buds to Wine Tasting at Watson's Mill or discover new flavours at Le Petit Chef and Feuilles vives. While the exclusive The Chef's Table / Chef à l’affiche at the National Arts Centre is sold out, there are still many other options!
- Experience Salsa Street Seats on Friday, a vibrant free market event.
- The Gloucester Night Market on Friday also features great music and local finds.
- Saturday is market day! Stock up on fresh goods at the Carp Farmers’ Market, Wakefield Market, Westboro Farmers' Market, Metcalfe Farmers' Market, Main Street Farmers' Market, and Alta Vista Market – all free and fantastic for family outings.
- Enjoy the outdoors with a Summer Flower U-Pick on Saturday.
Arts, Action & Discovery
From thrilling sports to captivating arts and opportunities to learn, there's plenty to engage your mind and body. On Friday, September 18th, witness the high-flying action of C*4 Wrestling presents "FOR LOVE OF THE GAME" - Season 19 Premiere! at Preston Event Centre, a free event for sports fans. You can also catch the 2026 IWBF Wheelchair Basketball World Championships with various paid games throughout the day at TD Place and Carleton University.
- Delve into the arts with O-Town Animated or enjoy a theatrical performance of Dief the Chief: October '62 on Friday.
- For literary buffs, enjoy free Poetry Readings by Gwen Aube, Rebecca Lawrence Lynch, and Mona Gendron at the Ottawa Trans Library on Friday, or tune into Friday Special Blend on CKCU FM 93.1.
- On Saturday, challenge yourself at Zulu Challenge Ottawa, a free sports event.
- The Korean Cultural Centre Canada hosts a free Screening: HURRAH OF THE WOMEN.
- Get creative with a free Fall Semester Watercolour Class: Intro to Watercolour with Diana Quilarque at Wallack's Art Supplies on Saturday.
- The Canadian Museum of History hosts a free 90s Silent Disco and the family-friendly Once Upon A Time In Jerusalem - Ottawa on Saturday.
- Don't miss the free Cat Video Fest or Capital Pop-Up Cinema on Saturday for some unique entertainment.
This is just a glimpse of the incredible happenings across the 613 this week! For more details and a full list of events, be sure to browse our complete calendar at https://613cal.ca. Enjoy your week, Ottawa!