Olivia TaylorMy friend from abroad—who has exactly zero experience with anything resembling a Canadian spring—is coming over for a vacation this year. Naturally, she’s super eager to dive into all the action Ottawa has to offer during this season.
Luckily, I’ve been making it a point to hit up these events for the past few years, so showing her around is practically second nature. Given my extensive “research” (ahm, excuse to have fun), I figured I’d put them on a list.
Whether you’re a local looking to spice up your springtime plans or a visitor trying to make the most of your trip, all these activities promise to be a whirlwind of fun! Let’s dive in.
- Stroll through the Canadian Tulip Festival’s vibrant blooms
- Attend literary events at the Ottawa International Writers Festival
- Experience the magic at the Ottawa Children’s Festival
- Hike Gatineau Park’s scenic trails
- Join the Easter egg hunt at The Log Farm
- Browse fresh produce at the Ottawa Farmers Market
- Admire cherry blossoms at Dominion Arboretum
- Explore diverse wildlife at Stony Swamp’s boardwalk trails
- Peek inside historic buildings at the Doors Open Ottawa event
- Witness equestrian sports events at Wesley Clover Park’s arenas
- Participate in community-led tours during Jane’s Walk event
- Shop and dine at the lively ByWard Market
- Celebrate Italian Week on Preston Street
- Discover natural wonders at the Canadian Museum of Nature
Stroll through the Canadian Tulip Festival’s vibrant blooms
– Media credit: travelblissnow
Website: https://tulipfestival.ca/
Address: Commissioners Park, Queen Elizabeth Driveway
Contact details: +1 800 668 8547
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Cost: Free entry
The festival has a rich history rooted in friendship and gratitude between Canada and the Netherlands, dating back to World War II. During this event, make sure to check out the art installations and live performances sprawled across the festival grounds.
There’s also a designated area for kids with activities and games, so it’s perfect if you’re visiting with family. The guided tours are great too as they make the entire experience even more enriching.
| Pro tip: If you get a bit peckish, food trucks and stands are scattered all around, offering everything from local delicacies to international treats. |
Attend literary events at the Ottawa International Writers Festival
– Media credit: ottawawritersfest
Website: https://writersfestival.org/
Address: Takes place at various venues
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- N/A
Cost:
- General Admission – $25
- Senior/Student – $20
- Watch online – $20
The Ottawa International Writers Festival is a must-attend event for anyone who loves literature. The spring edition, from May 1st to 4th, brings together an array of authors, poets, and storytellers.
You get to sit on readings, engaging panel discussions, and even book signings. You may even discover new genres or authors that you hadn’t considered before.
Plus, many of the events are interactive, so you get to have a question-and-answer session with the authors. Furthermore, the festival supports local talent, giving you a chance to discover some amazing Ottawa-based writers.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye on the schedule for any special workshops or smaller group discussions—these intimate settings offer a unique opportunity to learn and engage. |
Experience the magic at the Ottawa Children’s Festival
– Media credit: ottawachildrensfest
Website: https://ottawachildrensfestival.ca/fr/
Address: Lansdowne Park
Contact details: +1 613 241 0999
Operating hours:
- Activities from 10 AM to 2 PM (Schedule may vary from day to day)
Cost:
- Single Ticket – $17.50
- Family of 4 – $52
- Standard Group Ticket – $12
- Concert Group Ticker – $14
- Concert Ticket – $22.50 per head
- Concert for 4 person – $60
Special shows:
- Arborialis – $7.50
- Where the Wild Things Are – $14
The Ottawa Children’s Festival is a magical event dedicated entirely to kids and their families. Held from May 8 to May 13, this festival showcases performances by world-class artists, offering a mix of theatre, music, and dance.
Your kids will be entertained for hours, and you might even find yourself just as captivated! There’s an incredible array of activities to choose from, including hands-on workshops where kids can try their hand at arts and crafts.
Interactive play areas are dotted throughout the festival grounds, and there’s usually face painting and balloon twisting, which are always a hit with the little ones.
| Pro tip: If you’re worried about keeping everyone fed and happy, you’re in luck. The festival features various food stalls, from kid-friendly snacks to meals for grown-ups. |
Hike Gatineau Park’s scenic trails
– Media credit: parcgatineaupark
Website: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park
Address: Gatineau, Quebec
Contact details: +1 819 827 2020
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free entry
For those who love the great outdoors, hiking in Gatineau Park during spring is a must. The park is just 14-min. Drive from downtown Ottawa, and its scenic trails transform as nature wakes up from its winter slumber.
The trails vary in difficulty, so whether you’re a hiking newbie or a seasoned trekker, there’s something for everyone. The waterfalls are especially beautiful this time of year, fuelled by the melting snow.
