Winter is here again and with it comes the time of year for fun and joy throughout the holidays. The staff at Coldwell Banker First Ottawa have picked a list of their favourite events for you to enjoy all throughout the month of December. Don’t let the snow keep you in!
Santa and his elves are back, and they are helping the Salvation Army with their annual 5km fun run. This is a great event for family and friends to get together. Have lots of fun running, walking or shuffling your way to the end. All money raised will go to the Salvation Army who are helping those who do not have homes. Information can be found at: https://www.santashuffle.ca/
Get taken away to the Edwards home, where the Nutcracker comes to life. Watch the dancers tell the story of Clara and the Nutcracker as they fight the Rat King and go to the Land of Sweets. Enjoy the show put on by Alberta Ballet Production, one of Canada’s best premier dance companies. Information is at: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/18665
For 34 years Parliament Hill has illuminated its buildings with Christmas lights. It has become so popular that cities all across Canada have adopted this tradition. Enjoy your night looking at all the beautiful lights knowing that people all across Canada are doing the same. More information can be found at: https://www.ottawatourism.ca/ottawa-insider/christmas-lights-across-canada/
Travel back 5000 years to Ancient China and learn about the lost culture through classical Chinese dance. Watch this dance while all the legends and culture come back to life. This is a very special event as it cannot be seen anywhere else in the world… including China. Information is at: https://www.shenyunperformingarts.org/ottawa/national-arts-centre-nac
Want to stay warm but still enjoy all the events Winter has to offer? Then, Magic of Lights is for you! Take a 2 km drive through Wesley Clover park and see hundreds of Christmas light installations with different themes and aminations at every turn. The lights are best seen at dusk. More information can be found at: http://magicoflights.com/ottawa/
Upper Canada Village is doing a light show all throughout there village. Being one of a kind, the village uses close to one million lights for its Christmas Wonderland. You’ll be able to take a trip on a train, hop on wagon rides, or just walk around the village to enjoy this event. Information is available at:
https://www.uppercanadavillage.com/events/alight-at-night/
November is here, and we’ve found ourselves in that time of year between cool, crisp Autumn and warm, cozy Winter. Bundle up, folks, because the agents and staff at Coldwell Banker First Ottawa Realty have got you covered again with a list of events happening in and around the Ottawa area this month.
If you love wine and food, this is the festival for you. This event allows food and wine lovers to enjoy a day doing something they love. You can sample food and wine from around the world and taste the best that different cultures have to offer. Information can be found at: http://ottawawineandfoodfestival.com/
The Town art gallery is doing their 9th annual art show and sale on November 3rd and 4th. With 25 plus artists, you will be bound to find a painting that you will love. Enjoy the day looking at original art works, while also helping those who are blind by donating to the Canadian Guide Dogs! Information can be found at: https://www.evensi.ca/aos-paint-town-9th-annual-art-show-sale-68-hawktree-ridge-nepean-canada-k2j-5n3/271700420
The Mec Ottawa Road Race is back for its fourth year! Enjoy one of the last races of the year before snow falls. Anyone who is running will experience one of the best race routes that Ottawa has to offer. This is also family friendly and for runners of all abilities. Food and drinks will be provided. Information can be found at: http://www.runguides.com/ottawa/event/mec-ottawa-road-race-four
Everyone’s favourite cookies are back! Girl Guides are holding a fundraiser which is their annual Cookie Run! The Cookie run has been happening for 17 years and is sponsored by Bushtukah. This is a great way to get friends and family together, enjoy the day outdoors, and have many girl guide cookies. More information can be found at: https://www.runottawa.ca/races-and-events/cookie-run
Take a trip through some of history’s greatest fashion moments at the Ottawa Vintage Clothing show. You can shop freely and not have to worry about someone showing up to a holiday party with the same outfit, as everything is one of a kind. Stop by and learn something new! Information can be found at: http://www.ottawavintageclothingshow.ca/
The National War Memorial is holding a ceremony for all to come, so that the many brave soldiers can be remembered and thanked for everything they gave during their service. More information can be found at: https://www.ottawatourism.ca/events/remembrance-day-ceremony-national-war-memorial/
A classic Christmas special has been brought to stage - A Charlie Brown Christmas has been made into a live show. Bring your family and friends to the National Arts Centre to enjoy your night laughing and learning about the true meaning of Christmas. This show is only playing once, so be sure to get your tickets! More information can be found at: https://nac-cna.ca/en/event/20041
Over 80 different exhibitors are waiting for you at the Canadian Museum of History. There will be food, clothes, handmade creations, jewelry and many other markets to see and buy from! This is a great way to relax, have some time to yourself and get all of your Christmas shopping done. More information can be found at: https://www.historymuseum.ca/event/christmas-market/
If you love to run or take long walks then, this is the event for you. The 9runrun supports many different charities, as well as the police, paramedics and the fire department. There is also a 2K-ish race that is intended for families. Help those in need by running with those who help us. Registration and race details are available at: http://www.9runrun.ca
Saunders Farm welcomes “Haunting Season and Frightfest”. Family-friendly harvest time and Halloween-themed fun! Enjoy activities such as hedge mazes, a pedal cart track, giant jumping pillows, puppet shows and a pumpkin patch hayride.
