Last Updated: January 5, 2026
Imagine listening to Taylor Swift, Coldplay, or The Beatles performed by a string quartet in a room illuminated by thousands of flickering candles—that’s the magic of Candlelight concerts in Ottawa.
The Fever-organized Candlelight concert series has become one of Ottawa’s most popular live music experiences, transforming historic churches and elegant venues into intimate, atmospheric performance spaces. With shows running year-round and new tributes constantly added to the schedule, there’s almost always a Candlelight concert coming up that matches your musical taste.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Candlelight concerts are 60-minute classical performances lit by thousands of candles, held primarily at First Baptist Church in downtown Ottawa. Tickets start from $23 for general admission, with front-row seats from $39-$46. Shows typically run at 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Frequency | Multiple shows monthly |
| 📍 Main Venue | First Baptist Church, downtown Ottawa |
| 🎟️ Tickets | From $23 general, $39-$46 front row |
| ⏰ Duration | 60 minutes |
| 🎉 Show Times | Usually 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM |
What Are Candlelight Concerts?
First Baptist Church transforms into a candlelit wonderland for Fever’s concert series.
Candlelight concerts reimagine popular music through classical arrangements performed in candlelit settings. A string quartet—typically two violins, a viola, and a cello—plays instrumental versions of beloved songs while hundreds of candles create an intimate, romantic atmosphere.
The concept originated with Fever, a global events platform that has brought Candlelight concerts to hundreds of cities worldwide. Ottawa’s series began gaining popularity in recent years and now features regular performances throughout the calendar.
Unlike traditional concerts with amplified sound and stage lighting, Candlelight shows emphasize the acoustic beauty of string instruments and the visual magic of candlelight. The experience feels more like attending a private recital than a typical concert.
Ottawa Candlelight Venues
First Baptist Church
The primary venue for Ottawa’s Candlelight series, First Baptist Church offers stunning acoustics and Gothic Revival architecture that perfectly complements the candlelit aesthetic. Located in downtown Ottawa, the church provides easy access via public transit and nearby parking.
Address: 140 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa
The church’s vaulted ceilings and wood interiors enhance the string quartet’s sound while providing a reverent backdrop for the performance. Seating capacity is limited, creating an intimate experience where every audience member feels close to the music.
Other Potential Venues
While First Baptist Church hosts most Ottawa Candlelight concerts, Fever occasionally uses other venues including:
- Dominion-Chalmers United Church — Known for exceptional acoustics
- Knox Presbyterian Church — Another downtown heritage building
- St. Brigid’s Centre for the Arts — Arts venue in the ByWard Market area
Check the specific event listing to confirm the venue for your chosen concert.
Upcoming Candlelight Tributes
A string quartet performs beloved pop and rock songs in intimate candlelit settings.
Ottawa’s Candlelight series rotates through various tribute concerts. Recent and upcoming performances include:
| Tribute | Typical Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Taylor Swift | From $23 |
| Adele | From $28 |
| The Beatles | From $28 |
| Coldplay & Imagine Dragons | From $38 |
| Queen | Varies |
| ABBA | Varies |
| Movie Soundtracks (Hans Zimmer, Studio Ghibli) | Varies |
| Classical Composers (Vivaldi, Beethoven) | Varies |
Concerts are added regularly, and popular tributes often run multiple times per year. The Taylor Swift tribute, for instance, typically sells out quickly and returns to the schedule every few months.
Ticket Information
Where to Buy
All Candlelight concert tickets are sold exclusively through Fever. You can browse upcoming events, select your preferred date and time, and purchase tickets directly through the platform.
Ticket Tiers
Most Candlelight concerts offer two ticket options:
- General Admission: From $23-$38 depending on the tribute
- Front Row/Opening Night: From $39-$46 for premium seating closest to the performers
Premium tickets place you in the first few rows, offering the most immersive experience. However, the intimate venue size means general admission seats still provide excellent views and sound.
Booking Tips
Candlelight concerts often sell out, particularly popular tributes like Taylor Swift and The Beatles. To secure tickets:
- Book 2-3 weeks in advance for popular shows
- Sign up for Fever’s newsletter to receive early access and discounts
- Consider weeknight shows (typically less crowded than weekends)
- Check for last-minute availability—cancellations sometimes free up seats close to showtime
What to Expect
Hundreds of candles create the signature atmosphere of these intimate performances.
Before the Show
Arrive 15-20 minutes before showtime to find your seat and settle in. Doors typically open 30 minutes before the performance. There’s no assigned seating within your ticket tier, so arriving early ensures better seat selection within your section.
During the Performance
The concert runs approximately 60 minutes without intermission. Performers play classical arrangements of the tribute artist’s songs, typically covering 12-15 tracks. The atmosphere encourages quiet appreciation—this isn’t a concert where you sing along or stand up, though some foot-tapping and gentle swaying is perfectly acceptable.
Photography is generally allowed, but flash photography is discouraged to preserve the candlelit ambiance. Brief video clips are typically permitted, but recording entire songs may not be allowed.
