Empanadas Ilegales brings psychedelic tropical music to NAC's Wood Terrace all summer
The free concert series runs August 4–6, starting at 7:30 p.m., with the Colombian-rooted collective performing a blend of cumbia, salsa, and surf rock on the Elgin Street terrace.
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Empanadas Ilegales, a psychedelic tropical collective formed through late-night jam sessions and rogue rooftop gigs, will perform free shows on the National Arts Centre's Wood Terrace from August 4–6, starting at 7:30 p.m. each evening.
The band—made up of musicians with roots in Colombia, Ecuador, Argentina, and Canada—blends cumbia, salsa, and surf rock with Persian melodies and free jazz, creating a rhythmic, dance-driven sound that bridges hemispheres. They've performed at major festivals including Sled Island, Montreal Jazz Festival, Calgary Folk Fest, SunFest, Mixto Fest, and JUNOFest.
Access to the Wood Terrace is available directly from Elgin Street, the Rideau Canal path, or the Mackenzie King Bridge. Seating is limited to 400 guests and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis—no reservations. The NAC recommends arriving early and bringing a chair. An overflow seating area outside the Wood Terrace will accommodate additional guests after capacity is reached. The shows run approximately 90 minutes with an intermission.
Before you go
When and where is Empanadas Ilegales performing?
Empanadas Ilegales performs August 4–6, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. each evening on the National Arts Centre's Wood Terrace on Elgin Street in Ottawa.
Do I need to reserve a seat?
No reservations are available at the National Arts Centre's Wood Terrace. Seating is limited to 400 guests on a first-come, first-served basis, and the NAC recommends arriving early and bringing a chair. An overflow seating area will accommodate additional guests after capacity is reached.
