Get up, up, and away this summer

Image taken by Ian Dooley

Hold your horses it's not Fall just yet! Put away your scarves, flannel, and pumpkin spice lattes—we still have more of the summer season left to enjoy. These final summer events will get you sky high with excitement, end your summer with a blast and check them out!

Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (FMG)

Get your head in the clouds—literally! The Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (FMG) returns August 29 - September 2 at Parc de la Baie, Gatineau, Quebec. The festival is a quick drive away from Ottawa and overlooks the Ottawa River.

The festival features fun activities for attendees of all ages, from kids to adults. You can find an amusement park, a dazzling firework display, two types of car shows, a silent DJ, early-hours yoga, and experience a hot air balloon ride.

Kid-less adults can also enjoy a VIP section, with a viewing area for the hot air balloon lift-off, gourmet meals, cocktails, and live performances.

You don't want to miss out on this once in a lifetime event!

Nokia Sunday Bike Day

Instead of driving around, experience Ottawa on two-wheels! Every Sunday morning until Sep. 1, parkways in Ottawa and Quebec are closed to motor vehicles and open to cyclists, in-line skaters, runners and pedestrians. Appreciate Ottawa's natural pathways and scenic views.

From 9 AM - 1 PM, visitors can find bike rentals, water stations, and quick fix booths offered at any one of the parkways. Take the opportunity to explore the Capital Region in an environmentally-friendly way!

Cirque du Soleil: Alegria

Until September 1, experience a show like no other with Cirque du Soleil's Alegria show. Alegria returns reimagined and bigger and better than ever before.

Created in 1994, Cirque du Soleil's Alegria was on the most popular touring shows in its time. After a decade hiatus, the show is revived and revamped while telling its timeless story. "Alegria in a New Light"  takes place Under the Big Top, on the Zibi Site, in Gatineau, Quebec—only a 13-minute drive from Ottawa's city centre. Buy your tickets today!

While making the most of your final days of summer, be sure to make Best Western Ottawa City Centre your choice accommodation. Experience the luxury the city has to offer then relax in a clean, comfortable bed at an affordable price. Book your stay today!