parliament buildings ottawa tour

Parliament Hill free tours and programming

Parliament Hill is one of Canada’s most iconic sites and a must-see when visiting Canada’s capital. The historic, neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings stand tall on a hill overlooking the majestic Ottawa River in downtown Ottawa. And although the buildings are home to the country’s federal government (Prime Minister Justin Trudeau works there), visitors are welcome on-site for free tours and programming all year-long. Whether you visit Parliament Hill for a selfie, for a tour, or to experience one of the many free events, you’ll never run out of things to discover!

Visitors can take free guided tours the Parliament Buildings.

• House of Commons (West Block on Parliament Hill):  From 2010 to 2018, traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technologies were used to create a greener, fully accessible and barrier-free West Block. One of the spectacular new spaces is the glass-roofed structure built into the courtyard. The new state-of-the-art, underground Visitor Welcome Centre (located between West Block and Centre Block) is the tour starting point, and also houses the Parliamentary Boutique.
• Senate (Senate of Canada Building):  This Beaux-Arts-style building has a storied past and beautiful architecture: Originally built as Ottawa’s train station in 1912 (the same year as the Fairmont Château Laurier which is located directly across the street), it later became the Government Conference Centre. It was rehabilitated to temporarily house the Senate in part due to its convenient location just one block from Parliament Hill.
• Parliament - The Immersive Experience:  This innovative experience allows you to explore the main Parliament Building, also known as Centre Block. This is a 360 degree multimedia self-guided exhibition that lasts approximately 45 minutes. 

Tours of these new locations are subject to Parliamentary activity and all tour participants must go through security screening, similar to an airport.

Online reservations system

You can  reserve tickets online  for guided tours of the House of Commons and the Senate. The online booking system shows real-time availability and allows advanced reservations. Reservations are also available on a first-come-first-serve basis at the door of each location, dependent on ticket availability.

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Services and information

Tours inside canada’s parliament.

Discover the history, functions and art of Canada’s Parliament with a guided tour of the interior of the Parliament buildings, or explore one of the self-guided options.

Discover Parliament Hill

Explore Parliament Hill’s beautiful grounds and monuments with a guided or self-guided tour.

Live debates

Watch proceedings in the Senate and the House of Commons, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Carillon concerts

Discover a unique musical experience: the 53 bells of the Peace Tower Carillon.

Winter Lights Across Canada

Experience the hundreds of thousands of multi-coloured lights that brighten the national capital and other wintery capitals across Canada during the holiday season.

Canada's Parliamentary Precinct

Learn about the rehabilitation and the day-to-day operations of Canada's parliamentary buildings and grounds.

Use of Parliament Hill for events

Check the guidelines and apply to hold an event on Parliament Hill.

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Ottawa: 4 official and free tours of the Parliament of Canada

Last updated: 02/20/2024

Check out the free tours available to explore the Parliament of Canada's interior while the massive, multi-year renovation is underway.

THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

As a Parliamentary Federal Constitutional Monarchy, the Canadian State has a bicameral legislature, divided into the Upper House (Senate) and the Lower House (equivalent to the Chamber of Deputies and also called the House of Commons). The beautiful buildings of the Parliament of Canada were built in neo-Gothic style, between 1859 and 1876, on a hill known as Parliament Hill , located on the banks of the Ottawa River. The site was originally home to a military base and began to develop as a government district after Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as her capital.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

Located on Parliament Hill and surrounded by beautiful statues, monuments and memorials , the main building is known as “ Center Block ” and the side buildings like “ East Block " and " West Block “. In 1927, Parliament gained a central tower, known as Peace Tower (Peace Tower), a tower about 92.2 meters high that houses the Canadian flag. In the Center Block there is also a beautiful library, known as Library of Parliament .

The grassy area in front of Parliament always hosts events such as public ceremonies, political events and national celebrations. There is also the Centennial Flame (Centenary Flame), which was lit in 1966 to begin celebrations of Canada's 100th birthday. Just below the Centennial Flame, there is a reflecting pool that never freezes due to the temperature of the fire.

RENOVATIONS AT THE CENTER BLOCK

Since 2002, the Canadian government has been working on an extensive Center Block renovation project that began in 2018 and which should be completed between 2030 and 2031 (or later)! This is the largest and most ambitious heritage rehabilitation project ever seen in Canada. Because of this, the main areas of the building are closed, including the official rooms of the Senate and House of Commons, the Peace Tower and the beautiful Library. Therefore, visitations to Parliament had to be changed, as the two Chambers were moved to nearby buildings while renovations are underway.

