CaitlinMcKinlay

Your Complete Guide to Watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup in The Glebe

May 14, 2026 by CaitlinMcKinlay

The World Cup is back, and you don’t need a ticket to North America’s biggest football party. The Glebe has you covered.

Introduction

Every four years, the world stops. Offices empty out mid-afternoon, strangers become best friends over a last-minute goal, and the beautiful game takes over every screen in sight. This summer, it’s happening right here in our backyard.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. This marks the third time ever that Canada will be participating. With matches kicking off all summer long, The Glebe is shaping up to be one of Ottawa’s best places to soak it all in.

Whether you’re a lifelong football fanatic or someone who discovers a deep passion for the sport every four years (no judgment), this guide is your go-to for finding the perfect spot in The Glebe to catch the action.

Quick World Cup Primer

Not totally caught up on the tournament? Here’s what you need to know before you pull up a barstool.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the biggest soccer tournament ever played, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 stadiums spread between three host nations. Meaning more drama, more upsets and more excuses to be at your favourite pub on a Wednesday morning.

Canada is in Group B and will open against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12 at BMO Field in Toronto, before travelling west to Vancouver for their remaining fixtures.

One thing to keep in mind: because the tournament is hosted across North American time zones, many group stage matches will kick off in the morning or early afternoon Eastern Time. That means breakfast pints, early lunch spreads and midday crowds are all very much part of the 2026 World Cup experience. Plan accordingly!

The Spots: Bars and Pubs in The Glebe

Glebe Central Pub | 779 Bank Street

The Glebe Central Pub is the official Ottawa home for England’s Viewing Parties during the FIFA World Cup! Come by on June 17, 2026, to watch England’s kick off in Group L at 4 pm. Cheer on some of your favourite players, like Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Marcus Rashford.

Vibe: Neighbourhood Pub, known affectionately as “Ottawa’s Temple of Football”. Best for the Big-Game Atmosphere!
Atmosphere: Cozy, lived-in, locals-and-supporters-club energy
Screen Setup: Multiple TVs throughout the pub (and on the patio) with sound up for marquee fixtures
Food & Drink Highlights: Pub classics, brunch menu (handy for morning kickoffs), and a deep craft beer/whisky list. Patio open 11am to 2am daily.
Reservation Policy: Walk-in for most matches; for official England Viewing Parties and Canada games, call ahead or arrive early.

Jack Astor’s Lansdowne | 425 Marché Way, Unit 101

Jack Astor’s Lansdowne is going all-in on the World Cup. With 40 beers on tap and Ottawa memorabilia on the walls, the Lansdowne flagship is positioning itself as a full-on sports destination for the tournament within restaurant activations, exclusive merch, swag giveaways, and a Michelob-fuelled tournament program. They will also be launching their new summer food and drink menu. 8 new dishes and 10 new drinks!

Vibe: Loud, fun, family –welcome. Best for Mixed Groups!
Atmosphere: High-energy and well-suited to mixed groups (the football fanatic, the reluctant partner, the kid who just wants nachos)
Screen Setup: TVs throughout the dining room and bar; main game on the big screens with sound for marquee fixtures.
Food & Drink Highlights: Brand-new summer Food Feature menu with eight new dishes, plus a new summer drinks menu featuring ten new pours. Pick up an exclusive Soccer Boot beer glass with the purchase of any Michelob product (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Keep an eye out for the in-restaurant draw! Jack’s is giving away two tickets to a Toronto World Cup match (see in restaurant for details).
Reservation Policy: Reservations recommended for Canada matches and weekends.

Local Public Eatery | 826 Exhibition Way, Unit 107

LOCAL is here to make the World Cup extra fun! The Lansdowne pub will show every single match of the tournament with Team Canada games getting top priority, kicking the whole thing off with a World Cup Launch Party on May 24, the same day the FIFA Trophy rolls into Lansdowne Park. Patio open, indoor-outdoor flow at its best, and reservations on a first-come, first-served basis. Diners can also scan an in-restaurant QR code to enter to win a trip for two to a FIFA World Cup knockout-stage match.

