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Articles Tagged ‘festivals’

The Weekender: A soulful singer and a couple funky craft sales, plus four other awesome outings

Singer-songwriter Royal Wood plays at the NAC on Nov. 20. Photo credit: Ivan Otis.

ROYAL WOOD
You might have heard singer-songwriter Royal Wood when he opened for national tours with Serena Ryder, Sarah Slean, and David Gray. If you’re a fan of Grey’s Anatomy, you’ve encountered his mellow, velvet-smooth voice on the soundtrack. Here’s your chance to hear him on his own well-deserved tour to promote his latest album The Waiting. Those in the know have even gone so far as to put his talents in the same league as Sexsmith and Wainwright. Saturday, Nov. 2o, 8 p.m. $25. National Arts Centre, Studio, 53 Elgin St., 613-755-1111. www.nac-cna.ca

THE ONE & ONLY CRAFT SALE (FREE!)
For those keeners (you know who your are!) who like to start their Christmas shopping in November, the One & Only Arts and Craft Fair is the place to be this Sunday. For one day only, the Sandy Hill Community Centre plays host to an eclectic group of vendors displaying funky jewellery, stuffed toys, purses, artwork, and knitted items. But what really sets this craft show apart is the free buffet of comfort foods and sweets. Sunday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sandy Hill Community Centre, 250 Somerset St. E. www.sandyhillsoneandonly.blogspot.com

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Misa Kobayashi  |  November 17, 2010 at 11:59 am

The Weekender: Freaky animation, a folk duo, and five other fun activities

Artophile will be at the Ottawa Antique Show (Oct. 22 to 24) with rare Hollywood art by Silvano "Nano" Campeggi.

OTTAWA ANTIQUE SHOW
Spend a weekend trolling for treasure at this sale that runs the gamut from the traditional (furniture, fine china) to the extraordinary (“wearable art” designed for Karl Lagerfeld, retro handbags). There are 70 boutique vendors to choose from, but our vote for coolest wares goes to Artophile, which sells rare original Hollywood art by Silvano “Nano” Campeggi. Take home an illustration of leading lady Marilyn Monroe or film posters from classics like Casablanca. $10, under 18 free. Oct. 22 to 24. Carleton University Field House, 613-521-1970. www.asinter.com

OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL WRITERS FESTIVAL
This jam-packed festival brings the best writers from around the world to various Ottawa venues for author talks, readings, performances, and other fun events — like brunch! This is your chance to ask that favourite writer about that weird plot twist, tell the famous poet how much you love their work, and meet other local bookworms. A few event suggestions: Capital Xtra’s Transgress always makes for a great, R-rated time (Fri., Oct. 22); Tarek Fatah’s conversation with Lucy van Oldenbarneveld is bound to raise some controversial issues; and a trio of authors, including Giller Prize winner David Bergen, will explore family relationships as they play out in fiction (Sun., Oct. 24). See website for full schedule. $15, students and seniors $10, free for Carleton University students. Oct. 20 to 26. Various venues. 613-562-1243. www.writersfestival.org

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Ottawa Magazine Staff  |  October 20, 2010 at 12:28 pm

The Weekender: Butterflies, birds, ballots, and four other things to do this weekend

BUTTERFLY SHOW (FREE!)
Hey, if it’s still raining (and there seems to be a never-ending supply of the wet stuff on weekends) this is a great option for frazzled parents. Carleton University’s two display greenhouses are filled with exotic tropical butterflies during its annual butterfly show. Great way to combine fun and education! Get there early — it gets very busy. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Sat., Oct. 2 to Oct. 11. Nesbitt Biology Building, corner of University Drive and Raven Road, 613-520-3513. http://tinyurl.com/27jypud

Autumn Montage by Robert Moeller

ARTISTS IN THEIR ENVIRONMENT (FREE!)
Spread over two weekends, this studio tour lets you interact with artists and craftspeople in their creative environments. More than 22 artists display paintings, pottery, sculptures, jewellery, photography, furniture, and more. Check out Louis Rompré’s vibrant hand-dipped candle demonstrations, John Barkley’s stunning abstract oil paintings, and Robert Moeller’s nature-inspired creations (left). Oct. 2 and 3 and 9 to 11. A printable version of the route map is available on the website and copies of the brochures are available en route. Chelsea and Wakefield, 819-459-3233. www.tourcw.com