HOW TO JOIN CANADA PARLIAMENT TOURS

Although all tours are free, you must reserve a time in advance via official site . Tours are available in English and French at various times each day for a limited number of people in each group. Choose the day, which tour you want to participate in, the language, the time and the number of tickets. You must enter your email to add to the cart before completing the reservation. Once completed, you will receive an email with ticket codes. They needed to be shown on the day of the visit to an employee on your cell phone, tablet or even printed.

4 TOURS IN THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

Due to the reforms, visits to Parliament were divided into 4 free tours distinct, each of which begins in a different location. The four available tours can be seen below and are located on the interactive map. Then see details about each of them.

• House of Commons (West Block)
• Senate of Canada
• Parliament: The Immersive Experience

1. HOUSE OF COMMONS (WEST BLOCK)

The tour of the House of Commons begins in the new Visitor Center , located on the left side of the Parliament Center Block before heading towards the West Block through a tunnel during the guided tour.

After passing through security, go down the escalators to wait for the guide to call the group in the language and time you chose. There are sofas to sit on and wait for the tour time and there are also bathrooms and a gift shop.

The guide will lead the group through a tunnel that connects the Visitor Center to the West Block, where the House of Commons meets during the renovation period. Just like in the British Parliament, government and opposition parliamentarians face each other. The building that temporarily shelters The House of Commons has relatively modern architecture, with stone walls, a glass ceiling and wooden furniture. Our guide provided a series of interesting information and historical data about the parliament. Our guide was very fun, made several funny jokes and made the tour very interesting and light.

• Address:  111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6, Canada (entrance via new Visitor Center)

2. EAST BLOCK

Crossing the lawn of Parliament Hill Square, you reach the East Block . The building is much older than the previous one, as there are preserved historical offices there. There is no space to wait inside the place, and access is only possible during the tour.

You also need to go through security, with metal detectors and searches of bags and backpacks. The tour group is much smaller because space is more limited. During the tour, 4 historical rooms are visited. Are they:

I. OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GENERAL

The Governor General is the representative of the British monarch in Canada. The former grand office was restored to reflect the period around 1872. At that time, the Governor General and visiting royalty accessed the East Block through a special entrance, and a red-carpeted staircase led to the room.

• TIP! Currently, the Governor General's residence is in Rideau Hall (1 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A1, Canada) which can also be visited free of charge.

II. OFFICE OF SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD

In 1867, Sir John A. Macdonald was formally convened by Lord Charles Monck, 4th Viscount Monck and the then governor-general, in order to form the first government of the Canadian Confederation. He was the 1st Prime Minister of Canada  from 1867 until 1873, and again between 1878 and 1883. The office had large Gothic stained glass windows, an elegant, colorful ceiling, and a large oak door. Despite the large windows, Macdonald still needed gas lamps to operate after sunset. Several office furniture are original from the 19th century. The double table and sofa are original.

III. OFFICE OF SIR GEORGE-ÉTIENNE CARTIER

Before Confederation, Sir George-Étienne Cartier served as co-Prime Minister with Sir John A. Macdonald for Canada East in the Union government. The two men became great friends and leaders of the Confederation movement. Cartier was Canada's first minister of militia and defense in 1872. His office was one of six built in the same style and had large Gothic windows and beautiful furniture and was painted in rich colors exemplifying the Victorian era. Every prime minister from Sir Wilfrid Laurier to Pierre Trudeau has used this room . Over that time, its colors and furnishings have been changed to reflect current tastes. The room was vacated in the 1970s. It has since been restored as in the past. Gas lamps, coal fireplaces and beautiful drapes decorate the historic room.

IV. PRIVY COUNCIL CHAMBER

For more than 100 years, the Cabinet met at the Privy Council Chamber to make decisions that would shape the course of Canadian history. During construction, great care was taken in creating the ornate woodwork and moldings that surround the Chamber. The walls were covered with gold-patterned wallpaper. The bookshelves, window drapes, and impressive gas chandelier were very ornate. As the Cabinet grew, the Chamber underwent changes, a larger round table was placed in the room and a chandelier with electric light replaced the old chandelier. The vibrant colors of the walls were repainted white to reflect changing tastes. The Cabinet ended up moving to the Central Block and, in 1966, rehabilitation work began on the old Chamber. Using historic photographs, paint samples and archival documents to determine the correct colors and finishes, fabrics and materials, every effort has been made to faithfully recreate the Chamber as it appeared in 1872.

• Address:  111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6, Canada

3. SENATE OF CANADA

The Upper Chamber, more popularly known as Senate , is temporarily housed in the building built at the beginning of the 20th century that housed Ottawa's old train station and which until recently served as the Government Conference Center. It is located right next to one of the most famous points in the city, the Rideau Canal.

The building is beautiful inside! As soon as you pass through security, you will see a monumental Beaux-Arts style hall with light in the center that has been restored to remember the building's history.

