September is the perfect time to discover the vineyards and stroll among the vines dressed in fall colors. Reserve your spot aboard the Aventure Outaouais van and explore the Pontiac Wine and Cider Route or the Petite Nation Wine and Cider Route with an all-inclusive package. Meet passionate producers, sample local wines, ciders and spirits, and savor the flavors of the Outaouais, in moderation!

It’s also the perfect season to enjoy the many pick-your-own activities. Apples, pumpkins, squash, and many other crops await you throughout the region. Whether with family, friends, or as a couple, go meet local producers, discover their regional products, and bring back delicious souvenirs from your fall getaway.

September is packed with festivals with something for everyone.

From September 2 to 6, be amazed by the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (FMG), featuring colorful flights, spectacular shows, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

September 3-7, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Shawville Fair, one of Quebec’s oldest agricultural fairs. Ride attractions, agricultural competitions, shows, family entertainment, and rural traditions are all on the agenda. 

September 11-13, electronic music fans won’t want to miss the Riverside Festival, presented at the Canadian Museum of History. Set against a stunning backdrop along the Ottawa River, big names on the international scene, including Marshmello, Steve Aoki, and Excision, promise an electrifying weekend. After the shows, the party continues at Aléa with after-parties featuring international DJs until the wee hours of the morning.

September 17-20, discover the rich diversity of traditional music at the Ripon Trad Festival. With performances, workshops, evening gatherings, dancing, and music, there’s always a lively atmosphere. On Sunday, enjoy a free program, perfect for a family outing.

September 18-20, Aviation enthusiasts will also be in for a treat with Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa. Spectacular aerial demonstrations, aircraft exhibits, and appearances by the famous Snowbirds, the CF-18 Hornet, and several aerobatic teams await you.

Take this opportunity to discover some of the Capital Region’s major events, such as the CityFolk Festival (September 17–20), the Afrofestival Ottawa (September 11–13), the Ottawa Comiccon (September 11–13), and Nuit Blanche Ottawa on September 26, which will transform the capital into a veritable open-air art gallery.

From public art and exhibitions to heritage sites, literature, and meet-and-greets with artists, there are plenty of opportunities to discover something new.

Make the most of your visit to downtown Gatineau by exploring the Culture Trail, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Open year-round, this free art trail features more than 40 public artworks created by artists from here and abroad. Using the interactive map, create your own itinerary or join a guided tour—available through the end of August—to learn more about the works that bring downtown to life.

Then continue your stroll toward Place Laval, the true cultural heart of Old Hull. Shows, activities, and outdoor events take place there throughout the month. On September 2, don’t miss the final Buvette dinette & steppettes evening—a festive gathering featuring food trucks, DJs, and a friendly atmosphere right in the heart of the neighborhood.

On September 6, don’t miss Les Rendez-vous probables, a series of free performances blending media arts, music, dance, and street arts presented at the Buckingham Farmers’ Market.

On September 13, the Escales littéraires will take over Aylmer Memorial Park, where authors from the Outaouais region will meet with the public to discuss their works.

On September 25 and 26, celebrate the Journées de la culture by going behind the scenes at Library and Archives Canada’s Preservation Centre in Gatineau. Explore the vaults and laboratories and enjoy programming highlighting Indigenous cultures, histories and knowledge. Admission is free! Check out the full program for September 25 and September 26 for all the details.

In Montebello, extend your visit to the Manoir Papineau National Historic Site with Tales from the shadow, a guided lantern tour that will immerse you in the secrets and legends of the famous Papineau family. Through September 7, you can also explore the exhibition Papineau et le village d’antan, which traces daily life in the seigneury of Petite Nation.

Visual arts enthusiasts can visit the exhibition Rien n'est figé, on view at the Centre culturel du Vieux-Aylmer through October 11. On September 26, as part of the Journées de la culture, meet artists from the Arts visuels de Gatineau collective, participate in a family-friendly creative workshop, and enjoy a free activity celebrating local creativity.

Finally, on September 26 and 27, meet local artists during the Chelsea-Wakefield Studio Tour. For two days, painters, ceramicists, sculptors, jewelers, photographers, and artisans will open the doors to their studios to showcase their craftsmanship and latest creations.

Theater, music, comedy, and family events abound throughout the region.

At the Théâtre du Casino du Lac-Leamy, let yourself be swept away by Titanique, a completely zany musical that reimagines the famous film to the tune of Céline Dion’s greatest hits. Also check out the Casino’s schedule, which features a full lineup of events throughout the year. 