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Dayanti Karunaratne  |  September 29, 2010 at 11:35 am

The Weekender: A ’50s dance party, two terrific art events, plus three more intriguing ideas

Louis Helbig's exhibit "Beautiful Destruction" is on view at City Hall Art Gallery until Sept. 26. Photo courtesy of Louis Helbig.

FESTIVAL X (FREE!)
There are way too many awesome exhibitions (35 at last count) to list them all, so check out the website and plan to spend lots of time being inspired and intrigued over the next few days and weeks. Some of our must-see picks for the weekend: Justin Wonnacott’s freaky fish at Carleton University Art Gallery (Saturday and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.), Louis Helbig’s Beautiful Destruction shots of the oil sands at City Hall Art Gallery (from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., ending Sept. 26), and Karsh Award winner Tony Fouhse’s portraits at Karsh-Masson Gallery (Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). www.festivalx.ca

LA VENDEMMIA
Little Italy’s tasting, feasting, and stomping festival hits its peak this weekend. Our weekend picks? On Sept. 24, dozens of restaurants showcase feature lunch and dinner menus in honour of the event. On Sept. 25, head to Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana at 9 a.m. to meet up for a walking tour of Little Italy, then to Preston Hardware at 11 a.m. for a free wine-making seminar. For a full list of events visit www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia

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Misa Kobayashi  |  September 22, 2010 at 11:05 am

The Weekender: Grown-up cartoons, hot air balloons, and four more long weekend events

"Twilight" is just one of the paintings by Michel Luc Bellemare that will be on view at Orange Gallery.

PIXIE DUST (FREE!)
An exhibit by artist Michel Luc Bellemare opens this Thursday as part of the 1st Thursdays Wellington West Art Walk. Bellemare, a young aboriginal artist working in Ottawa, offers a visually striking collection of large abstract paintings in the style of colour-realism. Vibrant and radiant, meditative and pleasing to the eye, Bellemare’s work actually stops you in your tracks — no mean feat if you’re doing the six-gallery crawl. Vernissage Sept. 2. 5-9 p.m. Show runs to Sept. 23. Orange Gallery, 233 Armstrong St. www.orangeartgallery.ca

GATINEAU HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL
Look up — way up — for this aeronautical adventure that draws participants from around the world to show off the best in balloon designs. If you’re more of a feet-on-the-ground type of person, catch extreme sports demos, buskers, fireworks, a midway, and concert performances by Our Lady Peace and Hedley. Sept. 3 to 6. One day wristband: Sept. 3 $24, Sept. 4-6 $18. See website for full ticket info. La Baie Park, Gatineau, 819 243-2331. www.montgolfieresgatineau.com

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Misa Kobayashi  |  September 1, 2010 at 11:57 am

The Weekender: Dancing, drive-ins, and three other inspired weekend ideas

Catch the Sound of Light grand finale on Aug. 21.

CASINO DU LAC-LEAMY SOUND OF LIGHT
This annual fireworks fest draws to a close on Saturday night with the aptly titled grand finale. The best pyrotechnics from four different countries duke it out to see who puts on the best show set to music — and earns bragging rights and the coveted Zeus trophy. Head out to see if Portugal, the defending champs, can hold on to their crown. Aug. 21 (9:30 p.m). General admission $10, free for children 11 and under, reserved seating $23. Lac-Leamy, 1 boul. du Casino, Gatineau, 819-771-FEUX (3389). www.feux.qc.ca

