I’m mired down in Blog Out Loud stuff this week, so hopefully a quicker post than usual. These are the events for NEXT weekend, the 26/27. If you’re looking for stuff going on this weekend, the Victoria Day weekend, see here.

Next weekend is the Gloucester Fair, one of the bigger fairs in town. Dudes, there will be barrel racing. And bull riding. And monster trucks. How could you possibly resist? An all-day pass is $20, $14 for shrimps under 42 inches.

On Saturday, it’s the Great Glebe Garage Sale, legend in this town for people who want to score deals. A lot of kids enjoy a good garage sale – as long as they have a little pocket money of their own to spend. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and carpool if you can.

Also on Saturday, it’s the Monster Truck Spectactular at Scotiabank Place. I can actually hear this show from my house, and I live halfway across town. It’s a can’t-miss for the vehicle lovers in your house – just make sure to bring earplugs, or better yet, those big headphone-like ear protectors (which actually, are the #1 draw for our own kids – screw the machines, we get to wear ear phones!). Tickets are $22 to $36.

Next weekend is also Ottawa Marathon weekend (didn’t this used to be called the National Capital Race Weekend?). I think it’s too late to register but it is a ton of fun going out to see the racers. Our kids really like watching the marathoners come in to the finish line and there’s also a small area of vendors and food kiosks to check out. You can get info on the best places to watch here.

If you’re into water sports instead, MEC is putting on Paddlefest down at Mooney’s Bay Park. Most events are free, including canoe races, boat exhibits, and on-land paddle training. You can also pay $10 for an on-water clinic.

If you’d prefer something artier, there’s plenty of plays going on next weekend. You can catch Young Frankenstein at Centrepointe (likely for older kids only, thanks to a few slightly raunchy jokes and a ticket price of $90, eep); The King and I at St. Paul’s High School ($25 adults, $15 kids), or see Circle Mirror Transformation at the GCTC as part of their Playtime program (parents watch the play at 3:30 p.m., while kids are supervised for crafts and games, $31.25 per adult ticket).

Lastly, the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum is having its Rural Roots festival next weekend. For museum entry ($18 per family) you can help them plant their gardens, watch demonstrations of heritage farm equipment, and if weather permits, take a ride on a scale model steam train.

Upcoming and requiring tickets:
May 30 to June 3 – Ottawa International Children’s Festival
June 8/9 – Beauty and the Beast at Ron Maslin Playhouse in Kanata