Ottawa Sound and Light Show

It’s a summer’s evening sometime in July, August or early September.

It’s been a hot day, and nightfall has brought welcome relief from the sometimes humid summer weather and you are looking for something different to do in Ottawa, Ontario Canada.

Consider taking in the Ottawa Sound and Light Show on Parliament Hill in downtown Ottawa.

What is the Sound and Light show in Ottawa?

The very talented people at Ottawa’s NCC have created an experience you won’t forget. It’s the story of Canada presented via sound and music and with giant images projected onto the Parliament Buildings.

There are two 30 minute shows every night in July, August and in early September, weather permitting.

The organizers caution that the Sound and Light Show may be cancelled if there is bad weather.

What cost to attend the Parliament Sound and Light Show?

Just show up! There is no admission charge.

There are bleacher seats available, which are set up every night for the show, and then removed before the changing of the guard next morning.

Many of the folks that I saw brought their own lawn type chairs, so they didn’t have to worry about getting a bleacher seat.

And, unless you deliberately stand behind an obstruction, there are no bad seats. This is a huge outdoor theatre with the Parliament Buildings as the screen. Awesome!

Any nearby parking?

I do want to caution you that parking is limited and expensive if you try to leave your car anywhere adjacent to the Parliament Hill. All the more reason to stay in a hotel within walking distance of most of Ottawa’s sites, or take the very affordable and comfortable OC Transpo, or a cab.

What time is the Sound & Light Show?

In July and early August the shows are at 9:30 and 10:30 pm respectively.

In later August and for the September shows, the hours are 9:00 and 10:00 pm.

The shows are presented in English and French.

It’s quite a magical experience, and what a venue. You’re only a few minute’s walk down to the dozens of restaurants and pubs at the  famous Byward Market  so you can combine and some excellent no-charge entertainment with a late night supper!

Each year the start and end date of the Ottawa Sound and Light show changes, so do check with their website for updates: canadascapital.gc.ca

Take in the Ottawa Sound And Light Show (the Spectacle Son et Lumiere in French) and enjoy part of what makes Ottawa a really Capital City To Visit!

Comments and candid photos about your Ottawa Sound & Light Show experience are welcome.