There are also informational plaques along some trails that can make for interesting reads about the local wildlife and plant life. While it’s mostly a day activity, the park does offer spots for picnics, so pack lunch and enjoy it amidst nature’s beauty.
| Pro tip: Remember to check the trail conditions online before heading out and opt to wear waterproof hiking boots, since spring can be a bit muddy. And also, carry a map—you don’t want to be that person who gets lost in the woods. |
Join the Easter egg hunt at The Log Farm
– Media credit: thelogfarm
Website: http://www.thelogfarm.com/
Address: 670 Cedarview Rd., Nepean
Contact details: +1 613 292 1219
Operating hours:
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Cost:
- All guests – $11.50 + HST
- Children under 1 – Free
- Frequent Visitor Card – $99.95 + HST
The Easter egg hunt at The Log Farm is a star attraction, where kids of all ages will have a blast searching for colourful eggs hidden around the farm. Just bring your Easter baskets and get ready for lots of fun and excitement.
Aside from the egg hunt, The Log Farm lets you step back in time with its historic buildings, allowing you to experience what life was like in the 1860s. You can also ride wagon rides, try the corn maze and pumpkin patch, and play in the farm’s kitchen.
Additionally, you can check out the adorable farm animals, such as pigs, chickens, goats, and even horses. Animal feedings and interactive activities add a special touch to your visit.
| Pro tip: The farm has a lovely little market where you can pick up fresh farm produce, homemade jams, and other local goodies. Also, don’t forget to wear boots, as it can be a bit muddy during the spring! |
Browse fresh produce at the Ottawa Farmers Market
– Media credit: ottawafarmersmarket
Website: http://ottawafarmersmarket.ca/
Address: 1000 Exhibition Way
Contact details: +1 613 417 3595
Operating hours:
- Sunday – 10 AM to 3 PM
Cost: ££
The Ottawa Farmers Market is the go-to spot for fresh, local produce and artisanal products. Held at Lansdowne Park, you can find everything here, from crisp apples and juicy berries to homemade pastries and freshly baked bread.
The market is also a treasure trove of handmade crafts and local goods, perfect for finding unique gifts or treats for yourself. Strolling through the stalls, you can chat with local farmers and vendors about their products.
In addition to fresh produce and baked goods, the market offers a variety of ready-to-eat items that are perfect for a quick lunch or snack. Plus, you can often find interesting cooking demonstrations and live music performances, adding to the experience.
| Pro tip: Remember to bring your own reusable shopping bags to carry all your fresh finds, and don’t forget some cash—while many vendors accept cards, some are cash-only. |
Admire cherry blossoms at Dominion Arboretum
– Media credit: boubikes
Website: https://friendsofthefarm.ca/plan-your-visit/attractions/
Address: Arboretum
Contact details: +1 613 759 1982
Operating hours:
- Dawn to dusk
Cost: Free entry
Spring is the perfect time to visit the Dominion Arboretum and witness breathtaking cherry blossoms in full bloom. It’s the ideal place to stroll around while enjoying the soft pink and white petals fluttering around you.
Beyond the cherry blossoms, the arboretum is home to a vast collection of trees and plants, making it a wonderful place for nature enthusiasts. Take time to explore the various trails and paths that wind through the garden.
The arboretum is also a great spot for birdwatching, as many species are attracted to the blossoming flowers and lush environment in spring.
| Pro tip: Opt to visit during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and get the best views of the blossoms. Also, check out the different areas within the arboretum—you’ll be amazed at the diversity of plant life beyond the cherry trees. |
Explore diverse wildlife at Stony Swamp’s boardwalk trails
– Media credit: murtaza.a.jalali
Website: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/stony-swamp
Address: Stony Swamp
Contact details: +1 613 239 5000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: Free entry
For those who love being outdoors and observing wildlife, Stony Swamp’s boardwalk trails are a must-visit in the spring. This conservation area is known for its diverse ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and beaver ponds.
As you walk along the boardwalks, keep an eye out for the various bird species that migrate here for the spring. From ducks to herons to songbirds and raptors, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.
The trails are well-maintained and allow for a comfortable walk while you soak in the natural beauty around you. Apart from the birds, you might spot other wildlife, such as turtles, beavers, and deer.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay. Also, don’t forget to pack some water and snacks to keep you energised during your walk. |
Peek inside historic buildings at the Doors Open Ottawa event
– Media credit: facesottawa
Website: https://www.facebook.com/doorsopen.ottawa/
Address: Takes place at various venues
Contact details: +1 613 580 2400
Operating hours:
- From 10 AM to 4 PM
Cost: Free entry
The Door Open Ottawa event is your golden ticket to glimpse inside some of the city’s most historic and architecturally stunning buildings. You’ll explore everything from the classic Parliament buildings to quirky, lesser-known gems that are usually off-limits to the public.
During this event, you can take guided tours that provide exclusive insights into the stories and secrets of these iconic structures. Many of the buildings host special activities and exhibits just for this event.
