How to wind down as the warm months hit the nation’s capital
May
Sporting Life 10K Runs for Ooch: May 13
May is a great month to get some physical activity out of the way, since we likely won’t yet be in the dead heat of summer. Cross a 10 kilometre run off your list, and do it with some scenery by running along the Rideau Canal in the Run for Ooch. The sweat and tears you shed trying to complete the race won’t be for nothing, as participants raise funds for Camp Oochigeas, which sends kids with cancer on a summer camping experience they won’t forget.
Ottawa ComicCon: May 11-13
Calling all proud nerds, and those still wrestling with their fate, this one’s for you. With everything on display from comic books, to sci-fi, fantasy, movies, TV, toys, anime, and gaming, there’s something for everyone—even for the ones who haven’t yet embraced their inner nerd.
June
Ottawa Veg Fest: June 2-3
I know, I know, vegans and vegetarians are SO uptight, am I right? Why would you want to spend a whole day at a festival all about that lifestyle? Well, if you’re feeling brave enough to put the chicken wings down, you might actually learn a lot about the impact of a plant-based diet on your health and the planet. Go ahead, challenge yourself to meet some new people and try some delicious food. No, you will not be forced into a post-festival veganism pact.
Orpheus Musical Theatre Society presents Mamma Mia!: June 1-10
Who doesn’t like Mamma Mia? Even if you don’t know it, there’s a good chance it’ll win you over once you’ve seen a single mom navigate three past lovers on the day of her daughter’s wedding, or the groomsmen dancing in their speedos, snorkels, and flippers—both to the undeniably catchy tunes of ABBA. And, again, who the hell doesn’t like ABBA?
July
TD Ottawa Jazz Festival: July 1
Why go to a pop concert, when you could be so much classier and have an intimate brush by candlelight with the world of jazz music? Ok, well admittedly, candlelight may be in short supply at Confederation Park, but use your imagination! Just bring your ticket, your lawn chair, and your jazz hands.
Carivibe Reach the Beach Party: June 15-17
It might not be the rambunctious Full Moon party every party goer dreams of, but for anyone sticking to Ottawa this summer this is a solid alternative. You’ll be met with opportunities to drink, be surrounded by vivacious colours, and get your freak on to some good music. For those who have youngins in tow, there are also kid-friendly events during the day. But, as the event warns, be sure to bring your “stamina” for this one!
August
Asinabka Film & Media Arts Festival: Aug. 1-5
Film and art lovers, rejoice! This one-of-a-kind festival is a showcase of Indigenous arts and storytelling in the Algonquin region. For all of you film junkies who are too cool to go to the Cineplex theatre, all works featured at this festival are by independent artists. With such a range of submissions, it’ll be hard not to fall in love with at least one of these films.
Capital Pride Festival: Aug. 20-26
If you’ve been to Capital Pride, you know the deal. Get loud, get proud, and stand up for LGBTQ+ rights. If you’ve never been, yeah, that might sound like a daunting task. But Capital Pride offers something for literally everyone, from parties, to picnics, to comedy nights. Your pride is what you want to make it, so get political, get partying, or get educated. It’s a month of your own design.
