��� Spring has officially arrived in Ottawa, and the weekend of April 5-6, 2025, is packed with exciting events and activities for every interest and age group. From professional soccer and championship ringette to maple syrup traditions and farmers markets, this weekend offers something special for everyone in the nation’s capital.
Weekend Overview
This comprehensive guide covers all the top events, activities, and experiences happening across Ottawa-Gatineau this weekend. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings, sports action, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered.
Weekend at a Glance
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sports | Atletico Ottawa CPL opener, Ringette Championships finals |
| Food & Culture | Ontario Maple Weekend, farmers markets |
| Outdoor Activities | Spring hiking, cycling, park visits |
| Family Fun | Sugar bush visits, mascots, interactive activities |
| Arts & Entertainment | Museums, galleries, live performances |
| Weather | Spring conditions, dress in layers |
Saturday, April 5, 2025 ⚽
Major Events
1. Atletico Ottawa Home Opener (2:00 PM)
What: CPL 2025 season kicks off at TD Place Stadium Where: TD Place Stadium, 1015 Bank Street Time: Gates open 1:00 PM, kick-off 2:00 PM Cost: Pay What You Can ($5, $10, or more) - supports CHEO Foundation
Why Attend:
- Professional soccer action in Canada’s top league
- Special Pay What You Can ticketing makes it accessible for all families
- All proceeds support CHEO Foundation helping sick children
- Meet Wally the T-Rex mascot
- Pre-game activities starting at 1:00 PM
- Perfect weather for outdoor sports
Match Details: Atletico Ottawa vs Halifax Wanderers FC promises competitive action to start the season. The CPL has grown tremendously in recent years, showcasing high-quality soccer with passionate fan support.
Learn more about Atletico Ottawa’s home opener
2. Canadian Ringette Championships Finals
What: Championship games in U16, U19, and National Ringette League divisions Where: Slush Puppie Centre, Gatineau & University of Ottawa Time: Various game times throughout the day Cost: Check Ringette Canada website for ticket information
Why Attend:
- Watch Canada’s best ringette players compete for national titles
- Fast-paced, exciting sport that’s uniquely Canadian
- Elite athletic competition at the highest level
- Closing ceremonies recognizing champions and award winners
- Support youth and adult athletes from across Canada
Sport Highlight: Ringette emphasizes skating, passing, and teamwork in ways that create a unique spectator experience. If you’ve never watched ringette, championship finals showcase the sport at its absolute best.
Discover the Canadian Ringette Championships
3. Ontario Maple Weekend (Day 1)
What: Free visits to sugar bushes across Ottawa region Where: Multiple locations - Stanley’s (Carp), Proulx (Cumberland), Fulton’s (Pakenham) Time: Typically 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (varies by location) Cost: Free admission; food and products available for purchase
Why Attend:
- Quintessentially Canadian spring tradition
- Learn about maple syrup production firsthand
- Pancake breakfasts with real maple syrup
- Maple taffy on snow (tire d’érable)
- Horse-drawn wagon rides through sugar bushes
- Educational demonstrations and tours
- Perfect family-friendly outdoor activity
Featured Locations:
��� Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm (Carp)
- Traditional pancake breakfast
- Petting farm and children’s play area
- Historic sugar shack
- Extensive maple product selection
��� Proulx Berry Farm (Cumberland)
- Educational presentations on syrup grades
- Nature trails through maple forest
- Farm store with preserves and maple products
��� Fulton’s Pancake House (Pakenham)
- All-you-can-eat pancake meals
- Large-scale operation accommodating crowds
- Pioneer equipment displays
- Tractor-drawn wagon rides
Explore Ontario Maple Weekend activities
Markets & Shopping 🛍️
ByWard Market Saturday
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Location: ByWard Market Square
Spring brings renewed energy to Ottawa’s most famous market:
- Fresh produce and flowers
- Local artisan vendors
- Street performers and entertainment
- Restaurants and cafes with patio season beginning
- Unique shops and boutiques
Lansdowne Farmers Market
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Location: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park
Perfect complement to the Atletico Ottawa game:
- Local food vendors
- Handmade crafts
- Prepared foods and baked goods
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Indoor/outdoor shopping experience
Outdoor Activities 🌳
Gatineau Park Spring Hiking
With snow melting and trails opening, Gatineau Park offers spectacular spring hiking:
Featured Trails:
- King Mountain Trail: Moderate hike with panoramic views
- Lusk Cave Trail: Adventure trail with cave exploration
- Pink Lake: Easy walk around unique meromictic lake
- Champlain Lookout: Accessible viewpoint of Ottawa Valley
Tips: Check trail conditions before heading out, as some areas may still have muddy sections or residual snow.
