The festival · questions
Shortanswers.
Anything missing goes to hello@capitalcultures.com. A person answers every application and every message within ten working days.
September 2027 · exact dates to be confirmed · subject to permits
The move.
When is the festival?
A weekend in September 2027. The exact dates are set with the event permits and posted on the festival page and to the mailing list the same day. The first edition moves from 7–8 August 2027 to a weekend in September 2027.
I had 7–8 August 2027 in my calendar.
You can clear it. The calendar file on this site now carries the cancellation of the August event.
Where will it be?
Our plan is a weekend in September 2027 in Ottawa. The exact dates and the site are set with the event permits from the City of Ottawa and the National Capital Commission, and nothing is booked until both say yes.
I already applied. Do I need to apply again?
No. Applications are kept, and a person answers every one.
Visiting.
Is it free?
Yes. Entry is free at the gate on both days, for everybody. You pay only for what you eat or buy.
What is there to do?
Walk the pavilion village, eat, watch the stage, meet makers at work, collect stamps in the free festival passport.
Is it accessible?
Accessibility is planned into the site from the start, with its own budget line. The accessibility page lists what we build and how to ask for more.
Is it in English or French?
Both. Signs, programme and this site are bilingual.
Will alcohol be sold?
No. The first edition serves no alcohol.
Taking part.
How does a community get a pavilion?
Its organisation applies. The operator is an Ontario non-profit with a majority of its board in the Ottawa region. The pavilion fee is $0 and the counter stays with the community.
Can I sell food or crafts?
Yes, as a vendor. Food needs an approved kitchen and a certified food handler; the craft row asks whether you made what you sell.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. Sign up and the coordinator writes to you when the shifts open.
Is Capital Cultures connected to another festival?
Capital Cultures is a new festival with its own not-for-profit organisation in Ottawa, its own board, budget and permits.