OBJ Datebook: Start planning your 2026 networking events

Editor's Note

Do you have an event of interest to the business community? Let us know at editor@obj.ca

November

2025 Trees of Hope

What: In support of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, this event brings business and community leaders together to decorate Christmas trees.
When: Nov. 17, with display running until Jan. 6
Where: Fairmont Chateau Laurier, 1 Rideau St., Ottawa
Find out more

Ottawa Christmas Market

What: Support local businesses, enjoy live entertainment and bask in the spirit of the holidays at Ottawa’s holiday market.
When: Nov. 21 to Dec. 31
Where: Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa
Find out more

CHEO Gala

What: This annual black-tie event brings together the city’s business and community leaders to raise awareness and funds for children and youth.
When: Nov. 27, 5:45 p.m.
Where: Fairmont Château Laurier, 1 Rideau St., Ottawa
Find out more

(Sponsored)

Best Ottawa Business Awards (BOBs)

What: The annual award ceremony and gala that celebrates Ottawa’s business leaders.
When: Nov. 28, 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: The Westin Ottawa; 11 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa
Find out more

Dinner Party In A Box

What: Presented by the Snowsuit Fund of Ottawa, enjoy a fine-dining experience in a box, curated by Beckta. This event helps raise money for new, high-quality snowsuits for Ottawa children in need.
When: Nov. 29
Where: Free local delivery, provided by Trexity or Pickup at Beckta between 12-5pm on Gloucester Street
Find out more

December

Ottawa Health Innovation Forum: A New Era of Growth

What: This speaker event will show business and community leaders how major investments are transforming Ottawa into a health innovation and commercialization hub.
When: Dec. 4, 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Where: Bayview Yards, 7 Bayview Station Rd., Ottawa
Find out more

Christmas Cheer Breakfast

What: A fundraiser breakfast in support of families fighting food insecurity during the holiday season.
When: Dec. 5, 7 a.m.
Where: Infinity Convention Centre, 2901 Gibford Dr., Ottawa
Find out more

Mayor’s Breakfast: A Conversation with Prime Minister Mark Carney

What: Join Mayor Mark Sutcliffe for a morning of networking and listen in on an exclusive fireside chat with Prime Minister Mark Carney as they discuss Canada’s economic landscape, government priorities and the path forward for our nation’s capital, offering a unique perspective that bridges national vision with local opportunity.
When: Dec. 8, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Where: To be shared with attendees the day prior to the event.
Find out more

Masquerade Charity Gala for CHEO 2025

What: Put on your finest attire and favourite mask to dance the night away and bid on auction items in support of CHEO.
When: Dec. 12, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: Blu Legacy Convention Centre, 3750 North Bowesville Rd., Ottawa
Find out more

January

GOHBA Breakfast with the Mayor

What: Enjoy a breakfast networking event as Mayor Mark Sutcliffe speaks about housing issues affecting Ottawa.
When: Jan. 8, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Where: Saint Elias Banquet Centre, 750 Ridgewood Ave., Ottawa
Find out more

Ottawa’s Economic Outlook 2026

What:  This event brings together influential voices and decision-makers to share actionable perspectives and strategies to navigate a changing economic landscape while strengthening our shared vision for a thriving Ottawa.
When: Jan. 21, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Rogers Centre Ottawa, 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa
Find out more

Gold Hearts Gala

What: The second annual Mayor’s Ball, this event will bring together community and business leaders as well as Ottawa residents for a gourmet meal, live entertainment, live auction and raffle, all in support of the Ending Youth Homelessness in Ottawa by 2030 Fund.
When: Jan. 23, 6 p.m.
Where: Fairmont Chateau Laurier, 1 Rideau St., Ottawa
Find out more

Canadian Culinary Championship

What: Watch as 10 of Canada’s finest chefs, including Ottawa’s Jason Sawision of Stofa, compete in three culinary competitions to showcase their talents.
When: Jan. 30 and 31
Where: Rogers Centre Ottawa and Collège La Cité
Find out more

February

Hello 2026, Goodbye 2025

What: Hear from local experts as they dive into Ottawa’s housing market trends, forecast 2026 and review the achievements and challenges in 2025.
When: Feb. 12, 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Where: Saint Elias Centre, 750 Ridgewood Ave., Ottawa
Find out more

The Coldest Night of the Year

What: This national event brings the community together for a fundraising walk to support local charities such as The Ottawa Mission, Cornerstone Housing for Women, Youth Services Bureau and more.
When: Feb. 28
Where: Various locations
Find out more

March

SnowBall 2026

What: This annual event promises a night of live music, beauty bars, auctions and multiple chef stations in support of the Snowsuit Fund of Ottawa.
When: March 4
Where: 50 Sussex Dr., Ottawa
Find out more: TBD

International Film Festival of Ottawa

What: Presented by the Canadian Film Institute, this festival shows the best of contemporary Canadian and international films.
When: March 11-22
Where: 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa
Find out more

April

City Building Summit

What: An annual event presented by the Ottawa Board of Trade and OBJ that brings together city-builders to discuss what is on the horizon for Ottawa’s future.
When: April
Where: TBD
Find out more: TBD

Canadian Franchise Association National Convention

What: This event brings together franchise leaders from across Canada, the U.S. and beyond for three days of networking and learning.
When: April 18-20
Where: The Westin Ottawa, 11 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa
Find out more

May

NACO Summit

What: The National Angel Capital Organization Summit brings together delegates from across the innovation ecosystem, including founders, investors and innovation leaders.
When: May 5-7
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa
Find out more

Gala RGA 2026

What: Join the Regroupement des Gens d’Affaires de la capital nationale for its annual gala celebrating the region’s business leaders.
When: May 7, from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Chateau Cartier Hotel & Resort, 1170 chemin d’Aylmer, Gatineau
Find out more

Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend

What: In support of The Ottawa Hospital, join hundreds of other racers in 5K, 10K, half-marathon and marathon races to create a healthier tomorrow.
When: May 23-24
Where: Downtown Ottawa
Find out more

Get our email newsletters

Get up-to-date news about the companies, people and issues that impact businesses in Ottawa and beyond.

Sponsored

Sponsored

OBJ INSIDER HOLIDAY SAVINGS EVENT. See the full story. 

Close the CTA