Theater lovers can also catch Bébé d'Hull, a local production that celebrates Gatineau’s identity with humor and sensitivity.

For a more intimate atmosphere, check out the lineup at the Minotaure, which hosts a host of up-and-coming artists and performers from the Quebec scene.

Music lovers will also find something to enjoy at the Terrasse du Square. Every Tuesday, Open Mic nights invite singers, musicians, comedians, and up-and-coming artists to take the stage in a relaxed atmosphere. On Thursdays, it’s time for Jeudis Jazz, where musicians from the regional scene offer free outdoor concerts.

Over at Bar 7, music also takes center stage with a free lineup featuring Latin Thursdays, Rythmik nights on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as special events during long weekends. 

Feel like a good laugh? Comedy Wednesdays at the Troquet promise some great discoveries, 

Throughout the month, several cultural organizations also offer activities that let you discover local traditions. Whether you’re participating in a djembe evening, a workshop, or a Les journées de la culture activity, September is a great opportunity to meet the artists and artisans who bring the culture of the Outaouais to life.

On September 11, families and expectant parents are invited to the Mamatinée Gatineau. More than 50 local businesses will be there to showcase their products, services, and advice for babies, young children, and their parents. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses, connect with other families, and make new discoveries.

Whether you’re into running, cycling, dancing, or mountain biking, September is the perfect month to get active in the Outaouais.

On September 5, join the Course en couleurs in Saint-André-Avellin. Open to all ages, this family-friendly event offers 2.5 km, 5 km, or 10 km routes—walk or run. Along the way, stations with colored powder will turn your athletic challenge into a real celebration.

On September 6, take on a new challenge at the Grit & Grind Trail Race: Camp Fortune Edition. Trail running enthusiasts can enjoy the magnificent scenery of Camp Fortune while pushing their limits on courses suited to different skill levels.

On September 16 and 17, cheer on the world’s top female cyclists at the Tour de Gatineau, North America’s largest women’s cycling event sanctioned by the International Cycling Union (UCI). You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere in Old Hull throughout the event.

On September 19, let yourself be swept away by the retro atmosphere of Swing on the Hill. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, take advantage of this free event on Parliament Hill to learn a few swing steps, dance to the beats of the DJs, and enjoy a festive evening inspired by the 1920s through the 1940s.

From September 25 to 27, mountain bike enthusiasts are invited to the Montebello Mountain Bike Festival. Guided rides, athletic challenges, and activities for all skill levels will let you explore the region’s magnificent trails.

Finally, on September 26, take part in the 3rd edition of Courons Gatineau. Starting at Quai-des-Cageux on Jacques-Cartier Street, choose from several distances—ranging from 1 km to 15 km—and enjoy a route along the beautiful waterways in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.

Take advantage of the mild September weather to slow down and savor the pleasures of the season. From culinary discoveries to outdoor activities and moments of relaxation, there’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the remaining sunny days.

For a family outing, head to Parc Oméga, where elk, bison, wolves, and bears roam in an exceptional natural environment. At this time of year, the animals are particularly active, and the emerging colors of fall make the experience even more memorable.

On September 19 and 20, Apothecary - La Fée des Bois opens its doors for its Open House, themed around abundance and harvests. Discover medicinal plants on guided tours, participate in workshops, and enjoy a host of activities for the whole family. 

On September 26, celebrate the harvest at the Marché d'automne, back for its fifth edition. More than 40 vendors, local products, inflatable games, music, and a friendly atmosphere await you there.

Head to Éco-Odyssée Nature Park for the Festival du Coloris Automnal. This free event features face painting for kids, inflatable games, arts and crafts, entertainment, guided hikes, a treasure hunt, and free exploration of the maze.

After a busy day, why not extend the fun by treating yourself to some relaxation at the Nordik Spa Village Chelsea, one of the largest spas in North America? It’s the perfect way to end the day on a high note. 

Take advantage of September’s still-mild temperatures to explore the Outaouais in a new way. Treat yourself to a hike to the Champlain Lookout, one of the most beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Gatineau Park, especially spectacular when the first signs of fall begin to appear.

In the mood for a unique getaway? Hit the road in Marguerite the convertible from Outaouais en Cavale. With a variety of packages to choose from, let yourself be guided as you discover the region’s landscapes, local producers, and must-see attractions.

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Need even more inspiration? Stop by La maison du tourisme for personalized advice or grab your copy of the Official 2026-2027 Outaouais Tourism tourist guide to plan your next getaway based on your interests.