Start Blooming with Ottawa’s Spring Festivals

Canadian Tulip Festival 2024

Springtime in Ottawa is here, so grab your rain boots and get ready to explore Canada’s capital in full bloom. This May marks the 73rd edition of the Canadian Tulip Festival, transforming the city into a vibrant sea of colour with hundreds of thousands of blooming tulips. While April showers bring those stunning flowers, they also set the perfect scene for indoor adventures. From indie films to live music and theatre, Ottawa offers a rich blend of culture and entertainment to enjoy, rain or shine.

Outdoor Activities

Canadian Tulip Festival May 9 – 19

Canada’s longest-running and largest-attended event is home to over 300,000 tulips! The Canadian Tulip Festival opens the 73rd Edition with the Canadian Army on May 9 and features the Official Tulip Boutique, Big Bug Boardwalk, movies in the park, and more!

Ottawa Children’s Festival May 8 – 13

Be entertained by the wonders of world-class theatre, music and dance. The Ottawa Children’s Festival is back to inspire creativity and imagination!

Film Festivals

Latin American Film Festival April 4 – 26 

Immerse yourself in a diverse selection of films that showcase the rich heritage and creativity of Latin America. Curated from 14 different countries, these films range from gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies. There's something for everyone to enjoy.

Irish Film Festival of Ottawa April 25 – 27 

Experience the magic of Irish cinema by celebrating the best of contemporary Irish storytelling. This vibrant festival brings award-winning features, powerful documentaries, and thought-provoking shorts from the Emerald Isle to the big screen.

Theatre

a Company of Fools presents “The Understudy” April 5 – 12

a Company of Fools presents a brand-new Shakespearean show: When a theatre troupe finds out that their star actor has gone missing, they must find a replacement – and quickly! This hilarious and fast-paced misadventure features a Company of Fools performing some of Shakespeare’s greatest scenes alongside lucky “understudies” from the audience.

Canadian Improv Games April 16 – 19 

Bringing together the most talented Canadian improvisers to showcase quick wit, imagination, and fearless performance at the Canadian Improv Games, students develop valuable life skills, forge lasting connections, and grow in a supportive, inclusive community.

Games

Tartan Day Trivia April 6

Tartan Day is the celebration of Scottish heritage, and who better to celebrate with than the Scottish Society of Ottawa! Test your knowledge of Scottish persons, places, and events. There will be prizes and free pub snacks.

Highland Champion Euchre Tournament April 27

Join the Scottish Society of Ottawa and LoveGives Non-Profits at their annual Highland Champions Euchre Tournament where there will be draws, prizes, gift certificates and a Trophy!

Entertainment

Ottawa Grassroots Festival April 24 – 27

Showcasing an incredible mix of music, spoken word, workshops, and local talent in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. From toe-tapping folk tunes to inspiring community discussions, celebrate community, creativity, and culture at the Ottawa Grassroots Festival 2025!

Ottawa Aerial Circus Festival April 25 – 27 

Introducing the inaugural Ottawa Aerial Circus Festival! Through world-class performances and community engagement, this festival aims to elevate the Ottawa circus scene and create lasting connections in contemporary Canadian circus. Activities include performer competitions, workshops, and live entertainment.

Food

Ottawa PoutineFest & Mac my Cheese May 2 – 4 

Calling all Ottawa foodies! PoutineFest & Mac My Cheese is back, featuring the best poutines and potatoes. Try this delicious start to the spring season and discover where to get the Best Poutine.