Illuminating the Night: Ottawa's Night Mayor Revitalizes the City's After-Dark Scene

In an effort to revitalize its nightlife, the City of Ottawa has appointed a Nightlife Commissioner to oversee the transformation of the city’s social scene after dark. The new Commissioner brings valuable experience and fresh ideas from work in promoting vibrant nightlife elsewhere.

One of the Commissioner’s first actions is to establish a Nightlife Council, made up of 12 to 18 volunteers with ties to the city's nightlife economy. The council will include public members such as business owners, nightlife workers, event promoters, NGO representatives, and patrons who are passionate about improving Ottawa’s nightlife. Additionally, six seats are reserved for representatives from key economic and cultural organizations, ensuring a variety of perspectives are heard.

The council will meet at least four times a year to advise the Commissioner on key issues, including streamlining bureaucracy to make it easier for businesses and events to operate, enhancing safety in nightlife spaces, and addressing unmet needs to create a more inclusive and diverse nightlife. The Commissioner emphasizes the importance of council members acting as liaisons, helping to promote the initiatives of the Nightlife Office within their communities while also bringing back feedback and ideas.

Applications for the Nightlife Council are open until October 11, with individuals passionate about nightlife and community representation encouraged to apply. Passion and commitment to improving the city's social scene are key qualifications.

The creation of the council is part of a larger Nightlife Action Plan recently approved by the city. This plan includes developing a Nightlife Safety Plan to ensure participant well-being, promoting more accessible and inclusive events, and expanding entertainment options by securing a new venue capable of hosting 1,500 to 2,000 people. These efforts aim to boost Ottawa’s nighttime economy, strengthen social connections, and transform the city into a place that thrives after dark.