Also, make sure you grab a free map of participating buildings, highlighting those you don’t want to miss.
| Pro tip: Opt to wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking. Also, arriving early is a good strategy to avoid the most crowded times and make the most of your day. |
Witness equestrian sports events at Wesley Clover Park’s arenas
– Media credit: ottawaequestriantournaments
Website: https://www.wesleycloverparks.com/ottawa-equestrian-tournaments
Address: 401 Corkstown Rd., Nepean
Contact details: +1 613 271 5452
Operating hours:
- From 8 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free to watch
If equestrian sports pique your interest, then don’t miss the thrilling horse show events at Wesley Clover Parks. The Ottawa Welcome I (May 14 to 18) and Ottawa Welcome II (May 21 to 25) offer some of the best equestrian action you’ll see.
Watch talented riders and their majestic horses compete in a variety of jumps and other events. These events go beyond just the competitions.
Between events, you can wander around the grounds, enjoy food from local vendors, or even interact with some of the horses and riders.
| Pro tip: You might want to pack some sunscreen and a hat, as there’s not much shade around the viewing areas. And don’t forget a pair of binoculars if you want an up-close view of the jumps and tricks. |
Participate in community-led tours during Jane’s Walk event
– Media credit: janeswalkottawa
Website: https://www.janeswalkottawa.ca/
Address: Takes place at various place
Contact details: +1 613 563 4922
Operating hours:
- Schedule may vary
Cost: Free to join
Jane’s Walk events are community-led tours through Ottawa’s neighbourhoods. This walk is a celebration of urban life inspired by the legendary Jane Jacobs, where locals share their love for the city by guiding walks while discussing historical anecdotes.
You can choose from multiple themed walks that cater to different interests. Maybe you’re curious about the city’s industrial past or want to learn more about its green spaces and sustainability efforts—there’s something for everyone!
You’ll find fun, engaging, and often surprising narratives that deepen your understanding of the urban landscape around you.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out the official Jane’s Walk website ahead of time to find a walk that piques your interest and fits your schedule. Also, it’s wise to wear layers, as spring weather can be unpredictable. |
Shop and dine at the lively ByWard Market
– Media credit: ronald_1081
Website: https://www.byward-market.com/
Address: 55 ByWard Market Square
Contact details: +1 613 244 4410
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: ££
ByWard Market features a dazzling array of stalls offering everything from fresh produce to handicrafts to international foods. Skilled artisans, local farmers, and creative cooks all come together in a dynamic cultural mosaic that’s hard to resist.
As you wander through the market, be sure to try the maple syrup and famous BeaverTails pastries. Additionally, you’ll find live performers adding to the lively atmosphere, making a visit here a complete sensory experience.
And it’s not just about those—the market also offers beautiful flowers, handmade jewelleries, and countless other treasures to catch your eye.
| Pro tip: Visit the market early in the day to mingle with the local vendors and score the freshest products. |
Celebrate Italian Week on Preston Street
– Media credit: ottawatourism
Website: https://italianweekottawa.ca/
Address: Preston Street
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Performances start at 5 PM until midnight
Cost: Free entry
Italian Week on Preston Street is celebrated from June 5th to June 16th and is a 10-day celebration of honouring all things Italian. You can expect a non-stop party with everything from parades to live music to delicious Italian cuisine.
The streets are filled with local vendors selling everything from artisanal cheeses to authentic espresso. If you’re into cars, make sure you don’t miss the Italian Car Parade, where people bring out their Ferraris, Alfa Romeos, and Fiats.
There’s even a Vespa rally, which is just so cool to witness. By the way, there’s also an outdoor movie night as part of the celebration—they screen classic Italian films, which is a fantastic way to unwind after a day full of activities.
| Pro tip: Opt to bring cash with you. Although many vendors take cards, some are cash-only, and you don’t want to miss out on any goodies just because you didn’t bring enough cash. |
Discover natural wonders at the Canadian Museum of Nature
– Media credit: museumofnature
Website: http://nature.ca/
Address: 240 McLeod St.
Contact details: +1 800 263 4433
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
Cost:
General Admission (Daylight)
- Adult – $18
- Senior ages 65 and above – $16
- Ages 3 to 12 – $14
- Student ages 13 – $16
- Student ages 18 and above – $16
General Admission (Thursday Evening) – Free
The Canadian Museum of Nature is chock-full of cool exhibits that are both educational and downright fascinating. One of the highlights is the dinosaur collection, where you can get close to some massive skeletons and even touch them.
Another exhibit that you shouldn’t miss is the gallery dedicated to Canada’s Arctic, which showcases its unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Stuff like the towering polar bear statues and the real ice samples help to bring the Arctic right to you.
Plus, they even feature some excellent insights into climate change and how it’s affecting our planet. There are so many hands-on activities to do, interactive games, and even live bugs and reptiles to see.
| Pro tip: Remember to arrive earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and give yourself plenty of time to explore. Also, the museum offers a “Nature Sleepover,” an overnight adventure for families—so check that out if you want an extra special experience. |
