Mike Fisher of the Ottawa Senators

Image © Andre Ringuette/NHLI Via Getty Images

What to do, who to see—the editor's don't-miss list

SENS-SATIONAL
Through September and October
The Ottawa Senators are back in action with exciting changes to the line-up. With the addition of puck-moving defenceman Sergei Gonchar from the Pittsburgh Penguins, this season promises to be an interesting one for hockey fans. Make sure to look for some of the city’s favourite players when they hit the ice, including Captain Daniel Alfredsson and forward Mike Fisher (husband of country singer Carrie Underwood). $15-$300. Prices increase for premium games. Call or see website for details. Scotiabank Place, 1000 Palladium Dr., 613-599-3267; 877-788-3267. senators.nhl.com

UP, UP, AND AWAY
Sept. 3 to 6
Look to the sky during the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival for four days of colourful views. This annual event draws participants from around the world to showcase their imaginative designs, so don’t be surprised to see a floating shamrock or giant beagle up in the air in 2010. If you have an extra $200 laying around, catch a lift on one of these sweet rides. One-day wristband: Friday: $24; Saturday, Sunday, or Monday: $18. See website for full ticket info. La Baie Park, Gatineau, 1-800-668-8383. www.montgolfieresgatineau.com

KIDS' CHOICE
Sept. 19
DJ Lance Rock and his crew take the stage in a live production of the popular children’s TV show Yo Gabba Gabba. Simple lessons are brought to life through music, which will get the kids bopping in their seats. Top secret special guests will also be on hand for the ‘Super Music Friends Show’ and ‘Dancey Dance’ segments. Past guests include The Roots, Snoop Dogg, and Sarah Silverman. Two performances. $20.50-$40.50. 1000 Palladium Dr., 613-599-3267; 877-788-3267. www.yogabbagabbalive.com

BEING GREEN
Sept. 27
If you had one last lecture to give, what would you say? Environmentalist David Suzuki tackles this notion in a talk dedicated to some of the most important cultural, technological, and historical changes in society. The material of his lecture — and what he’s learned — is also fodder for his new book, The Legacy: An Elder’s Vision for Our Sustainable Future. His best advice? “Dream of a better world and make it happen.” $30; students: $25. Dominion-Chalmers Church, 355 Cooper St., 613-562-1243. www.writersfestival.org

SWEET DREAMS
Oct. 9
Some stories — like love triangles — cross all cultures. By fusing classical ballet and traditional Chinese dance, Dream of Red Chamber is a striking re-enactment of one of the four greatest works in the canon of classical Chinese literature. Centring on a tale of young love that devastates an ancient royal family, this work charts the country’s philosophical, cultural, and social customs. $35-$108. National Arts Centre, Southam Hall, 53 Elgin St., 613-947-7000; 613-755-1111. www.nac-cna.ca

GET ANIMATED
Oct. 20 to 24
Film buffs and cartoon fans flock to the Ottawa International Animation Festival, the largest event of its kind in North America. This year offers up independent Japanese animation, including short films by Astro Boy creator Osamu Tezuka, plus the family-friendly Kids Competition, where a youth jury names their top flicks. Tickets for individual screenings: $12; seniors and children (under 12): $7. Weekend and day passes available. At venues throughout downtown. 613-232-8769. www.animationfestival.ca

FLASH BACK
Oct. 23
Imagine what ‘Billie Jean’ would sound like if sung by lounge singers. On their most recent album, The Lost Fingers took iconic tracks from the ‘80s and gave them a smooth, gypsy sound with a style called 'jazz manouche.' Their bilingual shows offer fun, witty performances with unique takes on songs you know (and love) by Paula Abdul, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, and more. $36.50. Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd., Orleans, 613-580-2700; 1-866-752-5231. www.shenkmanarts.ca