After the sun goes down, Saunders turns into a “creepy place” (not recommended for children under 10) populated by ghosts, goblins and monsters of all kinds. If you are brave enough, visit the Barn of Terror, The Coven, the Big Top Fear House, or go on a Haunted Hayride. http://saundersfarm.com/frightfest/
Proulx Maple and Berry Farm is having their 24th annual Pumpkin Fest, where the farm is turned into a Halloween themed playground for all to enjoy. There are many activities to do such as wagon rides, petting farms, a haunted house and many more to enjoy. Make sure to pick out some pumpkins to decorate your home! More information and tickets can be found at: http://proulxfarm.com/
This festival used to be very small, as the first one that ever took place in Ottawa only had sixteen people attend. Now the Writers Festival has grown to have two events yearly. People from all over the world travel to Ottawa. If you are a writer and have writer’s block, this will allow your imagination to be refilled with ideas. More information can be found at: https://writersfestival.org
Fall Rhapsody in Gatineau Park promises many different things to do. Local artists, farmers, merchants and nature interpreters are there waiting to help you explore the environment around you. http://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-to-visit/gatineau-park/fall-rhapsody
Stroll through a spellbinding outdoor exhibit of close to 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins set against a stirring nighttime historic backdrop. This mesmerizing installation of artist-inspired, glowing pumpkins is a not-to-be-missed event for ALL ages! https://www.uppercanadavillage.com/events/pumpkinferno/
The Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum has been offering this exhibition since May 18th, 2018. This exhibit shows plants in watercolour, graphite and many other techniques. This shows plants in a new modernized way to how we know them. If you do not like going outside for nature, then you should defiantly visit the Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum before the exhibit is gone: https://ingeniumcanada.org/exhibitions/plant-portraits
The Haunted Walk happens all year round with many different types of walks offered depending on the time and season. Each walk is offered at many locations in Ottawa. You will tour in some of the haunted buildings Ottawa has to offer. You and your group of friends will be the deciding vote in if the building is haunted or not. https://hauntedwalk.com/ottawa-tours
A take on the Robert Munsch’s book; A Paper Bag Princess is turned into a musical. This is a great event for families or for the part of you that never grew up. This is great for those who love reading. This story does not have the typical ending of how someone should be saved. You will have to watch and find out. More information is at: http://meridiancentrepointe.com/en/events_tickets/October2018/the_paper_bag_princess/index.htm
The biggest party of the year is The Great Pumpkin Ball. This ball raises money for charities and the local food bank. The ball has raised over 85,000 dollars each year. The Great Pumpkin Ball is great if your looking for a day of fun and it will also go to a good cause. Information can be found at: https://www.greatpumpkinball.com/
September is always a great month for events in the Ottawa area. Whether it be all the wonderful community Fairs, CityFolk Music Festival, or the start of the Saunder’s Farm Haunting Season, there is something for everyone. Summer is winding down, but don’t worry because the folks at Coldwell Banker First Ottawa Realty have got you covered with a rundown of what is happening during the month of September in Canada’s Capital.
