What to do with the kids in Ottawa this May
If we look past the puddles and moisture across the City of Ottawa thanks to some rainy days, we can feel the warmth of the sunny spring days that are here every so often. It means that we are all emerging outdoors more, that the kids are getting ready for their spring activities, and that school events are picking up as they look to the end of the year.
It also means that Ottawa is filled with fun, family activities to do together, both inside and outside. I love this time of year! I’ve put together a list that includes some exciting activities, events and festivals that you might be interested in noting in your calendars!
May 4: Upper Canada Village Opens
We always enjoy going to Upper Canada Village. It’s filled with interesting historical artifacts and plenty of hands on fun. Plus, the fresh bread! Their new season opens on May 4. Keep an eye out for special weekend events that will be taking place.
May 7: Summer Market opens at Lansdowne
May is the season when most of the local Farmers’ Markets open (yay!) but I am making a special note about Lansdowne’s Summer Market because it’s a great place to go with kids. There always seems to be a lot for the kiddos to check out, plus the nearby play park is work stopping at.
May 10-14: Ottawa Children’s Festival
When I went with my kids a few years ago, this festival really stood out for me. It was a blast that incorporated the arts, live performances, music, hands-on entertainment and visually stunning attractions along the way. If you haven’t been, you’ll want to check it out.
May 12-22: Ottawa Tulip Festival
The Ottawa Tulip Festival is more than just pretty flowers (although, they are definitely worth going to see!). Now, the festival boosts activities for families that run well into the evening (fireworks!) and more. Check out the full event line up for details on everything that is taking place during the Festival, or at the very least, map out where you want to go snap a few photos in front of the gorgeous tulips.
May 12: Ottawa Champions Home Opener
It’s baseball season around here. My son begins little league this week, and there are few days when a baseball game isn’t on TV in the house. It also means that this month the Ottawa Champions will be back for another season. It’s affordable family fun, plus, I’m a sucker for ballpark eats!
From 10 am until 1 pm at Brewer Park on May 13, you and your bird-loving family can head to Ottawa Bird Day. It’s hosted by Nature Canada and among the activities I think kids will love the birds of prey demonstration.
May 18: Science by Night at the Canadian Museum of Nature
This free event in the evening of May 18 at the Canadian Museum of Nature is for all ages (although it says their programming is geared to adults, and there is a cash bar, kids are welcome if parents think they’ll be interested.) The line up of hands-on activities and demonstrations looks interesting! There’s even live music.
