Your 613cal Weekly Roundup: October 5–11, 2026
October 5–11, 2026
Hello, Ottawa! The crisp autumn air is officially here, and the 613 is buzzing with activity as we head into the week of October 5–11, 2026. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, there's a wonderful blend of pre-holiday festivities, spine-tingling Halloween fun, and plenty of opportunities to connect with our vibrant community. Let’s dive into what’s happening!
Kickstarting the Week: Monday's Best
Monday, October 5, sets a high note with a mix of music, learning, and local charm. Music lovers won't want to miss the highly anticipated Metric with Broken Social Scene & Stars taking the stage at The Arena at TD Place for their "All The Feelings Tour." If you're looking for something more intimate, check out the free CxMW: Community Songwriting & Lyric Workshop with Kalle Mattson at Irene's Pub.
For those looking to boost their career, there's a free Job Fair October 5, 2026 at the Holiday Inn & Suites Ottawa Kanata. Families can enjoy the Monday Afternoon Playgroup - Gross and Fine Motor skills at Children’s Village of Ottawa Carleton. And for a dose of local culture and history, consider the End Times Fascism with Naomi Klein and Astra Taylor literary event at Christ Church Cathedral or the Outrageous Ottawa Scavenger Hunt starting at Planet Coffee in the ByWard Market.
Friday Frenzy: Spooky Thrills, Music & More
Friday, October 9, is absolutely packed with events, especially if you're ready for some pre-Halloween scares! Get your fright on with multiple haunted attractions like Acres of Terror, sKreamers, and FrightFest. For a local, family-friendly spooky experience, explore the Stittsville Haunted Heritage Tours. If art with a twist is more your style, the Oniro Night Walk offers a unique artistic journey.
Music and nightlife are also in full swing. Enjoy Free Live Entertainment at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, or catch Christone “Kingfish” Ingram – The Hard Road Tour. It's Capital Music Week, so don't miss the CxMW: Capital Music Awards at the National Arts Centre, followed by the After Party at Lowertown Brewery. Comedy fans have plenty of choices too, with SUGAR SAMMY - GATINEAU - EN FRANÇAIS at the Canadian Museum of History, and Not Dead Yet! - John Cleese and the Holy Grail at 50 at the National Arts Centre.
Unique cultural experiences include Cirque du Soleil: Luzia at St. Laurent Shopping Centre and the Ottawa Gatineau Tattoo Expo. And for a taste of something different, try Sabor de Gratitud: Thanksgiving con Sabor Latino on Manotick Main Street.
Savouring Saturday: Markets & Merriment
As the week winds down, Saturday, October 10, brings a delightful array of markets and family-friendly fun. It's peak harvest season, and you can explore an abundance of fresh, local goods at the Carp Farmers’ Market, Alta Vista Market, Main Street Farmers' Market, Westboro Farmers' Market, Wakefield Market, Cumberland Farmers' Market, and Metcalfe Farmers' Market. Don't forget Stittsville Gobblefest and Fetch Local Markets for even more local treasures.
For a fantastic family outing, head to PumpkinFest for festive autumn fun. If you're still craving laughs after Friday, Jaspreet Singh Live (Straight Up) - Ottawa 2026 is performing at Kailash Mital Theatre.
Free & Family-Friendly Fun
Looking for budget-friendly options? Ottawa has you covered! On Monday, don't miss the free Responsible AI Symposium at INNOVA or the Scary Movie (2026) screening at Algonquin Commons Theatre. For community connection, consider the free HyperActive Ottawa Friday Breakfast: Men’s Mental Health & Accountability at Broadway Bar & Grill, or the unique Sauna & Cold Plunge Social | Workout + Firepit at Findlay Creek Farmstead Animal Sanctuary. The Unspoken – A Cacao Circle offers a free space for meaningful discussions. Many of Saturday’s markets and festivals, like PumpkinFest, are fantastic for families and often free to attend, offering a wonderful way to enjoy the autumn weather together.
This is just a taste of all the incredible events happening in Ottawa this week. For a complete list and more details, be sure to browse the full calendar at 613cal.ca. Have a fantastic week, 613!