The highlight of the tour is the Senate Room, also known as the “Red Chamber”, which, like the Upper House of the British Parliament, is decorated in red tapestry. Just like the previous buildings, you must go through security before the tour. Therefore, you need to arrive in advance to avoid delays. TIP! One interesting thing we learned during the tour is that the position of senator in Canada is for life.

• Address:  2 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4, Canada

4. PARLIAMENT: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

Since the main Parliament building, the Center Block, is closed for renovations, it's a good idea to check out the Parliament: The Immersive Experience , an innovative experience that includes an exhibition and a 360° multimedia show that lasts around 45 minutes. This immersive experience takes place on a single floor, accessible to wheelchairs and service animals. There are limited seating spaces. Unlike other tours that are led by a specialized guide, this tour is self-guided, although it has an appointment, and is divided into two parts.

• PART 1: Lasting approximately 25 minutes, the first part of the visit is an exhibition, with interactive and multimedia displays that allow you to freely wander and discover the role of the Parliament of Canada and its history.
• PART 2: The second half of the tour, lasting approximately 20 minutes, is an impressive 360° multimedia show that takes visitors to the different rooms of the Parliament building virtually. The show is presented in English and French.
• Address:  211 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5B9, Canada

TIPS FOR ATTENDING TOURS AT THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA

• Book tickets in advance to guarantee your desired day and time. Each tour has specific tickets and booking one of them does not automatically entitle you to the others. If you want to do all 4 tours, make reservations for each of them.
• You can book tickets for up to 9 people at the same time. For groups of 10 or more people, visit this link .
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes because you will have to stand and walk for a long time.

• Use the bathroom before tours as there are no stops during the tour.
• It is prohibited to take food and drinks (except water) during the tours.
• It is not permitted to bring bags, suitcases or very large luggage.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early to the tour location as you will need to go through security with a metal detector.

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NIAGARA FALLS

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OTTAWA/GATINEAU

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QUEBEC CITY

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ARE YOU GOING TO TRAVEL? SCHEDULE YOUR TRIP HERE!

  hotel reservation :  use the  booking.com to book your accommodation,   car rental : get a quote at  rentcars   and check the price at the main rental companies in the world,   tickets & tours :  buy tickets to the world's top attractions online with get your guide ,   tickets & tours :  buy tickets for tours and guided tours online at civitatis ,   sports events tickets :  buy tickets to major us sporting events online with hellotickets ,   travel insurance :  quote with the  promo insurance  for different plans and destinations. use code "viajonarios5" to guarantee 5% off,   train in europe :  buy your train tickets at the best prices at  trainline ,   international cell phone chip  with the easysim4u  and leave with the chip working  before travelling,   purchase of foreign currency with the best exchange rates with exchange now , related articles more from the author.

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Visit the Senate of Canada building

Welcome to the senate of canada building.

Curious about the Senate’s role in Parliament? Attracted by architecture? Tempted by time travel? Then come and explore the temporary home of the Red Chamber! Gaze up at the historic vaulted ceiling of the grand foyer, or marvel at the modern artworks that transform walls into expansive landscapes. Then sit on a century-old train bench and be transported to the Age of Steam in what was once among Canada’s marquee train stations. There’s something for everyone at the Senate of Canada Building.

Plan your visit

Free guided tour.

The Library of Parliament offers free guided tours of the Senate of Canada Building and other parts of Parliament Hill. Friendly, knowledgeable guides can hold you spellbound in English and French.

BOOK YOUR TOUR

Contact information

Senate of Canada Building 2 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4

Fully accessible

Barrier-free path of travel throughout the building

Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-800-267-7362

Getting here

Public transit.

Take the O-Train Line 1 to Rideau Station. Take the Rideau Centre exit and walk through the mall to the doors at Rideau Street and Colonel By Drive. Cross Colonel By Drive to get to the Senate of Canada. Several bus routes also serve this area; please check the OC Transpo website for the most up-to-date information. Coming from Gatineau? Visit the Société de transport de l’Outaouais to find out how best to get to downtown Ottawa.

Paid parking is available at a number of nearby locations, including the Rideau Centre , the World Exchange Plaza , the National Arts Centre and Ottawa City Hall .

On-site facilities

Free and secure lockers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is also a space to hang coats and leave strollers so you can explore in comfort.

Accessible washrooms

The Senate is equipped with accessible washrooms. Washrooms are also outfitted with baby-changing stations so even the newest members of your family won’t miss out.

Bottle-filling station

Bottle-filling stations and drinking fountains are available to quench your thirst and cut down on plastic.

What to expect when you arrive

The Senate of Canada belongs to all Canadians. It’s also a busy workspace for senators, other dignitaries and parliamentary staff. As such, you can expect to pass through a brief security screening on your way in and some parts of the building may be off limits. But don’t worry! Courteous staff and helpful signage are there to make your visit smooth and memorable.

