Easter weekend is coming up fast, and Ottawa has turned the seasonal shift into a celebration. Whether you're looking for classic Easter egg hunts, spring farmers markets, or family farm experiences, the National Capital Region has options for every type of celebration.
Egg Hunts and Family Events
Billings Estate National Historic Site in Riverview is hosting its annual Easter egg hunt on the heritage property grounds, one of the most charming settings in the city for this kind of event. Kids dig through the gardens while parents soak up the heritage atmosphere.
Moore Farm in Navan and several eastern Ontario farms close to Ottawa are hosting spring farm experiences combining Easter themes with their regular weekend programming. Expect baby animals, wagon rides, and maple syrup tasting.
Spring Markets
The ByWard Market is ramping up for the season with expanded weekend vendor hours and special Easter weekend programming in the main building. Local bakers, florists, and specialty food vendors make it worth a visit just for the browsing.
The Carp Farmers' Market opens for the season this weekend, one of the Ottawa Valley's oldest and most beloved markets. If you haven't made the drive out to Carp before, Easter weekend is a great first trip.
Things to See
The Tulip Festival doesn't start until May, but Commissioners Park begins showing its first spring colour around Easter weekend. Walk along the Canal and you'll see the first crocuses and early bulbs pushing through, a genuine mood-lifter after the Ottawa winter.
The National Gallery's current exhibitions are worth a visit during the long weekend. Adult programming runs through the holiday, and the Gallery remains open (check hours, as Easter Sunday operations vary).
Plan Ahead
Restaurants in the Glebe, Westboro, and ByWard Market fill up quickly for Easter Sunday brunch, make reservations at least a week in advance. If you're venturing to farms, dress for mud season: late March in Ottawa is genuinely unpredictable.
Source: Ottawa Tourism
