Things to Do in Ottawa During Easter Weekend 2026

Ottawa comes alive during the Easter weekend with a wide mix of entertainment, cultural experiences, sports action, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a fan of live performances, or simply looking for festive outings with family, the capital offers something for everyone. From major hockey games to Easter-themed farm experiences and bustling local markets, here is a complete guide to what’s happening across the city.

Major Sporting Events in Ottawa

Ottawa Senators Weekend Games

Hockey fans can catch the Ottawa Senators in action at the Canadian Tire Centre throughout the Easter weekend. The team has a packed schedule with three home games. They face the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday evening at 7 p.m., followed by a Saturday afternoon matchup against the Minnesota Wild at 1 p.m. The weekend wraps up with a Sunday game against the Carolina Hurricanes at 5 p.m. This lineup offers multiple chances to experience NHL excitement live.

Ottawa Charge and OHL Playoffs

The Canadian Tire Centre also hosts the Ottawa Charge on Friday night at 7 p.m., as they take on the Montreal Victoire. Meanwhile, junior hockey fans can head to TD Place to watch the Ottawa 67’s battle the Kingston Frontenacs in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series on Saturday evening, if required.

Festivals, Conventions, and Cultural Highlights

Anime Ottawa at EY Centre

Anime enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy at Anime Ottawa, held at the EY Centre. Running throughout the weekend, this convention celebrates Japanese pop culture and brings together fans, creators, and industry professionals. Special guests include well-known voice actors and performers, making it a must-visit for anime fans.

Canadian Ringette Championships

Top-tier ringette teams from across the country gather in Ottawa for the Canadian Ringette Championships. Hosted at the Nepean Sportsplex, the event features elite U16 and U19 teams competing throughout the week, with championship games scheduled for Saturday.

Live Performances and Entertainment

Events at the National Arts Centre

The National Arts Centre offers a packed schedule of performances. Highlights include theatrical productions, orchestral concerts, and live music. Audiences can enjoy shows such as “Rose,” orchestral performances featuring works by Ravel and Shostakovich, and a live concert by Kim Churchill. The weekend also features “Dirty Dancing in Concert,” blending film with live musical accompaniment.

Citywide Shows and Performances

Additional performances are spread across Ottawa venues. Comedian Hassan Phills performs at the Bronson Centre on Thursday, while Show Tune Showdown takes place at Meridian Theatres on Saturday. Music fans can attend a live performance by George Thorogood and the Destroyers at Hard Rock Live, and comedian Mae Martin wraps up the weekend with a Sunday show at the Bronson Centre.

Markets and Local Shopping Experiences

613flea Market at Lansdowne

The Easter edition of 613flea takes place Saturday at Lansdowne, offering a rotating selection of unique vendors. It’s a great place to discover handmade goods, vintage items, and local crafts.

Lansdowne Farmers’ Market

On Sunday, the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market moves indoors to the Aberdeen Pavilion, featuring more than 75 vendors. Visitors can shop for fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan products from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Regional Easter Markets

Several seasonal markets are also happening nearby. The Carp Farmers Market Easter Market at the Carp Fairgrounds features over 60 vendors, while the Metcalfe Farmers Market hosts its annual Easter edition with more than 50 vendors, open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Easter-Themed Family Activities

Canada Agriculture and Food Museum

Celebrate spring at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, where families can meet baby animals such as chicks, ducklings, and rabbits. The museum also offers interactive exhibits focused on eggs and farming traditions.

Easter Activities at the Diefenbunker

Families can head to Diefenbunker on Saturday for a unique Easter celebration. Activities include scavenger hunts, crafts, and games in an unconventional underground setting.

Easter at the Estate

The Billings Estate National Historic Site hosts a weekend of family-friendly programming, including crafts, games, and interactive experiences inspired by seasonal traditions.

Cumberland Heritage Village Museum

Spring festivities continue at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, where visitors can explore a historic village, meet the Easter Bunny, and participate in hands-on activities and scavenger hunts.

Farm Experiences and Sugar Bush Season

Easter Egg Hunts and Farm Visits

Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm hosts its annual Easter Egg Hunt, offering a classic outdoor experience for families. Meanwhile, the Log Farm provides a full weekend of activities including egg hunts, play areas, and farm animal visits.

Sugar Shack Experiences

Maple season is still in full swing, and several sugar bushes are open for the Easter weekend. Fulton’s Sugar Shack in Pakenham offers trails, sleigh rides, and maple taffy experiences. The Vanier Sugar Shack provides a rare urban sugar bush experience, while Stanley’s Sugarbush combines traditional maple activities with family attractions and a pancake house. Additional options include Proulx Farm’s Maple Fest and Temple’s Sugarbush, both offering immersive maple-themed outings.

Museums to Explore

Ottawa’s top museums remain open throughout the weekend, offering educational and interactive experiences for all ages. Visitors can explore institutions such as the Canadian Museum of Nature, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Canadian War Museum, National Gallery of Canada, and the Canadian Museum of History, among others.

Nearby Weekend Getaways

If you’re willing to travel outside Ottawa, nearby cities also offer special events. Kingston features live music, Easter-themed activities, and a comic convention, while Brockville hosts an Easter celebration at the Aquatarium and a live AC/DC tribute show. In Cornwall, visitors can enjoy art exhibitions and tribute concerts, adding even more variety to the region’s Easter weekend lineup.

Conclusion

Easter weekend in Ottawa offers a dynamic mix of sports, culture, entertainment, and seasonal traditions. From NHL games and anime conventions to bustling markets and family-friendly farm visits, the city provides countless ways to make the most of the holiday. Whether you prefer indoor performances or outdoor spring activities, Ottawa’s diverse event lineup ensures there is something memorable for everyone.

FAQs

1. What are the best family activities in Ottawa this Easter weekend?
Popular options include the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Easter events at the Diefenbunker, and farm visits like Stanley’s and the Log Farm.

2. Are there any major sports events happening?
Yes, the Ottawa Senators have three home games, along with Ottawa Charge and Ottawa 67’s playoff action.

3. Where can I shop local during the weekend?
You can visit 613flea, Lansdowne Farmers’ Market, and Easter markets in Carp and Metcalfe.

4. What cultural events are taking place?
Anime Ottawa, performances at the National Arts Centre, and multiple live shows across the city are major highlights.

5. Are museums open during Easter weekend?
Yes, most major museums in Ottawa remain open and offer special exhibits and programming.