Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Festival located?

The Ottawa Children’s Festival takes place at the Canadian War Museum and at Arts Court.

Will there be parking?

At the Canadian War Museum, parking is available at the meters along Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway and in the surrounding areas – check the posted hours and rates. Parking is also available inside the Canadian War Museum: https://www.warmuseum.ca/visit/parking/#tabs

The Arts Court building is located around several parking lots; the Rideau Centre parking lot located on Nicholas Street, Les Suites Hotel parking lot located on Daly Avenue. and Novotel Hotel parking also located on Daly Avenue.

What are the Festival hours?

The Ottawa Children’s Festival runs May 10-14, 2024 and has activities on site at Lebreton Flats (in front of the War Museum) 10am-4pm Saturday and Sunday and from 10am-2pm Monday and Tuesday.

Showtimes range from 10am to 3pm, depending on what you would like to see. The exception is our opening night, Friday May 10 in Tent 1 at 6pm. Tickets available here: TICKETS

Can I bring my infant?

Infants under 9 months are admitted for free. However, they must sit on a guardian’s lap.

Is there reserved seating?

No, please arrive early! First come, first seated.

When should we line up for the show?

We suggest you line up 15 minutes prior to the start of your show.

What if we are late to a show?

Latecomers will be admitted only at a suitable break in the performance. This will vary depending on the show.

Can we eat or drink during the show?

Lebreton Flats performances:
Water is permitted in the tent venues.

Canadian War Museum venues:
No food or drinks are permitted.

Arts Court Downtown Rideau venues:
Drinks are permitted, but no food.

Can we take photos or take videos during a performance?

You are not permitted to take photos or videos of any of the performances.

SSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!

Please note that disturbances or noise, however small, can be distracting to the performers as well as other members of the audience.  We ask that you remain seated, refrain from talking and be certain your cell phones have been turned off.

How do I know if a show is age appropriate for my child?

Guidelines have been developed to ensure that the material and the theatrical experience are age appropriate. You will find age recommendations on every performance page. Still wondering if you can bring your child to a certain show? Email us at contact@ottawachildrensfestival.ca with any questions you may have!

Are there any hidden fees in the pricing?

HST and a processing fee are charged extra per ticket.  A $17 ticket is $21.19 all included.
A family 4 pack of (4x $12 tickets = $48) is $60.98 all included.

Will tickets be available at the entrance?

Certainly, you can purchase tickets to any of our performances at the Box Office. Please check the schedule to make sure tickets are still available for the show.

How accessible are the performances?

All of our performances are fully accessible. Please review our Accessibility Policy HERE.

We also have some performances for people with special needs. Email us at contact@ottawachildrensfestival.ca with for details!

Are there bike racks at the Festival?

At Lebreton Flats / War Museum, bike racks are available at the front of the Museum near the Group Entrance, along the bicycle path at the back of the Museum (next to the Café terrace) and in the parking garage.

At Arts Court, there are several bike racks on Nicholas Street and two bike racks in front of the steps on Daly Avenue as well as bike racks at the Mackenzie King entrance of the Ottawa Art Gallery.