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Looking for something fun to do in Ottawa this November? Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, or holiday enthusiast, these Ottawa-Gatineau area events will make your month unforgettable.
*List Updated - Nov 6th, 2024
When it comes to Ottawa events in November, this city has just about everything to keep you entertained before winter really settles in.
From cozy holiday markets and glowing light shows to Day of the Dead events and even a Tattoo Expo in Ottawa, November is like a sampler platter of things to do. There's something for everyone!
Whether you’re here to sip mulled wine at an Ottawa Christmas Market, experience some world-class Flamenco dancing or wander through Magic of Lights from the warmth of your car, this month has you covered.
So if you’re looking to make the most out of the short days and chilly nights, the lineup of Ottawa events in November is guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.
Day of the Dead Festival in Ottawa's Byward Market
Experience Mexico in Ottawa: Celebrate Day of the Dead with food, music, and art in the heart of the ByWard Market.
The Day of the Dead Festival (or Dia de los Muertos, if you’re fancy) is one of Mexico’s most important celebrations. But here’s the twist: it’s all about joy, food, and a party the deceased would actually want to attend because it is believed that mourning would be an insult to those who have passed on!
From November 1 to 3, 2024, Ottawa’s ByWard Market will host a vibrant, three-day festival where the community gathers to honor the lives of loved ones. And it’s totally FREE!
Here, you’ll experience a real slice of Mexico with Mariachi performances, folkloric dancers, an artisan market, and, of course, Mexican food! This isn’t about mourning; it’s about celebrating. The Day of the Dead Festival is organized as a non-profit event, bringing Ottawa a taste of Mexico’s cultural richness. If you’ve ever wanted to join a true Mexican fiesta without booking a flight, this is your chance.
Date: November 1-3, 2024
Location: ByWard Market, Ottawa
Ticket Price: Free Admission
Remembrance Through Light: Poppy Drop and Virtual Wall of Honour
Honouring Canada’s veterans, with each glowing poppy telling a story and each light a reminder to remember.
From now until November 11, Ottawa will glow with a poignant tribute as thousands of virtual poppies cascade down the Peace Tower and Senate Building on Parliament Hill each evening from 6:30–9:30 pm.
On November 5, 10, and 11, the display will extend to midnight. And on November 11, virtual poppies will illuminate the Kipnes Lantern at the National Arts Centre from dawn until midnight.
But that’s not all—two large screens on Parliament Hill will feature the Virtual Wall of Honour, a silent video that displays photos of Canada’s fallen veterans, submitted by families across the nation.
Plus, the Ottawa sign in the ByWard Market will light up to honor veterans as part of the National Poppy Campaign.
Date: October 25 - November 11, 2024
Location: Parliament Hill, NAC, ByWard Market
Ticket Price: Free
Ottawa Canadian Film Festival
Get ready for a Canadian film lineup that’s as bold, diverse, and unpredictable as a Canadian winter!
For all you film buffs, the Ottawa Canadian Film Festival is where you’ll find an ambitious lineup of Canadian films and filmmakers showcasing the best of Canadian cinema.
November 7-9 at Ottawa's Bytowne Cinema, this festival brings together an impressive selection of movies that highlight unique voices and creative storytelling from across the country. It’s a must for anyone looking to dive into the world of Canadian film or just find something new to talk about at parties.
Date: November 7-9, 2024
Location: Bytowne Cinema Ottawa
Ticket Price: Starting at $25 + fees
Esencia Flamenca: Canada Tour 2024
Flamenco so intense, even your seat will need a fan.
Brace yourself for an unforgettable night as the Esencia Flamenca Canada Tour 2024 swings into the Shenkman Arts Centre for one night only.
Led by the legendary Castro Romero siblings—who are to flamenco what peanut butter is to jelly—this show is pure Spanish heat. Picture explosive footwork, rhythms so intense you’ll feel them in your seat, and choreography that makes you wonder if they’ve got secret superpowers.
These dancers have set stages ablaze everywhere from the Paris Opera to The Royal Ballet, and now it’s Ottawa’s turn to feel the burn.
Date: November 8, 2024
Location: Shenkman Arts Centre, Ottawa
Ticket Price: $56.19 to $95
Ottawa-Gatineau Tattoo Expo
It’s like an art gallery, but you take the artwork home on your skin.
From November 8-10, 2024, the Ottawa Tattoo Expo is setting up at the Hilton Lac-Leamy to turn Gatineau into the tattoo capital of Canada for the weekend. This is your chance to see tattooing in action, get inked by the best, and marvel at just how far some people will go to cover up last year’s mistakes.
Walk-ups are welcome or you can book an appointment in advance with one of the 400+ artists from around the world. There is even a $1,500 Tattoo contest.
Not only are there tattoos, but there’s live music, a burlesque show, a Japanese drum performance, and a Comedy Freak Show by a former America’s Got Talent performer.
So if you’re here to admire, get inspired, or just wonder how someone sits still that long, the Ottawa Tattoo Expo has you covered (literally).
