Ottawa’s 200th anniversary will feature a year of investment in arts, entertainment and fun

A year’s worth of innovative programming and collaborations were unveiled today at the official launch event to celebrate Ottawa’s 200th anniversary.  

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe welcomed an extensive list of guests representing the City’s collaboration with heritage, cultural, Indigenous and community organizations. Each brought their own announcement highlighting how 2026 will see investments that reflect Ottawa’s progress, creativity and diversity.

The City has launched three Ottawa 200 grant programs, with a total of $750,000 to be distributed through signature funding programs:

• Ottawa 200 Artist/Creator Grant Program, in collaboration with the Ottawa Art Gallery and Arts Ottawa to support artist/creator-led projects and organizations that will mentor and showcase emerging artists/creators.   
• Ottawa 200 Civic Events Funding Program to support cultural and community non-profit-led events that are free to the public and suitable for all ages.  
• Ottawa 200 BIA Activation Grant, to be distributed across Ottawa’s 18 Business Improvement Areas (BIA) to support the purchase of Ottawa 200 promotional materials for Ottawa 200 events.

Further details about each grant and Ottawa 200 can be found on the City’s website, ottawa.ca.

Ottawa Bluesfest unveiled its evening lineup for a special Ottawa 200 day on Sunday, July 19 featuring The Guess Who, The Sheep Dogs, and Elisapie. Free and family-friendly daytime programming will be announced in March.

Ottawa Tourism announced the recipients of its 200th Tourism Animation Fund to help tourism businesses and organizations create engaging, high-quality products and experiences that celebrate Ottawa’s big year. Visit the Ottawa Tourism website for details on funding recipients.

Stay tuned for more event announcements in 2026, including a free, outdoor, family-friendly block party at Marion Dewar Plaza on Saturday, September 26.

Quotes

“We live in a wonderful city. And this year, we have a chance to celebrate everything that's special about Ottawa. Ottawa’s 200th anniversary is about telling our story, celebrating together, having some fun, and reflecting on what makes our community so special and unique. I invite everyone, all over our city, to experience all that this milestone year has to offer.”

Mark Sutcliffe, Mayor of Ottawa

“Ottawa’s 200th anniversary is a chance to showcase to people visiting Ottawa who we are as a city – this is a destination that is creative, collaborative, and welcoming. Working with the City, festivals, Indigenous and community partners, we’re empowering projects that showcase Ottawa’s character and hospitality across every ward, throughout all seasons, and with the diversity of voices that weave together to make the fabric of Ottawa.”

Michael Crockatt, President and CEO, Ottawa Tourism

"The Ottawa Bluesfest team is thrilled to support the launch of Ottawa 200. This is a tremendous opportunity to celebrate the rich history of our city, and we look forward to contributing to a year of impactful commemorative events, while being a part of Ottawa’s vibrant future."

Mark Monahan, Executive Director, Ottawa Bluesfest