1. OTTAWA JAZZ FEST
You’ve got to pace yourself when the festival lasts for 12 days! Ottawa Magazine’s weekend picks? How about Grammy Award-winner Herbie Hancock on June 25 (8 p.m.), followed by sax man David Sanborn, who gets down with his trio on June 26 (7:30 p.m.).NAC regular John Geggie leads a jam session after hours on June 24, 25, and 26 (10:30 p.m.). See website for ticket info. Various locations, 613- 241-2633, www.ottawajazzfestival.com
2. SLAUGHTER DAUGHTERS VS. RIOT SQUAD
As the first Ottawa roller-derby crew, the Slaughter Daughters learned the game by the seat of their hot pants. The tattoo-covered veterans take on their disciples, Riot Squad, in the first inner-league bout ever! To witness this thrilling show of speed and spunk, head to Sandy Hill Arena. June 26. $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Retail outlets selling tickets include The Candy Store, Venus Envy, Crosstown Traffic, and SpaceMan Music. 60 Mann Ave., www.rideauvalleyrollergirls.com
3. AVATAR 3D
It’s not too late to catch this flick the way James Cameron intended. Avatar plays at the IMAX Theatre for one last weekend. Enjoy the epic battle between humans and the Na’vi creatures of Pandora on the biggest screen in the city, while wrapped in 30,000 watts of sound. Until June 27. Adults $15; seniors, students, and children $12. Museum of Civilization, 100, rue Laurier, Gatineau, 819-776-7010. www.civilization.com
4. THESE ARE THE MARKS I MAKE (FREE!)
Painter Duncan de Kergommeaux surveys work from his career, spanning almost six decades. From process-oriented grid paintings and drawings of the 1970s, to more recent embellishments of the landscape, this exhibition frames de Kergommeaux as an artist who seeks meaning in the creative process. Ottawa Art Gallery, 2 Daly Ave., 613-233-8699. www.ottawaartgallery.ca
5. THOUSAND ISLANDS WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
Worth the drive for wine and foodies! Gourmands can revel in the taste of some of the province’s finest wine, beer, and food at this first-ever festival. Feel free to imbibe — a complimentary shuttle service is offered during festival hours. See website for ticket info. June 25 and 26. Brockville Country Club, 1548 King St. W., Brockville, 888-251-7676, www.brockvilletourism.com
6. CAMPFIRE AND STORYTELLING
Hotdogs and marshmallows, campfire, and stories. What more could you need? Join the Ottawa Storytellers for an evening of tall tales around the fire. It’s just like camping — except you get to return to your own comfy bed at the end of the night. Bring your own blanket or chair to sit on. $6 per person, $10 per pair, or $15 per family. June 26. 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. 270 Pinhey’s Point Rd., Dunrobin, 613-832-4347, www.ottawa.ca/museums