Frequently Asked Questions

Is it free?

Yes — the daytime festival on Sparks Street is free to attend. A couple of evening events are ticketed, including Buskers & Burlesque (Friday, 19+); tickets are sold off-site and linked from the schedule. Buskers work for tips, so bring cash to reward the acts you love.

When and where is it?

Friday 7 – Sunday 9 August 2026, on Sparks Street in downtown Ottawa.

  • Friday — first show 11 am, last show starts 9:30 pm
  • Saturday — first show 10:30 am, closing with the Group Fire Show at 10 pm
  • Sunday — first show 10:30 am, closing with the Grand Finale at 5 pm

See Getting Here for transit and parking, or the schedule for every set on every stage.

Where are the stages?

Four stages along the mall — Canada (between Kent and Bank), hello Downtown (Bank to O’Connor) and Hot 89.9 (O’Connor to Metcalfe) — plus the new World Exchange Plaza stage just south of the mall, off Queen. Circus Factory runs drop-in circus workshops at the Elgin end, noon to 4 pm daily. There’s a site map on the schedule page.

Can I take the schedule with me?

Yes — there’s a printable day sheet for each day on the schedule page. On festival days the site also shows you what’s on right now, stage by stage.

What if the weather turns?

The programme is subject to change — check the schedule and our social feeds on the day. On festival days this site shows the current downtown forecast and what to bring.

Should I tip the performers?

Absolutely. Busking runs on the hat — if an act made you smile, drop something in.

Are pets allowed?

Yes, pets are welcome — please clean up after your pet. Service animals are welcome everywhere.

Is it accessible?

Sparks Street is a flat, car-free pedestrian mall and every show is at street level. There are accessible washrooms on site, and the mall is a short, level walk from transit. See our Accessibility page for more.

Is there food?

Yes — restaurants and patios are open all along Sparks Street through the festival.

Is there first aid?

Yes — there’s a first aid tent on site, with first aid responders available during festival hours.

How do I perform, sponsor, or volunteer?

See Get Involved for performer, vendor and volunteer info, and Sponsors to become a partner.