OTTAWA WEEKEND | May 1–3, 2026 
May in Ottawa begins with a true sense of spring 
The city is filling with sunshine, flowers, and people — everything is coming alive again. Patios are opening, festivals are starting, and even simple walks feel special.
As a Realtor® here in Ottawa, I’m in a very active season right now — lots of movement, showings, conversations, and decisions being made 
The market feels alive again, and people are returning to their plans with confidence.
But weekends are about balance. About time for yourself, your family, and the simple joy of living.
Here’s what you can do this weekend 
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Weather
• Friday (May 1): +15 °C, partly cloudy 
• Saturday (May 2): +17 °C, sunny 
• Sunday (May 3): +16 °C, light breeze, perfect for a walk
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Where to go with family
Canadian Tulip Festival — Season Opening
May 1–3
Dow’s Lake / Commissioners Park
Flowers, walks, photos, and true spring energy
https://tulipfestival.ca
Canadian Museum of Nature
All weekend
240 McLeod St
Interactive experience for both children and adults
https://nature.ca
Canadian Museum of History (Gatineau)
All weekend
100 Laurier St
One of the best family-friendly museums in the region
https://www.historymuseum.ca
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Culture & ideas for couples
NAC — Concerts & Performances
May 1–3
National Arts Centre
Music, theatre, and a beautiful evening atmosphere
https://nac-cna.ca/en/calendar
ByTowne Cinema — Indie & Classic Films
All weekend
325 Rideau St
A cozy and intimate experience for two
https://www.bytowne.ca
Wine & Dining — Downtown Ottawa
Friday & Saturday
Downtown
A perfect setting for a date night
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Active weekend ideas
Gatineau Park — Spring Trails & Nature
All weekend
Gatineau Park
Fresh air and beautiful views
https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park
Walk around Parliament Hill & Sparks Street
All weekend
Downtown Ottawa
Spring light and a beautiful city atmosphere
ByWard Market — Brunch, Coffee & Walks
All weekend
ByWard Market
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3 ideas for a romantic date
A tulip walk + coffee at Dow’s Lake
A concert at NAC + dinner downtown
A relaxing spa day at Nordik Spa or Kōena Spa
Nordik Spa
https://chelsea.lenordik.com
Kōena Spa
https://koenaspa.com
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Events in Gatineau
Gatineau Park — Lookouts & Spring Views
All weekend
https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/gatineau-park
Canadian Museum of History — Exhibitions & Programs
May 1–3
https://www.historymuseum.ca/events-and-programming
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My COMMUNITY PROMOTION
A small note for our community:
If you are planning to sell your home, I currently offer a special community program — you pay only 3% total commission.
And if you’re looking to buy, I also have very attractive bonuses available for you.
Simply message me or call 613-796-1449 — I’d be happy to share the details.
Alvina Usher, Realtor®
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May is the energy of growth, movement, and new opportunities.
And perhaps this is exactly the moment to begin something new 
