Michael Buble in Ottawa marked my very first show of the year, and it could not have been a better way to step back into live music. The night also doubled as a celebration of the Canadian Tire Centre’s 30th anniversary, turning the evening into something that felt part concert and part citywide party. Ottawa had just been hit with days of heavy snow, so seeing the arena fill up the way it did was honestly impressive.
Fans arrived bundled up, smiling, and clearly ready for a night out. There was a sense of excitement in the air that felt different. This was not just about seeing a show. It was about getting out, celebrating, and sharing a moment together.
Michael Buble skipped openers entirely, which meant the night was set to dive straight into the main event. The show did start about thirty minutes late, with an announcement explaining there had been accidents on the roads and the team wanted to make sure everyone could arrive safely. From a photographer’s point of view, it was a bit confusing since the venue already looked packed.
That confusion did not last long. Once Michael hit the stage, he jokingly admitted he had just wanted to finish his drink backstage. The crowd loved it. That humor set the tone for the entire night and reminded everyone that this was going to be relaxed, fun, and full of personality.
When the lights finally dimmed and Michael Buble stepped out, the crowd jumped to their feet instantly. That first note hit the room and suddenly everything made sense. His voice carried effortlessly across the arena, backed by a tight live band that brought every song to life.
He opened strong, mixing smooth vocals with playful conversation. Michael spoke about how much Ottawa has always felt like home to him and how special it was to be back playing during the 30th anniversary of the Canadian Tire Centre. The stories flowed easily. One moment he was talking about the Pope, the next he was joking with the crowd and encouraging everyone to lean into the fun of the night.
One of the night’s highlights came when he launched into L O V E, a personal favorite that felt perfectly placed. The room swayed. Smiles spread across faces. It was one of those moments where everything slowed down just enough to enjoy it.
As the set continued, Michael moved through his catalog with ease, balancing powerful vocals with humor and warmth. At one point he even stepped out wearing a Senators jersey, drawing huge cheers from the local crowd. It was a small gesture, but it made the connection feel even stronger.
By the time the final notes rang out, it was clear this was a special night. Michael Buble in Ottawa was charming, polished, and genuinely fun. The crowd left buzzing, laughing, and humming songs on their way out into the cold.
As my first show of 2026, it set the bar high. Michael Buble in Ottawa delivered everything you could want from a live performance and then some.
