Ottawa International Children’s Festival: An Overview of Entertainment for Kids

Each year, Ottawa plays host to a five-day extravaganza, a unique blend of theatre, dance, and music specifically curated for the city’s young audiences. Locals eagerly anticipate the Ottawa International Children’s Festival, as it’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy programs designed for kids of all ages. It’s not just about enriching school curricula; it also does wonders for promoting the arts. For more details, check out Ottawa Ski.

History of the Festival

Established in 1985, this annual festival has since welcomed Canadian artists alongside numerous international performers from countries like Brazil, the Netherlands, France, England, and the USA. The primary goal of the Ottawa International Children’s Festival is to create diverse programming for children aged 2 to 15.

Children and their families get to experience the rich heritage of other cultures right here in Ottawa. The festival showcases works that both excite and challenge audiences of all ages.

The Ottawa International Children’s Festival takes place at 1525 Princess Patricia Way and 2 Daly Avenue in Ottawa, Ontario. It traditionally runs every year in May and June; for instance, in 2024, it was held from May 10th to 14th. That year featured a wide array of performing arts for children, including theatre, dance, and music. The 2024 theme, “Passport to Adventure,” highlighted performances from troupes around the globe.

On May 8, 2025, the Ottawa International Children’s Festival will celebrate its 40th anniversary. This event caters to schools, families, and community groups alike. Compared to other Ontario festivals, it’s a shining example of showcasing international art for young people. Attendees can expect an accessible and welcoming experience for all communities. And mark your calendars for May 9, 2025, when the city will also host the Canadian Tulip Festival.

Festival Program: Entertainment for Kids

The festival undergoes meticulous preparation each year to create a spectacular lineup of incredible shows from around the world. Every event helps visitors immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere and leaves them with unforgettable memories. Here are a few exciting highlights from the 2025 festival program:

1. The hilarious and insightful BULLYBULLY (Netherlands). This sensitive performance captivates audiences with its spontaneity and humour. The cast masterfully blends elements of clowning, theatre, and interactive play, bringing each scene to life. Both little ones and adults will be enchanted by the vibrant characters, dynamic plot, and active audience engagement.
2. The heartwarming tale of Polar Bear & Penguin (Ireland). Audiences will be drawn into this touching story about the incredible friendship between a polar bear and a penguin. The puppet theatre actors enhance the emotional impact with visual effects and gentle music. Young viewers will find it both entertaining and educational to delve into the worlds of the Arctic and Antarctic, witnessing the start of an extraordinary bond. This show has an educational slant, teaching tolerance, empathy, and openness to new experiences.
3. Energetic music by Canadian artist Missy D. She offers a bilingual program (a mix of English and French). Her performances are always packed with energy, dance, and interactive elements, ensuring young festival-goers won’t be able to stay in their seats!
4. The visually stunning show Arborealis by “Architects of Air” (England), which allows visitors to explore the magic of air and light. The show features inflatable sculptures, mesmerizing light effects, and fantastical imagery. Though silent, the performance still ignites the imagination and enchants with its beauty. The artists use visual language and music to create a true work of art that impresses audiences of all ages.

Volunteering at the Ottawa Children’s Festival

This is a unique opportunity to become part of a vibrant and joyful event. Volunteering at such an event will create unforgettable memories for both children and families. By getting involved, you can make a significant contribution to creating true magic for the festival.

What can volunteers expect at the Ottawa festival?

1. They assist with organizing and running various activities. This includes preparing and leading workshops, game zones, sports competitions, theatrical performances, and musical acts. Volunteers at the Ottawa International Children’s Festival also help with participant registration, preparing materials, and assisting children with various needs.
2. Volunteers interact with children and their parents, providing all necessary information to festival visitors.
3. Volunteers play a crucial role in the logistics and support of the festival, from assisting with equipment and decorating to ensuring the cleanliness and order of the grounds.
4. Working as part of a team is a chance to be part of something much bigger. Being a volunteer means joining a friendly and energetic team united by a single goal: making the children’s festival unforgettable. The biggest reward for volunteers during the event will be the genuine smiles and joy of the children participating in the festival activities.

Any Ottawa resident can become a volunteer at the festival. All it takes is the desire to contribute to an important cultural event in the city. Volunteers gain valuable experience, develop communication and organizational skills, meet new people, and spend time in a fun, positive atmosphere.

Key Questions & Answers

1. The Ottawa Children’s Festival takes place at Lansdowne Park and Arts Court. Underground parking is available at Lansdowne, and there’s limited street parking nearby. Festival guests can check for nearby parking or use public transit. Several parking lots are near Arts Court: the Rideau Centre parking on Nicholas Street, Les Suites Hotel parking on Daly Avenue, and Novotel Hotel parking on Daly Avenue.
2. Water is permitted in tent areas. Food and drinks are prohibited near the Canadian War Museum, but only drinks are allowed at Arts Court.
3. Tickets for any show can be purchased at the box office upon entry. It’s always a good idea to check the schedule to confirm ticket availability.
4. You can bike to the festival as special bike racks are provided. The festival website states that Ottawa’s public transit is a safe and accessible option. Children under 12 ride free on OC Transpo buses and trains to the festival.

The festival organizers and volunteers are committed to creating a fully inclusive space for all residents, including new immigrants to Ottawa, 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, francophones, people with disabilities, and more. The Ottawa International Festival strives for diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility for anyone interested in attending.

A Celebration for the Whole Family

The Ottawa International Children’s Festival is definitely worth a visit, as guests will have a truly unique experience. Whether it’s excitement, fascination, or wonder, no one leaves feeling indifferent. Each performance and part of the entertainment program is carefully chosen to provide children not just with fun, but also with new knowledge, emotions, and unforgettable memories.

Planning a visit to the Ottawa International Children’s Festival will allow you to embark on a true journey into a world of wonder and joy that you absolutely won’t want to miss.