Welcome to the ACE District

Ottawa’s Arts, Culture & Entertainment District

See
it.
A man stands in front of a monitor, appearing engaged with the screen's content
Hear
it.
A band performs on stage while a lively crowd enjoys the music in front of them
Feel
it.
Dancers in colorful traditional Mexican dresses perform outdoors for a crowd in a lively city square, with vibrant buildings, a clock, and restaurants in the background.
Taste
it.
A group of friends sitting at a colorful outdoor area, smiling and raising their drinks together for a toast under string lights, with pink benches and umbrellas in the background.

From national arts exhibits to legendary taverns, award-winning restaurants to late-night dance parties, this is where Ottawa’s arts, culture and entertainment comes together.

See it. Hear it. Taste it. Feel it.
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View of ByWard Market

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Stories from the district

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Behind the Scenes: Pique with Rachel Weldon

  • Jul 09, 2026
One weekend, four times a year Pique takes over the Arts Court and Ottawa Art Gallery building in downtown Ottawa. In June 2026, the underground arts and music festival celebrated its five-year anniversary. We went behind the scenes to talk with Rachel Weldon, Director of Debaser and founder of Pique,…
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Two women stand in an art gallery

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City Fidelia: An ACE District Moment

  • Jun 16, 2026
In the heart of the ACE District, award winning music is being produced. Young hip-hop and R&B artists are learning about the music industry and working with producers for the first time to launch their careers. People from across Ottawa are coming together to mend relationships, celebrate their successes and…
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House of Ensemble

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How the ACE District Came to Be

  • Jun 12, 2026
Ottawa’s downtown has always been full of remarkable arts, culture and entertainment. From legendary music venues to national arts institutions, independent galleries to internationally renowned festivals. From places to grab a pint to places to dance late into the night. It’s all here and all within a short walk or…
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A diverse crowd gathers around a large sign displaying the word "Ottawa" in bold letters