OBJ Datebook: Here are some of the new year’s not-to-be-missed events

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December

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
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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
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Charge Up Your Network

What: Join the CityBuildHERS and CREW Ottawa for their first-ever joint networking event at the PWHL Ottawa Charge game.
When: Jan. 9, 6 p.m.
Where: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa
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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
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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
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Ottawa Senators Black, Red & Gold Gala

What: A gala event in support of the Senators Community Foundation. More info to come.
When: Jan. 29
Where: TBD
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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
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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
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Downtown Ottawa Forum 2026: A Living Capital

What: This event will bring together business and community leaders to discuss the future of downtown Ottawa.
When: Feb. 19, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Rogers Centre Ottawa, 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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