Summer in Ottawa is in full swing, and the city is buzzing with events that capture the best of culture, community, and sunshine! From outdoor music festivals to exciting pop-ups, there is something for everyone in August.
Whether you’re a local looking to explore hidden gems or a tourist planning your summer itinerary, here are 10 FREE August events in Ottawa that deserve a spot on your seasonal bucket list!
1. ByWard Night Market
The ByWard Night Market is back and better than ever! Shop a curated selection of handmade goods from local artisans, enjoy delicious food from diverse vendors, and play in a lively, vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect evening out to eat, shop, and soak in the sights of the ByWard Market.
Dates: Every Thursday in August from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Location: ByWard Market District
Cost: Free Admission
2. Camp MilkUP
MilkUP Ontario’s beloved post-to-pay pop-up is back in Ottawa this summer and they’re bringing ALL the camp vibes!
Step into a world of nostalgia with a playful, camp-inspired experience where your fave local vendors are serving up exclusive, free goodies – all you have to do to pay, is post!
Expect savoury cheesy bites, artisanal treats, and retro merch all up for grabs in exchange for a quick social media post. Local vendors include Sharpfle Waffle, Moo Shu Ice Cream, Raon Kitchen, Undergrounds & more!
Dates: August 9-16 (Weekdays from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.)
Location: UOttawa Tabaret Lawn – 550 Cumberland St, Ottawa
Cost: Free Admission
3. Dance at Zibi – House with Capital Sessions
Dance the night away this summer with free outdoor lessons at Zibi presented by the National Arts Centre!
Tangent and Rise Ashen from Capital Sessions will share their love of house music and dance with you. Tangent will teach a beginner house dance workshop for participants to practice their moves, and Rise will be on the mix for the hour. You can follow the steps or just have fun and groove to Rise’s set. Instructions are visual, and all are welcome!
Dates: August 21 from 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: The Warehouse at Zibi – 28 Booth St, Ottawa
Cost: Free Admission
4. Capital Pop-Up Cinema
Capital Pop-Up Cinema has been bringing the magic of cinema to unexpected places around the Ottawa region for over a decade. Enjoy a free outdoor moving screening under the stars – just bring a blanket or a folding chair!
August Schedule:
August 1 – Say Anything (Sparks St)
August 8 – My Girl (Beechwood Cemetery)
August 9 – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (Zibi on Albert Island)
August 15 – Stand By Me (Westboro at Churchill Senior Recreation Centre)
August 29 – Annie (Sparks St)
Dates: Select Fridays in August (movies begin at sundown)
Location: Various locations across Ottawa
Cost: Free Admission
5. Hintonburg Night Markets
Join Urban Art Collective in one of Ottawa’s coolest neighbourhoods every Thursday night until the end of September. All of their markets are carefully curated to bring you new vendors and the best-of-the-best each week, so you can always discover something new. This is such way to shop eats, treats, and all things handmade, pre-loved and local!
Dates: Every Thursday night from 5-9 p.m.
Location: Urban Art Collective Parking Lot – 1088 Somerset St W, Ottawa
Cost: Free Admission
Looking to switch up your summer beverages to a healthier alternative? Click here to discover our favourite better-for-you beverages to try this summer!