Vibe: Neighbourhood public house with a patio-first personality. Best for a relaxed watch!
Atmosphere: Lively but not overwhelming; great for casual viewers, big groups, and post-match hangouts. Bocce and cornhole on the patio, shuffleboard inside.
Screen Setup: TVs across the bar and patio area
Food & Drink Highlights: LOCAL has partnered with Michelob for the full tournament, so expect Michelob to be the featured beer all summer long.
Reservation Policy: First-come, first-served, both indoor and outdoor. Make sure to get there early for the May 24 Launch Party!

The Senate Tavern on Bank | 640 Bank Street

If your World Cup viewing requires a big screen, lots of seating, and a big appetite, The Senate is built for the job. The sports tavern has multiple TV’s, comfortable seating and great food.

Vibe: Sports bar with a neighbourhood friendliness. Best for catching every detail!
Atmosphere: Lots of seating, sound on for the main game (even pumped into the washrooms, so you never miss a goal)
Screen Setup: Lots of TVs inside at every angle
Food & Drink Highlights: Elevated pub menu. Their burgers and the Senate Caesar are the local picks. Plus a strong craft beer selection and rotating specials.
Reservation Policy: Reservations available but walk-ins welcome

Craft Beer Market | 975 Bank Street

With over 100 beers on tap and capacity for around 500 guests, CRAFT is built for big-event days. The room is dramatic, with floor-to-ceiling windows, warm wood accents and the menu is designed to pair with beer (fried chicken, eggs benedict for morning kickoffs, wood-fired pizzas).

Vibe: Lively destination restaurant and craft-beer hall steps from Lansdowne. Best for large groups!
Atmosphere: Buzzy, group-friendly, and well-suited to big crowds without feeling chaotic.
Screen Setup: Multiple screens throughout the dining room and bar
Food & Drink Highlights: Over 100 taps, plus a brunch menu for early kickoffs and Happy Hour daily 2–5 pm and 9 pm to close.
Reservation Policy: Reservations strongly recommended.

Practical Tips for World Cup Viewing in The Glebe

A little preparation goes a long way, especially when half of Ottawa has the same idea as you.

Get there early. For high-profile matches (anything involving Canada) expect venues to fill up well before kickoff. Showing up 30 to 45 minutes ahead is a safe bet. For the bigger knockout rounds, an hour early isn’t overkill.

Know the kick-off times. The schedule spans morning, afternoon, and evening slots. Some of the most exciting group stage matches may air as early as 9 or 10 AM ET. Check the FIFA match schedule ahead of the week and plan your mornings around it.

Reserve when you can. If a venue takes reservations, you should do so! For walk-in-only spots, arriving early really does matter.

Getting there. The Glebe is easily accessible by OC Transpo along Bank Street, and there are bike lanes throughout the neighbourhood if you’re coming from nearby. If you’re driving, be aware that street parking can get tight on busy match days, instead opt to park at the Second Avenue Garage or at Lansdowne Park’s underground parking. Both options also offer all day parking passes.

Dress the part. There’s no better excuse to break out the Canadian jersey, not just the official Fifa Team. Some shops to get your Canadian gear at: Sporting Life, The Jungle, and Bad Dog Co for those vintage jerseys. Also, stop by The Flag Shop to grab your teams’ flags and pins. Wearing your colours adds to the atmosphere and may just help your team.

Closing

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is not just another tournament. It’s the largest in the history of the sport, it’s happening in our corner of the world, and Canada is playing in it. That combination doesn’t come around often, and it certainly won’t feel the same watching it alone on your couch.

The Glebe has everything you need to make this summer’s football a proper occasion: good bars, great patios, and the kind of neighbourhood energy that makes a shared goal feel like a street party. Get your spots scoped out early, save this guide, and we’ll see you on Bank Street when Canada scores.

Your Guide to the Great Glebe Garage and Sidewalk Sale

May 7, 2026 by CaitlinMcKinlay

The Great Glebe Garage and Sidewalk Sale returns with a new City of Ottawa traffic management plan.

