Weekly Round-Up: September 21–27, 2026
September 21–27, 2026
Welcome back, 613! As September deepens and the leaves hint at their vibrant transformation, Ottawa is buzzing with an incredible array of events to keep you engaged, entertained, and well-fed. From crucial community discussions to thrilling nightlife and family-friendly adventures, there’s truly something for everyone this week. Let's dive into the highlights!
Community & Connections
This week offers plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and contribute to our community. Kick off your week on Monday, September 21st with the important discussion on Protecting Vulnerable Canadians: The Impact of MAiD for Mental Illness at Cardus Ottawa (Free). Later, lend your support at the ❤️100 Women+ Who Care Ottawa event at Milestones Lansdowne (Free).
Friday, September 25th is a big day for civic engagement! Don't miss the Mayoral Candidates’ Forum / Forum des candidats à la mairie at COLLABÜRO, a crucial opportunity to hear from those aspiring to lead our city (Free tickets here). For those interested in personal development, the Fifty-Five Plus Lifestyle Show is happening, also on Friday (Free). And for the bookworms, both OSGC September Book Club: Something About September at Octopus Books (Free) and a compelling Book launch: Broken Worlds, Disabled Kin: Strategies for Collective Survival at Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre (Free) are on offer.
On Saturday, September 26th, entrepreneurs won't want to miss the FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR SHOWCASE/SALON DE LA FEMME ENTREPRENEURE at the Jim Durrell Recreation Centre (Free), a fantastic chance to network and celebrate local talent.
Live Entertainment & Nightlife
Get ready for a week of rhythm, laughter, and dazzling performances! Monday, September 21st brings punk legends Subhumans to The 27 Club (Tickets are $32). You can also enjoy some creative fun at Adult Recess - The Bad Drawing Club Social - FUNNY PORTRAITS at Beyond the Pale Brewing Company ($15).
Friday, September 25th is absolutely jam-packed with evening events. Catch some sultry sounds at Live Jazz & Burlesque at Night Oat in Gladstone (Free entry!). For a night of fabulous fun, join DRAG BINGO ft. Vera at Beyond the Pale Byward! ($28) or the FIREBALL FRIDAY: Drag Show with Xtra and Adrianna Exposee at The Lookout Bar & Nightclub ($17). If comedy is more your speed, there's a Comedy Night on the Rideau Canal (Free)! Music lovers have endless options, including Jade Eagleson in Ottawa at the Carp Agricultural Society (Free), Ambush at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa (Paid), and Spencer Krug, Elbow Kiss at Rainbow Bistro ($32). And for something truly spectacular, Cirque du Soleil: Luzia continues its run at St. Laurent Shopping Centre (Paid tickets available).
Cap off your weekend on Saturday, September 26th with the vibrant energy of Flamenco Vivo Live! at Queen St. Fare (Free).
Food, Drink & Markets
Ottawa's culinary scene and vibrant markets are flourishing this week!
On Friday, September 25th, treat your senses to a Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Pairing Experience; Vineyard Edition at KIN Vineyards (Free registration!). For a unique dining experience, check out Le Petit Chef (Free). Health-conscious foodies will love the Vegans Who Snack Food & Art Festival (Free), and the always-popular Ottawa Chinatown Mid-Autumn Night Market promises a festive evening of delicious treats and cultural delights (Free).
And on Saturday, September 26th, satisfy your sweet tooth with CAKE & COFFEE at 2759 Carousel Crescent (Free).
Family Fun & Unique Experiences
Looking for something a little different or family-friendly? We've got you covered!
On Monday, September 21st, embark on an Outrageous Ottawa Scavenger Hunt starting at Planet Coffee in the ByWard Market ($25 per person). It's a fun way to explore the city!
Friday, September 25th brings the Capital Pop-Up Cinema (Free) for some outdoor movie magic, and the GUNDAM CARD GAME ST11-ST14 Release Event in Kanata (Free) for card game enthusiasts.
On Saturday, September 26th, families should head to the OCSB Family Expo at St. Paul High School (Free entry), offering a day of activities and resources. For those looking to learn a new skill, the WorkSpace Safety: Intro to Power Tools workshop at the Ottawa Tool Library (Free) is an excellent opportunity.
This is just a taste of all the fantastic events happening around Ottawa this week! For a complete list and more details, be sure to browse our full calendar at https://613cal.ca. Enjoy your week, 613!