Ottawa Weather in September
September Climate Overview
September offers warm days, cool nights, and blue skies — arguably Ottawa's best weather for outdoor activities. Fall foliage begins in Gatineau Park by mid-to-late month and farmers' markets overflow with harvest produce.
Source: Environment Canada Climate Normals 1991–2020 (Ottawa City station)
What to Expect
- Beautiful transition — warm days, cool nights, blue skies
- Fall foliage begins in Gatineau Park by mid-to-late September
- University return brings city energy
- Farmers' markets abundant with harvest produce
Things to Do in September
- CityFolk Festival (Sept 17–20, 2026): music festival at Lansdowne
- Fall Rhapsody begins — colour tours in Gatineau Park
- Hiking: Champlain Lookout, King Mountain, Luskville Falls
- Cycling — arguably the best cycling weather of the year
- Apple picking at Chalmers Orchard, McMillen's Apple Farm
- Ottawa Farmers' Markets — fall harvest peak
What to Wear
Weather Tips for Visitors
- !September weather is highly variable — pack a range of layers
- !Morning fog along the Ottawa River — beautiful for photography
- !UV is lower but still worth sunscreen on sunny days
Seasonal Highlights
- CityFolk Festival: top national and international acts
- Fall Rhapsody: Gatineau Park's colour show begins
- Apple and harvest festivals in the Ottawa Valley
September in Ottawa — FAQ
What is the weather like in Ottawa in September?
September in Ottawa has an average high of 21.1°C and low of 10.1°C. September offers warm days, cool nights, and blue skies — arguably Ottawa's best weather for outdoor activities. Fall foliage begins in Gatineau Park by mid-to-late month and farmers' markets overflow with harvest produce.
What should I wear in Ottawa in September?
For September in Ottawa (21.1°C avg high), pack: Layers: T-shirt + light sweater + medium jacket, Rain jacket, Comfortable walking/hiking shoes, Light scarf for cool evenings. September weather is highly variable — pack a range of layers
Is September a good time to visit Ottawa?
September is mild in Ottawa with 186 hours of sunshine. Top activities include: CityFolk Festival (Sept 17–20, 2026): music festival at Lansdowne; Fall Rhapsody begins — colour tours in Gatineau Park; Hiking: Champlain Lookout, King Mountain, Luskville Falls.
Does it snow in Ottawa in September?
No, Ottawa does not typically receive snow in September. Monthly precipitation averages 87 mm, falling as rain.
What events happen in Ottawa in September?
Key events in September: CityFolk Festival: top national and international acts. Fall Rhapsody: Gatineau Park's colour show begins. Apple and harvest festivals in the Ottawa Valley. CityFolk Festival & Fall Rhapsody.