1. Information points

A parliamentary guide kiosk stands outside the Senate of Canada Building. Staff can assist with tours, directions and information.

Friendly and professional Parliamentary Protective Service officers are posted throughout the building. They are pleased to assist you during your visit. (Photo credit: Parliamentary Protective Service)

Information desk

An information desk staffed by parliamentary guides is in the Senate foyer. That’s where you’ll meet your guide if you’re taking a tour.

2. Security screening

All visitors must go through security screening. This short video will let you know what to expect.

So much to see and do

Welcome! Now that you’re inside, here are some of things you can do to make your visit a success.

Self-guided interpretation

While waiting for your guided tour, you can choose your own adventure. Artworks, temporary exhibits and other interesting features are labelled to explain their significance. For even more information — as well as photos and videos — grab your phone and go to SenCAplus , the Senate’s digital magazine.

If the Senate is sitting, you can watch senators in action from the fully accessible public galleries. You will be required to go through a short secondary screening to enter the galleries. Once inside, simultaneous interpretation in English and French is available in audio and visual formats.

Public galleries in Senate Chamber

At this time, the public has access to the gallery spaces during the time the Senate is sitting; visitors are admitted one hour before the sitting begins. Visitors are required to go through an electronic inspection station and will be asked to leave certain items with the attendant before entering the galleries (e.g. phones, cameras, overcoats, briefcases, papers). Under the normal sitting schedule, visitors are allowed into the galleries:

Tuesdays , from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays , from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays , from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

This information is subject to change. Visit the Senate’s Calendars & Events page for up-to-date information on Senate sitting times.

Brochures and booklets

Take some souvenirs home to help you remember what you’ve seen and heard. A suite of brochures is available free of charge. Learn about how senators are strong and principled voices in our parliamentary democracy, find out how a bill becomes law or delve into the history of the Senate of Canada Building. For kids, there’s an activity book and a lovingly illustrated fable of how the Senate came to be.

Picture this

From a commanding view of the Senate foyer to the original doors of Centre Block’s Senate antechamber, the Senate of Canada Building’s stunning features make for compelling photos. Show off your photography skills and everything you’ve experienced, then tag #SenCA on your social media so the whole world can see! Should you attend a Senate sitting in the public galleries, please note that photography is not permitted in the Senate Chamber during debates.

Take a virtual tour

Can’t make it to Ottawa in person? Visit the Senate of Canada Building from the comfort of home with a virtual tour. Then check out the virtual tour of Centre Block, the Senate’s permanent home, while Centre Block is being rehabilitated.

Discover the Senate of Canada Building

Read up on the history of what was once Ottawa’s central train station. Narrowly saved from the wrecking ball, it also spent decades as a conference centre before it was restored and renewed as the Senate’s temporary home. (Photo credit: Library and Archives Canada)

New 'immersive' exhibit gives visitors a virtual peek inside Parliament

$2.8-million attraction showcases centre block during decade-long renovation.

Virtual Parliament tours stand in for real thing during renovations

Social sharing.

The Library of Parliament has launched a new virtual tour of Parliament Hill to give visitors a glimpse of the Commons and Senate chambers while they're being renovated.

A trip to Parliament is an essential stop for many visitors to Canada's capital. But far fewer people have had the opportunity since December 2018, when the historic home of the House of Commons and Senate closed for a decade of extensive renovations.

Even members of Parliament elected since 2019 have only ever worked in the temporary House of Commons chamber located next door in West Block.

Now, the Library of Parliament is hoping to give the public a feel for the building and its chambers with a new exhibit called "Parliament: The Immersive Experience."

"We knew there'd be a whole generation of Canadians and visitors to Canada that may never have a chance to walk through those doors into Centre Block, such a historic building in Canada's history," said Renee Asselin, a senior project officer with the Library of Parliament.

"It's an opportunity for Canadians to connect with Parliament … [with] why it's important in our lives, and to understand that there are things that happen in those buildings that affect us on a day-to-day basis."

The first stop on the tour is a museum-style room with dioramas and interactive displays exploring the role of Canada's Parliament and its history. Curators say they hope it will prepare visitors for the second half of the exhibit — when they're taken into a large, dark room with 360-degrees of video projection for a virtual tour of Centre Block.

The tour takes visitors through the limestone arches from the Hall of Honour and past the Library of Canada — with its majestic white marble statue of Queen Victoria — the Senate and the House of Commons, all positioned just as they are in the real world.

• Photos Take a peek at Canada's largest-ever heritage restoration project
• The big cover-up: Centre Block to be draped with 'trompe l'oeil' wrap during work

While the narrated video tour highlights the stunning architectural details, it also touches on some of the darker events and issues parliamentarians have grappled through the decades — including two world wars, the Chinese head tax and residential schools.

