Weekly Round-up: September 28 – October 4, 2026
September 28 – October 4, 2026
Fall is officially in the air, 613! As we step into the week of September 28th to October 4th, Ottawa is absolutely brimming with events that celebrate the changing season, ignite our senses, and bring our community together. Get ready to fill your calendars with everything from thrilling festivals and live music to thought-provoking discussions and family-friendly fun. Let's dive into what's happening!
Embrace the Autumn Vibe & Spooky Thrills
This week marks the beginning of many fantastic fall traditions and some early spooky delights. Kick off your weekend on Friday, October 2nd with the much-anticipated Dominion City Oktoberfest at Bar Lakeside, or check out the broader DCBC Oktoberfest 2026 at Bar Lakeside / Buvette du Lac for a festive atmosphere. If you're ready for some chills, get into the spirit with a triple threat of frights on Friday, October 2nd: FrightFest, sKreamers, and the ever-popular Acres of Terror. For something a little less intense but still atmospheric, don't miss Pumpkinferno, a stunning display of illuminated pumpkins, also on Friday, October 2nd. Families will love PumpkinFest on Saturday, October 3rd, offering classic autumn fun, and for those who enjoy a good ghost story, consider the Stittsville Haunted Heritage Tours 2026 on Friday, October 2nd.
Music City Beat & Electric Nights
Ottawa's music scene is absolutely buzzing this week! The highlight for many will be Capital Music Week, kicking off on Friday, October 2nd, featuring events at various venues across the city, including free options like the CxMW: DJs & Drag Dance Party feat. Bif Naked at Skate and Play. For rock fans, Bring Me The Horizon, with Motionless In White and The Plot In You, will take over the Canadian Tire Centre on Friday, October 2nd. Catch the smooth sounds of Jesse Cook in Gatineau at the Theatre du Casino du Lac-Leamy, also on Friday, October 2nd. If indie is more your style, Two Door Cinema Club - Tourist History 15th Anniversary Tour hits History Ottawa. You can also find Free Live Entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, or check out local acts like Radio Saintz live at Buster’s! at Buster’s Bar & Grill. On Monday, September 28th, catch JIMI, Taming Sari at The 27 Club.
Arts, Stage & Captivating Shows
Prepare to be enchanted by a range of captivating performances and artistic showcases. The spectacular Cirque du Soleil: Luzia continues its run at St. Laurent Shopping Centre on Friday, October 2nd. For more theatrical flair, explore Oniro or Cirque A La Carte - Circus of Shadows, both on Friday, October 2nd. On Saturday, October 3rd, delve into history with Live History – “In Time”. Art lovers can check out Portraits of a Music City or try their hand at Ceramic Painting - ZELALOUN on Friday, October 2nd. Don't miss Expressions of Art on Saturday, October 3rd for a showcase of local talent.
Community Connections & Lifelong Learning
Connect with your community and expand your horizons with these diverse events. On Friday, October 2nd, explore the mystical at the Ottawa East Psychic & Crystal Fair at Jim Durrell Recreation Centre. For a great cause, attend TOGETHER FOR A CAUSE: Fundraising Evening for L'Arche Ottawa at Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre. On Monday, September 28th, join the Ottawa Urbanism Book Club at the Ottawa Public Library, or meet author Georgia Morissette at her book launch at the Fairmont Château Laurier. Families can enjoy the free Monday Afternoon Playgroup - Infant Senses Exploration at Children’s Village of Ottawa Carleton. On Saturday, October 3rd, the free The Talk of the Party | Ottawa Afrocentric Book Club meets at the Ottawa Public Library - Main. For those looking to learn, there are numerous workshops and conferences throughout the week, including a free Magic The Gathering Free Play Night! on Friday, October 2nd.
Sports & Outdoor Adventures
Cheer on our local team or get out and enjoy the crisp fall air! The Ottawa REDBLACKS vs. Hamilton Tiger-Cats face off at The Stadium at TD Place on Friday, October 2nd. For combat sports fans, United Promotions Presents: Live Championship Boxing on Saturday, October 3rd promises an exciting evening. If you prefer outdoor exploration, try the Outrageous Ottawa Scavenger Hunt starting at Planet Coffee, or Unravel Ottawa’s mysteries with our exciting outdoor escape game! at Parliament of Canada, both available on Monday, September 28th.
This is just a glimpse of the incredible week ahead in Ottawa! For all the details, dates, and times, be sure to browse the full calendar at https://613cal.ca. See you out there, 613!