Capital Pride Ottawa 2026: dates, events, parade

Dates and details about Capital Pride 2026 are still TBC.

Capital Pride brings the heart of Ottawa to life each summer with a city-wide celebration of queer joy, community, and resistance. The festival typically spans a full week, filling the capital with drag brunches, outdoor parties, panel discussions, youth programming, and standout performances across multiple venues. While dates and other information about the 2026 edition are still under wraps, we’ve outlined what you can expect based on past Capital Pride celebrations.

The Pride Parade remains one of the festival’s defining moments, traditionally winding through Centretown, Ottawa’s unofficial gay village. Expect streets lined with rainbow flags, live music, dancers, local community groups, and plenty of glitter as the city comes together in a loud, proud show of visibility and solidarity.

Don’t Miss:

Pride Pageant – Drag royalty competes for the crown

Queer Art Showcase – Featuring local LGBTQ+ artists and creators

Family Pride – Inclusive fun for little ones and chosen families

Pride Weekend Street Festival – Food, vendors, DJs, and community vibes along Bank Street

Sunset Party at Lansdowne Park – An outdoor blowout with live music and dancing

Where to Go:

Ottawa’s queer scene may be small, but it shines bright during Pride. Head to Bank Street in Centretown, where you'll find the city’s best LGBTQ+ bars, patios, and shops. Be sure to check out long-running local favourites like Swizzles and The Lookout Bar — both throw packed events during Pride week.

Where to Stay:

Stay close to the action with LGBTQ+ friendly hotels like the Fairmont Château Laurier, or the sleek and centrally located Westin Ottawa. You’ll be walking distance from most events and the city’s gay village.