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.

Ceremonial Guard - Relief of Sentries
June 26 - August 24, 2017
Daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the hour

Pageantry, precision and colour! Sentries, led by a piper, march to their posts at Sussex Gate.

Storytime at Rideau Hall
June 30 - August 26, 2017
Fridays and Saturdays, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Join volunteers from Frontier College, a Canadian charitable literacy organization, under the Reading Tent for children’s stories and fun literacy activities for kids.

Rideau Hall Movie Nights
August 26, 2017

Bring your blanket and settle in to watch a Canadian feature film under the stars, on the grounds of Rideau Hall.

Past Events

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.
2016 Canada Army Run September 18, 2016 9 a.m. Cheer on the military members, family and friends
Halloween at Rideau Hall October 31, 2016 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Winter Celebration January 28, 2017 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.
Stanley Cup Homecoming March 16, 2017 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. As part of the Stanley Cup’s 125^th anniversary celebrations, take your photo with the oldest trophy competed for by professional athletes in North America, right next to the portrait of Lord Stanley himself, Canada’s 6^th governor general and donor of the Cup.
Rideau Hall Skating Rink January 28 to March 26, 2017 Enjoy this unique outdoor experience which is part of Canada’s heritage. The founding of the rink dates back to the time of Lord Dufferin, who was governor general from 1872 to 1878. Public skating (without reservations) Weekends: noon to 5 p.m. Enter by the gate located on Princess Avenue. Group skating (reservations required)* Weekdays: 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Weekends: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Doors Open Ottawa June 3-4, 2017 10 a.m. to 4:00 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. This year, Rideau Hall’s gardens and greenhouses will also be open to the public!
Annual CHEO Teddy Bears’ Picnic June 24, 2017 8 a.m. to 2 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.
Launch of Summer Activities June 25 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m Join the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada for the annual Inspection of the Ceremonial Guard and the first Storytime of the season.

Date modified: June 29, 2017