One of North America’s largest and most anticipated community garage sales is back for its 40th year! It’s time to slow down, stroll the sale, and enjoy the Great Glebe Garage and Sidewalk Sale. Returning to Ottawa’s Glebe neighbourhood on Saturday, May 23, 2026, the well-attended event brings with it a lively mix of front-lawn treasures, Bank Street savings and new parking restrictions.

Since 1986, Glebe residents have participated in this neighbourhood-wide event by selling second-hand goods from their driveways and lawns. The Glebe BIA businesses join the fun with sidewalk sales along Bank Street, featuring pop-up booths and special promotions, all culminating in a one-of-a-kind local shopping experience that has become part of the fabric of the heart of Ottawa.

More than 35 Glebe businesses are participating in this year’s Sidewalk Sale along Bank Street. Seven new businesses are joining the activities, offering a great way to get to know some of the Glebe’s newest shops.

Local radio station CKCU-FM will broadcast live to celebrate their 50th year of programming from the Fourth Avenue Baptist Church courtyard. Event attendees will have the opportunity to see and hear performances and interviews live from three much-loved CKCU programs.

For a full list of participating businesses and to plan your day in the Glebe, visit intheglebe.ca.

New for 2026

To support pedestrian safety and maintain residential access, Bank Street to Second and Fourth avenues will be open to local traffic only. These restrictions will be in place eastbound and westbound for the duration of the event.

Parking in the Glebe will be extremely limited and monitored during the event. In the event of changes to the closures and restrictions, updates will be shared on the Glebe BIA social media channels.

There will be no visitor parking on the following streets:

Glebe Avenue between Lyon Street and O’Connor Street
First Avenue between Lyon Street and O’Connor Street
Second Avenue between Lyon Street and O’Connor Street
Third Avenue between Lyon Street and O’Connor Street
Fourth Avenue between Lyon Street and O’Connor Street

Glebe residents with residential parking permits may park as usual on these streets. Parking is available on adjacent streets west of Lyon Street and east of O’Connor Street.

Visitors are encouraged to use alternative transportation, such as cycling or public transit. Paid parking will be available in the Lansdowne Park underground garage and the City of Ottawa parking garage. The City of Ottawa parking garage will be closed on Second Avenue and only be accessible from Third Avenue.

OC Transpo routes 6 and 7 provide direct service to the Glebe. The OC Transpo northbound and southbound bus stopsat Third Avenue and Bank Street will be closed from 5:00 am to 6:30 pm.

There are also over 250 bike parking spots at Lansdowne Park.

New Neighbours Worth Getting Excited About

May 5, 2026 by CaitlinMcKinlay

A wonderfully eclectic mix of new businesses has arrived in the Glebe, filling storefronts with everything from Thai curries to curated clutter, sports therapy to midnight-hour desserts. Here’s your introductory guide to the newest members of the neighbourhood.

Big Kimmy’s Hoard House | 780 Bank Street

Big Kimmy’s Hoard House is the kind of place you enter looking for one thing and emerge an hour later clutching four others. Expect a lovingly chaotic collection of vintage goods, curiosities and the sort of objects you’d describe to friends as “very specific.” A genuine addition to the Glebe’s already strong independent retail character and thriving thrift community.

Physiotherapy iQ Sports Clinic | 2-117 Glebe Ave

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic pain, or simply trying to convince your body to cooperate, Physiotherapy iQ brings evidence-based rehabilitation to the Glebe. Their approach blends assessment smarts with hands-on treatment, smart care for the long game.

Insomnia Cookies | 1-142 Fifth Ave

For everyone who has ever decided at 10pm that a warm cookie is not optional: Insomnia Cookies has arrived, and the Glebe will never be the same. Freshly baked, delivered late and non-negotiable. A public service, really.

Like Butter and Co. | 593 Bank Street

A familiar face with a fresh identity. GoodyMart has reimagined itself as Like Butter, a name that practically hums with ease and indulgence. The rebrand signals a refined focus, and a shift to creative events and pop ups.

