What’s on in the Outaouais in August

Here we are at the peak of summer! In August, take advantage of the good weather to work on your tan (don’t forget your sunscreen!) and stay outside for a variety of family activities, outdoor sports, shows and festivities. Check out our August activity suggestions.

August is vacation time

And vacation time means family time. Fortunately, the Outaouais offers plenty of family activities! From outdoor adventures to cultural excursions, there’s something for everyone. If you encounter rain or a heat wave, no problem—there’s no shortage of indoor activities. Take the opportunity to rediscover the region’s museums. 

Is your dog your faithful holiday companion? Several places welcome canines. If you’re a hiker, the PERO trails are dog-friendly, or you can book a stay at one of the accommodations in the Parc des Montagnes Noires de Ripon and hike to the observation tower for a spectacular view of the Petite Nation landscape. Don’t forget to bring a leash! 

Outdoor multimedia projections

Outdoor multimedia shows are an original way to spend time with family and friends. They also invite you to discover the region’s highlights in a new way. 

Parc Omega is well known for its safari-style driving tour, but did you know that you can visit the park at night? Until October 8, every Saturday night at dusk, a 1.5-km walking trail in the forest comes alive with a sound and light show. 

Over at Eco-Odyssée Nature Park, the Eco-Noctura program is back with Cliffside Tales, an immersive multimedia show projected on trees and rock faces. Every Friday and Saturday until October 15, the tale of the raven and the beaver is presented at dusk. While you’re there, why not rent a boat or paddle board and explore the water labyrinth by moonlight? 

On Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada’s capital, Northern Lights traces our country’s history. From Thursday to Monday until September 5, once the sky darkens, the magic begins. The bilingual show covers history, culture, innovation, architecture, and important people and events that have shaped an entire nation. Learn about Canada’s role in wartime and how the knowledge of the First Nations led to the exploration of the West. 

Making the most of sunny weather

On a beautiful summer day, go for a drive or a motorcycle ride along the Chemins d’eau, the Outaouais’ tourist route. Along the way, discover picturesque villages and stop for a bite to eat in a local restaurant. 

Do you hear the call of the wild? Get out your boots or sneakers and take a hike to see the most beautiful views in the Outaouais. Meet the animals on an Outaouais farm or go for a horseback ride. 

Another way to enjoy the area is to visit its iconic covered bridges. Stop at the Félix-Gabriel-Marchand Bridge, the longest covered bridge in the province, and admire the new permanent lighting system (inaugurated in May 2022). A mobile application even lets you temporarily change the colour of the lighting. Something to impress young and old alike! 

The Outaouais, party central

August brings tonnes of events! Things get underway with a bang on August 3 with Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy. For its 25th anniversary, in addition to the pyromusical shows, the event will include a kilometre of multisensory experiences, a bonfire, and a culinary component featuring a dozen local restaurateurs. 

From August 4 to 7, come celebrate the 30th edition and dance to the sounds of country music at the Festival Country du Grand Gatineau. A great lineup of artists, including Irvin Blais and Matt Lang, will be on hand for the occasion!

Attention, car lovers: the Gatineau Auto Show will be held in Des Cèdres Park on August 7. Come and admire all kinds of cars: economy, vintage, modern, classic, rare, high-performance and even intriguing. Don’t forget to vote for your favourite! 

Next up is the TWIST fibre festival, Canada’s largest fibre festival, taking place August 12 to 14 in Saint-André-Avellin. The 10th edition will showcase more than 130 exhibitors. Sign up now for one of the many workshops (your three-day festival pass is included in the workshop fee). 

The Upper Gatineau Whitewater Festival will be held from August 26 to 28. Whether you’re a novice, an expert or somewhere in between, you’re invited to paddle down the Gatineau River in a raft, kayak or canoe. Come discover the joys of life on the water! 

Also from August 26 to 28, head to Champboisé de L’Ange-Gardien and the brand new Festival des vins et spiritueux en Outaouais, a celebration of local wines and spirits. From presentations and wine tastings to displays by agri-food producers, musical performances and more, this is one festival you won’t want to miss. 

Finally, from August 26 to September 25, Cirque du Soleil’s touring show KOOZA will unfold under the Big Top at Place des Festivals Zibi. Book your tickets for this extraordinary show, something of a return to Cirque du Soleil’s roots, combining acrobatic performance and the art of clowning while exploring themes of fear, identity, recognition and power. Get a front-row seat to watch these amazing artists outdo themselves. 

For even more suggestions, consult the full listings on our Events page. 

More things to discover in the Outaouais

Take a moment to take a tour of Petite Nation and find your new favourite places. Be sure to stop in at the Lac Simon Golf Club. This beautiful course on the shores of Lac Simon is well worth a visit.

Head to the Agora urban village for a well-deserved break at Chatime, the bubble tea paradise. With seven customizable product lines, you’re sure to find your new favourite bubble tea.

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Book an Experience Outaouais package and discover what the Outaouais has to offer in August.