Ottawa Tamil Fest – Kondattam
Welcome to the official home of Ottawa Tamil Fest – Kondattam! Hosted annually by the National Capital Region Tamil Association (NCRTA), this is a massive, free-entry summer festival that transforms Clarke Fields Park into a bustling, vibrant hub of Tamil heritage.
The word Kondattam (pronounced kohn-daht-tahm) translates to “celebration” or “festivity” in Tamil. While the festival deeply celebrates Tamil culture, it is explicitly designed for everyone across the National Capital Region. You do not need to speak Tamil or know the traditions beforehand to enjoy the energetic atmosphere, beautiful art, and delicious food!
Event Details
- Time: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Location: Clarke Fields Park, Ottawa
- Admission: FREE (Everyone is welcome!)
What to Do: The ultimate Festival Experience
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Kondattam offers an incredible, high-energy day of culture, food, music, and community!
1. Dive into Street Food & Refreshments
Tamil cuisine is celebrated globally for its rich spices, unique textures, and comforting street eats. Come hungry and enjoy:
- Kothu Rotti: A must-try street food staple made of shredded flatbread (parotta), eggs, meat, and heavily spiced curry sauce. It is chopped together on a roaring hot flat-top grill using metal blades, creating a rhythmic, energetic sound you will hear before you even see the booth!
- Biryani & Samosas: Fragrant, slow-cooked rice dishes layered with spices, alongside crispy, golden savory pastries.
- Sweet Drinks & Treats: Cool down with a refreshing mango lassi, fresh coconut water, or warm up with a traditional hot cup of masala tea.
2. Take in Non-Stop Stage Performances
Our grand main stage features live music, classical dances, and cultural entertainment running all day long!
- Classical & Modern Fusion Dance: Witness routines ranging from Bharatanatyam (an ancient, highly expressive classical Indian dance form) to high-octane modern Bollywood and cinematic Tamil “Kollywood” choreography.
- The Runway Fashion Show: Local community members showcase stunning traditional attire, highlighting the beautiful fabrics, vibrant colors, and elegant drape of South Asian sarees.
- The “Marana Mass” Grand Finale: Catch our crowd-favorite, high-energy signature dance show, proudly featuring the spectacular choreography of the Agarathi Dance Academy!