Ottawa is bursting with things to do this week, with over 45 events lined up across the city and surrounding region from March 9 to 15. Whether you're a local looking for a fresh weekend plan or visiting the capital, this is a great week to get out and explore everything the Ottawa area has to offer.
A Little Something for Everyone
From family-friendly activities to live performances and outdoor adventures, the Ottawa region is proving once again that a mid-March weekend doesn't have to mean staying home. The full lineup: curated by Ottawa Road Trips, spans neighbourhoods across the city and stretches into the surrounding communities, so no matter where you are, there's likely something happening nearby.
Whether you're into arts and culture, looking for a kids' activity, or just want an excuse to try somewhere new, the variety on offer this week is hard to beat.
Get Outside While You Can
March in Ottawa is notoriously unpredictable, one day it's slush and sleet, the next it's bright and almost spring-like. This week's event mix includes plenty of outdoor options for those willing to brave the elements, from community markets to outdoor festivals. Ottawa Road Trips recommends checking individual event pages for weather-related updates before heading out.
For those who'd rather stay warm, indoor events like gallery openings, theatre performances, and live music nights are also well represented on the list.
Day Trips Worth the Drive
One of the highlights of the Ottawa Road Trips roundup is its focus not just on the city itself, but on the broader region. Communities like Almonte, Carleton Place, Merrickville, and Wakefield regularly pop up in these weekly guides, and for good reason. These charming small towns are an easy drive from Ottawa and often host events that feel like hidden gems compared to the busier urban calendar.
If you've been meaning to explore a bit beyond the Greenbelt, a mid-March day trip might be just the thing to shake off the late-winter slump.
How to Plan Your Week
With 45+ events on the list, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. A few tips for Ottawa locals:
- Book ahead for popular ticketed events, mid-March tends to draw good crowds as people start emerging from winter hibernation.
- Check for free events: many community centres, libraries, and galleries host free programming this time of year.
- Layer up: even if an event is technically indoors, Ottawa's March temperatures mean you'll want a good coat for getting there and back.
- Check road conditions if you're heading into the region, rural roads can still be icy this time of year.
Your Weekend, Ottawa
There's never really a shortage of things to do in and around Ottawa, but weeks like this serve as a good reminder of just how much the city and its neighbours have going on. Whether you fill your weekend with one big outing or a mix of smaller stops, the Ottawa region has plenty to keep you busy through March 15.
For the full list of 45+ events, head over to Ottawa Road Trips for dates, times, and details on each listing.
Source: Ottawa Road Trips
