The first episode of The City That Fun Forgot: Ottawa’s Nightlife Dilemma titled The Cost of a Good Time, host Kate Yoshida explores the economic and cultural challenges facing Ottawa’s nightlife scene. The episode highlights the effects of rising costs, shifting consumer habits, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that have forced local bars and venues to adapt or shut down. The episode features insights from business professor Dr. Ian Lee and Nigel, owner of Back to Brooklyn bar as the episode paints a picture of resilience amid struggle. Despite limited government support and regulatory obstacles, some venues continue to fight for survival, proving that Ottawa’s nightlife isn’t dead—it’s in transition. Click here to listen.

In the second episode of The City That Fun Forgot: Ottawa’s Nightlife Dilemma, called Sip, Skip, and Stay In, host Alicia Primiani explores how Ottawa’s party scene is impacting young people’s social lives. Rising costs, safety concerns, and limited transit options are pushing students to adapt in different ways. Through the experiences of Carleton students Ethan Buckarev and Julia Rhymes, we uncover the realities of partying in “the city that fun forgot.” Their stories give first-hand insight on what the problems are with Ottawa’s nightlife and what can be done to make it better. Click here to listen.

The third episode of The City that Fun Forgot: Ottawa’s Nightlife Dilemma titled Last Call, host Mackenzie Charbonneau explores the entertainment culture in Ottawa. Featuring interviews with drag queen Adrianna Expose, afrobeat musician Kar33m, and comedian Alex Wood, Last Call examines the city’s limited resources, government-driven culture, and the ongoing struggle to build a career in entertainment. From Sandra Oh’s famous advice to “leave Ottawa” to the hopeful signs of progress with a new night mayor, this episode unpacks what it really takes to thrive in Canada’s capital as a creative. Click here to listen.

In the last episode of The City That Fun Forgot: Ottawa’s Nightlife Dilemma, called Politics of Partying, host Habone Omar Hassan explores the political side of Ottawa’s nightlife with Stéphanie Plante. She is the Ward councillor of Rideau Vanier, and together we explore the challenges that Ottawa faces to improve the nightlife scene. In this episode, we discuss the fundamentals of the Ottawa nightlife, such as noise regulations, bylaw zoning and liquor licensing. In the last episode of this series, we discuss how Ottawa’s nightlife can or will change in the future. Click here to listen.