What is SPHERE? I’ll get to that soon, but first wanted to add a little note. (*I’ve updated this post with a few more notes to make it easier to find the info you need and to highlight some other events that you’ll want to know about!)
It is always a pleasure to partner with local businesses and organizations on this blog. I love being able to find and share new activities for you and your families. It’s also an honour to be asked to do this work and when you reply, comment, respond and let me know that you tried something or checked out an event, I take that to heart.
This is why I’m exicted to introduce a new blog advertiser, the National Arts Centre, and over the next few months I’ll be sharing more about their Arts Alive Family and Youth Programming. I feel so fortunate to live in a city with so many opportunities like what the NAC is providing (and while some events do require paid tickets, there is also a lot of free programming for families which is also so important!)
First up? SAVE THE DATE and plan to attend (online or in-person) SPHERE, a four day festival of music, art and science!
Here’s what the Arts Alive NAC website says about it:
From September 22 to 25, join the NAC Orchestra for SPHERE, a four-day festival launching a year-long exploration of listening as humankind navigates the climate crisis and biodiversity loss on planet Earth.
The four days of SPHERE are themed around Planet Earth’s interconnected spheres, featuring distinct and interconnected concerts with the NAC Orchestra.
SPHERE is actually taking place at two different locations: The National Arts Centre and The Canadian Museum of Nature. PLUS some events are available via live stream from the comfort of your own home.
SPHERE includes a talking series, concerts, installations and additional family programming. Every day is packed with unique events to attend with your kids (or maybe a parents day out?)
What are some examples of activities happening at SPHERE?
There are so many activities and events happening over the 4 days of SPHERE that you’ll want to check out the full schedule and agenda to make plans that work best for you and your family’s interests. But here are some examples:
Check out the ‘Fish Can Hear?’ Workshop (at the Museum and NAC, depending on the date you select) where you can learn more about fish, fish biodiversity in Canada’s waterways and more!
On Sunday, September 25th, visit the Ottawa Arts Gallery’s Art Tent (located at the NAC on Elgin Street) for free between 9 am and 3 pm.
The OAG Art Tent is a FREE mobile art studio that travels to festivals and community events during the warmer months. The Art Tent provides a fun, friendly and bilingual space for adults and kids of all ages to explore their creativity.
Drop by to draw a postcard inspired by the late artist Annie Pootoogook and send it to someone special! Children must be accompanied by an adult.
The entire day on September 25 is dedicated to family programming with (mostly) free admission! Like I mentioned, check out the full schedule, and locations for each event, to make your plans!
I wanted to add after chatting more with the NAC: on September 25 is the Tune into Nature Concert!
The NAC Orchestra, and special guests (choir, violinist, cellist and more!) are welcoming families and kids ages 5-12 to the ‘Tune into Nature’ interactive concert! Get your tickets on the website.
REMINDER: Some of the event offers free admission, while tickets or museum admission are required for other parts.
TIP: The Canadian Museum of Nature offers Free Admission on Thursday nights, so some Thursday night SPHERE events are FREE!
Will you be attending SPHERE?