"A lot of the subject matter is perhaps not as majestic as the experience itself, but [it] still forms Canada's history," Asselin said. "It's important that we continue to discuss those things and bring them to the forefront to allow us to continue to speak about them and ensure that our history is represented in [the] way that it occurred over the years.

The Library of Canada pegs the cost of this new exhibition at $2.8 million and says it can accommodate up to 200,000 people each year — still short of the approximately 350,000 visitors Parliament received yearly before Centre Block closed to the public.

Guided tours of the Senate Building and the current House of Commons in West Block are still offered, but only on days Parliament isn't sitting.

As with the guided tours on the Hill, visitors book free tickets for the immersive experience in either French or English. The video portion also operates with sign language and closed captioning.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah covers Parliament Hill as a field producer and journalist for CBC News and frequently travels across the country and around the world covering news events. She works as a pool producer for Canadian TV when the prime minister travels internationally. Before joining the political bureau in 2018, Sarah worked at CBC News in Toronto for more than a decade. You can reach her at [email protected] or @iamsas on Twitter.

Peace Tower

Ottawa Canada Visitor Information and Guide

The Peace Tower is one of Canada's most emblematic symbols.  Visitors to Ottawa can climb the historic tower and enjoy a spectacular view of the city.

If you visit Parliament Hill between September and June, you can enjoy a carillon performance from noon until 12:15 on weekdays. There is a one hour recital beginning at 11 AM during the summer months.

The Peace Tower Carillon was inaugurated on Canada Day (July 1) in 1927.  It was built to commemorate the Armistice of 1918 and Canada's 60th anniversary of Confederation.  The carillon has 53 bells.

Visitors wising to visit the Peace Tower only must obtain a ticket in advance.  The free passes are available at 90 Wellington Street in Ottawa on a first-come first-serve basis.

Tickets are not required if you visit the centre block on a guided tour.

• Visit Parliament Visit
• Français FR

Visit the Senate of Canada

• Senate Tours
• House of Commons Tours
• East Block Tours
• Immersive Experience

What's happening in Ottawa this weekend: May 3-5

CTVNewsOttawa.ca looks at things to do in Ottawa during the first weekend of May.

Walk in the tulips

The tulips are starting to bloom across Ottawa.

The National Capital Commission has planted close to one million tulips across the region, featuring 100 varieties in 120 beds at 30 sites.

The top places to see the tulips are:

• Commissioners Park
• Along the Rideau Canal
• Major's Hill Park
• Confederation Boulevard

CN Cycle for CHEO

The CN Cycle for CHEO is set for Sunday, raising money for programs and research for oncology patients at CHEO.

The fun, non-competitive event offers a wide range of cycling and walking routes for people of all ages and abilities.

For more information, visit www.cncycle.ca

Tim McGraw brings the "Standing Room Only Tour" to Canadian Tire Centre Friday night.

Special guests Carly Pearce and Abby Anderson will join McGraw for the concert.

For tickets, visit  www.ticketmaster.ca.

Happy Birthday goes out to @TheTimMcGraw ! 🥳 We can't wait to see you on Friday! pic.twitter.com/YV16MNBidD

The Links at Lansdowne

Tee it up this weekend at Lansdowne.

The Links at Lansdowne is back on Friday and Saturday, allowing you to golf inside TD Place. Show off your accuracy with a variety of greens on the field, ranging from 60 to 110 yards.

For more information, visit  https://www.tdplace.ca/event/the-links-at-lansdowne-stadium-golf/

Atletico Ottawa

Atletico Ottawa hosts Valour FC on Sunday.

Game time is 2 p.m. at TD Place.

Atletico Ottawa will be hosting Cinco de Mommy Celebrations, spicing up the Cinco de Mayo fiesta with Mother's Day activities.

For tickets, visit  https://atleticoottawa.canpl.ca/

National Arts Centre

Here is a list of events at the NAC this weekend:

• Friday and Saturday: NAC English Theatre presents Rose in the Machine
• Saturday: Walk off the Earth with MICO
• Sunday: Spring Craft Market (free admission)
• Sunday: Gimeno and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra with Emily D'Angelo

For tickets, visit  http://www.nac-cna.ca .

Lansdowne Farmers' Market

The Lansdowne Farmers' Market is open this weekend.

Visit the vendors at the Aberdeen Pavilion on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hi #Ottawa ! The Outdoor Farmers' Market Season launches THIS SUNDAY, May 5th at Lansdowne! Find us under our tents from 9am-3pm with fresh seasonal produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, plants, prepared food, and more -- all produced locally! #MyOttawa pic.twitter.com/2y3yHnAwNl

Cinco de Mayo

Celebrate the spirit of Mexico in the ByWard Market this weekend.

