Ottawa's Weekend Entertainment Roundup: March 27–29
Ottawa is offering up a full slate of weekend entertainment options as March winds down, giving locals plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy the city before spring fully takes hold.
Whether you're in the mood for a night at the movies, a live show, or something in between, the capital's venues and screens are loaded with options for Friday through Sunday.
What's Playing at Ottawa Theatres
This weekend is a great time to catch up on the latest releases at Ottawa's major cinemas, including Cineplex locations at SilverCity Gloucester, Kanata, and South Keys, as well as the independent Mayfair Theatre on Bank Street — one of Ottawa's most beloved single-screen gems. The Mayfair regularly programs a mix of classics, cult favourites, and limited-run arthouse films that you won't find at the multiplexes.
If you haven't made it out to see this month's big releases yet, the weekend is your best chance before the lineup rotates again in early April.
Live Performances and Events
Ottawa's performing arts venues are busy this time of year as spring programming kicks into gear. The National Arts Centre is a reliable anchor for live theatre, orchestral performances, and dance, and typically has something on across its multiple stages on any given weekend.
Smaller venues across the city — from clubs in Centretown to community halls in the Glebe and Westboro — tend to host local musicians and touring acts throughout the weekend. Checking local listings on Ottawa's event boards is always a good move for discovering something new.
Tips for a Great Weekend Out
A few things worth keeping in mind before you head out:
- Book ahead: Popular shows and screenings at smaller venues sell out faster than you'd expect, especially on Saturday nights.
- Parking and transit: Downtown venues can get busy on weekends. OC Transpo has solid coverage to most major arts districts, and ride-share is always an option.
- Arrive early: Many Ottawa theatres and performance spaces open their doors 30–45 minutes before showtime, giving you time to grab a drink or snack and settle in.
Spring is one of the best times to explore Ottawa's cultural scene — the days are getting longer, the weather is inching toward bearable, and there's a genuine buzz around the city as it shakes off winter.
For a full list of what's on screens and stages this weekend, check CTV Ottawa's entertainment listings for up-to-date showtimes and event details.
Source: CTV News Ottawa — "What's playing this weekend: March 27–29"