We’re kicking things off with a classic, the CityFolk Music Festival, which has been in Ottawa since 1994. This year’s line up includes Hozier, The Decemberists, and Michael McDonald. The BSOMA Kidzone will be offering musical performances for children and families, Finally, if you’re in the mood to check out some local vendors, we recommend taking a stroll through Aberdeen Pavilion in between shows. Tickets and info here: //cityfolkfestival.com/
Since 1844 The Richmond Fair has been a staple fair that many Ottawa families ejoy. The Fair features events such as agriculture shows, demolition derby, live entertainment, rock climbing, games, rides, and more providing days worth of fun and entertainment for the whole family. Check out the schedule of events and more info at: //www.richmondfair.ca/
Take a stroll along Wellington Street West on September 15, and sample all of the delicious food and fun that the merchants of Hintonburg and Wellington Village have to offer. Activities include an all day sidewalk sale, street performers, KID zone, and a family movie night in Parkdale Park that will be playing Pixar’s Ratatouille. All proceeds from the event will go to the Parkdale Food Centre. Info and schedule can be found here: //wellingtonwest.ca/
The Carp Fair is back for it’s 155th year, and it promises to be a great time. The fair has one of the largest midways in the Ottawa Valley, so there are plenty of rides and attractions for all ages. If you’re not into loop-de-loops or spinning around in a giant tea cup, make sure to check out the agricultural shows or the President’s Choice SuperDogs Dog Show! More info can be found here: //carpfair.ca/
Ladies and Gents… this one isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for the challenge, Haunting Season at Saunder’s Farm starts on September 22. Make your way through 10 different mazes, brave the Haunted Hayride (there’s a kid’s version too!), play some Zombie Paintball, and wander your way through the Barn of Terror. There’s a ton to do, so make sure to give yourself at least 2-3 hours to experience everything. Tickets and info here: //saundersfarm.com/
This year’s Army Run has a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon race. You can also take part in the Commander’s Challenge, running both the 5K and the Half Marathon, or the Ortona Challenge, running both the 5K and 10K races. The goal is to see Canadians and the Canadian Armed Forces come together in support of camaraderie and community. Not a runner? Don’t worry! If you’re part of a non profit organization (sports team, school, charity, etc) you can apply to lead a cheering station that supports all of the participants. More information here: //armyrun.ca/
The Ottawa International Animation Festival is one of the biggest of its kind in the whole world. Over the course of the festival, the downtown core transforms for more than 80 animated feature screenings, talks, and exhibits from industry professionals and studios. Venues include: ByTowne Cinema, Ottawa Art Gallery, Chateau Laurier, and Arts Court Theatre and Gallery. Full schedule and passes can be found here: //www.animationfestival.ca/
Every Fall, Upper Canada Village opens its doors to an exhibit of 7,000 pumpkins that have been hand carved and crafted into a one-of-a-kind art installation. All of the pumpkins are designed by young artists who are local to the Eastern Ontario region. Themes include: Pumpkin Planetarium, Day of the Dead, Jailhouse Rock, and The Great White North. Information and tickets are on the Upper Canada village website at: //www.uppercanadavillage.com/events/pumpkinferno/
Potential buyers are going online to check out properties long before scheduling an actual visit to the home or attending an open house. So, the old saying “First Impressions Matter” is now largely dependent on what photos and videos are made available through online sources.
A professional photographer or videographer can make a huge difference when putting your house on the market. Along with the advice of a great Realtor, here are some things to keep in mind when preparing your home for a photo or video session:
We’ve got you covered with some handy checklists for indoor and outdoor preparation. Stick them
to your fridge for inspiration, but don’t forget to take them of come photo time.
//glengarryhighlandgames.com/
The highland games are a long-standing 70 year tradition in the Ottawa area. Events include the Tartan Ball, fiddling and piping, golf tournament, heavyweight sports, live musical performances, and whiskey tasting.
One of the first signs that it’s Capital Ribfest...the amazing smell emanating from the Downtown Core. If you love food, you need to give Capital Ribfest a try. There are more than enough vendors to get your fill of juicy, succulent Ribs. Some Ribbers even have vegan options available. After enjoying the great food, it’s a short walk over to Sparks Street for the Busker Festival.
This is a Coldwell Banker First Ottawa Favourite. You never know what you’re going to find walking around Sparks Street during Buskerfest. Fire Eaters, Mimes, Aerial Performers, Balloon Artists… the list just goes on and on. What makes it even more fun, is that there are performers from all over the world; Japan, New Zealand, Argentina, and India all have buskers in this year’s festival.