The market is hosting Cinco de Mayo celebrations all weekend, featuring live musical performances, tacos and authentic Mexican street food.

Admission is free.

The event runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The Ottawa Clay Festival

The work of over 30 artists will be on display this weekend at the Ottawa Clay Festival.

There will also be a kid's clay area inside the Horticulture Building at Lansdowne.

For more information, visit  http://www.ottawaguildofpotters.ca/ottawa-clay-festival/ .

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Ottawa Guild of Potters (@ottawapotters)

Orleans Poutinefest and Street Food Frenzy

Choose from over 100 delicious poutine combinations this weekend at the Orleans Poutinefest and Street Food Frenzy.

There will also be a kid's zone, games, live music and a new bevvy garden.

The festival is at the Centrum Plaza on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Les Petits Ballets presents Snow White on Friday and Saturday at the Meridian Theatres at Centrepointe.

For tickets, visit  http://www.meridiancentrepointe.com/en/snow-white .

Click on the links for the schedule at museums in Ottawa and eastern Ontario:

• Canadian Museum of Nature
• Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
• Canada Science and Technology Museum
• Canada Aviation and Space Museum
• Canadian War Museum
• Canadian Museum of History
• National Gallery of Canada
• Ottawa Art Gallery

The Canadian Forces Artists Program

The Canadian War Museum hosts the Canadian Forces Artists Program – Group 9 until Sept. 2.

Experience the creative reflections on war and conflict of four civilian artists chosen to deploy with the Canadian Forces during 2018 and 2019.

Bug Adventure

The Canadian Museum of Nature presents Bug Adventure until Oct. 14.

This larger-than-life exhibition is from the design team behind The Lord of the Rings and Avatar.

You must get a ticket combo to visit the exhibition.

Parliament of Canada Tours

Enjoy a free, guided tour of the Senate at the Senate of Canada Building the House of Commons in the West Block and the East Block.

For tickets and tour times, visit  https://rts.parl.ca/ .

Parliament: The Immersive Experience

Explore the main Parliament Building, also called Centre Block, in this new innovative experience.

Parliament: The Immersive Experience at 211 Sparks Street includes an exhibition and a 360-degree multimedia show that takes you on a tour through Centre Block, which has been closed since 2019.

The self-guided tour is 45 minutes.

Tickets are available at no cost at  visit parl.ca .

Kingston Farmers' Market

The Kingston Memorial Centre Farmers Market is every Sunday.

The market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Memorial Centre.

Kingston Potters' Guild Spring Sale

Over 25 artists will be on display this weekend at the Kingston Potters' Guild Spring Sale.

Discovery pottery both functional and decorative, and don't forget a gift for Mother's Day.

The spring sale runs until Sunday at the Tett Centre in Kingston.

The Juvenis Festival

The Kingston Youth Arts Festival runs until May 12.

The event displays the talents of Kingston youth under the age of 30.

For more information, visit  http://www.juvenisfestival.ca .

Ottawa Top Stories

BREAKING | 15-year-old boy stabbed Thursday in Nepean dies

'It's amazing to see so many people coming together': CN Cycle for CHEO raises record $2.175 million

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'He was the coolest kid': Remembering Griffin Bell ahead of CN Cycle for CHEO

Ctvnews.ca top stories.

Three dead, two hospitalized, following collision in Fredericton: police

Three people have died and two have been hospitalized after a speeding car struck a tree and landed on another vehicle in Fredericton Sunday morning.

Nylander defends Leafs' core after playoff exit, Toronto again picks up the pieces

The Maple Leafs battled back from a 3-1 series deficit against the Boston Bruins with consecutive 2-1 victories - including one that required extra time - in their first-round playoff series to push the club's Original Six rival to the limit before suffering a devastating Game 7 overtime loss.

Amid climate change warnings, Canadians lukewarm on electric vehicles

Amid scientists' warnings that nations need to transition away from fossil fuels to limit climate change, Canadians are still lukewarm on electric vehicles, according to a study conducted by Nanos Research for CTV News.

Montreal man on the hook for thousands of dollars after a feature on his Tesla caused an accident

A Montreal man is warning Tesla drivers about using the Smart Summon feature after his vehicle hit another in a parking lot.

Madonna's biggest-ever concert transforms Rio's Copacabana beach into a massive dance floor

Madonna put on a free concert on Copacabana beach Saturday night, turning Rio de Janeiro's vast stretch of sand into an enormous dance floor teeming with a multitude of her fans.

Mexican authorities say thieves killed 2 Australians and an American to steal their truck

Thieves killed two Australians and an American on a surfing trip to Mexico in order to steal their truck, particularly because they wanted the tires, authorities said Sunday.

