Seasonal Activities
Whether you have only a few hours to take in the sights at Rideau Hall or you’re planning to spend the entire day, we have a variety of free activities that are sure to make your time with us memorable.
In addition to our seasonal offerings, Residence tours are offered free of charge throughout the year.
Important Notice
In the buildup to the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, work will be undertaken by the National Capital Commission (NCC) to create a ceremonial site in front of the residence. Please note that Rideau Hall will be open during the rehabilitation work. Visitors are asked to please use the following entrances to access the property:
- Visitors entering on foot or by bike can still access the grounds via Thomas Gate or Mackay Pedestrian Gate (parking available on surrounding streets);
- Visitors with mobility restrictions are asked to enter via Princess Gate. Please call ahead to get up-to-date information and to reserve parking on-site. Contact us at 1-866-842-4422 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. from Monday to Friday (see map).
We look forward to welcoming you!
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Ceremonial Guard
Pageantry, precision and colour!
- Relief of Sentries
June 26 - August 21, 2016
Daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the hour
Sentries, led by a piper, march to their posts at Sussex Gate.
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Storytime at Rideau Hall
June 25 - August 20, 2016
Fridays and Saturdays, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Join volunteers from Frontier College, a non-profit literacy organization, under the Reading Tent for children’s stories and fun literacy activities for kids. |
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Carillon Mobile Concerts by Chamberfest
July 31, 2016 at 3 p.m.
Andrea McCrady, Dominion Carillonneur
August 2, 2016 at 3 p.m.
Treblemakers Carillon Duet
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2016 Canada Army Run
September 18, 2016
9 a.m.
Cheer on the military members, family and friends
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Savour Fall at Rideau Hall
September 10, 2016
12:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Free admission and activities
Tour the gardens and the greenhouses, watch culinary
demonstrations and enjoy tastings.
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Halloween at Rideau Hall
October 31, 2016
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
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Past Events
Rideau Hall Movie Nights
Wednesday, June 29 and Thursday, June 30 (no rain date)
Come and see acclaimed English and French Canadian feature films, screened outdoors on alternate nights, on the grounds of Rideau Hall. Bring your blanket and settle in to watch these films under the stars.
Subscribe to our distribution list to stay up to date.
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Annual CHEO Teddy Bears’ Picnic
June 18, 2016
8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
A fun-filled day of family activities awaits you on the grounds of Rideau Hall during the Annual Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) Teddy Bears’ Picnic.
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Doors Open Ottawa
June 4-5, 2016
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Although its doors are open year-round, Rideau Hall is an active participant in this annual activity. Throughout the weekend, visit the residence and learn about the history and the role of the governor general.
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Military Tattoo
Saturday, May 14, at 2 p.m.
Enjoy this military tradition of music and fanfare.
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Winter Celebration
January 16, 2016
12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
This family fun day is an opportunity to experience Nordic sports and traditions, to engage in physical activity, to spend time outdoors in the fresh air and to embrace healthy living. |
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Rideau Hall Skating Rink
Saturdays and Sundays
noon to 5 p.m.
* The rink is closed for the season.
Experience this unique part of Canada’s heritage, which originated during the time of Lord Dufferin, who was governor general from 1872 to 1878. |
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Rideau Hall is a working residence
and official events may require unforeseen changes to your visit.
