What to Do in Ottawa: Weekend Preview May 8-10

What to Do in Ottawa: Weekend Preview May 8-10

It’s expected to be a rainy weekend in Ottawa, but that won’t stop us, will it? Here are some of the great events happening around the city this weekend:

Tulip Festival

The Canadian Tulip Festival officially starts today and runs until May 18th. Head downtown to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Tulip Legacy. There is a crowded daily schedule of arts, dance, music, and culture from all around the world, and there truly is something for everyone. There are also lots of fun and educational events for kids. Beyond the entertainment and festivities, it’s simply beautiful to walk around admiring the stunning and vibrant flowers. There are some ticketed events, but most activities are available free of charge.

Ottawa Comiccon

Ottawa’s largest pop culture event is happening this weekend at the EY Centre. Ottawa Comiccon covers all manner of entertainment, from comic books and sci-fi to cult TV shows, table-top games, and horror franchises. There is a star-studded list of featured guests, including Jason Mewes (Clerks), Liam McIntyre (Spartacus), Malcolm McDowell (A Clockwork Orange), Paul Wesley (The Vampire Diaries), Wil Wheaton (Star Trek: The Next Generation) and Richard Dean Anderson (MacGyver). There are plenty of activities, autograph signings, panels, workshops, and more to keep you entertained. Tickets are $33 for Friday, $55 for Saturday, and $45 for Sunday. Child admission is $10 and parking is $8.

Ottawa ZoomerShow 2015

Ottawa Zoomershow is the lifestyle expo for people aged 45 and up, and it comes to the Shaw Centre on Saturday and Sunday. This expo is aimed at boomers (zoomers!) and covers health and vitality, lifestyle and travel, pet care, retirement planning, food and drink, education, finance, and more. The main stage features some tributes to some of music’s all-time greats, like Elton John and Cher. Tickets are $8 in advance and $12 at the door, but get this…if you visit the Zoomershow Facebook page, you can receive a complimentary ticket.

Ottawa International Children’s Festival

The Ottawa International Children’s Festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary and extends until Wednesday. Come support local performing artists who are driven to entertaining and educating children every day. Performances in French and English include everything from dance and music to puppetry and theatre. It takes place at Lebreton Flats and tickets are $13.

Hintonburg Happening 2015

The Hintonburg Happening wraps up on Saturday, May 9th. Come celebrate all that makes Hintonburgh a great place to be. Make glass beads at F. Studio, come see work by local artists at Alphabet, and learn about ceramic pottery at Gladstone Clayworks Cooperative. It all wraps up on Saturday with the closing party at Somerset Square: music, art, kids’ activities, and plenty of awesome food and drink.

And don’t forget, Mother’s Day is on Sunday. Hope you’ve already made your brunch reservations!


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