1 person killed and 23 injured in a bus crash in northern Maryland, police say

One person was killed and 23 others were injured when a bus crashed early Sunday on Interstate 95 in northern Maryland, police said.

El Nino weakening doesn't mean cooler temperatures this summer, forecasters say

As Canadians brace themselves for summer temperatures, forecasters say a weakening El Nino cycle doesn’t mean relief from the heat.

‘Love has no boundaries’: Sask. couple in their 90s and 80s get married

Eighty-two-year-old Susan Neufeldt and 90-year-old Ulrich Richter are no spring chickens, but their love blossomed over the weekend with their wedding at Pine View Manor just outside of Rosthern.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

13 blackout curtains for anyone who needs complete darkness to fall asleep, 17 practical things for your backyard that you'll want to order immediately, 16 night creams that'll work magic on your skin while you sleep, 17 problem-solving dog products that cost less than $30, 17 backyard decor and furniture pieces you need before summer arrives, if you love reading, i'm fairly certain you'll want to order at least one of these bookworm-approved products, 20 last-minute mother's day gifts from amazon canada that'll arrive on time, 22 of the best mother's day gifts to give in 2024, 17 unique mother's day gifts your mom definitely wants, but probably won’t buy herself, 15 hydrating facial toners that reviewers actually swear by, here are the best retinol serums and treatments you can snag under $50, according to reviewers, 20 affordable amazon beauty and skincare products you'll probably repurchase over and over again, man in custody following weapons-related incident at halifax hotel: police.

A man is in custody after a weapons-related incident at a Halifax hotel Sunday morning.

P.E.I.'s East Pointers lead pack with total of three wins at East Coast Music Awards

P.E.I.'s The East Pointers are multiple winners as the East Coast Music Awards wrapped up today in Charlottetown.

BREAKING | Ontario family says they're 'reeling' after baby, grandparents killed in wrong-way Highway 401 crash in Whitby

An Ontario family says they are 'reeling' in 'profound grief' after losing their three-month-old son and parents visiting from India in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 in Whitby last Monday.

Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews among finalists for NHL Selke Trophy

Toronto Maple Leafs star centre Auston Matthews is a finalist for the NHL's Selke Trophy.

'A tiny city:' Pro-Palestinian campus protesters organize for another week

A group of pro-Palestinian protesters who have set up an encampment at McGill University's downtown Montreal campus say they're better organized and prepared than ever as the protest stretches into a second week.

Montreal organizations say the housing crisis is the leading cause of stress in psychiatric patients

The housing crisis is having a severe impact on tenants' mental health, say organizations calling on Quebec Premier François Legault to take action.

Montreal's Jewish community remembers victims for Yom HaShoah: Holocaust Remembrance Day

On Sunday night, Jewish communities recognize Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, where six candles are lit at a ceremony at the Montreal Holocaust Museum, one for every million Jews killed during the Holocaust.

Northern Ontario

Troubled Black River-Matheson Township, striking workers reach tentative deal

Striking Black River-Matheson workers who have been off the job for more than 200 days have reached a tentative agreement with the town.

Crash closes Hwy 101 in Timmins

Highway 101 East in Timmins is closed in both directions due to a single-vehicle crash.

Man arrested after failing to stop for CKPS, charged with uttering threats to kill

While on patrol Saturday, a Chatham-Kent police officer said their onboard licence plate reader detected a vehicle with an unauthorized licence plate.

Service delivery review for Windsor and Essex County’s Central Housing Registry

The City of Windsor would like to hear about residents’ experiences with the Central Housing Registry (CHR).

REDress Day being recognized in Victoria Park

May 5 is REDress Day, held annually to raise awareness of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two spirit+ people in Canada.

One person faces charges following recent reports of dog attacks near Dorchester

One person is facing charges following an investigation into reports of aggressive dogs at a residence in Thames Centre.

Walk so Kids Can Talk annual fundraiser for Kids Help Phone

The annual BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk supporting Kids Help Phone was held across Canada Sunday.

'It was completely underwater': Cambridge community remembers devastating flood 50 years later

May 17, 1974 started off like any other sunny spring day, but it very quickly turned into a day of disaster.

WRDSB to lay off 106 elementary school teachers

More than 100 teachers at the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) are learning they have been declared surplus will likely be out of a job as of Aug. 12.

Chemical spill could be cause of stinky water in Puslinch, Ont., new report says

People living in Puslinch, Ont. may have the answer to why their water smelled so bad last year.

Hundreds of families take part in Matthews House hike for hospice

The 15th annual Matthews House hike for hospice was held on Sunday.

One person injured in rollover crash in Barrie

One person is in hospital after a single-vehicle rollover in Barrie on Saturday.