Lotus of Siam | 925 Bank Street

Thai cuisine with serious credentials. An elevated sister store to the delicious Siam Bistro in the heart of the vibrant Wellington West BIA, Lotus of Siam brings layered, aromatic cooking to the Glebe. The kind of food that rewards curiosity and makes you want to work your way through every corner of the menu. Bold flavours, regional depth, and a dining room that already feels essential.

Evermore Books | 857b Bank Street

Part bookshop, part boutique, all heart. Evermore Books is the Glebe’s dedicated romance bookstore, and yes, it is exactly as wonderful as it sounds. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee of the genre or just romance-curious, this is a place that takes love stories seriously, stocking everything from sweeping historicals to spicy contemporaries. The right book really does find the right person here.

Mindloom Collective | 137 Second Ave

Mindloom Collective arrives as a thoughtful addition to the Glebe’s wellness landscape. Weaving together tools and approaches for mental well-being, it’s a space that takes seriously the idea that how we feel on the inside matters just as much as how we move on the outside.

As we welcome these new members to our business community, we’re reminded of what makes The Glebe such a special place to live, work and play. We encourage you all to stop by these new establishments and show them the warm welcome our community is known for!

Welcome to the Glebe, and here’s to many successful years ahead!

March Break in the Glebe: Your Ultimate Guide

March 10, 2026 by CaitlinMcKinlay

Looking for the best March Break activities in Ottawa? Look no further than your own backyard. The Glebe is serving up a full week of family fun, from live sports at Lansdowne to café crawls on Bank Street and everything in between.

🛍️Shop, Browse & Discover

Bank Street is your March Break playground. With over 400 businesses, the Glebe BIA represents one of Ottawa’s most unique retail corridors. Spend a morning hopping between boutiques — from cute apparel and toys for the kids at Shoe Plus Shoe, to eclectic home décor and gifting treasures at Hokum, and artisan goods from Il Negozio Nicastro. Kids and parents alike will love the variety. Don’t miss the specialty craft shops and art galleries that invite you to slow down and explore.

🍕Eat Well, Eat Local

Fuel the family adventure with the Glebe’s diverse dining scene. Grab a morning coffee and pastry at Little Victories, then settle in for a leisurely lunch at one of Bank Street’s farm-to-table restaurants, like Wild Oat Bakery. For a casual dinner, Chipotle keeps the whole crew happy and it’s always best to follow up with a warm fresh cookie from Insomnia Cookies.

🏒Live at Lansdowne Park

Snag tickets to the Ottawa 67’s game versus the Oshawa Generals at TD Place on March 18th. Live junior hockey is affordable, energetic, and a fantastic March Break outing for families. If you’re a musical family, come out and enjoy The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight on March 20th. Lansdowne Park itself is worth exploring, the outdoor plaza, weekend local markets, and a Cineplex to entertain cinephiles of all ages..

🌿Outdoor Exploration

March in Ottawa means the first hints of spring are in the air. Take the family for a walk along the Rideau Canal and Patterson Creek, binoculars in hand for a birdwatching adventure. Grab a fun drink from Beandigen Cafe to accompany you! If you love to browse fun finds, go to the 613Flea at the Aberdeen Pavilion on Saturday, or the Farmer’s Market on Sunday. The Glebe is perfectly positioned between the canal and Bank Street, making it easy to mix outdoor time with indoor warmth whenever needed.

🎨Arts, Culture & Creativity

The Glebe’s arts scene is a hidden gem. Visit de Montingy Contemporary, Jaya Krishnan Arts, and look out for local murals and street art that dot the neighbourhood. For a rainy afternoon, the neighbourhood’s bookstores like Octopus Books, or Evermore Booktique (which opens on March 20), and craft shops are perfect for a quiet browse.

Keep young hands busy at 4Cats Art Studio which is offering March Break drop-in programs and camp for the full week. Painting, clay, creativity – hands-on art is endlessly engaging for young kids and produces a keepsake to bring home. They also run all-ages sessions, so parents can join in too.

If you’re looking early, you can register your child to March Break Camp at GNAG where they can let their imagination soar, explore fun outdoor activities, and learn about themselves. If they’re all booked up, no worries, simply set up a fun craft at home using supplies from The Papery.

Creativity is baked into the Glebe’s identity; let it inspire your family too.