BELL BIV DEVO
Parliament Ultra Club hosts its biggest Rewind Party ever, courtesy of Bell Biv Devoe. Guaranteed to perform their smash hits “Poison,” “Do Me,” “I Thought It Was Me,” “When Will I See You Smile,” “She’s Dope” etc. Dress code: chic + summer. Vibe: dance till you can dance no more. Aug. 21 (9 p.m.). $35-$45. Tickets at Norml Clothing, The Pita Pit, Fades, and Mama Cee’s, as well as online. Parliament Ultra Club, 151 George St. www.capitaltickets.ca

PORT ELMSLEY DRIVE-IN
Relive your youth — visit the drive-in and make out under the stars. If you’re under 40 and have never experienced the drive-in, grab some friends and head to Port Elmsley to enjoy the groovy-ironic retro-cool vibe. First up, it’s The Switch with Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman. After that, some hardcore action with The Expendables. Movies begin at dusk. $10, children, $2. Snack bar available. Cash only. 333 Port Elmsley Rd. (just outside Smith’s Falls), 613-267-7772. www.portelmsleydrivein.com

IBL ALL-STAR CLASSIC
The boys of summer keep that sweet season feeling alive, serving up the Intercounty Baseball League All-Star Classic at sunny Ottawa Stadium (Lynx Stadium to baseball old-timers). The two-match series sees two Ottawa Fat Cats All-Star players (Cody Mombourquette and Danny Desclouds) suiting up for the IBL. On the other side, the cream of La Ligue de Baseball Senior Elite du Quebec (LBSEQ). Aug.21 (7 p.m.) and Aug. 22 (2 p.m.). Adult $10.62, child $5.31, seniors and students $7.08. 300 Coventry Rd., 613-749-2020. www.ottawafatcats.com

JUSTIN BIEBER
Ok, so this concert takes place after the weekend, but how could we not mention the Stratford, Ontario-native? Since becoming a YouTube sensation, this kid has attracted more than four million followers on Twitter, performed on Saturday Night Live alongside Tina Fey, and set the online world abuzz about his dreamy hair. Plus, he can sing! Songs like “Baby” and “One Less Lonely Girl” have no doubt made their way into your head and camped out for days. See what “Bieber Fever” is all about when he comes to Ottawa on Aug. 24. $32.50-$52.50. Scotiabank Place, 1000 Palladium Dr., 613-599-3267; 877-788-3267. www.scotiabankplace.com

Misa Kobayashi  |  August 19, 2010 at 10:17 am

The Weekender: World Press, Getting OFF, and three other hot happenings

HINTONBURG ARTS FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Hintonburg is the place to be this weekend. The Third Annual Hintonburg Arts Festival gets going Saturday at noon, when over 50 tents set up on Hinchey Avenue. Artists and vendors, belly-dancers and other street performers will be there to celebrate all things artistic. In the evening, head over to the community centre to catch a free movie — The Spy Next Door at 6:30 p.m. followed by It’s Complicated at 8:30 p.m. (Weather permitting, the later movie will be screened outdoors.) Still not tired? Then head over to Patrick John Mills Gallery for a raucous backyard bash featuring live music from The Hammerheads and Dr. Lee Percussion, film screenings, dance performances, and much more ($20 open bar). August 14, noon to midnight, August 15, noon to 5 p.m. Hinchey Avenue, www.hintonburg.com.

Horse Feathers take the stage on Saturday at the Ottawa Folk Festival.

OTTAWA FOLK FESTIVAL
You’ve got to love an event for which the advertisements around town read, “I get OFF.” Not just for the Birkenstocks-wearing crowd anymore, this summer staple brings together more than 40 local, national, and international acts for a weekend of jamming. Expect to see greats like Craig Cardiff, Horse Feathers, and The Weakerthans, as well as Tanya Tagaq, an Inuit throat singer, roots-music icon Jim Cuddy, and alternative hip hop collective Arrested Development. Aug. 13 to 15. Weekend pass $99, youth/senior $59, day pass $25-$39. Britannia Park, 1-866-9-GET-TIX. www.ottawafolk.org.

