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9 am – 5 pm

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The Canadian Museum of History is located on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabeg. This land has held, and continues to hold, great historical, spiritual and sacred significance. Read the full land acknowledgement.

Admission Getting here Accessibility
Admission Getting here Accessibility
Side exterior of Canadian Museum of History building.

What’s on

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Gold crown
Temporary exhibition

First Royals of Europe

Discover the origins of power and inequity in ancient Europe.

Until Jan. 19, 2025
A view of the lower body of the Monument, lying on its side. The large cylindrical shape is covered with carved faces set within a bright orange grid.
Ongoing exhibition

Indian Residential School Memorial Monument

An invitation for all of us to bear witness

The Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa features a room adorned with numerous totem poles.
Ongoing exhibition

Grand Hall

Explore Northwest Indigenous cultures in an iconic space

Ongoing exhibition

First Peoples Hall

Celebrate the diversity, history and achievements of Indigenous people in Canada

The Canadian Museum of History, located in Ottawa, is home to numerous exhibits.
Ongoing exhibition

The Canadian History Hall

Journey through millennia of Canadian history

See what’s on at the Children’s Museum
View all events and programming

The Museum’s Christmas Market

An event not to be missed in the region for over 15 years! From November 21 to 24, 2024, nearly 100 exhibitors await you in the majestic Grand Hall and the Panorama Café, inviting you to discover delightful products and unique handcrafted creations. You will find holiday decorations, artistic woodworking, glass items, gourmet food products, fine spirits, original jewellery, stunning fashion accessories, and much more! You will also meet talented artisans from diverse traditions, including Indigenous creators, who can speak to you about their authentic and varied works, offering a rich experience. This year’s event includes new features, such as an additional space, the Panorama Café, to welcome even more exhibitors. The Market is the perfect place to do your holiday shopping in a festive and relaxed atmosphere. Don’t forget your gift list! The Museum’s Christmas Market — a must during the holiday season! Enjoy free admission Complimentary coat check Automated teller machine (ATM) on site

Canadian Museum of History

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Join us for the Museum’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Join us for the Museum’s 9th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. This tradition also kicks off the Museum’s Christmas Market. Come enjoy music by the Carleton University Choir, along with complimentary hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, and maple taffy on snow (while quantities last). New this year: face painting and ice sculpture! Invite family and friends to the official countdown, and don’t forget to dress warmly to fully appreciate this outdoor activity.

A woman and a child looking up at the Christmas tree

Digital on demand

A screen shot showing several faces
Online exhibition

Shaping Canada

A woman with straight black hair partially up in a bun looks at the camera
Resource

Artifactuality podcast

A museum gallery with superimposed virtual reality markers
Resource

Virtual Tour: Canadian History Hall

Video

Bill Reid, The Spirit of Haida Gwaii

Three models of audiobook players.
Collections

Accessibility and Inclusiveness: Evolving Resources for People Impacted by Blindness

Video

Listening to Indigenous voices