Rideau Canal Pathways
With the Skateway season ended, the canal pathways are perfect for:
- Walking and jogging
- Cycling (bring your bike out of winter storage!)
- Rollerblading
- Photography of spring scenery
- Picnicking along the banks
Sunday, April 6, 2025 🌸
Continuing Events
Ontario Maple Weekend (Day 2)
All participating sugar bushes remain open Sunday with the same activities:
- Pancake breakfasts continue
- Fresh maple taffy demonstrations
- Tours and educational sessions
- Perfect for those who missed Saturday
- Often less crowded than Saturday morning
Sunday Benefits:
- More relaxed pace
- Smaller crowds at some locations
- Fresh pancakes and maple products
- Extended weekend for families
Sunday Markets 🍃
Ottawa Farmers’ Market at Lansdowne
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Location: Aberdeen Pavilion
Sunday edition features:
- Weekly fresh produce
- Artisan bakers and food makers
- Live music and entertainment
- Family activities
- Local meat, cheese, and prepared foods
Parkdale Market
Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Location: 1400 Parkdale Avenue
Ottawa’s longest-running farmers market offers:
- Diverse vendor selection
- International food options
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Bargain prices, especially late afternoon
- Authentic neighborhood market atmosphere
Family Activities 👨👩👧👦
Museums (Sunday Hours)
Canadian Museum of History
- Indigenous cultural exhibits
- Canadian history galleries
- Children’s Museum (perfect for kids)
- Special: Spring break programming may still be running
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Interactive science exhibits
- Innovation Canada exhibition
- Family-friendly demonstrations
- Steam locomotive collection
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Blue whale skeleton
- Fossil gallery
- Arctic animals and climate change exhibits
- Hands-on discovery zones
National Gallery of Canada
- World-class art collections
- Canadian and Indigenous art
- Free admission for youth (ages 0-24)
- Spectacular architecture and views
Spring Outdoor Adventures 🚴
Cycling Season Kickoff
With warmer weather, it’s time to get back on two wheels:
Recommended Routes:
��� Ottawa River Pathway (West)
- Flat, scenic route along the Ottawa River
- 35+ km from downtown to Britannia
- Perfect for all skill levels
- Access to beaches and parks
��� Rideau Canal Pathway (South)
- Downtown to Hog’s Back Falls
- Historic locks and canal scenery
- Connect to Rideau River pathways
- Moderate distance, easy terrain
��� Greenbelt Pathways
- Off-road recreational pathways
- Natural surroundings
- Multiple entry points around city
- Various distances available
Bike Rentals: Available at various locations including Escape Bicycle Tours (ByWard Market) and RentABike.ca locations.
