The Ottawa Local Immigration Partnership (OLIP) warmly invites individuals and organizations to take part in Welcoming Ottawa Week (WOW) 2025, happening from June 16 to 30. This city-wide initiative brings together residents—both newcomers and long-time Ottawans—to foster meaningful connections and celebrate our shared diversity.

WOW is a unique, annual series of events designed to showcase Ottawa’s genuine welcome and hospitality to newcomers. Through a wide range of activities—from storytelling nights to soccer matches—WOW encourages dialogue, learning, and celebration.

WOW events are required to include immigrants and refugees, discuss topics related to newcomer settlement and integration, or celebration of diversity. The events should also take place during the WOW 2025 timeframe (June 16th – 30th).

Whether you’re planning a small gathering or a large public event, this is your chance to highlight the contributions of immigrants and refugees, support newcomer inclusion, and promote community integration.

Activities must fall within one of the following categories:

  • Guided Tours: walking tours, bike/ bus tours, museum tours etc.
  • Business & Entrepreneurship: business networking sessions, job fairs, employer panel, etc.
  • Sports & Recreation: Sporting tournaments, community games, fitness classes, etc.
  • Food Related Events: Cooking classes, food tasting, restaurant tours, etc.
  • Design & Creativity: Fashion shows, events showcasing creative and innovative ideas that meet community needs.
  • Arts & Culture: arts/photo exhibits, activities showcasing artistic and intellectual contribution of immigrants.
  • Music, Poetry & Story Telling: spoken words, comedy nights, concerts, and other artistic activity to illustrate diverse rich cultures in your community.
  • Learning & knowledge Sharing: Book launch, open house, lectures and academic seminars on topics related to diversity and welcoming communities.
  • Civic Engagements: citizenship ceremonies, town hall meeting, meet & greet activity with a local elected official.
  • Documentary/ Film Screening: documentary screening with follow-up discussions on topics adversely affecting marginalized communities such as mental health, racism, housing, etc.

Need inspiration? Explore our full list of suggested WOW event categories.

How to Get Involved:

  • Host an event showcasing your involvement with immigrants and refugees or celebrating newcomer contributions. Do not delay, register your WOW 2025 event online before May 31, 2025.
  • Spread the word by sharing the WOW Call for Events Flyer with others in your network who might be interested in participating.

Questions or ideas? Contact Nyamulola Kambanji at nyamulola@olip-plio.ca.