OTTAWA ROCK LOTTERY
What other event tells you straight up that it might be terrible? Ottawa Rock Lottery takes 25 local musicians, matches them up at random, and gives them 24 hours to create a completely original set. Each new band will also have the added challenge of incorporating a randomly assigned instrument into their set. The result might be awful, but considering the talent they’ve got lined up this year — like musicians from The Love Machine and The PepTides — it’s not likely. A performance by Rockalily Burlesque and a “rock and roll photo booth” round out the night. Saturday, May 19, 8 p.m. $10 or $9 with a food donation. Mavericks Bar, 221 Rideau St., www.ottawarocklottery.com.
MUSICFEST (FREE!)
North America’s largest festival dedicated to developing musical talent is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. More than 10,000 of the country’s most skilled young musicians will meet in the capital to compete for recognition in this national showcase. Adjudicated performances from May 14 to 19 are open to the public, free of charge. Various dates, times, and locations, www.musicfest.ca.
SHEEP-SHEARING WEEKEND
Little Bo Peep has lost her sheep! Bring your kids to help her find them, watch a sheep-shearing demonstration, check out the sheepdog agility obstacle course, and make crafts this weekend at the Canada Agriculture Museum. Saturday, May 19, to Monday, May 21, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. $9, seniors and students $7, children three to 12 $6, children two and under free. Canada Agriculture Museum, Experimental Farm, Prince of Wales Dr., www.agriculture.technomuses.ca.
PUNK OTTAWA FLEA MARKET
Anyone with pink hair, stretched ears, or an appreciation of local culture should take note. Dozens of vendors selling new and used records, clothing, artwork, and more, gather twice a year for Punk Ottawa flea markets. This year’s spring display will include local merchants Gypsy & Co., Shameless Fashions, and Housewife Vintage. Saturday, May 19, 11 a.m. Admission by donation, with proceeds supporting punkottawa.com and local animal welfare charities. Mac Hall, Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., www.facebook.com/events.
FAT CATS’ HOME OPENER
This Saturday is the Ottawa Fat Cats’ first home game of the season. Head on over to the Ottawa Stadium to cheer on the team — and enjoy some sunshine and street meat — as they face off against the Kitchener Panthers. The Fat Cats will be looking to bounce back after their final round exit last season against the Brantford Red Sox. Saturday, May 19, 7 p.m. $12, seniors and students $8, children $6. Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd., www.ottawafatcats.com.
FAIRFIELDS VICTORIA DAY JUBILEE TEA
Queen Victoria’s birthday is coming up, and what better way to celebrate than with a proper tea party in the country? The Nepean Museum is hosting a traditional Victorian tea on the grounds of Fairfields, which was once the Bell family homestead and is now a designated heritage property. Tours, music, refreshments, and period games for the kids will all be available. Sunday, May 20, 1 p.m. Admission by donation. Nepean Museum, 3080 Richmond Rd., www.nepeanmuseum.ca.
TYLER HILTON
Still grieving the finale of One Tree Hill? Lucky for you, OTH heartthrob and pop-rock musician Tyler Hilton has added a second Ottawa date to his tour (the first sold out in a day!). Opening for Hilton will be special guest Dion Roy. Sunday, May 20, 8 p.m. $12. Mavericks Bar, 221 Rideau St., www.tylerhiltonofficial.ning.com.
VICTORIA DAY FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Oooh, aaah! Fireworks on Monday evening will wrap up the ten-day Victoria Day celebration at Juliana Park. Bring the kids down during the day for midway rides, buskers, games, and a petting zoo. On until Monday, May 21. Juliana Park, Carling Avenue at Preston Street, www.victoriadayfestival.com.