On September 26, Ottawa is celebrating its 200th anniversary, and what better way to mark the day than with a historical celebration? Look no further than Bytown Together, a free eclectic event hosted by the Bytown Museum.
Sitting next to the locks that connect the Rideau Canal to the Ottawa River, the building now known as the Bytown Museum was originally the supply depot for Colonel By’s Rideau Canal construction crews. Since 1952, the Bytown Museum has housed the artifacts and histories of the people who have lived along Ottawa’s three rivers since time immemorial. To celebrate Ottawa 200, the museum’s exhibits are free all day, and partners will be on-site for a dedicated Heritage Fair.
Founded by the Women’s Canadian Historical Society of Ottawa, the Bytown Museum’s mandate has always been about celebrating local history, local people and local stories. So, it’s fitting that Bytown Together is bringing that history to life on this significant historical milestone.
The centrepiece of the day is an immersive theatrical production about Colonel By — the man who led the building of the Rideau Canal. Happening in the afternoon, and featuring award-winning actor and playwright Pierre Brault, this is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to learn about one of Ottawa’s key figures. Stick around afterwards for more great stories as the Paul Weber Band shares songs about the city. You’ll get to know some of the characters who have walked Ottawa’s streets, frequented its bars and paddled its waters. You are sure to leave knowing a new local legend or two!
Planning a big day for Ottawa 200? Start it off right with a delicious hearty breakfast. Chef Ric will be on-site at the Bytown Museum serving up a free breakfast to the first 500 visitors, starting at 9 a.m.
Activating across downtown
While the museum has a lot planned for the big day, it’s just one part of its ongoing festivities. Head up from the locks to Rideau Street and take a stroll along the former windows of the Hudson’s Bay. There you will find historic photographs of storefronts and streetscapes combined with the work of contemporary artists. This Ottawa 200+ Portraits, Places, and People installation opened in August and will be on display until the end of 2026.
If you see someone in downtown Ottawa on the 26th in a bonnet or a strapping suit — you haven’t seen a ghost! You’ve likely come across some of the Bytown Museum’s costumed interpreters. These folks will be roaming the streets re-enacting both historical and everyday moments. A few of them will also take the stage at the Plaza Bridge for the final performance of SoundScape at 7 p.m.
Curious about who walked Ottawa’s streets before you? Then Bytown Together at the Bytown Museum is where you want to be for Ottawa 200. And, don’t miss the special exhibit What’s in a frame? 200+ Year of Community Portraits, featuring local stories of community, resilience, and diversity, from Ottawa’s beginnings to the present.
To learn more about the Ottawa 200 celebrations, follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more activities and highlights as we celebrate together!
