For three weekends in February, Winterlude, now in its 47th year, turns Canada’s capital region into a frosty playground celebrating all things Canadian and Indigenous culture. It’s an event attended by more than a half-million people every year.
Winterlude programming includes interactive exhibits, outdoor activities, live shows, cultural experiences and more. The sky’s the limit (literally, you can go ziplining), and most activities are free.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a one-day itinerary to help you get the ball rolling.
Morning — outdoor adventures
Start the day off strong with a hearty breakfast. Key Winterlude sites are surrounded by diners and cafes. The ByWard Market, for example, is home to the ByWard Café, Zak’s Diner and Benny’s Bistro, to name a few. Or, for a more “local” experience, venture into Centretown. Beloved holes in the wall like Wilf & Ada’s (get there early) and Bramasole Diner will fuel you for the day ahead.
Then, make your way to Snowflake Kingdom, the ultimate Winterlude activity hub, across the Ottawa River in Jacques-Cartier Park. Go tubing down the Tim Hortons Chinook Super Slide, use your wits to get through the Winterlude Labyrinth, try your hand at giant foosball — there’s so much to see and do.
If you’re visiting on Sunday, February 2, why not end your morning by with a free mini pow wow at the Canadian Museum of History. Organized by Indigenous Experiences, the pow wow starts at 11:00 a.m.
Afternoon — heritage and culture
Return to downtown Ottawa and recover from your busy morning with some much-needed lunch at the Métropolitain Brasserie. Warm up with traditional French fare like French onion soup or moules-frites in a cozy yet upscale setting.
After, take a free horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic ByWard Market. (Pick-up is at 61 York Street.) Then, walk to the National Gallery of Canada on Sussex Street. Get inspired by the finest collections of Indigenous and Canadian art in the world. And marvel at the stunning views of Parliament Hill from the gallery’s windows.
Alternatively, if you have kids, you can attend the BIG BANG Festival at the National Arts Centre. Though the festival runs only from February 15 to 16, the schedule is packed with both free and ticketed events including a costume ball, sound-painting project and live performances. It’s fun for the whole family.
Evening — lights and Sparks
When the sun goes down, take a breathtaking stroll through Confederation Park. From 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. the park transforms into Lumen Eira, an enchanting light-and-sound installation that’ll draw you into a world of imagination.
After, head to another key Winterlude location, the pedestrian-friendly Sparks Street. See an ice-carving demonstration, sample authentic Indigenous bannock, say hi to the Ice Hogs, Winterlude’s lovable mascots — there’s so much going on. And don’t forget to stop by the Winterlude Urban Sugar Shack for some traditional Canadian treats.
Speaking of treats, treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner at Riviera, also located on Sparks Street. Experience high-end, creative Canadian cuisine and drinks served in an impressive old bank building. Be sure to try their cocktails!
Night — live music
Assuming you have energy left, end your Winterlude experience on a high note, literally, with an outdoor DJ set on Sparks Street.
Or, if you really want to keep the party going, head back to the ByWard Market for a punk, metal or ska show at Ottawa’s favourite dive bar, The Dominion Tavern (AKA The Dom). If rowdy isn’t your thing, walk a few more blocks to Ottawa’s legendary “Home of the Blues,” The Rainbow Bistro. See who’s playing here
