What's on in the Outaouais in April

In April, we welcome the good weather with open arms. The snow gradually gives way to grass, and the brighter sun and longer days energize us. There are more opportunities to get out of the house, and we stay up later. It’s official: spring has arrived and summer will soon be here! 

On a nice sunny day

The melting of the snow brings the start of hiking season. Hikers will be happy to dig their favourite pair of boots out of the closet and set out to conquer new trails. Experience the beauty of the Outaouais’ many waterfalls in spring, when the water flow is at its peak.  

Hiking can also mean a camping weekend! Read up on the region’s campgrounds and reserve your site now. Book early—some campgrounds are very popular in summer. 

Sunny days can give you a thirst for a good beer! Head to one of our microbreweries to relax and socialize over a cold one, or stock up on local brews to enjoy later in the comfort of your own home. Are you more of a cocktail person? No problem! Visit establishments that specialize in concocting unique and sublime beverages. Non-alcoholic options are also available to quench your thirst. 

Spring is the perfect time to visit an Outaouais spa. Pamper yourself with a body treatment, a relaxing massage or a spa experience like no other, and let the calm of the Outaouais soothe you. In North America’s largest spa or on a city rooftop, enjoy the good life and find peace of mind!

FOR A DREARY DAY

Spring is the season of rebirth and renewal! Discover the world of Cascara Café & Bistro, an avant-garde café concept that goes beyond the simple enjoyment of exquisite coffee. You’ll find plenty to tempt your appetite, including delicious sandwiches, pastries, iced frappés and sophisticated smoothies.

Push your limits and go on a thrilling quest to solve the hidden mysteries at Maître du jeu–Escape Games, where interactive puzzles and complex escapes await you. Recapture your childhood at Le Rond-point milieu de jeux, an indoor playground where children can make memories that will last a lifetime. Pärlé – Bistro ludique organizes regular quiz nights and the occasional theme night! Test your general knowledge with friends or as a couple. Arrive early and sample the colourful dishes on the menu. Discover new board games while sipping a refreshing drink. 

In the Outaouais, it’s great to share a laugh, dance to live music, and watch thought-provoking plays. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, music or theatre, the Outaouais’ performance venues—with their exceptional acoustics, comfortable seats and distinctive stages—invite you to enjoy a memorable experience. And thanks to their diverse programming, all you have to do is buy your tickets to see your favourite artists. 

This April, focus on the visual arts! Tout Culture is presenting several exhibitions that are sure to have wide appeal. See Choisir et fonder by JJ Levine at Galerie UQO, States of Being by Cheryl Pagurek at Art-image, Euphorie tropicale by David Gumbs at Centre d’exposition L’Imagier, FEMMeXPO 2024 at Centre d’action culturelle de la MRC de Papineau, Nature In Motion by Sarah Bradfield at Galerie Old Chelsea, Mes Mains, Mon Cœur by Paula Murray at Galerie Montcalm, and La Compression des instants by Camille Lescarbeau at Espace Pierre-Debain.

Take a tour of the region’s art galleries and meet the artists behind your favourite works. Why not indulge in a little shopping? Discover your next find in one of the region’s unique boutiques.

SPRING, SWEET SPRING

April is the perfect time to fill up on maple products at an Outaouais sugar shack or enjoy a hearty brunch at one of the region’s fine restaurants.

The Outaouais is also home to several chocolate shops, so you and your family will be spoiled for choice. Kill two birds with one stone and support local businesses by sampling their chocolate delights.

Take advantage of the warmer weather to visit Babine – Tartes et crème glacée. As of mid-April, treat yourself to irresistible artisanal pies and pastries, and delicious soft ice cream with a variety of Belgian chocolate coatings. At La Cigale, you may have trouble choosing among the many creative sorbet and ice cream flavours—and don’t forget to buy a tub of ice cream to take home. Vegan, gluten-free and nut-free options are available.

