Canada Day Weekend in the ByWard Market District: Four Days of Art, Music, and Celebration
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Canada Day Weekend in the ByWard Market District: Four Days of Art, Music, and Celebration
June 23, 2025 - Ottawa, ON – The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) invites residents and visitors to celebrate an action-packed four-day weekend filled with interactive art, vibrant markets, live music, and family-friendly activities—culminating in Canada Day festivities throughout the District.
WILLIAM STREET FINALE: "THE FINAL BOSS"
This year marks the final time William Street (between George and York Streets) will be painted before reconstruction work brings this tradition to a close. To mark the occasion, the BMDA has partnered with internationally renowned arts group Secret Walls to create a one-of-a-kind interactive mural titled “The Final Boss”—a nod to classic children’s games. Local artists will be painting live on June 28 & 29, with the mural completed by June 30. Don’t miss your chance to witness the art in action before the paint dries for good.
OOH FEST + FLY MARKET: JUNE 28–29
Back by popular demand, Ooh Fest and Fly Market return to York Street (between Sussex Drive and Dalhousie Street) on June 28 and 29 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Expect vintage clothing, high- energy DJ sets, curated vendors, and endless market vibes—all in addition to your favourite public market vendors who are with us year-round surrounding the ByWard Market Heritage Hall.
PAINT BATTLE: JUNE 30
On June 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the energy hits a high note with a Secret Walls Paint Battle at the corner of William and York Streets. Watch a 3 vs 3 live paint battle go down, complete with a hype squad and DJ. It’s bold. It’s loud. It’s art like you’ve never seen before.
CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS: JULY 1
From family fun to live music and patio hangs, the ByWard Market District is the place to be this Canada Day:
Family Fun Zone – ByWard Market Square (George–York Streets)
Face Painting: 10 a.m.–12 p.m. & 4 p.m.–6 p.m.
Hip-hop & Afrobeat Dance Workshops by Bikkurim Studios: 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Watercolour Painting with Yulia: 12 p.m.–6 p.m. (or while supplies last)
Flag-Making & Rock Painting: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Lawn Games: All day
Ottawa Music Industry Coalition (OMIC) Stage (George Street Plaza)
Hours: 12 p.m.–8 p.m. | All Ages
Catch six incredible local acts live on stage—come dance, discover new artists, and celebrate Ottawa’s homegrown sound!
Lowertown 'Block Party' Patio Sponsored by Molson (York-Dalhousie Streets)
• Hours: 11 a.m.–11 p.m. | 19+ Licensed Area
Celebrate with friends on the patio outside Lowertown Brewery—cold drinks, good vibes, and great local atmosphere.
Red Bull DJ Stage (York-Dalhousie Streets)
• Hours: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Catch a rotating lineup of DJs on the Red Bull Stage delivering non-stop beats and high- energy vibes all day long.
Ooh Fest (York Street-Sussex Drive)
• Hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Groove to live DJ sets at this street festival packed with style, sound, and good vibes.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
While most district businesses are open on Canada Day, hours vary—check directly with each business before visiting:
Media Contact:
Victoria Williston - BMDA Manager, Communications
victoria@bmda.ca
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About the ByWard Market District:
Established in 1827, the ByWard Market District is one of Canada’s oldest and most iconic areas, located in the heart of Ottawa. The ByWard Market District is home to over 600 permanent and seasonal businesses, offering a diverse mix of restaurants, retail stores, fresh produce vendors, and artisanal crafts. It’s also host to numerous events throughout the year. The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC), manages and operates the District. For more information, go to byward-market.com