WORLD PRESS PHOTO EXHIBITION (FREE!)
Disturbing, poignant, eye opening. For the third year in a row, the Canadian War Museum hosts award-winning photographs from the prestigious World Press Photo contest. From war to natural disaster to celebration, this annual series of incredible photographs by photographers and photo-journalists provides an eyewitness record of the major world events from the past year. Decompress afterwards with a walk along the Ottawa River Parkway. Until August 29. Canadian War Museum, 1 Vimy Place, 819-776-7000, www.warmuseum.ca.

CARP GARLIC FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Who would have thought there could be an entire festival dedicated to this delicious member of the onion family? Often getting a bad rap for its potent smell, this yearly event gives reason to celebrate with more than 100 vendors on site and demonstrations that include growing, cooking, and tasting. Aug. 14 (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and 15 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Carp Fairgrounds, 3790 Carp Rd., 613-786-1010. www.carpfarmersmarket.com.

NAVAN FAIR
It’s fair season again! Time to pull on your cut-offs and head to the country for a few days of good old-fashioned fun. Catch classic rock concerts from the likes of Trooper and Prairie Oyster, go for a ride on the midway, and watch the tough guys tear it up in the demolition derby. Plus, for the first time this year, Jed the Mechanical Bull will be hanging around, ready to take on the most ambitious of cowgirls and cowboys. If you would rather keep two feet on the ground, visit the Baby Show on Sunday at 11 a.m. Aug. 12-15 (hours vary; see website for schedule). $10, children four to 12 $3, children three and under free (midway extra). Navan Fairgrounds, 1279 Colonial Rd., 613-835-2766, www.navanfair.com.

Dayanti Karunaratne  |  August 11, 2010 at 1:45 pm

The Weekender: Insects, ice cream, and four more summertime staples

TEDD ROBINSON
Are you a country mouse or a city mouse? This weekend, you don’t have to choose between a country excursion and an exciting cultural experience. Pack a lunch and head to the Pontiac barn-turned-studio of choreographer Tedd Robinson, who presents “Dichterliebe — a poet’s love.” The new work is performed by five contemporary dancers, and is accompanied by live music. The setting is surreal, the moves impassioned, and you won’t be met by the club crowd after exiting the theatre. Aug. 6, 7 p.m., 7-8, 4 p.m. $15. La BARN, 69 chem. du Lac Leslie,  www.tengatesdancing.ca

Dwight Yoakum is a star attraction at Capital Hoedown

CAPITAL HOEDOWN
Dig the cowboy boots out of the back of the cupboard and get down and dirty with the likes of Dwight Yoakam and Alan Jackson. Check out Vince Gill, a 19-time Grammy Award-winner, and get down with Australian country music sensation Jetty Road. Twelve performers descend on the city for this hootenanny — which is shaping up to be another big hit on the local festival scene. Aug. 5 to 7, 6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. $65-$225. Rideau Carleton Entertainment Centre, 4837 Albion Rd., www.capitalhoedown.com

PUPPETS UP!
International puppet troupes descend on Almonte for this festival that offers 54 different shows. Catch free entertainment on Mill Street with clowns, musicians, face painters, and entertainers, and each day at 1:45 p.m. everyone gathers for a parade. When the lights go down on Saturday night, leave the kids at home and head out to the adults-only cabaret performance called “Puppets… Unstrung!” Remember, what happens at the puppet show, stays at the puppet show… Aug. 7 and 8, from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Day Pass: $15, children (three to 12) $10, children under three free. Weekend pass: $25, children (three to 12) $15. Various venues in Almonte, 613-256-3881. www.puppetsup.ca

BUG HUNT!
Hey, they’re everywhere right now so why not celebrate them? At the Billings Estate, the theme is butterflies and moths. Sure, there will be crafts and games, but the big draw for kids will undoubtedly be big bug hunt. Preregistration required. Aug. 8, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. $6 per child, ages 6+. 2100 Cabot St., 613-247-4830, www.friendsofbillingsestatemuseum.org