Local bakery brings community together for Orthodox Easter

Sunday marked Easter for Orthodox Christians, and in Simcoe County a family run bakery held an event to bring the Orthodox community together.

22-year-old Winkler man charged with manufacturing, possessing illegal weapons: police

A 22-year-old man from Winkler, Man., is facing several charges in connection with a large seizure of weapons, including a homemade cannon.

Remote Manitoba First Nation takes step toward building airport

Leaders gathered in Wasagamack First Nation for a milestone announcement that reaffirmed the provincial government’s campaign promise to build an airport in the community.

Police arrest girls, ages 13 and 14, in northern Manitoba homicide

Two teen girls are in police custody in relation to an alleged homicide in northern Manitoba.

Crews battle 'large' natural gas-fed fire at Marlborough home

Fire crews responded to Marlborough late on Saturday night to battle a blaze that had engulfed a home.

Serious collision impacts traffic along Highway 2A near Aldersyde

Emergency crews are on scene of a serious collision on Highway 7 at 32 Street East in Okotoks.

Calgary blanket rezoning hearings scheduled to continue into third week

The City of Calgary’s hearing on proposed blanket rezoning is scheduled to continue into its third week.

Two suspects arrested following south Edmonton shooting: police

Two suspects were arrested following a shooting in south Edmonton on Saturday night.

Canada's Nurse helps lift Sparks past Storm on home soil in WNBA pre-season action

Canadian Kia Nurse had some nerves entering Saturday's WNBA pre-season contest at Rogers Place.

Police warn 'event' could affect traffic in central Edmonton

An event on Sunday morning is expected to affect traffic in central Edmonton.

Over 250 farm-related power line incidents reported in 2023: SaskPower

SaskPower is reminding farmers to be wary and make safety a priority while operating equipment near power lines.

2024 Saskatchewan Baton Twirling Championships held in Regina

Baton twirlers from across the province competed in Regina over the weekend, trying to qualify for a spot to compete at the Canadian Championships in Oshawa Ont., in July.

Piece of Regina military history makes its way to France

A plane bound for Juno Beach in France took off from the Prairies on Friday with a piece of military history.

Saskatoon Airport hopes for quick resolution as WestJet mechanics' lockout looms

A spokesperson for the Saskatoon Airport said they expect no immediate impact to operations in light of an impending lockout of WestJet mechanics.

Police lay murder charge after Saskatchewan family dispute turns deadly

A 29-year-old Prince Albert man faces a murder charge after a family dispute turned deadly on Saturday.

Dash cam catches moment suspected drunk driver hits parked car, sends it careening into North Shore flower shop

Police say it’s fortunate no one was injured or killed in a collision at North Vancouver’s Park and Tilford shopping centre Saturday evening that sent one vehicle careening into a flower shop and another into a set of concrete barriers outside a Winners store.

Video shows gaggle of geese stopping traffic on Highway 1 near Vancouver

A mother goose and her goslings caused a bit of a traffic jam on a busy stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway near Vancouver Saturday.

B.C. man wants homes for thousands of books he soon won't be able to read

In the 10 years since John William started to lose his vision, he's been finding new ways to enjoy his vast personal library.

Vancouver Island

London Drugs begins 'gradual reopening' on 7th day after cyberattack

Almost a week after all London Drugs stores across Western Canada abruptly closed amid a cyberattack, they began a "gradual reopening" on Saturday.

Princess Anne lays wreath at B.C. veteran's cemetery; receives 21-gun salute

Princess Anne paid tribute to veterans buried at a cemetery in British Columbia today, laying a wreath to honour the more than 2,500 military personnel and family members buried there.

No proof man lied to brother about number of kittens born in litter, B.C. tribunal rules

A man was denied a $5,000 payout from his brother after a B.C. tribunal dismissed his claim disputing how many kittens were born in a litter.

Red dresses to make fashion statement about missing and murdered Indigenous women

Models in uniquely designed red dresses are taking to the runway in British Columbia this weekend to make a powerful fashion statement about missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people.

B.C. breweries take home awards at World Beer Cup

Out of more than 9,000 entries from over 2,000 breweries in 50 countries, a handful of B.C. brews landed on the podium at the World Beer Cup this week.

B.C. man rescues starving dachshund trapped in carrier: BC SPCA

An emaciated dachshund is now recovering thanks to a Good Samaritan who found the pup near a biking trail in Kelowna, according to the BC SPCA.

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Please call the Tour Reservations Office at 613-996-0896 for assistance.

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Only one small bag is permitted per visitor.

Guided tours of the Senate are located at the Senate of Canada Building, one block away from Parliament Hill.

May 5, 2024

East block guided tour tickets — english.

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East Block Guided Tour Tickets — French

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