Strathcona Park Cleanup September 2026

Sunday, September 27, 2026 · 2:30 PM
Strathcona Park, Sandy Hill, Ottawa

This is our first cleanup as Strathcona Park’s adopter. In 1986, about 50 people gathered here for the picnic that began Ottawa’s modern annual Pride tradition. Today, we’re helping care for this shared public space on the Rideau River: picking up litter, walking the paths, and leaving the park better than we found it. Our 2SLGBTQ+ community, friends and neighbours are welcome.

Out at Camp adopted Strathcona Park through the City of Ottawa’s Adopt-a-Park program. The City still runs the park. We show up as volunteer stewards: a couple of hours, a standing invitation for whoever wants to help, and cleanup supplies from the City that we’ll have on hand.

• What we’ll do: Walk the lawn, shoreline, and pathways. Pick up litter and debris. Note anything that should go to 3-1-1, like hazards or vandalism.
• Who it’s for: Anyone who wants to look after a queer outdoor space in the city. No trail résumé required. Come as you are, stay as long as you can, and work at a pace that suits you.
• What to bring: Closed-toe shoes, weather layers, and a water bottle if you have one. Out at Camp will have the cleanup supplies, provided by the City of Ottawa, plus snacks and cold refreshments. We’ll share the exact meeting spot after you register.

Admission is free. Please register so we know how many people to plan for. Photos and video may be taken for Out at Camp’s channels; you’ll see that consent on the registration form.

If you still have energy afterward, Sausage & Patty Fest starts at 5 PM at T’s All Welcoming Pub.

Want the longer story of the park, Pride picnic, and adoption? Read our Strathcona Park field guide.