Date: November 8-10, 2024
Location: Hilton Lac-Leamy, Gatineau, QC
Ticket Price: $20 per day, $50 for the weekend (Tickets available at the door only)
National Remembrance Day Ceremony
Take a moment to remember—because some things should never be forgotten.
On November 11, Canadians gather at Ottawa’s National War Memorial for a solemn Remembrance Day Ceremony organized by the Royal Canadian Legion.
Starting at 10:30 a.m., the ceremony includes a Veterans' March, a 21-Gun Salute, and a special Royal Canadian Air Force flypast at 11:30 a.m. to mark their 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Road closures will be in effect, and you can catch the ceremony live on major Canadian news networks or the Legion’s Facebook page. Join the nation in observing two minutes of silence at 11:00 a.m., a shared moment to honor the sacrifices of Canada’s veterans.
Date: November 11, 2024
Location: National War Memorial, Ottawa
Ticket Price: Free
Strathmere Country Retreat Open House
Tour, taste, and maybe win something amazing—now that’s a Sunday well spent.
Strathmere is a peaceful and serene country retreat that is home to historic buildings and over 200 acres of natural beauty. This makes it a popular destination for weddings, nature lovers, photographers and the occasional influencer in the wild.
On Sunday, November 10th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Strathmere Country Retreat is throwing an Open House, inviting you to explore its beautiful, historic grounds just 25 minutes from downtown Ottawa.
Wander through the stunning event spaces, sample the Farm to table menu, and get to know the Strathmere team. Oh, and the prizes? Worth the drive alone, trust us. If you caught their recent spa launch, you know these folks don’t mess around when it comes to giveaways. Tickets are FREE but very limited so book yours ASAP.
Date: November 10, 2024, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Strathmere Country Retreat, 1980 Phelan Road, North Gower
Ticket Price: Free
Capital Drone Show: Strathmere Light Show
When the stars aren’t bright enough, bring in the drones.
Get ready to look up and be amazed as Capital Drone Show lights up the night sky at Strathmere Country Retreat on November 10th!
Ottawa’s first drone light show provider, The Capital Drone Show create jaw-dropping visuals with drones—and this FREE show is no exception.
With Strathmere’s scenic surroundings and minimal light pollution, this show is going to be a stunner for the eyes and your Instagram ;)
Perfectly timed right after the Strathmere Open House, it’s the ideal way to wrap up a relaxing day at the country retreat.
So, grab your friends, bring your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable night of light, all just a short drive from Ottawa.
Date: November 10, 2024 (at dusk, after Strathmere Open House)
Location: Strathmere Country Retreat, 1980 Phelan Road, North Gower, ON
Ticket Price: Free
613flea Market
It’s like a treasure hunt, but with way more eclectic finds and less dirt.
613flea is back at Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park. With 150 vendors bringing you everything from vintage clothes and antiques to unique crafts and delicious food, this market is anything but ordinary.
Imagine browsing through aisle after aisle of one-of-a-kind goods and discovering that perfect “thing” you didn’t even know you needed.
Come ready to shop, snack, and maybe stumble upon your new favorite thing—just don’t blame us if your house suddenly gets a little more “eclectic.”
Date: November 16, 2024, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, Ottawa
Ticket Price: Free Admission
Crave Ottawa Food and Wine Festival
Where everyone’s a “wine expert”—at least until the second glass.
Mark your calendar for November 16, 2024, because the Crave Ottawa Food and Wine Festival at the Shaw Centre is your chance to swirl, sniff, and sip like you know exactly what “notes of oak” means.
It’s a day to taste some of Ottawa’s best bites and fine wines, and let’s be real—by glass three, you’ll be confidently nodding along and describing things as “earthy” and “floral” just like the pros.
With local vendors, gourmet samples, and a lineup of wines that’ll have you swirling like a seasoned sommelier, Crave is a foodie’s paradise where you get to act fancy while wearing your best elastic waistband.
Date: November 16, 2024
Location: Shaw Centre, Ottawa
Ticket Price: $45.31
2nd Annual Holiday Market at Robert Plante Greenhouses
Holiday shopping surrounded by plants—now that’s festive oxygen.
On November 16-17, 2024, Robert Plante Greenhouses is hosting its 2nd Annual Holiday Market in the cozy warmth of its greenhouses.
With over 100 local vendors, this market has everything from unique gifts and crafts to holiday treats and cozy coffee stations. It’s indoors, so you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without worrying about the weather (or losing a mitten). Plus, it’s pet-friendly—so bring your dog along to sniff out some holiday cheer!
Date: November 16-17, 2024, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m
Location: Robert Plante Greenhouses, 4228 Navan Rd, Ottawa
Ticket Price: Free Admission
Ottawa Christmas Market
Get your holiday cheer here, without the mall parking lot brawl.
The Ottawa Christmas Market at Aberdeen Plaza is where Ottawa’s holiday magic really kicks in. Picture this: snow-capped heritage buildings, wooden chalets, and thousands of twinkling lights making everything feel like a holiday movie set.
With over 50 local vendors offering everything from holiday gifts to unique food and drink options, it’s the perfect place to shop, snack, and soak in the festive vibes. You’ll find holiday-themed goodies, mulled wine, local treats, and live holiday entertainment that will make even the grinchiest of visitors feel a bit jollier.