ICE CREAM FESTIVAL
It doesn’t get any better than this on a hot day. Take the kids out to the Canada Agriculture Museum for a celebration of summer’s best dessert. Learn about the journey ice cream takes from cow to cone and, while you’re chowing down on your frozen treat, watch The Cowguys perform a zany mix of circus, western, and magic tricks. Aug. 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $7, children (three to 14) $4, students and seniors $6, families $16. Canada Agriculture Museum, Prince of Wales Dr., 613-991-3044. www.agriculture.technomuses.ca

THE KARATE KID
Why, you ask? Three reasons. First, it’s a great remake. Second, it’s something both parents and kids can enjoy. Third, Hollywood insiders say tween actor Jaden Smith has that illusive thing they call “true star quality.” A decade from now, you can say you knew he was going places from the moment you saw his performance in, yes, The Karate Kid. Aug.7 (6:45 p.m.) and Aug. 8 (6:30 p.m.). $5 (kids), $7 (seniors), $10 (adults). 1074 Bank St., 613-730-3403. mayfairtheatre.ca

Sarah Brown  |  August 4, 2010 at 11:39 am

The Weekender: Sword swallowers, speed demons, and five more intriguing weekend possibilities

MORRISBURG TUBIE FESTIVAL (FREE!)
In need of a good laugh? Get a bunch of friends together and build a raft, then head out to Morrisburg for the annual Tubie Festival. It’s a weekend of fun, but the real excitement starts at noon on Sunday, when participants meet at the Morrisburg Dock for a 1.5 mile sprint to the beach. Depending on the number of participants, there will be up to three heats; see the schedule at the Beer Garden. Yes, there’s a Beer Garden, which means if you get lazy or pop your raft en route to the event, you can always sit back and enjoy the spectacle from dry land, with beer in hand. July 31 and August 1, Morrisburg, www.morrisburglionsclub.ca

Photograph of Hélène Lefebvre performing "Mère Courage" in Gatineau, QC, by Jackson Couse, 2009.

BODIES IN TROUBLE (FREE!)
Photography that will make you pause. Big-time local and international photographers explore “the human flight to survive and the fight for freedom.” From photojournalism to performance art stills, the exhibit features work by Jana Sterbak, Yves Klein, and Ottawa’s own Jackson Couse. Poetic and subversive, many of these photos are showing in Canada for the first time. Best not to say too much more; go see for yourself the gut-wrenching, and at times hopeful effect of this collection. Runs to October 3. Pay what you can. SAW Gallery, 67 Nicholas St., www.galeriesawgallery.com

BLACKSMITH WORKSHOP
Ever wish you were born in another era? Love watching reruns Little House on the Prairie? Well, if you’re ready to get your hands dirty and sweat a bit over hot coal, then head to the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum for a hands on workshop in the art of blacksmithing. Stoke a fire, use traditional tools, and learn how they made horseshoes in the good old days. At the end of the day you’ll have your own ironwork creation. Ages 14 and up. July 31, 1 – 3 p.m. $5 (registration required). Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Rd., Cumberland. 613-833-3059, www.ottawa.ca/museums

HOT WHEELS
Love the sound of gunning engines, the adrenalin of a tight race, and the crispy taste of concession stand fries? Then the Luskville Dragway is the place for you. Pretty impressive prize money — attracts dragsters and street racers from as far away as New Jersey. They come to test their wheels, they come to check out the competition, and they come to party. For the best bash this side of Charlotte, North Carolina, bring your tent or camper to the strip this long weekend for Bracket Bonanza, a weekend of races and revelry that sees $10,000 awarded each day. July 30 to August 1. $50 (includes camping and admission) or $15 (Friday), $30 (Saturday), $25 (Sunday) for the day. 819-455-9614. www.luskvilledragway.com

INTERNATIONAL BUSKERS FESTIVAL
Watch a sword-swallower in action without heading to Vegas as top performers descend on Sparks Street for this annual celebration of the wild and weird. Other acts on the bill include the 2008 World Yo-Yo Champion and a cabaret duo performing a blend of circus stunts, violin, and fire. Don’t try this at home kids. July 29 to Aug. 2. Pass-the-hat. Sparks Street, 613-230-0984. www.sparksstreetmall.com

