SURVIVOR
Channel your inner Bear Grylls as you learn how to survive in the wild! Survival Bushcraft Day is one of three one-day courses being provided by Wilderness Rhythms throughout September. Usually a four- to 10-day workshop, this crash-course will cover how to start a fire (leave lighters at home!), set traps for food (good luck), apply lost-proofing techniques (bread crumbs not recommended), building shelters, and more. Not your typical camping trip! Sunday, Sept. 8. $100. www.wildernessrhythms.com
HARVEST NOIR
Ring in the fall season with style this Saturday, September 7 at Harvest Noir. Guests provide their own wine and locally harvested food as they attend the chicest picnic on the Ottawa social scene. The evening promises a night of dancing provided by Timekode, a fashion show, and flashmobs. The added secrecy of the last-minute location adds even more to the appeal and exclusivity. $55. harvestnoir.com
ANTS MARCHING
Come to the Museum of Nature and explore the secret world of ants at the exhibition Ants: Farmers, Warriors, Builders. Running until January 5, 2014, you will be able to observe two live ant colonies, oversized ant models, and a three-dimensional aluminum cast of an ant nest. Get a glimpse into their lives as you’ve never seen before, by viewing large scale photographs taken by ant expert and adventurer, Mark Moffett. Perhaps you’ll think twice about stepping on them next time! Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St. nature.ca
BACK TO ART
Whether your kids are returning to school, or are just starting (there, there), look no further for a relaxed evening than the Orange Art Gallery. From September 4 to 15, the gallery is hosting their Back to Art series, showcasing work by the Orange artists. Join the artists themselves for a vernissage on Thursday, September 5. After all, the kids get school supplies, why not treat yourself to some new artwork for the living room? 6p.m. to 10p.m. Orange Art Gallery, 233 Armstrong St. www.orangeartgallery.ca
OTTAWA FOLK FESTIVAL
Come gather ’round people, wherever you roam… The 19th annual Ottawa Folk Festival kicks off this Wednesday at Hog’s Back Park. In addition to musical performances, the Festival also provides participatory music workshops, arts and crafts vendors, beer gardens and more. With such artists as Patti Smith, Emmylou Harris with Rodney Crowell, Gordon Lightfoot, and The Sheepdogs gracing the stage, the festival is sure to see one of its largest turnouts. From Wednesday, September 4 to Sunday, September 8 at Hog’s Back Park. ottawafolk.com
~Meaghan Crowley