Going strong since 1945, it makes sense that the fair's motto would be “Here we Grow Again”. Aside from a ton of carnival ride, games, and agricultural competitions, a large crowd is drawn to the fair to see the musical performances. Damien Maze, The River Town Saints, George Canyon, and Chad Brownlee are headlining this year.
The United States, Spain, Germany, and China are competing for best fireworks show this year, and every show is bound to be pure magic. If you’ve never experienced the Sound of Light Competition, you’ve got to check it out (the kids especially love it). If you can score tickets, we recommend watching the Grand Finale. This year’s finale is superhero inspired and will illustrate the never-ending battle of good vs. evil.
//manotickvillage.com/event/a-taste-of-manotick/
Local businesses will line Main Street showcasing all that the Vibrant Village of Manotick has to offer. Lots of entertainment, live music, street performers, car show all on Manotick Main Street from 4pm to 8pm. An incredible lineup this year include the talented crooner, Johnny Vegas. Come join the fun.
//westborovillage.com/westborofuse/
Richmond Rd in Westboro is closing down for two days of local-business-sponsored fun and live entertainment. During Westboro Fuse, you can enjoy Street Yoga, Dueling Pianos, Chess in the Streets, a pop up outdoor cinema, and music video dance party at sundown. That doesn’t even crack the surface.
//montgolfieresgatineau.com/en/
This spectacular event happens just across the border every year, and it’s always so much fun. While you’re sure to catch a peak at the balloons in the sky from the downtown core for free, paying the $30 dollars for admission is well worth it. This year’s festival includes a silent disco, amusement park, go-karting, and tons of musical performances.
Well it’s that time of year to check out all the local farmer’s markets. Visiting our local market's is a common weekend excursion for many families. Picking up the freshest, locally grown vegetables and fruits and wandering the many stalls is a wonderful Saturday or Sunday morning outing. Farmers’ Markets are pretty popular and here's some reasons you consider checking them out.
The obvious reason local markets are popular is because the food they sell is simply better and fresher. Farmer’s harvest at the peak of flavour and deliver to consumers directly. No shipping, chemical processing, and no sitting in storage somewhere. This food is as real as it gets — fresh from the fields.
Our children have little connection with our food supply. How food is grown is an unknown to most children. Supporting your local farmers’ market means you can educate them about how we get our food and the difference in eating food that goes from crop to table in a matter of hours.
Local markets have an amazing array of items that you might not see in the run of the mill grocery store like:
Vendors also showcase locally prepared cheeses, baked goods, jams and pickled vegetables to just name a few.
There is often also items like raw milk, fresh eggs, gluten free baked goods for families with allergies and other food concerns.
It is a great place to meet up with friends, bring along the kids, and just get a taste of small town life in the midst of our busy lives. Obviously Ottawa is very lucky with our wonderful Byward Market outdoor marketing. But we thought to give you a few links to some other farmers markets for you to enjoy!
For a little farther away, check out this link to Farmers Markets Ontario.
Happy Canada Day!
Looking for Canada Day festivities in the ara. The gang at Coldwell Banker First Ottawa Realty have rounded up a list of the events happening around the Capital.
DOWNTOWN
Major’s Hill Park - Starting at 10:00 a.m.
The party starts early at Major’s Hill Park, with live art competitions, musical performances (including one from The Launch’s Elijah Woods X Jamie fine), VIA Rail Miniature Train Rides, Escape Manor Experience, and more all starting at 10am.
Parliament Hill - Starting at 8am
Parliament Hill is the place to be on Canada Day. The entire day is filled with musical and cultural performances. This year’s headliners include The Arkells, Lights, and Ruth B. The night concludes with an explosive fireworks display.
Canadian Museum of History - Starting at 9am
Just across the bridge, in Hull, The Canadian Museum of History has a whole day of fun planned. Massive trampolines, get up-close and personal with a live animal exhibit, Free Admission to the museum, musical workshops, Family Dance Fiesta, and it’s a great place to peak the fireworks.
