STEWART PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Slip into your Birkenstocks and take a trip to Perth this weekend for the 20th Anniversary edition of this riverside party, with two stages of music in an idyllic setting by the Tay River. If the weather holds out on Friday, pack a picnic and catch the ridiculously entertaining Arrogant Worms at 5 p.m., then stick around for local folk favourite Lynn Miles at 7 p.m. In between musical acts, browse the craft market for retro tie-dye finds and other handmade treasures. On Saturday, stretch your legs with a waterfront yoga class at 2 p.m. Then on Sunday, catch Juno-award winning singer/songwriter James Keelaghan perform old favourites and new material (12:30 p.m.). The fun begins at noon on Friday and continues until 6 p.m. on Sunday. www.stewartparkfestival.com
FOR THE BIRDS (FREE!)
Cross over the bridges into Quebec for two opportunities for viewing creatures of the winged variety. Plan an early morning stop at Pink Lake in Gatineau Park to be there when the birds are most active. A 2 km interpretive trail skirts the lake, providing a scenic walk through a lovely cedar and deciduous woodland where some of the 230 bird species native to the park make their homes (www.canadascapital.gc.ca). Your next stop is Boutique Arthena in Chelsea, a gallery/boutique promoting local artists and featuring eco-friendly products for the home and garden. An avian-themed event showcases watercolours of dream birds by Petite-Nation mixed media artist Sally Lee Sheeks, wire sculptures by Lisa Brunetta, and other bird-themed artwork. Sheeks will be on-site this Sunday, July 18, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for a guided tour and demonstration of her technique. Boutique Arthena, 205, Old Chelsea Rd., 819-827-0191. www.arthena.ca
NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD LIVE
If you’re heading to Bluesfest this weekend, be sure to check out the creative re-imagining of this zombie classic, which features the horror movie and a cast of local actors reciting the dialogue. Local band the Hilotrons will provide an eerie score. Film buffs should be on the lookout for the film’s director, George A. Romero, at the show on Saturday night. July 16 and 17 at 9 pm. Day passes $45 (Friday) and $55 (Saturday). Barney Danson Theatre in the War Museum, 1 Vimy Place. www.ottawabluesfest.ca
MITSUBISHI CITY CHASE
If you think you would be great at The Amazing Race, here’s a chance to test your skills. This event (which takes place worldwide) pits teams of two against each other in a six-hour urban adventure that will test your city knowledge and teamwork skills as well as your physical and intellectual prowess. Complete challenges at “Chase Points” across town and vie for a spot at the Canadian Championships. July 17 at 9 a.m. $169.50. University of Ottawa, Tabaret Hall Lawn, 550 Cumberland St. www.mitsubishicitychase.com
2nd ANNUAL OTTAWA SOUTH ASIAN FESTIVAL (FREE!)
Because the little festivals that are just getting started need our support — and who doesn’t love Bollywood glam? Organized by the Ontario South Asian Community Association, the entertainment starts with a performance by the talented and adorable Moiz Lakhani, a 9-year-old with a captivating voice. Then, try laughter yoga with Sophie of the Sunflower Institute. The afternoon features a performance by Bollywood for Fun; based on Classic Indian Dance, and heavily influenced by Bollywood movies, Bhangra dance is a pleasure to watch — and a lot of fun to try! Evening acts include Jay Deala and Prita Chhabra. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 17. Confederation Park. www.southasianfestival.org
SUMMER FLING
This brand new theatre fest will be offering nine different plays this summer, for a grand total of 80 shows in six different venues. To start things off is Willy Russell’s Educating Rita about a boozy, cynical professor and his friendship with a sassy hairdresser who longs for formal education. 8 p.m., until Aug. 1. $25, students and seniors $20. Arts Court, 2 Daly St., 613-564-7240. www.artscourt.ca