In terms of beautiful weather and reasonable tourist flow, the best time to visit Ottawa runs from March to May and from September to November. These periods boast a lot to do and see outdoors. Rates are affordable during these months, and that makes a good option for tourists on a tight budget. Spring is known with numerous poutine festivals—Ottawa Poutine Fest and Sparks Street Poutine Fest in particular while fall is so charming with its trees in orange, yellow and red. June through August is a busy season with throngs of tourists and skyrocketing prices. But if you are a daredevil and plan Ottawa for your summer vacation, try not to miss the Changing of the Guard Ceremony on the grounds of Rideau Hall. Winter in Ottawa might be suitable for ice-skaters; however, the time between December and February can be chilly so winding through Magic of Lights at Wesley Clover Parks in a warm car sounds like a plan.
One of the largest tulip festivals in the world
Celebration of Inuit, First Nations and Métis heritage
Check out the ice on the largest skating rink in the world along with other fun winter activities
Find your hidden treasure among thousands of collectibles and antique items
Let yourself skate along the largest naturally frozen ice rink in the world
Canada Day in the capital city is marked by the greatest firework display of the year
Try endless variations of Canada's national dish
Despite the cold weather, it's a great occasion to go out and enjoy celebration throughout the city
Dozens of balloons of all shapes and colors are launched at the amusement park
Southern Ontario has a few good spots to watch aurora borealis
The largest auto show in the Canadian capital
The lightning bugs illuminate the summer evenings in the wilds of Southern Ontario
A solemn and colorful spectacle at the Parliament Hill
A colorful festival to brighten up the winter gloom
A pure heaven for meat lovers
Wind through the sparkling tunnels of one of Ottawa's best light displays
Five amazing pyrotechnic performances over the Ottawa River
Three blocks of the most delicious and unusual varieties of Canada's favorite dish
A unique multimedia performance in a beautiful historical setting
Art and block parties like nothing you've seen before