For a complete list of activities downtown, click here
//www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/celebrate-canada-days/canada-day.html
EAST END
Petrie Island, Orleans - Shuttles starting at 11am
The Petrie Island festivities this year promises magic shows, musical performances from Bytown Lights and the Box Boys, a volleyball tournament, inflatable kidzone, and tons more. For more information, click here //www.ocanadaorleans.ca
WEST END
Clark Fields Park, Barrhaven - Events starting at 8am with the seniors breakfast, parade of flags, FREE cake, and performances from Steph La Rochelle and Kelsey Hayes. Full Schedule and line-up here //canadadaybarrhaven.ca/
Walter Baker Park, Kanata - the party continues for the whole weekend with live shows, salsa classes for kids, Canada Day Road Race, and finishes off with fireworks at 10pm on July 1st. This massive event pulls in close to 35,000 people a year and is sure to be a great time. More information here //www.canadadayinkanata.com/
Sacred Heart School Grounds, Stittsville - Starting at 1pm on July 1st A petting zoo, great food from local Stittsville favourites, Face painting, and live shows. These are only a few of the exciting things you can look forward to finding at Canada Day in Stittsville. Don’t miss the amazing fireworks show that goes off at 9:45 p.m. sharp. More info here //www.stittsvilleva.com/canadaday/
SOUTH END
Watson’s Mill, Manotick - 8am to 5pm Enjoy a ton of carnival games, arts and crafts, live shows, and more. The event is held at the beautiful scenic Watson’s Mill. You can find more information here (//manotickvillage.com/event/canada-day-celebration/)
Osgoode Community Centre, Osgoode Village - Starting at 2pm hosts a ton of fun activities, including a petting zoo, Amazing Race, Parade, and musical performances from Rory Gardiner, and the Trevor Alguire Band. The day finishes off with a fireworks display starting at 10pm Full schedule and information can be found here (//www.osgoodevillage.com/?page_id=743)
Whether you plan on heading out to your local Canada Day Celebrations or enjoying a Backyard BBQ with friends and family, on behalf of the team at Coldwell Banker First Ottawa Realty, we’d like to wish you a Happy and sSafe Canada Day Long Weekend!
It’s June, and that means that we’re rounding up a list of the most exciting things to do in Ottawa and the surrounding areas. From Craft Beer Festivals to Touch a Truck, there is something for everyone, and we’re encouraging you to get out there and explore what Canada’s Capital has to offer. Our company Realtors and staff will be around town checking out these events just like you.
Orleans Craft Beer Festival – June 7-9 – 255 Centrum Blvd, Orleans
“BEER. FOOD. MUSIC. FRIENDS.” Is the tagline that the Orleans Craft Beer Festival stands by. Tickets start at only $20, and it gets you access to live music, a ton of local craft breweries, and delicious food including a First Ottawa Realty favourite… Meatings Barbeque.
Latin Sparks Block Party – June 9 – Albert Island
Live performances, dance lessons, food trucks and bars. This outdoor Latin dance party has every making of a great night out with friends. Tickets start at 25 bucks, and doors open at 9 pm.
Mothercraft Ottawa’s 11th Annual Touch a Truck Fundraiser – June 10, Lincoln Fields Shopping Centre
//mothercraft.com/touch-truck-2018/
This one is fun for the whole family whether you have little ones or if you’re looking for an excuse to bring out your inner child. Over 45 large vehicles to explore, and all of the proceeds will go towards supporting at risk expecting mothers.
Glowfair Festival – June 14-16 – Bank Street
Glowfair Festival is a cultural experience unlike any other. It takes place across 10 city blocks in the Bank Street area and includes a silent disco, glow yoga, and a block party. This year’s musical line-up includes Virginia to Vegas and Karl Wolf.
Italian Week – June 6-25 – Preston Street
Italian Week features a huge religious procession that winds through its streets, a Mardi Gras type celebration and wonderful samples of Italian food and music.
Tim Horton`s Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival – June 21-24 – Mooney`s Bay Park
The Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival is a yearly success in Ottawa, and its 25th year is sure to be even more amazing. With over 200 teams competing in the races and free musical performances from huge bands like Hollerado and Broken Social Scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Also, admission is completely free.
Escapade Music Festival – June 23-24 – TD Place Landsdowne Park
Some of the world’s top rising and established international artists spotlight the best in electronic dance music. Headliners include Alesso, Kaskade, Armin Van Buuren, and more.
TD Ottawa Jazzfest – June 21- July 1 – Downtown Ottawa
Wrapping up the month of June, we have one of Ottawa`s oldest musical events, Jazzfest, which features some of the world`s most celebrated jazz musicians. Chaka Khan and Herbie Hancock are headlining this year. Click here for a complete line-up and tic