200+ Culture to the Core

A Weekend of Cultural Celebration

Presented by: Ottawa Art Gallery, in collaboration with local artists, cultural partners, and the City of Ottawa

As Ottawa marks 200 years in 2026, the Ottawa Art Gallery invites the public to experience 200+ Culture to the Core, a celebration of art, culture, and community unfolding across the downtown core.

This city-wide initiative brings art beyond the gallery walls through exhibitions, events, performances, workshops, and creative activations in public spaces. Together, these projects explore what 200 years of Ottawa means today, while recognizing the deep histories of this land that long predate the city’s founding.

The “+” in 200+ Culture to the Core honours Indigenous histories, presence, and cultural leadership, acknowledging stories that extend far beyond 200 years and continue to shape this place.

Throughout the year, OAG will collaborate with local artists and cultural partners to animate Ottawa’s core, amplify diverse voices, and create inclusive, meaningful experiences for residents and visitors alike. Through commissions, participatory projects, and community engagement, artists play a central role in shaping this historic moment.

200+ Culture to the Core celebrates Ottawa as a dynamic creative capital and looks ahead to the future of arts and culture in the city, building connections, fostering collaboration, and investing in creative futures.

Stay tuned for upcoming announcements featuring new partnerships, projects, and events as part of 200+ Culture to the Core.