THEY ALL DO IT
Odyssey Theatre returns for its 24th season of Theatre Under the Stars with a contemporary comedy inspired by a Mozart opera — a tale of young love made even more dramatic by the company’s signature masks, costumes, and extravagant set design. Just don’t forget the bug spray! July 29 to Aug. 29. Tuesday to Sunday evening $19-$24, Wednesday youth matinee $5, Sunday matinee pay-what-you-can. Strathcona Park, 613-232-8407. www.odysseytheatre.ca

RIDEAU CANAL FESTIVAL
You’ve run along it, skated on it, and canoed in it, so now it’s time to throw this manmade waterway a party. Grab the kids and head down to Dows Lake, Confederation Park, the Ottawa locks, or the canal to join in the festivities. The weekend is jam-packed with activities at each location, including a boat floatilla, a musical bike parade, and heritage tours, plus plenty of live entertainment. July 30 to Aug. 2. 613-288-0970. www.rideaucanalfestival.ca

Sarah Brown  |  July 28, 2010 at 11:46 am

An adventure in urban art, a picnic with Nikki, and three other wicked weekend events

URBAN ART @ MINTO PARK (FREE!)
Check out the local art scene while basking in the sun. This fresh air market brings 50 artists and artisans together to sell their wares, which include paintings, jewellery, puppets, glassware, and more. Some of the participants are veterans, while others are looking to make a name for themselves. July 24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Minto Park (Elgin Street at Gilmour Street). www.urbanartinmintopark.blogspot.com

Nikki Yanofsky joins the NAC Orchestra for Orchestras in the Park.

ORCHESTRAS IN THE PARK (FREE!)
Even if you cringed every time “I Believe” played against a video montage of Olympic moments last winter, you gotta give Nikki Yanofsky credit. The Montreal signer has wowed audiences with her vocal range — and managed to stay in the limelight sans tantrums or other immature behaviour that we’ve come to expect from starlets. And the outfits! (Please, o please, rock some Converse high-tops and/or sequined soccer shorts this weekend!) Nikki will be accompanied by the NAC Orchestra (Edwin Outwater, conductor). So pack a picnic and help bring a Hollywood Bowl vibe to LeBreton Flats. July 24 at 7:30 p.m. LeBreton Flats Park. www.nac-cna.ca

HERBFEST
Did you know the Herb of the Year is dill? Ever since 1995 the International Herb Association has chosen a herb to highlight, and this year dill gets to shine. Learn this and a whole lot more at the 15th annual Herbfest: A Celebration of Healthy Living. This year’s festivities start with a presentation by the much-loved Gay Cook, a chef cook-off, and a discussion with Diana Beresford-Kroeger — a botanist and self-defined “renegade scientist.” In the afternoon, sample local cheeses with a cheese sommelier, and learn about how to aid digestion with the help of herbs. Between events, listen to live music and enjoy garden tours. July 25, 9 p.m. to 5 p.m. $5, family pass $15. The Herb Garden, 3840 Old Almonte Rd., Almonte. www.herbfest.info

STING
The former Police frontman takes the stage for a stunning show that pairs this long-time talent with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. Try not to swoon as Maestro Steven Mercurio conducts the musicians through classics like “Every Little Things She Does is Magic” and “Fields of Gold.” July 25 at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.). $58.30-$153.30. Scotiabank Place, 1000 Palladium Dr., 613-599-3267. www.scotiabankplace.com

THE ANDREWS BROTHERS
Who doesn’t enjoy a good comedy about men in drag? Max, Lawrence, and Patrick Andrews are rehearsing for a USO show in the South Pacific with pin-up girl Peggy Jones. The boys are just temporary stand-ins, until they learn the show’s real headliners, The Andrews Sisters, won’t be able to make it out. The show can’t go on, unless there’s some way for the stars to be replaced… July 22 to Aug. 14. $38, seniors $33, and students $23. The Gladstone, 910 Gladstone Ave., 613-233-4523. www.thegladstone.ca

Dayanti Karunaratne  |  July 21, 2010 at 11:59 am

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