Things to Do in Ottawa This Weekend For International Women's Day (March 7–8, 2026)

Looking for things to do in Ottawa this weekend? Whether you’re searching for free things to do in Ottawa or meaningful Women’s Day events in Ottawa, March 7–8, 2026 offers plenty of ways to connect, unwind, and celebrate.

This weekend is especially meaningful as it coincides with International Women’s Day 2026, making it a perfect time to plan a mother–daughter outing, a girlfriends’ hangout, or a relaxed weekend activity that feels both fun and purposeful.

We compiled a list of some of the best ideas for things to do in Ottawa today, things to do in Ottawa March 7, and things to do in Ottawa March 8 — including free and low-cost options.

1) A Women’s Day Yoga Fundraiser Worth the Drive

If you’re looking to get out of the house and stay warm this women's day, while also doing good for the community, this event is for you! 

MatBloom Presents: Women’s Day Yoga Fundraiser

March 8, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Lanark and District Civitan Hall
2144 Pine Grove Rd, Lanark, ON

Hosted by MatBloom, this all-levels embodied yoga class is taught by Yoga with Aryelle and is designed to be welcoming for beginners and experienced yogis alike. The class focuses on gentle movement, relaxation, and embodied awareness.

• Free to attend (cash donations accepted at the door, $10 recommended)

• 100% of proceeds support Lanark County Interval House

• Bring your own yoga mat

• Open to adults of all experience levels

This event is a great option if you’re searching for:

• Free things to do in Ottawa this weekend

• Free yoga class Carleton Place

• Free yoga class Smiths Falls

• Yoga class Lanark

• Yoga class Kanata or yoga class Stittsville (worth the short drive)

It’s also an ideal mother–daughter activity or a relaxed girlfriends’ hangout — a chance to spend time together while supporting women in the community.

2) International Market in Ottawa

International Women’s Day Market by CATWAO

March 8, 2026 | 12:00–4:30 PM
Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Ave, Ottawa

Hosted by CATWAO, this vibrant International Women’s Day market features 45+ women entrepreneurs showcasing clothing, jewelry, art, food, candles, books, pottery, and more.

This event is ideal if you’re looking for things to do in Ottawa today, women’s day events Ottawa, or a fun girlfriend shopping day. It’s also a great mother–daughter outing, especially for those who love supporting women-owned businesses.

3) Film Night in Perth

International Women’s Day Film Night 

March 2026 (date/time as listed by host)
Studio Theatre Perth

Hosted by CFUW Perth, this event features the National Film Board documentary The Nest, followed by a guest speaker. Tickets are $15 at the door, with all proceeds donated to Lanark County Interval House.

This is a thoughtful option for those looking for things to do in Perth, things to do in Lanark County, or a meaningful mother–daughter or girlfriends’ evening centered on conversation and reflection.

Women’s Day Celebration – Russell

The International Women’s Day 2026 – Journée internationale des femmes event in Russell offers another community-focused way to celebrate women through cultural programming and connection.

This type of event is ideal for people searching for women’s day events near Ottawa or planning a relaxed girlfriends’ meetup outside the downtown core.

National Arts Centre Women’s Day Programming

The National Arts Centre is also hosting special programming in honour of International Women’s Day 2026. These events often highlight women artists, performers, and storytellers.

This is a great choice for those looking for things to do in Ottawa this weekend, especially for a more cultural mother–daughter activity or an evening out with friends.

Free Things to Do in Ottawa This Weekend

If you’re specifically searching for free things to do in Ottawa this weekend for adults, International Women’s Day weekend often includes:

• Free community markets

• Public talks and panels

• Donation-based yoga and wellness classes

• Cultural and artistic programming

These options are perfect for girlfriends getting together or multi-generational outings that don’t require a big budget.

Make It a Women’s Day Weekend

Whether you’re planning a mother–daughter day, a girls’ weekend, or simply looking for free things to do in Ottawa today, International Women’s Day weekend offers meaningful ways to connect.

From embodied yoga and community fundraisers to markets, films, and cultural events, March 7–8, 2026 is full of opportunities to celebrate women, support women-led initiatives, and spend time together — intentionally.