And the best part? Admission is free! (Although some activities are paid—because even holiday magic has a budget.)
Date: Weekends starting November 22
Location: Aberdeen Plaza, Lansdowne Park
Ticket Price: Free Admission
Pieces of Us Presents: The 2024 Come Correct Competition
It’s art, competition, and self-expression—because why have one without the others?
Pieces of Us is hosting the ultimate showdown of artistic talent with the Come Correct Competition at Club SAW. This is where Ottawa’s creatives hit the stage in an intimate, unfiltered setting designed to let them be exactly who they are.
Think of it as art without the frame—a place where authenticity, raw talent, and some serious vibes take the spotlight. Across three intense rounds, 12 artists will compete for a cash prize and the bragging rights of becoming the 2024 Come Correct Champ.
This isn’t just a night out; it’s an experience that promises to leave you inspired, entertained, and maybe even rethinking what art can be.
Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024
Doors Open: 7:00 PM
Show Time: 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Location: Club SAW, 67 Nicholas Street, Ottawa, ON
Tickets: $49.26
Note: Parental discretion advised for explicit language and mature content
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – In Concert
Experience the force like never before—with a live orchestra backing it up.
On November 23, 2024, the Arena at TD Place transforms into a galaxy far, far away as The FILMharmonic Orchestra performs John Williams’ iconic score live alongside a screening of The Empire Strikes Back. Led by conductor Francis Choinière, 70 musicians will bring every thrilling moment to life, from Luke’s Jedi training to the epic lightsaber battle. If you've ever wanted to experience Star Wars with a full orchestra, this is the way to do it.
Date: November 23, 2024, 7:00 PM
Location: The Arena at TD Place, Ottawa
Ticket Price: $79 - $136
The 80’s Club
Big hair, neon vibes, and 80s jams so good they should come with a warning label.
Prepare to party like it’s 1984. On November 26, 2024, TD Place Arena is throwing it back to the 80s with The 80's Club—a lineup that reads like your oldschool 80's. Get ready for Honeymoon Suite, A Flock of Seagulls, Men Without Hats, and Spoons hitting the stage for a night of synth-heavy hits and singalong classics.
Dig out those acid-wash jeans, tease up that hair, and brace yourself for some serious nostalgia.
Date: November 26, 2024, 7:00 PM
Location: The Arena at TD Place, Ottawa
Ticket Price: Starting at $59.81
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve Tour
If you like your holiday cheer with lasers and electric guitars, this is the show for you.
If you’re ready to rock around the Christmas tree with enough pyrotechnics and lasers to be seen from the 417, this is a holiday concert you won't want to miss.
On November 27, 2024, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra brings their epic holiday rock opera, The Lost Christmas Eve, to the Canadian Tire Centre.
Expect a dazzling spectacle of pyrotechnics, lasers, and 70s prog-rock energy with a full storyline to keep you hooked. Known for their blend of holiday spirit and rock, TSO’s show has become a holiday tradition—complete with a roaring crowd and over-the-top theatrics. This year marks the 20th anniversary of The Lost Christmas Eve, so expect even more magic in every note.
Date: November 27, 2024, 7:30 PM
Location: Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa
Ticket Price: Starting from $99
Magic of Lights Ottawa
The holiday light show that’ll make your headlights jealous.
Roll down the windows, turn up the holiday tunes, and drive through a winter wonderland—all without stepping into the cold.
From November 22, 2024, to January 4, 2025, Magic of Lights at Wesley Clover Parks invites you to drive through a dazzling holiday display packed with animated scenes, LED lights, and enough sparkle to power Santa’s sleigh. This is Ottawa’s newest holiday tradition, where you can experience the magic from the warmth of your car. Bring the family or pile in with friends—one ticket covers the whole carload!
Date: November 22, 2024 - January 4, 2025
Location: Wesley Clover Parks, 411 Corkstown Rd, Nepean
Ticket Price: Starting at $23.14
Santa’s Parade of Lights
It’s free, it’s festive, and it’s got Santa in prime form—what more could you ask for?
Festive floats, sparkling lights, and enough holiday cheer to make even the Grinch crack a smile.
On November 30, 2024, Santa’s Parade of Lights is set to light up St-Joseph Blvd in Orleans with a holiday spectacle that’s brighter than your neighbour’s rooftop display.
Kicking off at 6:00 PM, this parade rolls through the Heart of Orleans with holiday floats, festive vibes and a special appearance from Santa himself. Pack a thermos, grab your coziest mittens, and get ready to see the holidays shine in full colour.
Date: November 30, 2024, 6:00 PM
Location: St-Joseph Blvd, Orleans
Ticket Price: Free
Ottawa’s November events are bringing the heat, the lights, and plenty of action—whether you're here for holiday magic, classic 80s hits, or a flamenco show that might make you want to buy a pair of castanets.
From light displays and concerts to art shows and food fests, there’s something for everyone this month. So grab a friend, your winter coat, and maybe a ticket or two, because Ottawa events in November are ready to make these chilly days unforgettable.
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