March Events in Ottawa
St. Patrick’s Day Parade: March 7, 2026
Celebrate Irish pride in Ottawa at the Ottawa St. Patrick's Day Parade as downtown transforms into a vibrant sea of shamrocks, music, and community spirit. Enjoy colourful floats, marching bands, dancers, and festive energy along the parade route — a fun and lively way to welcome spring in the capital.
Maple Season at Fulton’s: All Month
March is maple syrup season in Eastern Ontario, and there’s no sweeter way to celebrate than a visit to Fulton's Sugar Bush & Maple Shop. Just outside Ottawa, this family-run sugar bush offers horse-drawn sleigh rides (weather permitting), maple taffy on snow, pancake breakfasts, and guided tours explaining the syrup-making process. It’s a classic Canadian spring tradition.
Ottawa Home & Garden Show: March 19–22, 2026
Get inspired for spring projects at the Ottawa Home & Garden Show, typically hosted at the EY Centre. From landscaping ideas and renovation tips to home décor trends and expert talks, this event is perfect for homeowners looking to refresh their space before the warmer weather arrives.
Le Petit Chef, Mar 4 – 8, 2026
Le Petit Chef brings its imaginative dining experience to Ottawa, blending 3D projection with creative cuisine. Guests enjoy a playful animated chef who appears on their plates between courses, while the culinary team at the Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites Ottawa Downtown delivers dishes that delight both the eyes and the palate.
International Film Festival of Ottawa, March 11-22, 2026
This annual festival celebrates the very best in contemporary Canadian and international cinema, bringing standout films from the world’s most prestigious festivals to local audiences. Founded by the Canadian Film Institute, the event was created in response to Ottawa’s rapidly growing film production industry, providing a vibrant platform for bold storytelling and global cinematic voices.
