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 (19+). Buskers work for tips, so bring cash to reward the acts you love.
When and where is it?
Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 August 2027, on Sparks Street in downtown Ottawa.
- Thursday, August 5 — 11 am – 8 pm
- Friday, August 6 — 11 am – 10:30 pm
- Saturday, August 7 — 11 am – 10:30 pm
- Sunday, August 8 — 11 am – 6 pm
See Getting Here for transit and parking, or the schedule.
Where are the stages?
Four stages. Three run 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, at Queen and Albert at Metcalfe. 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.
What if the weather turns?
The programme is subject to change — check the schedule and our social feeds on the day.
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.