After the Show
The venue clears relatively quickly after performances, especially when a second show follows at 9:00 PM. Take a moment to appreciate the candlelit setting, but be prepared to exit within 10-15 minutes.
Making It a Date Night
Candlelight concerts pair perfectly with dinner in downtown Ottawa. Consider these nearby options:
Before the Show
The ByWard Market is a short walk from First Baptist Church and offers dozens of dining options. For a special occasion, try one of the best date night restaurants in Ottawa for dinner before the performance.
After the Show
Wind down with cocktails at one of Ottawa’s craft cocktail bars or enjoy late-night dessert at a nearby café. The downtown location makes it easy to extend your evening.
Accessibility and Practical Tips
Getting There
Public Transit: OC Transpo routes serve downtown Ottawa extensively. The Laurier transit station is nearby on the Confederation Line (Line 1).
Parking: Street parking is available on surrounding streets, with rates varying by time and day. Nearby parking garages include the World Exchange Plaza garage and the 240 Sparks Street garage.
Biking: Bike racks are available near the venue. The location is accessible via Ottawa’s downtown cycling network.
Accessibility
First Baptist Church is wheelchair accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, contact Fever customer service before purchasing tickets to confirm accommodations.
What to Wear
There’s no dress code, but most attendees dress in smart casual to semi-formal attire. The intimate setting and beautiful venue inspire many couples to dress up, especially for date nights.
Age Restrictions
Most Candlelight concerts are open to all ages, making them suitable for families with older children who can sit quietly for 60 minutes. Some specialized late-night shows may have age restrictions—check the specific event listing.
Similar Ottawa Experiences
If you enjoy Candlelight concerts, explore these related experiences:
- Ottawa live music venues — From intimate jazz clubs to larger concert halls
- National Arts Centre — Classical, orchestra, and contemporary performances
- Chamber music series — Various Ottawa venues host classical chamber ensembles
- Dominion-Chalmers concerts — Regular classical and choral performances
FAQ
Q: How early should I book Candlelight concert tickets?
Popular tributes like Taylor Swift and The Beatles often sell out 2-3 weeks before the show. For less popular tributes or weeknight shows, tickets may remain available until showtime. Check Fever regularly and sign up for their newsletter to receive notifications about new concerts and special offers.
Q: Can I bring food or drinks to a Candlelight concert?
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted. Most venues don’t sell refreshments on-site, so plan to eat before or after the show. Some special edition concerts may include drink packages—check the specific event listing for details.
Q: What happens if I’m late to a Candlelight concert?
Latecomers may be seated at the discretion of staff during a break between songs. To avoid disruption, arrive at least 10-15 minutes before showtime. If you arrive after the concert begins, you may need to wait for an appropriate moment to be seated.
Q: Are Candlelight concerts appropriate for children?
Most Candlelight concerts are open to all ages, but the format requires sitting quietly for 60 minutes. Children over 8-10 who enjoy live music and can remain attentive are typically good candidates. Very young children or those who struggle to sit still may not enjoy the experience.
Q: Is the venue heated/air-conditioned?
First Baptist Church maintains comfortable temperatures year-round. In winter, the church is heated, though you may want to bring a light layer as historic buildings can have variable temperatures. In summer, the venue is typically comfortable but not heavily air-conditioned.
Q: Can I request a refund if I can’t attend?
Fever’s refund policy varies by event and timing. Generally, refunds are available up to 48-72 hours before the event. Check the specific terms when purchasing or contact Fever customer service for assistance.
Q: Do the candles produce real flames?
Most Candlelight concerts use a combination of real candles and LED candles for safety and consistency. The effect is equally magical, and you won’t notice which candles are electronic during the performance.
Q: How often are new Candlelight tributes added?
Fever regularly adds new tribute concerts to the schedule, typically announcing 4-8 weeks in advance. Popular tributes return seasonally, while new additions test audience interest. Check the Fever website monthly for the latest additions.
Q: What if the concert is cancelled?
In the rare event of cancellation, Fever typically offers full refunds or the option to transfer to a rescheduled date. You’ll receive notification via email if your concert is affected.
Q: Are there other Candlelight experiences besides tribute concerts?
Yes, Fever offers various themed Candlelight experiences including classical composer tributes (Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Beethoven), movie soundtrack concerts (Hans Zimmer, Studio Ghibli), and seasonal specials. Holiday-themed concerts often appear during the Christmas season.
How to Stay Updated
To receive notifications about new Candlelight concerts in Ottawa:
- Visit Fever Ottawa and sign up for their newsletter
- Follow Fever on social media for announcements and exclusive offers
- Check back monthly for new tributes and show dates
Final Thoughts
Candlelight concerts offer something rare in Ottawa’s entertainment landscape: an intimate, atmospheric live music experience that transforms familiar songs into something magical. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic date night, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, these performances deliver.
With tickets starting from just $23 and shows running throughout the year, there’s an opportunity to experience the magic of candlelit classical music whenever inspiration strikes. Book ahead for popular tributes, dress up a little, and let the flickering candlelight and soaring strings transport you.
For tickets and upcoming concerts, visit Fever.
