The Ottawa African Violet Society (OAVS) was founded by Bob McCabe in 1987. Monthly meetings at that time were held at the Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 Macleod St. and the first show was held in 1990 at the Canadian Museum of Nature. The unique theme of the first show was “First Steps”.

In subsequent years, the OAVS held meetings at the Old Town Hall (61 Main St.), and McNabb Community Centre (180 Percy St.), and we moved to our current meeting location at Rideau Park United Church (2203 Altavista Drive) in the spring of 2023.  Our first show was held at Ottawa City Hall, and in 1996, 2000 & 2006, OAVS was very pleased to host the 29th, 33rd & 38th AVSC (African Violet Society of Canada) National Shows.

The purpose of the club is to create a nonprofit relaxed environment for members to participate in and enjoy the art of growing African Violets and other Gesneriads, while exchanging ideas and methods to collectively improve their skills.  We welcome guests at our in-person meetings, and periodically hold events that are open to the public for viewing and the purchase of plants, leaves and growing supplies.

OAVS is affiliated with the African Violet Society of Canada (AVSC), African Violet Society of America (AVSA) and the New York State African Violet Society (NYSAVS).