Together with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and local industry representatives, Live Nation unveiled new plans for the venue, History Ottawa, on Wednesday.

History Ottawa will hold 2,000 people and have two levels and a convertible general admission area, as well as reserved seating configurations, Live Nation said.

Tobi Nussbaum, CEO of the National Capital Commission, which owns the building, said History Ottawa “promises to be more than just a concert hall.”

“It’s going to anchor this corner as a focus of Ottawa’s cultural landscape – kitty corner to the National Arts Centre, steps from restaurants, shops, bars and the Parliamentary Precinct – fostering energy and activity for residents and visitors alike,” Nussbaum said at the press conference.”

“This story began for us as a way for us to contribute to the revitalization of the capital. As our downtown was suffering post-covid, we at the NCC saw this prime site as an opportunity to help re-activate the core, re-animate the Byward Market and ensure this corner – one that sees more foot traffic than any other intersection in the city – was a draw, not a blight,” said Nussbaum.

Zachary Dayler, executive director of the ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), said History Ottawa will contribute to Ottawa’s “cultural scene” and “encourage people to rediscover downtown.”

“Increased visits from concertgoers before and after shows will create new opportunities for local restaurants, bars, cafés, and retail businesses in the district, but it will also play a critical role in building up our nightlife economy,” Dayler told Ottawa Compass.  “From boosting tourism and hospitality to providing a stage for both internationally renowned and emerging artists, this is a major win for the ByWard Market and Ottawa. 

“We look forward to seeing History become integral to our city’s thriving arts and entertainment landscape.”

In a post to social media, Live Nation said the venue will host hundreds of premier concerts & events each year. 

The National Capital Commission purchased the building for $20 million after the Chapters location closed in 2022. Last July, the NCC announced an agreement to lease the building to Live Nation.

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