Ottawa Celebrates 200 Years: What to Do and How to Enjoy the September 26, 2026 Festivities
In 2026, Ottawa marks a milestone in its history: the 200th anniversary of the founding of Bytown on September 26, 1826. Established at the meeting point of the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River, the small lumber town grew, was renamed in 1855 and gradually became the capital we know today. Cultural and community activities are already underway, but Saturday, September 26, will be one of the year’s highlights, with family festivities, museums, contemporary art, music and projections bringing downtown Ottawa to life well into the night. Here is how to plan your stay and make the most of the celebrations.
What to Do in Ottawa on September 26, 2026
Ottawa 200 Block Party
Marion Dewar Plaza, in front of Ottawa City Hall, will host the Ottawa 200 Block Party. Designed for the whole family, this major gathering will celebrate Ottawa’s history, communities and creative spirit.
Museums and Galleries
The Bytown Museum will mark the bicentennial with exhibitions exploring the people, stories and evolution of Ottawa. From September 23 to 27, the Ottawa Art Gallery will also present workshops, art markets, activities and a variety of cultural events.
Nuit Blanche Ottawa
From dusk to sunrise, Nuit Blanche Ottawa will transform public spaces into places of creativity. Light installations, immersive artworks and performances will invite visitors to see the city in a whole new light.
Pique
Pique’s 21st edition will bring together music, immersive art and performances in a distinctly contemporary atmosphere. Presented in partnership with Nuit Blanche Ottawa and Ottawa 200, the event will be free to attend for the first time.
Ottawa International Animation Festival
Taking place from September 23 to 27, the Ottawa International Animation Festival will add to this culture-filled weekend with screenings, exhibitions, talks and opportunities to meet artists.
SoundScape Festival
The SoundScape Festival will transform Plaza Bridge with three performances and an immersive multimedia installation along the Rideau Canal.
Turn the Celebrations into an Ottawa Getaway
With so many activities concentrated downtown, staying for a few nights will allow you to enjoy the program at your own pace. Arrive on Friday to get settled, devote Saturday to the celebrations and save Sunday for a walk along the canal, another museum visit or a leisurely brunch.
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa: A Refined Stay in the Heart of the Cultural Scene
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa is especially well suited to travellers who want to take part in the festivities while enjoying a more elevated experience. Its central location places the Ottawa Art Gallery, ByWard Market, the Rideau Canal and several Nuit Blanche sites within walking distance. After a full day of exploring, the hotel’s peaceful atmosphere offers a welcome change of pace.
Alt Hotel Ottawa Downtown: Close to the Action
Alt Hotel Ottawa Downtown is a convenient, contemporary home base for exploring the city on foot. Parliament Hill, Elgin Street, City Hall and ByWard Market are all nearby. It is an ideal choice if your priority is moving easily from one activity to the next throughout the day.
Alt Hotel Ottawa Airport: Easy Arrivals and Departures
Directly connected to the terminal by an indoor walkway, Alt Hotel Ottawa Airport makes travel easier when your stay begins with a late arrival or ends with an early flight. You can enjoy the downtown celebrations, then return to the comfort of your room just steps from the airport.
Two centuries after Bytown was founded, Ottawa invites us to explore its history while discovering the artists and communities shaping its present. Choose the hotel that best suits the way you travel, then let the city carry you from the day’s first event to the final glow of Nuit Blanche.
