FREE & FUN: Family-Friendly Events in Ottawa for March Break
Looking for free and engaging activities to keep your kids entertained during March Break? Whether your family loves music, crafts, outdoor adventures, or storytime, there’s something for everyone in Ottawa. Check out these FREE events happening throughout the city from March 8 to 15!
Ottawa Public Library's "Mission: March Break 2025" – (March 10–15)
The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is transforming into a world of spies and detectives this March Break! Kids aged 5 to 12 can join "Mission: March Break 2025", an action-packed week filled with interactive programs at over 30 library branches.
📖 Activities include:
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) workshops
Magic shows & storytime
Hands-on crafts & writing workshops
Music, dance, and interactive games
Programs are available in both English and French, with some requiring pre-registration.
📍 Where: Various Ottawa Public Library branches
🎟 Cost: Free!
🔗 Details & registration: biblioottawalibrary.ca
2. Oh Canada Eh!? March Break Jam Session – March 11 at 10 AM
I am so excited to be attending this event, and I’d love to see you there!
On Tuesday, March 11th at 10:00 AM, Oh Canada Eh!? is hosting a FREE Canadian Concert for Kids featuring local musician Eric Luca. This high-energy, interactive show will have kids clapping, singing, and dancing to classic Canadian tunes—perfect for little music lovers!
🎶 What to expect:
Live music from Eric Luca
Sing-along sessions featuring Canadian classics
Fun movement activities to get kids engaged
📍 Where: Oh Canada Eh!? Dinner Theatre – 330 Kent Street, Ottawa
🎟 Cost: Free! (Previously $5, now completely free!)
Arrive early to grab a good seat—spots are limited! To get your tickets or learn more CLICK HERE.
I can't wait to hang out with you and your little ones at this fun-filled event!
3. Indigo’s Free March Break Events (March 8–15)
Indigo is hosting FREE themed activities all week long at select Ottawa locations, featuring crafts, building challenges, and storytime sessions.
🗓 Daily Themes:
Monday: LEGO Mashup Mission (build your own creation!)
Tuesday: Tonies Superstar Party & Hungry Caterpillar Crafts
Wednesday: MAGNA-TILES Fun
Thursday: Bluey Arts & Crafts + DIY Play-Doh
Friday: Hot Wheels Motor Maker Kitz
These events typically start at 1 PM, and supplies are first-come, first-served—so arrive early!
📍 Where: Participating Indigo stores in Ottawa
🎟 Cost: Free!
🔗 Details: indigo.ca
4. Explore Ottawa’s Scenic Trails
March is the perfect time to get outside and watch the first signs of spring emerge! Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an adventurous hike, these trails are great for families:
🌿 Top picks:
Gatineau Park Trails – Great for wildlife spotting and scenic views
Rideau Canal Pathways – Enjoy the historic waterway as winter transitions to spring
Mer Bleue Bog Trail – A unique boardwalk experience in a beautiful conservation area
Pack some snacks, dress for the weather, and enjoy the fresh air!
📍 Where: Various locations across Ottawa & Gatineau
🎟 Cost: Free!
5. More Free Events in Ottawa
Still looking for more fun? Check out these additional free family-friendly activities happening across the city:
📚 Bank of Canada Museum (March 3–14): Interactive exhibits on money, counterfeiting, and financial literacy.
🔗 More info🎭 National Gallery of Canada (March 8–15): Free art workshops, storytelling, and drop-in sketching sessions for kids.
🔗 More info🎈 Carlingwood Shopping Centre (March 8–15): Free daily entertainment like magicians, circus workshops, and character meet-and-greets.
🔗 More info
BONUS: Keep the Fun Going at Home with Roll to 100! 🎲
Looking for a simple and fun way to keep the kids entertained at home? Try Roll to 100—a great way to build math skills while having a blast!
✨ How to Play:
All you need is a die and a piece of paper.
Each player rolls the die and adds their roll to their running total.
First to reach 100 wins!
For younger kids, play to 50 or use two dice to practice addition.
This easy-to-learn game is screen-free, travel-friendly, and a perfect way to sneak in some learning during March Break downtime!
📥 Click here to get your free Roll to 100 game sheet and get rolling!
Plan a Fun & Affordable March Break in Ottawa!
With so many free activities happening across the city, March Break in Ottawa is sure to be filled with music, crafts, storytelling, and outdoor adventures—all without breaking the bank!
📌 Friendly Reminder: Event times, locations, and availability may change, so be sure to double-check details and register in advance where required to avoid disappointment.
