The former Chapters building at the intersection of Rideau Street and Sussex Drive in the ByWard Market area has been transformed into a new live entertainment venue set to open to the public this Thursday. The National Capital Commission (NCC) acquired this prime real estate near Rideau station and the Rideau Centre mall back in 2024. Following the purchase, the NCC announced a partnership with Live Nation Canada to establish a two-story venue capable of hosting around 2,000 guests.
History Ottawa, a project involving Canadian hip-hop icon Drake, is the name of this innovative venture. Ali Shafaee, regional vice-president of Live Nation Canada, shared insights during a preview tour conducted by CBC. Shafaee highlighted Drake’s active involvement in the project, mentioning how the artist provided input on the venue’s aesthetics and design elements.
The venue’s main floor offers a standing room layout for general admission, with flexibility to cater to various events like concerts and galas. The second floor features a premium space with 112 individual seats available for purchase, either individually or in group arrangements. Additionally, there is standing room behind the reserved seats accessible with general admission tickets.
Scheduled for the remainder of 2026 are 60 shows, with approximately 35 already announced, according to Shafaee. Looking ahead to next year, an additional 150 shows are in the pipeline. Live Nation Canada views the addition of Ottawa as a tour stop as a significant move, alongside their operations in Toronto and Montreal.
The inaugural act at History Ottawa is set to be the American rock band The Wallflowers, performing at the venue’s grand opening on Thursday night. The venue, with a capacity similar to Ottawa’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino concert space and the National Arts Centre’s Southam Hall, marks a notable addition to the city’s entertainment scene.
Shafaee emphasized that the ByWard Market revitalization extends beyond History Ottawa, citing increased private sector investments in hotels, restaurants, and similar venues in the area. This collective effort aims to enhance public safety and security while fostering a vibrant atmosphere in the neighborhood.