🗺️Plan Your Visit

The Glebe is easily accessible via Bank Street from downtown Ottawa. Parking is available throughout the neighbourhood, and it’s a short transit ride from the core. The best way to experience the Glebe? Slow down, wander Bank Street, linger over coffee, and chat with local shopkeepers. This is a neighbourhood you savour, and March Break is the perfect time to do just that.

📣 Follow @intheglebe on Instagram and share your adventures!

Glebe Spree 2025 Wrap-Up: Winners, Community Spirit and a Big Thank You

February 3, 2026 by CaitlinMcKinlay

That’s a wrap on another exciting season of Glebe Spree! Our beloved annual holiday shopping contest brought festive cheer, community connection and an extra reason to support local in the Glebe. This year’s contest saw over 19,200 entries, which totals over $2.8 million in local spending in the Glebe!

From late November through December, shoppers collected ballots with every $15 spent at participating businesses — and once again, the response was overwhelming. We’re thrilled to announce this year’s four $2,500 Grand Prize Winners: Rachel D., Ashleigh M., Laura F., and Lori K. Congratulations to all!

We’re incredibly proud of how Glebe Spree continues to showcase the strength and vibrancy of our business community. None of it would be possible without the support of our generous Grand Prize sponsors, who help us bring this beloved campaign to life each year.

Poulet Rouge Bank Street joined us as a Grand Prize Sponsor in 2025, and we’re excited to welcome them to the neighbourhood! This proudly Canadian healthy fast-food chain offers fresh, flavourful bowls made with high-quality ingredients and served with fast, friendly service. Whether you’re craving something light, hearty or tailored to your dietary needs, Poulet Rouge delivers well-balanced meals that fit your lifestyle.

We also extend our sincere thanks to Amica The Glebe, another valued Grand Prize Sponsor, for their continued community support. Located at 33 Monk Street, Amica The Glebe offers elegant senior living right in the heart of our neighbourhood. With its warm, welcoming environment and full continuum of care — including Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care — residents enjoy comfort, security and dignity at every stage of life.

On behalf of the Glebe BIA, thank you to everyone who shopped local, participated in Glebe Spree and helped make this year’s campaign such a success. We’re grateful to our sponsors, participating businesses and all the shoppers who continue to support small businesses and strengthen our local economy.

We’ll see you again in 2026 —but until then, keep showing your Glebe love all year long!

Announcing Our Glebe Spree Early Bird Winners

December 19, 2025 by CaitlinMcKinlay

The most wonderful time of year is here, and Glebe Spree is spreading joy throughout our beloved community! We’re thrilled to share that the holiday spirit is alive and well, with over seven thousand ballots already submitted and an incredible $500,000+ spent supporting our local shops and businesses.

We’re pleased to introduce our 2025 Early Bird winners.

Our first lucky winner is Brenda N., who won her prize from the charming stationery store, The Papery. Brenda is already dreaming of the possibilities, and she plans to use her winnings at Showpony Hair and Accent on Beauty in the Glebe!

Our second lucky winner is Marlise S. who won her Glebe Spree prize from the rejuvenating Third Avenue Spa.

Our sincere thanks to The Effect Healing Collective, our Early Bird Sponsor for their generous support in making these prizes possible. The Effect is a space for intergenerational wellness, led by Dr. Sadie Laronde. The team at The Effect approaches every interaction with genuine compassion, embracing healthcare through a wholistic lens that nurtures body, mind and spirit. Their commitment to our community truly embodies the spirit of this special season.

The strong participation in this year’s Glebe Spree reflects the continued support for local businesses during the holiday season. With thousands of ballots already submitted, there is still plenty of time to shop local and enter for a chance to win. Every $15 purchase at participating Glebe retailer during the campaign period earns a sticker. Once you’ve spent $150 in the Glebe, you have an entry into the Grand Prize draw of a $2,500 Glebe shopping spree, which will be announced in January 2026.

Congratulations to our Early Bird winners!

Thank you to everyone who continues to support the Glebe business community this holiday season. Stay tuned for more updates as the Glebe Spree continues until December 31.