ON THE HEELS OF THE HOUND
Everybody may be Irish on Saint Patrick’s Day, but why not try something a little different this Thursday? Irish myth-teller Clare Muireann Murphy brings ancient tales of Cuchulainn, a mythological hound of terror, to life in “On The Heels of the Hound.” The age-old art of storytelling is at once familiar and mesmerizing, and makes for a gripping live experience. This one-off, intimate performance blends the shores of the Emerald Isle with the ever-present Otherworld, weaving tales of monsters and half gods, fairies and great battles. Thursday, March 17. 7:30 p.m. $20, $12 students and seniors. NAC Fourth Stage. 53 Elgin St., 1-888-991-2787. www.nac-cna.ca
OTTAWA FASHION WEEK
Fashionistas, grab your best shoes and your trendiest accessories, because OFW struts down the runway this weekend. Running Friday to Sunday, see up-and-coming designers showcase fresh fall and winter trends. The fashion-packed event features two runway shows a night, including lines from jeweler Karen McClintock and architect-turned designer Rachel Sin. In addition to soaking up the glamour and getting inspired for the upcoming season, attendees can also pick up unique items when designers sell their wares between shows. Friday, March 18 to Sunday, March 20. 5 p.m. $40 for the day or $80 for the weekend. National Gallery of Canada, 380 Sussex Dr., 613-990-1985. www.ottawafashionweek.ca.
CHOCOLATE BRUNCH
What could be better than brunch (the perfect weekend meal) and chocolate (the perfect ingredient)? How about a culinary battle for dessert supremacy?! This Saturday, some of Ottawa’s best restaurateurs, caterers, and chocolatiers will duke it out, fighting for the title of best chocolate dessert in the Carefor annual Chocolate Brunch & Competition. Your ticket will get you a hearty brunch as well as a sample of all the final chocolate creations and the chance to vote for the People’s Choice dessert. Now in its seventh year, the tasting event is a fundraiser for Carefor, an organization that gives personal support and assisted living to the elderly of our community. The delectable event is always a sell-out, so get your tickets now. Saturday, March 19. 10 a.m. $75. Centurion Conference and Event Centre, 170 Colonnade Rd. S., 613-749-7557 x2180. www.carefor.ca
THE HORNETTES
The Hornettes are swarming! For a night of hip-shaking, foot-stomping Motown music, check out this six-piece Ottawa band. With three fierce front women backed by guitar, bass, and drums, they deliver a blend of booty-shaking soul music that balances classic Motown hooks with a fresh twist. The Soviet-themed Avant-Garde Bar should make for an intimate venue, so grab your best gold dress, throw on your dancing shoes, and get ready to sweat it out on the dance floor. Saturday, March 19. 10 p.m. $5. Avant-Garde Bar, 135 1/2 Besserer St., 613-321-8908.
LEGO of me!
Have a LEGO genius in your house? Secretly still love to tinker with those tiny building blocks? Swing by the Aviation and Space Museum for their annual LEGO contest! The event is open for children only, from preschool right through to grade 6. Kids armed with their best aerospace-inspired LEGO creations are invited to enter. It’s a great way to enjoy March Break, as the museum is filled with jaw-dropping exhibits sure to please the kid in all of us. Friday, March 18. All day. Free with museum admission. Aviation and Space Museum, 11 Aviation Parkway. 613-993-2010. www.aviation.technomuses.ca If that’s not enough LEGO for you, the Canada War Museum is also holding LEGO events, with LEGO expert Lee Beauregard on hand on Saturday, March 19, and Sunday, March 20, to help kids build giant ships. Free with admission. 1 Vimy Place, 819-776-8600, www.warmuseum.ca
GREEN EXPO (FREE!)
If you’re an eco-warrior, an organic-only foodie, or are looking for ways to make your home more energy-efficient, then don’t miss the Ottawa Green Expo. The two-day event covers everything green, from eco-friendly fashions to food and homes. The first of its kind in the city, it’s a one-stop-shop for a greener lifestyle, with workshops, interactive displays, and earth-friendly vendors. There’s fun to be had for all ages, including a Kids’ Zone featuring real-life Canadian explorers, as well as something strictly for the adults — a “green drinks” area showcasing local organic beer and wine. Saturday, March 19 to Sunday, March 20. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St., 1-800-891-4859, www.ottawagogreenexpo.com