Tonnes of events

On April 1, À La Dérive Brasserie Artisanale‘s monthly comedy night returns in full force with one of the region’s most entertaining evenings. Also returning as host this year is none other than comedian Jonathan Dion! He’ll be introducing four guest comedians each month. Beer, food, fun and laughter are all on the menu! 

From April 4 to 13, come and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Outaouais Film Festival. This year, the honorary chair is talented actor Rémy Girard, and Spain is in the spotlight. On the program: films, cocktail reception, DJ, shows, dancing … and many more surprises!

On April 4, Le Rituel restaurant will host a dinner and show with comedian and TV personality Alexandre Barrette. He’s working on his fourth solo show, and he’ll present an early version, which he’s currently touring in Quebec. Enjoy a three-course table d’hôte followed by the comedy show!

From April 5 to 7, come to the Complexe Branchaud-Brière for the third edition of the Salon du véhicule et loisir électrique. Attend demonstrations and meet car manufacturers; try out an electric bike on an indoor track, or test drive an electric vehicle on an outdoor track.

From April 5 to January 19, the new exhibition First Royals of Europe takes up residence at the Canadian Museum of History! An epic journey back to a time when precious metals were transformed into swords and jewels, and armies grew to rule. Create your own golden crowns and bracelets. Give free rein to your creativity by printing on flexible gold paper and adorning your creations with stickers. Prefer insects? Let the design team from Lord of the Rings and Avatar take you on a Bug adventure at the Canadian Museum of Nature. An entertaining and colorful exhibition, presented until October 14.

On April 6, enjoy a two-course sugar shack brunch prepared by Le Troquet and Ou Quoi – Urban Lounge in Old Hull. On the menu: baked beans, quiche, sausages, maple ham, and lots of other sweet delights. Maple taffy and a maple biscuit shooter are the perfect finish. A winning combination! 

On April 6 and 7, Principale Street will come alive with the return of Le Vieux-Aylmer se sucre le bec. There will be plenty of family attractions and activities, including small farm animals, face painting, games, treasure hunts and more! 

On April 13 and 14, La Grande Fripe, organized by Habitude Design, is back for the second spring edition of the largest second-hand clothing and accessories sale in the Outaouais. For the first time, the event will be held over two days. Come to Canevas and take advantage of the free parking. Pssst … Don’t forget to bring a reusable bag for your purchases! 

From April 19 to 21, discover seven local businesses participating in the Portes ouvertes sur le tourisme (Tourism Open House) event and learn more about careers in the tourism industry. Find out what goes on behind the scenes of the tourism world through lectures, meetings, site visits (most of them free) and more. Register now!

On April 20, Habitude Design is going one better with the first edition of La Mini Fripe, also at Canevas. Organized in partnership with Troc de jouets, a non-profit Outaouais organization, the event will feature dozens of stalls selling second-hand clothing and accessories for young children. 

From April 24 to 27, the Transistor Média podcast production studio invites you to the Centre culturel du Vieux-Aylmer, site of the lively Festival Transistor! Discover fiction projects, watch documentaries, take part in listening sessions, watch performances, and observe podcasts being recorded. Opening night is Wednesday, with Rince-crème, a podcast by Les Denis Drolet, in association with the Maison de la culture de Gatineau. 

On April 26, take part in the Mamatinée trade show at the Galeries Aylmer. It’s an opportunity for mothers to get out of the house and meet other moms who are going through a similar experience, and also to get to know about 50 local businesses. Professional photographers will be on hand to take great family photos. And admission is free! Dads and grandparents are welcome too! 

For more ideas, check out the full program on our Events and Festivals page. 

More to discover in the Outaouais

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Though showery April can be chilly, summer will soon be here. It’s time to start planning your fishing trip at one of the Outaouais’ many outfitters. Here’s a list of places where you can drop your line. The region is a prime fishing destination—and we’re not April fooling!