Bytown celebrations

The Bytown celebrations take place in downtown Ottawa and along the Rideau Canal, with activities scheduled from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Key activities include opening remarks, followed by a five-kilometre fun run and boat races beginning at 2 p.m. The event concludes with activities at Cartier Square Drill Hall between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. The Canadian Armed Forces will conduct ceremonial cannon fire as part of the event, with residents advised not to be alarmed by loud booms; no live ammunition will be used.

An increased military presence and vehicle traffic can be expected around specific locations such as Major’s Hill Park, the Rideau Canal, Confederation Park, Parliament Hill, and Cartier Square Drill Hall. Participating CAF members will not carry weapons, and the public must remain outside marked safety perimeters during cannon firing.

For visitors, public transit will be free citywide for the entire weekend. There is no event parking on-site, though paid underground parking may be available at Ottawa City Hall. Attendees are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution near military vehicles and event activities.