Bluesfest to host free daytime programming to celebrate Ottawa 200
Posted Mar 27, 2026 09:00:00 AM.
Last Updated Mar 26, 2026 12:54:39 PM.
To celebrate its 200th birthday, Ottawa is teaming up with the acclaimed Bluesfest to put on the show of a lifetime.
July 19, the 200th day of the year, is being used to mark the bicentennial. The city and Bluesfest will be putting on an event with fun for those of all ages.
“As we mark Ottawa’s 200th birthday, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a special day at Bluesfest,” Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe said in a press release. “I can’t wait to see everyone there, as we soak up the music and energy and celebrate our great city. Let’s make July 19 a day to remember!”
Celebrations will begin with an afternoon of free programming. From noon until 4 p.m., anyone can enjoy family fun activities including museum fun hosted by Ingenium, circus demonstrations and aerial performances by Cirquonscient, and activities and giveaways by Ottawa Fire Services.
The daytime lineup also includes musical performances from Natalie MacMaster & Family, Choir!Choir!Choir! and Les Petites Tounes.
Once you take the kids home for dinner, ticket holders can return for performances from Canada power houses like The Guess Who, Connor Price, The Sheepdogs, Elisapie, Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar, 4KORNERS, Banggz, LeFLOFRANCO, Mely Walide, Paolo Stante Band, Rebelle, Savannah Shea, and TYR ONE. The city will also be putting on a drone show to reign in the celebrations.
“The Ottawa Bluesfest team is looking forward to being a part of Ottawa 200,” Ottawa Bluesfest executive and artistic director Mark Monahan said in a press release. “This is a tremendous opportunity to add to the rich cultural history of our city through music, and we look forward to contributing even more by creating great memories this year and for many years to come.”
Tickets for the evening lineup are on sale for a discounted price of $40. This price will remain in place until June. The City of Ottawa is also distributing 2,000 free tickets through its Community Safety and Well-Being Office and community partners.
Ottawa Bluesfest runs July 9 to 19 at LeBreton Flats.
Headliners include The Lumineers, Lord Huron, Gwen Stefani and Conan Gray.