Dining & Culinary Experiences 🍽️
Patio Season Preview
Many Ottawa restaurants begin opening patios in early April weather permitting:
Top Patio Neighborhoods:
ByWard Market
- Dozens of restaurants with outdoor seating
- International cuisine options
- Lively atmosphere and people-watching
- Bar and pub patios
Elgin Street
- Urban patio scene
- Diverse restaurant selection
- Central location near attractions
- Cafes and breweries
Westboro Village
- Trendy neighborhood dining
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Specialty food shops
- Coffee shops and bistros
Wellington West
- Hipster dining scene
- Craft breweries with patios
- Eclectic restaurant mix
- Local business focus
Indoor Activities (Weather Backup) ☔
If Weather Doesn’t Cooperate
Escape Rooms
- Multiple locations across Ottawa
- Team-building fun
- Various themes and difficulty levels
- 60-90 minute experiences
Indoor Play Centres (For Kids)
- Monkey Around
- Cosmic Adventures
- Funhaven
- Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Shopping
- Rideau Centre (downtown)
- Bayshore Shopping Centre
- Tanger Outlets (Kanata)
- St. Laurent Centre
Cinemas
- Landmark Cinemas at Lansdowne
- Cineplex locations across city
- Independent theaters (ByTowne Cinema, Mayfair Theatre)
Practical Weekend Information 🗺️
Getting Around Ottawa
OC Transpo
Weekend Service:
- O-Train Lines 1, 2, and 4 operate on Sunday schedule
- Reduced frequency compared to weekdays
- Day passes available for unlimited travel
- Check schedule for special event service to TD Place
Trip Planning: Use OC Transpo’s travel planner or Transit app for real-time information.
Parking
Event Parking:
- TD Place: $10-$15 on-site; arrive early
- ByWard Market: Paid lots and street parking; can be challenging on weekends
- Lansdowne: Limited on-site; use nearby residential (watch posted signs)
- Museums: Most have dedicated parking lots
Cost-Saving Tip: Park farther from event venues and walk or use public transit.
Cycling & Walking
Ottawa’s compact downtown and extensive pathway system make walking and cycling excellent options for getting around, especially on spring weekends.
Weather & What to Wear 🌤️
Early April Weather in Ottawa
Expected Conditions:
- Daytime highs: 8-12°C (46-54°F)
- Nighttime lows: 0-4°C (32-39°F)
- Variable spring weather
- Possible rain showers
- Sunny periods likely
Recommended Clothing:
- Layers for temperature changes
- Light jacket or sweater
- Waterproof outer layer
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Waterproof boots for sugar bush visits
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Umbrella just in case
Budget-Friendly Weekend 💰
Create an amazing weekend without breaking the bank:
Free Activities
- �� Ontario Maple Weekend (admission)
- �� Walking/hiking Gatineau Park
- �� Cycling pathways
- ��️ National Gallery (youth free, adults by donation)
- �� Park visits and outdoor exploration
- �� Photography downtown and canal
Low-Cost Options
- � Atletico Ottawa ($5 Pay What You Can)
- �� Maple Weekend pancakes ($10-15)
- ��️ Market browsing (free; purchases optional)
- �� Ringette Championships (affordable tickets)
- �� Coffee shop visits
Mid-Range Experiences
- ��️ Restaurant meals ($20-40 per person)
- ��️ Museum admissions ($15-20)
- �� Entertainment venues (varies)
- ��️ Shopping and souvenirs
Weekend Budget Estimate:
- Minimal: $20-50 (mostly free activities, one paid meal)
- Moderate: $100-200 (mix of paid events, dining, activities)
- Splurge: $300+ (multiple events, fine dining, shopping)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best event for young families? A: Ontario Maple Weekend offers the most family-friendly experience with pancakes, taffy, wagon rides, and outdoor fun. Kid-friendly, educational, and delicious!
Q: Can I do multiple events in one day? A: Yes! Saturday could include: morning sugar bush visit (9-11 AM), lunch at ByWard Market (12-1 PM), then Atletico Ottawa game (2-4 PM). Plan travel time between locations.
Q: What if I’m visiting Ottawa for the first time? A: Start with ByWard Market and downtown core Saturday morning, visit National Gallery or Parliament Hill area, then catch the Atletico Ottawa game. Sunday could be Ontario Maple Weekend and museum visits.
Q: Are events wheelchair accessible? A: TD Place, museums, and markets are fully accessible. Sugar bush outdoor areas may be challenging; contact specific locations. Ringette venues (arenas) are accessible.
Q: Where should I stay? A: Downtown hotels provide easy access to most events. ByWard Market area is central. Book early for best rates.
Q: What about parking for multiple venues? A: Consider using one parking location (like downtown) and using OC Transpo or walking for multiple stops to avoid repeated parking fees.
