10 August Events You Can’t Miss in Ottawa
August in Ottawa is the season at its peak.
Warm nights, bustling festivals, and a calendar packed with ways to experience the city’s energy. Whether you're looking for family fun, cultural celebrations, or quiet moments by the water, Ottawa has something for everyone this month.
The best part? When you live at The Docks at Mooney’s Bay, you're just minutes away from it all. Here are 10 exciting events to explore this August:
1. Ironman Ottawa Race Day
Where: Swim kicks off at Britannia Beach
When: Sunday, August 3
Experience the thrill as Ottawa welcomes elite athletes for IRONMAN, one of the summer’s most exciting endurance events. The course features a 3.8 km swim starting at Britannia Beach, followed by a 180 km bike ride and a 42.2 km run that finishes in the heart of downtown on Murray Street. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines or participating, it’s a high-energy day that celebrates dedication and determination of every athlete.
2. Navan Fair
Where: Navan Fairgrounds
When: Thursday, August 7 - Sunday, August 10
The Navan Fair has been a staple of Ottawa’s summer calendar for over 75 years, offering classic fairground attractions like rides, agricultural displays, a demolition derby, and live music. From the Ferris wheel to the food trucks, it’s a family-friendly weekend that blends rural charm with summer excitement.
3. The Great India Festival
Where: Ottawa City Hall
When: Thursday, August 7 - Sunday, August 10
Celebrate Indian culture, cuisine, and community at The Great India Festival, held right downtown at Ottawa City Hall. This free event invites visitors to enjoy vibrant dance performances, traditional music, arts and crafts, and an incredible variety of Indian street food.
4. Ottawa International Busker Festival
Where: Sparks Street
When: Friday, August 8 - Sunday, August 10
For three days, Sparks Street becomes a lively open-air stage featuring street performers from around the world. Watch as magicians, acrobats, musicians, and fire jugglers captivate crowds with daring stunts and comedic acts. This festival is a playful, high-energy event that’s fun for all ages—and admission is free, with donations encouraged to support the performers.
5. Water Lantern Festival
Where: Andrew Haydon Park
When: Saturday, August 9
Spend a serene and peaceful summer evening at Andrew Haydon Park as hundreds of glowing lanterns light up the water. With live music, food trucks, and a beautiful atmosphere, it’s a meaningful and memorable summer experience. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
6. Ottawa Greek Festival
Where: 1351 Prince of Wales Drive
When: Thursday, August 14 - Sunday, August 17
Just minutes from The Docks, Ottawa’s Greek Festival returns with authentic food, dancing, and warm Mediterranean hospitality. Dine on classics like souvlaki, moussaka, and loukoumades while enjoying live music and traditional performances. It’s a lively cultural celebration that welcomes everyone with open arms.
7. Capital Fair
Where: Rideau Road & Albion Road Intersection
When: Friday, August 15 - Sunday, August 24
Celebrating 50 years, the Capital Fair returns with 10 days of fun in Ottawa’s south end. Enjoy classic carnival rides and games, live entertainment, a cornhole tournament, and even arm wrestling championships. With food vendors serving all your fair favourites—from mini donuts to poutine—it’s one of the city’s most entertaining summer events.
8. Capital Pride Festival
Where: Various Locations Across Ottawa
When: Saturday, August 16 - Sunday, August 24
Capital Pride returns with a full week of events across the city, including drag shows, dance parties, storytelling workshops, community fairs, and more – closing with the iconic Pride Parade on Sunday, August 24 at 1 PM, starting at Elgin Street and Laurier Avenue. It’s a vibrant celebration of identity, inclusion, and love, drawing thousands of participants and supporters from across the region. Capital Pride is a powerful reminder of the diversity that makes Ottawa so special.
9. Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival
Where: Parc de la Baie, Gatineau
When: Wednesday, August 27 - Sunday, August 31
Just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, the Hot Air Balloon Festival is a stunning way to close out summer. Watch as dozens of colourful hot air balloons fill the sky, creating breathtaking views. Beyond the balloon launches, visitors can enjoy concerts, fireworks, amusement rides, and a festive atmosphere for all ages.
10. Ottawa Serbian Festival
Where: 1989 Prince of Wales Drive
When: Saturday, August 30 - Sunday, August 31
Close out the month with a celebration of Serbian culture, food, and community. The Ottawa Serbian Festival features live music, traditional dance performances, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. No festival is complete without incredible food—and this one delivers, offering everything from grilled meats to savoury pastries and sweet homemade desserts. With its vibrant energy and strong cultural pride, it’s a standout event on the late-summer calendar.
Summer at The Docks
When you live at The Docks, Ottawa’s best summer events are just minutes away — and your own backyard offers riverside trails, sandy beaches, and peaceful green space. Whether you're heading downtown for a festival or relaxing on your balcony at sunset, The Docks strikes the perfect balance between vibrant city life and waterside calm.
Make the most of August. Make it unforgettable - from your home at The Docks.
Visit our Sales Office at 2801 Riverside Drive, open Tuesday to Thursday from 11 AM to 3 PM, to explore our available condos and townhomes.
