Your Ultimate Guide to Fun Adventures in the Ottawa Region This October 2023
The fall fun’s not over yet because October’s got a lot in store for everyone, so don’t count yourself out! We have agricultural fairs, ziplining, and spooky Halloween events, to name a few of the exciting things to do this month!
So grab your favorite scarf and a pumpkin spice latte to keep you warm, cozy, and energized to enjoy everything Ottawa has to offer this October!
Pumpkin Fest
WHEN: Up to October 29, 2023
WHERE: Proulx Maple & Berry Farm, 1865 O’Toole Rd, Ottawa
The annual Pumpkinfest transforms the Proulx Maple & Berry Farm into a Halloween wonderland. It’s located just minutes from Orleans and a short 30-minute drive from downtown Ottawa.
The farm offers a spooky yet picturesque country setting, perfect for a family picnic and ghostly gathering!
Carrot Fest
WHEN: October 7, 2023
WHERE: Ottawa Farm Fresh, 2811 Ramsayville Rd. Ottawa
Carrot Fest is a fantastic event filled with carrot picking, live music, delectable food, a mobile bookstore, the opportunity to handpick your very own pumpkins, and, as you can expect, all the organic delights you’ve come to adore from Ottawa Farm Fresh!
You’ll have the opportunity to come together with the community and celebrate the incredible carrot, that humble root vegetable. You can harvest, wash, and store over 10,000 pounds of carrots during the event.
It’s a day of fun, giving back, and savoring the organic goodness that defines Ottawa Farm Fresh!
The Sawmill at Lansdowne
WHEN: October 13 – 31, 2023
WHERE: Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa
In 2008, the City of Ottawa initiated the demolition of the south-side Grandstand at Lansdowne Park. But beneath the rubble lay a concealed world waiting to be unveiled.
A specialized team was swiftly assembled to embark on a thorough investigation. As they delved deeper, they unearthed a pristine lumber site dating back over a century.
However, what they stumbled upon was very unsettling — a forgotten colony of Millworkers from the early days of Bytown. These individuals had remained isolated from the outside world for well over a century.
Now, this enigmatic colony will finally open its doors to the public for the very first time…
Jungle Book Reimagined
WHEN: October 19 – 21, 2023
WHERE: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa
Akram Khan’s Jungle Book reimagined is a new production inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale, focusing on humanity’s impact on the environment.
The performance centers around Mowgli’s journey but reframes it from the perspective of a refugee in a world deeply affected by climate change.
The piece features twelve talented dancers, captivating visual projections, evocative music, and skillful choreography that mirrors the animals in the story.
Akram Khan, a favorite at NAC Dance, has previously presented eight productions and collaborations, including his solo XENOS in 2018.
Signatures Handmade Market
WHEN: October 19 – 22, 2023
WHERE: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa
Signatures is a one-of-a-kind handmade marketplace in Ottawa, showcasing the creations of more than 150 artists, artisans, makers, and designers nationwide.
It was established in 1983 and has been Canada’s leading fine craft exhibition, offering an annual opportunity for visitors to personally connect with dedicated creators. You also get to hear their stories and experience their crafted pieces up close.
Acres of Terror
WHEN: Up to October 29, 2023
WHERE: Cannamore Orchard,1480 County Road 32, Crysler
Cannamore Orchard presents the 30th year of Acres of Terror, Eastern Ontario’s premier Halloween attraction, in collaboration with École secondaire catholique Embrun.
Acres of Terror offers four main components, such as the Spooky Wagon Ride, a tractor-pulled wagon ride across the 60-acre property. It’ll be narrated by a genuine witch or warlock.
Then there’s the House of Terror, which combines the thrill of a funhouse with the chills of a haunted house. It’s packed with real human actors, and your survival is uncertain as you navigate through Cannamore’s own cemetery.
The Spooky Village is an exclusive Halloween-themed village in North America, featuring seven different houses inhabited by real human characters. You can shop for coffins and visit the Vampire’s House.
The Fog Maze is an indoor maze filled with dense fog and heart-pounding music where you and your friends try to find your way or get lost in the fog.
During daytime hours on Saturdays and Sundays, the experience is family-friendly, catering to younger children and those who prefer milder scares. Attractions at Acres of Terror are adjusted to suit this audience.
One World Bazaar
WHEN: Up to November 19, 2023
WHERE: One World Bazaar, Mitch Owens Road, Manotick
The One World Bazaar welcomes visitors for seven weekends during the fall season. Located within a converted old barn, it serves as a diverse international marketplace.
It’s a place overflowing with products sourced from around the world, and it promises a sensory delight and a one-of-a-kind encounter. Make sure to plan a leisurely autumn afternoon to explore the exquisite and distinctive handmade items on display!
Sparks Street Poutinefest
WHEN: October 12 – 15, 2023
WHERE: 300-100 Sparks Street, Ottawa
Ottawa’s finest food trucks are making a comeback on Sparks Street, and they’re here to present their unique takes on Canada’s beloved indulgence – Poutine!
You can drop by on any of the four delectable days it’s available, and it’ll feature both traditional and exotic Poutine options. There’ll be live music, street performances, outdoor patios, and much more to look forward to!
Tagwàgi (Autumn) Festival
WHEN: Up to October 2, 2023
WHERE: Mādahòkì Farm, 4420 West Hunt Club Rd., Ottawa
This October, take advantage of the opportunity to experience Indigenous traditions amidst the changing seasons at the second annual Tagwàgi (Autumn) Festival.
Here, you’ll be able to enjoy authentic Indigenous programming, an Indigenous Makers and Farmers Market, interactive workshops, and culinary delights. Plus, you can meet the rare Ojibwe Spirit Ponies.
So don’t miss the opportunity by pre-registering online for timed entry (morning or afternoon) and make a voluntary online donation for festival admission. Onsite parking is available for $5 per vehicle.