The Ottawa Riverkeeper Gala
Get your tickets to the watershed’s best party! The Riverkeeper Gala 2026 is not only an incredible evening by the river, but it is Ottawa Riverkeeper’s biggest fundraiser of the year. And with each ticket purchase, you’re supporting a clean and healthy Ottawa River.
About the Event
This year, we’re returning to one of our favourite Gala spots from 10 years ago, in 2016… Lemieux Island! Join us at this beautiful and hidden-away spot on the Ottawa River on Wednesday, May 27th from 6pm-11pm, for an evening of live music and dancing, great food courtesy of Thyme & Again, delicious beverages, and so much more.
We can’t wait to see you there, surrounded by the river and under the stars.
The dress code is River Chic (semi-formal, cocktail attire). Show off your unique river style, and dress with your own flair! Coat and shoe check available.
The Riverkeeper Gala is a cocktail-style event where guests can mix and mingle all night! There is no seated dinner or need for meal selection. Options will be clearly marked with dietary restrictions.
We look forward to celebrating the Ottawa River with you!
Accessibility accommodations are available to the best of our ability. If you are planning to attend and need accommodations please contact us at gala@ottawariverkeeper.ca by May 15 to let us know your needs. If you have suggestions for how we can make our event more accessible, we welcome your feedback.
Riverkeeper Gala Live Auction
Experience one of Ottawa’s most celebrated dining destinations with an unforgettable evening at Arlo. Ranked among Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants, Arlo is known for its warm atmosphere, seasonal cuisine, and expertly curated natural wine program.
This exclusive experience for four guests includes a four-course chef’s tasting dinner paired with thoughtfully selected wines, creating a memorable night of exceptional food, conversation, and hospitality in the heart of Ottawa.
Experience the wild beauty of Canada’s North with an unforgettable 7-day rafting journey for two through the legendary Nahanni National Park Reserve.This extraordinary adventure begins and ends in Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, and takes you deep into one of the world’s most breathtaking wilderness landscapes.
Journey through towering canyons, witness the awe-inspiring Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls), soak in remote hot springs, and camp beneath endless northern skies as you travel along the South Nahanni River. No prior rafting experience is required, making this an incredible opportunity for adventurous beginners and seasoned travellers alike.
Check out some more live auction items below!
Getting to Lemieux Island
Drive & Shuttle Service
Guest parking is located a three-minute drive away at Tunney’s Pasture (at the intersection of Parkdale Ave. and Goldenrod Driveway) in Lot #63. Complimentary valet parking and shuttle service to the venue sponsored by Star Motors of Ottawa will be available. At the end of the evening, Responsible Choice valet drivers will return you to Lot #63. Note that there is no guests parking at Lemieux Island.
Taxi/Car Service
To reduce congestion, if you are arriving by taxi or Uber, ask to be dropped off at at the Lot #63 to shuttle the venue or 1 Onigam Street on Lemieux Island itself.
Public Transit
All roads lead to Tunney’s Pasture station! Bus to Tunney’s Pasture and then make the short walk to Lot #63 to enjoy the complimentary shuttle service to the venue.
Bike
We are pleased to offer a supervised bike valet , so you can pedal, then party with peace of mind knowing that your bike is protected! The bike valet will be at the entrance to the event, and a shoe & coat check will be available.
Site Map
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The Gala Committee
Caroline
Gomersall
Melissa
Hammell
Chloe Hillier
Courtney Kehoe
Pauline Ngirumpatse
Michael Peterson
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Laura
Reinsborough
Chris
Sheppard
Barb
Sweazey
Lara
Van Loon
