Thousands of runners will take to the streets of Canada’s capital this weekend, and drivers need to prepare for significant Ottawa Race Weekend road closures affecting major routes throughout the city. The 2026 Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, scheduled for Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, will bring widespread traffic disruptions across downtown Ottawa and surrounding neighborhoods.
Whether you’re a resident, commuter, or visitor, understanding which roads will close—and when—is essential for navigating the city during one of Ottawa’s largest annual sporting events. This comprehensive guide covers every closure, detour, and timing detail you need to plan your weekend travel.
When Do Road Closures Begin?
The road closures for Ottawa Race Weekend 2026 begin as early as Friday evening and extend through Sunday afternoon. Event organizers and the City of Ottawa coordinate these closures to ensure runner safety while minimizing disruption to residents.
On Saturday, May 23, closures primarily affect routes for the 2K, 5K, and 10K races. Most Saturday closures begin in the early morning hours and lift by midday.
Sunday, May 24, brings more extensive closures for the marathon and half-marathon events. Runners will traverse routes through downtown, the ByWard Market, and scenic pathways along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River.
Saturday Road Closures: 2K, 5K, and 10K Routes
Downtown Core Restrictions
Saturday’s races concentrate around the downtown core, with Queen Elizabeth Driveway serving as a central artery for runners. Expect full closures on sections of the Driveway from approximately 6:00 a.m. until noon.
Laurier Avenue between Elgin Street and Nicholas Street will close to accommodate race staging areas and runner corrals. Adjacent streets, including portions of Metcalfe Street and O’Connor Street, may experience intermittent closures or restricted access.
Parliamentary Precinct
The area surrounding Parliament Hill will see significant restrictions. Wellington Street, already limited to transit and authorized vehicles, will have additional access limitations during race hours.
Runners participating in the 10K will pass through the ByWard Market area, requiring temporary closures on Sussex Drive and surrounding streets during the morning hours.
Sunday Road Closures: Marathon and Half-Marathon
Extended Downtown Closures
Sunday brings the most extensive road closures of the weekend as marathon and half-marathon participants cover longer distances through multiple neighborhoods. Plan for major disruptions from 5:00 a.m. until approximately 4:00 p.m.
The Rideau Street corridor will close between Sussex Drive and King Edward Avenue. This closure significantly impacts east-west travel through the downtown core, so drivers should seek alternate routes via Highway 417 or Baseline Road.
Canal and Riverside Routes
The picturesque Queen Elizabeth Driveway along the Rideau Canal will remain closed throughout most of Sunday. This popular scenic route attracts both runners and spectators, but vehicles must use alternative north-south routes.
Colonel By Drive on the canal’s east side will also close, effectively restricting all vehicle access along the Rideau Canal corridor between Pretoria Bridge and the National Arts Centre.
Rockcliffe and New Edinburgh
Marathon runners will pass through the historic neighborhoods of Rockcliffe Park and New Edinburgh. Residents in these areas should expect closures on:
- Sussex Drive north of Rideau Falls
- Princess Avenue and surrounding residential streets
- Beechwood Avenue at key intersections
Local access may be permitted during specific windows, but residents should plan to complete essential errands before closures begin.
Alternative Routes and Detour Recommendations
Crossing the Canal
With both Queen Elizabeth Driveway and Colonel By Drive closed, drivers must use bridges that remain open to vehicle traffic. The Pretoria Bridge, Bank Street Bridge, and Bronson Avenue provide canal crossings, though expect heavy congestion.
For trips requiring north-south travel, consider using Bronson Avenue west of downtown or Vanier Parkway to the east. Both routes will experience higher-than-normal traffic volumes but remain fully open.
Highway 417 Access
The Queensway (Highway 417) remains open throughout Race Weekend and offers the most reliable east-west travel option. On-ramps at Nicholas Street, Metcalfe Street, and Bronson Avenue may experience backups due to increased traffic seeking highway access.
Public Transit Adjustments
OC Transpo will implement service changes and detours throughout the weekend. Several bus routes serving downtown will operate on modified schedules or follow alternate paths around closed streets.
The O-Train Confederation Line continues regular service and provides an excellent alternative for reaching downtown destinations without driving. Riders heading to the races should consider exiting at Rideau or Parliament stations.
Tips for Residents and Commuters
Plan Ahead
Residents living within closure zones should park vehicles outside restricted areas before Friday evening if possible. Moving vehicles during active closures proves extremely difficult and may result in towing.
Allow Extra Time
If you must travel during Race Weekend, add 30 to 60 minutes to your typical commute time. Even routes outside closure zones will experience spillover congestion as traffic redistributes.
Consider Alternatives
Working from home, rescheduling appointments, or using the LRT system can eliminate Race Weekend travel headaches entirely. Many Ottawa employers offer flexible arrangements during this annual event.
Support the Runners
If you find yourself waiting at a closure point, consider cheering on participants. The community atmosphere makes Ottawa Race Weekend special, and runner encouragement from spectators creates lasting memories for participants.