Q: Are dogs allowed at outdoor events? A: Pathways and parks allow leashed dogs. Markets vary (many allow outside areas only). Sugar bushes generally prohibit pets due to farm animals and food service. Sporting venues prohibit pets (except service animals).
Q: Can I visit a sugar bush and attend the soccer game on the same day? A: Absolutely! Visit a sugar bush Saturday morning (9-11 AM), return to Ottawa for lunch, then head to TD Place for the 2 PM game.
Making the Most of Your Weekend
Insider Tips 💡
- Start Early: Popular events get crowded by mid-morning
- Book Ahead: If dining at popular restaurants, make reservations
- Check Updates: Weather and event changes can happen; check social media/websites
- Bring Cash: Some vendors prefer cash at markets and sugar bushes
- Layer Clothing: Spring weather is unpredictable
- Plan Parking: Arrive early for events with limited parking
- Use Public Transit: Often easier than parking at major events
- Bring Water: Stay hydrated during outdoor activities
- Charge Devices: For photos, directions, and event information
- Be Flexible: Have backup plans for weather changes
Photo Opportunities 📸
Best Spots:
- Sugar bushes during maple taffy making
- TD Place Stadium atmosphere and crowd shots
- ByWard Market spring flowers and vendors
- Canal pathways with spring scenery
- Parliament Hill from Major’s Hill Park
- Gatineau Park lookouts
Social Media: Tag @viaottawa and use #OttawaWeekend to share your experiences!
Beyond This Weekend 🗓️
Upcoming Ottawa Events
April 2025:
- Tulip Festival preparations begin
- More CPL home games
- Spring concerts and performances
- Farmers markets every weekend
- Gallery openings and cultural events
May 2025:
- Canadian Tulip Festival (mid-May)
- Ottawa Race Weekend
- Museum Day
- Spring festivals throughout the month
Stay updated on all Ottawa events at ViaOttawa.ca.
Connecting with Local Communities 🤝
This weekend offers opportunities to engage with Ottawa’s diverse communities:
- Sports Community: Join passionate soccer and ringette fans
- Agricultural Heritage: Connect with maple syrup producers
- Local Businesses: Support markets and independent vendors
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Meet fellow hikers and cyclists
- Arts Lovers: Explore galleries and cultural venues
Ottawa’s strength lies in its welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere. Strike up conversations, ask questions, and immerse yourself in the capital’s culture.
Resources & Information
Useful Websites
- ViaOttawa.ca: Complete event listings and Ottawa guides
- Ottawa Tourism: Official tourism information
- OC Transpo: Public transportation schedules and trip planning
- City of Ottawa: Municipal services and park information
- Ringette Canada: Championship information and schedules
- Atletico Ottawa: Team information and tickets
- Ontario Maple Syrup Producers: Sugar bush directory
Emergency & Important Numbers
- Emergency: 911
- Ottawa Police (non-emergency): 613-236-1222
- Ottawa Public Health: 613-580-6744
- OC Transpo Customer Service: 613-741-4390
- City of Ottawa 3-1-1: 311 or 613-580-2400
Sources
- Ottawa Tourism - Event and Attraction Information
- OC Transpo - Public Transportation Schedules
- Atletico Ottawa - Home Opener Details
- Ringette Canada - Championship Information
- Ontario Maple Syrup Producers’ Association - Maple Weekend Details
- City of Ottawa - Parks and Recreation Information
- National Capital Commission - Gatineau Park Trail Conditions
- Individual Venue Websites - Hours and Programming
Final Thoughts
The weekend of April 5-6, 2025, represents everything wonderful about Ottawa in spring: sports excitement, cultural traditions, outdoor adventures, and community spirit. Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, this weekend offers countless opportunities to experience the best of Canada’s capital.
From professional soccer to championship ringette, from maple syrup traditions to spring farmers markets, from cycling pathways to museum galleries - Ottawa delivers diverse experiences that create lasting memories.
Bundle up, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an exceptional Ottawa weekend! 🌸⚽🍁
For complete event details, additional activities, and updated information, visit ViaOttawa.ca - your essential guide to everything Ottawa.
Have a wonderful weekend exploring the nation’s capital! 🇨🇦
