The competition will see participants show off their rock spirit with imaginary instruments, judged on stage present, creativity, and technical imitation. Each performer must take part in a qualifying round before reaching the final, and can perform one song of their choice. In the finals, competitors must also perform a compulsory song based on audience voting.
This will be the Ottawa regional championships, with the winners advancing to the Canadian National Championships in Toronto in May. National champions will then go on to compete in the World Championships in Oulu, Finland. Prizes and awards will be available at each stage along the way. Promotional material emphasizes that national champions serve as ambassadors:
“The Canadian Air Guitar Champion must carry the joyful tidings of the Air Guitar forward and thus promote Canadian virtues and World Peace.”
Regional competitions also often include a “Brave Souls” round for newcomers to take their first step on stage, and a “Dark Horse” round for runners-up from other regional competition. Audience members can also sample House of Targ’s pinball machines, arcade games and famous pirogis. Performance competitions like this often use colourful flyer printing and social media to help attract both participants and audience members.
The 2026 Ottawa Regional Air Guitar Championship will take place on the evening of April 30 at House of Targ.