A new live entertainment venue in the ByWard Market, located in the former Chapters building at the intersection of Rideau Street and Sussex Drive, is set to open to the public on Thursday. The National Capital Commission (NCC) acquired this prime real estate near Rideau station and the Rideau Centre mall in 2024. The NCC later announced a partnership with Live Nation Canada to establish a two-story venue at this location with a capacity for approximately 2,000 attendees. Canadian hip-hop sensation Drake is also involved in this venture known as History Ottawa.
During a preview of the venue on Monday, CBC inquired about when Drake would perform at the venue. Ali Shafaee, the regional vice-president of Live Nation Canada, mentioned Drake’s active participation in the project, including providing insights on creativity and the venue’s aesthetics. The main floor of the venue offers general admission standing room that can be converted for various events like concerts and galas. The second floor features a premium space with 112 seats available for individual or group purchases, along with standing room behind the reserved seats for general admission ticket holders.
The venue plans to host 60 shows for the remainder of 2026, with about 35 shows already announced, and an additional 150 shows projected for the following year. The first performance at History Ottawa will feature American rock band The Wallflowers on Thursday. Live Nation Canada, which also manages venues in Toronto and Montreal, views Ottawa as a crucial stop in their touring schedule.
Bronwyn Campbell, who previously managed the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver, expressed excitement about creating memorable experiences for attendees at History Ottawa. The venue’s capacity is comparable to Ottawa’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s 2,200-capacity concert space and the National Arts Centre’s Southam Hall with over 2,000 seats. Shafaee emphasized the collective effort to revitalize the ByWard Market, highlighting the increased private sector investments in hotels, restaurants, and entertainment spaces, aiming to enhance public safety and create a vibrant atmosphere in the area.