OTTAWA WEEKEND | May 8–10, 2026
May in Ottawa already feels truly bright and alive. The city is slowly turning into one big spring postcard: tulips are blooming, patios are filling with people, and the evenings are getting warmer.
As a Realtor® in Ottawa, this is a very active time for me. Lots of showings, meetings, conversations, and new decisions. The market feels much more alive, and people are increasingly returning to their plans — to buy, sell, and move forward.
But weekends are still about balance, loved ones, walks, inspiration, and the small beautiful moments of life.
And here’s what you can do in the city these days.
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Weather
• Friday, May 8: +16 °C, sunny
• Saturday, May 9: +18 °C, warm and clear
• Sunday, May 10: +17 °C, light cloud cover
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Where to go with family
Canadian Tulip Festival — peak season
May 8–10
Dow’s Lake / Commissioners Park
Millions of tulips, walks, photos, and a true spring atmosphere
https://tulipfestival.ca
Canadian Museum of Nature
All weekend
240 McLeod St
Interactive exhibitions for children and adults
https://nature.ca
Canadian Museum of History — Gatineau
All weekend
100 Laurier St
One of the best family museums in Canada
https://www.historymuseum.ca
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Culture and ideas for couples
NAC — concerts and live performances
May 8–10
National Arts Centre
Music, theatre, and atmospheric evenings
https://nac-cna.ca/en/calendar
ByTowne Cinema — independent films
All weekend
325 Rideau St
Perfect for a cozy evening together
https://www.bytowne.ca
Wine & Dining — Downtown Ottawa
Friday and Saturday
Downtown
Patios, wine, and a beautiful spring downtown vibe
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Active weekend ideas
Gatineau Park — spring trails and nature
All weekend
Gatineau Park
Fresh air, views, and beautiful walks
https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park
Walk around Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal
All weekend
Downtown Ottawa
The spring city is especially beautiful in the evening
ByWard Market — brunch & spring vibe
All weekend
ByWard Market
Coffee, flowers, music, and weekend atmosphere
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3 romantic date ideas
Evening walk among the tulips + coffee near Dow’s Lake
Concert at the NAC + dinner on a patio
Spa day at Nordik Spa or Kōena Spa
Nordik Spa
https://chelsea.lenordik.com
Kōena Spa
https://koenaspa.com
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Events in Gatineau
Gatineau Park — lookouts and spring views
All weekend
https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park
Canadian Museum of History — exhibitions and programs
May 8–10
https://www.historymuseum.ca/events-and-programming
Spring art markets & local vendors
Weekend
Gatineau
Local artists, handmade goods, and spring atmosphere
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My PROMOTION for the community
And a small note for our community:
If you are planning to sell your home, I currently have a special community program — you pay only 3% total commission.
And if you are looking to buy a home, I also have very attractive bonuses for you.
Just send me a private message or call 613-796-1449 — I will be happy to share the details.
Alvina Usher, Realtor®
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May in Ottawa is a time of light, walks, inspiration, and the feeling that something very good is just beginning.