The snow has finally gone and it’s time to welcome Spring with open arms for family fun in Ottawa in May. Whether you are looking to enjoy a sports game, go on an adventure, eat some great food, or dive into the world of theatre, there is something for all families. Welcome in the season of festivals, outdoor eats, sports, and warmth. There is no shortage of family events throughout the month of May.
Family Friendly Activities & Events in Ottawa in May
Canadian War Museum, 294 Albert Street
Thursday May 11 – Sunday May 14
The Ottawa Children’s Festival is back and this 5-day event is full of life, excitement, and magical adventures! Enjoy theatre, dance, and music geared towards preschoolers and school-aged children with enriching performances and engaging acts. Held yearly at the Canadian War Museum at Lebreton Flats you will find activities both indoors and outdoors to explore and experience.
Ottawa Titan’s Baseball
Catch the opening game on Tuesday May 9th at the Ottawa stadium as your home team plays the Trois Rivieres Aigles.
Tickets start at only $11 which makes this sporting event a reasonably priced experience. Don’t forget the ball park hot dogs and if you choose seats close to the home team dugout your little baseball player may even go home with a ball of his own. Watch some great baseball right here in Ottawa for some family fun.
Canadian Tulip Festival
You know Spring has officially arrived in the Nation’s Capital when the
Canadian Tulip Festival is in full swing. Did you know that this is the worlds largest tulip festival?! Spanning over 11 days from May 12-22nd enjoy the walk along Dows Lake all the way through to the downtown core along the Rideau Canal. This event also hosts arts and crafts, local artists, workshops for kids, and special guided tours.
Camp Fortune
Check out the brand new
“Peak to Peak” zipline that opens May long weekend at Camp Fortune! Zipline over Camp Fortune and the Gatineau Park with 3 ziplines that span over 4500 square feet with absolutely amazing views. Looking for an extra thrill? End your 1.5 hour adventure with a 50 foot free fall jump (or take the stairs). While the ziplines will be attractive to your teenagers you will want to also check out the
mountain coaster which takes you along a 1km monorail track with speeds up to 40km/hr (you can control the speed) and is fun for the whole family (young and old!).
Ottawa Black Jacks
Did you know that Ottawa has their very own Canadian basketball team?! The Ottawa Black Jacks are back and ready to hit the court on Wednesday May 24th at TD Place against the Brampton Badgers. This is great quality ball that will WOW your kids without the NBA price tag. Why not make a day of it and enjoy all that Lansdowne has to offer? Head to the park for a play, enjoy a meal out at one of the many local restaurants, and then head to the game.
Ottawa Ribfest on Sparks Street
Mmmmmmm, if your family is up for some delicious eats then
Ribfest is an event you won’t want to miss out on with some of the best BBQ chicken and ribs! This event runs from May 31st through to June 4th (we won’t tell if you go back twice!) and will not only leave you full but happy after family fun in the downtown core. Couple it with a visit to one of the
local museums and you can check off two Ottawa bucket list items in one day.
