Canada’s capital is gearing up to host the 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship from December 26 to January 5. From hotel deals to activities to watch parties, here’s how to make the most of the World Juniors in Ottawa.
Where to stay in Ottawa during the World Juniors
Several hotels in Ottawa are offering special packages and rates during the World Juniors. Search exclusive offers and book a room here.
As well, many hotels in Ottawa plan to broadcast the games. The Metcalfe Hotel in downtown Ottawa is transforming one of its banquet spaces into a viewing room complete with snacks for its guests.
Other hotels showing the games include the Embassy Hotel & Suites Ottawa, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa West – Nepean, the Sheraton Ottawa Hotel, the Ottawa Marriott Hotel and the Cartier Place Suite Hotel.
Where to watch the World Juniors in Ottawa
If you can’t catch the puck drop at either TD Place or the Canadian Tire Centre, don’t fret. In true Ottawa fashion, many businesses plan on showing the games, some with food and drink offers exclusive to the occasion.
Central Ottawa
- Fan Fest at the Aberdeen Pavilion
- The Grand: Themed pizzas like the Powerplay Burrata and Slapshot Salami.
- Starling Restaurant: Feature cocktails.
- Fiesta and Tequila: All-you-can-eat taco specials.
- Heart & Crown Preston: Drink specials Sunday through Thursday.
- Moose McGuire’s Huntclub: 10% off your bill for every goal team Canada scores (some restrictions apply).
East Ottawa
The Heart of Orléans BIA will host several watch parties with participating businesses. Attend any location and enter a raffle to win an official Team Canada hoodie as well as the grand prize of a 43" Sony TV.
Businesses include Taproom260, The Bad Alibi, The Royal Oak, Stray Dog Brewing Company and Gabriel’s Pizza.
What to do in Ottawa during the World Juniors
In the Glebe
Fan Fest is back and bigger than ever. Located at the historic Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park, this free, family-friendly event will take your World Juniors’ experience to the next level. Concerts, games, rinks, live bands, prizes, merch, a New Year’s Eve party — if there’s a World Juniors’ event you don’t want to miss, it’s this one.
If you’re already in the Glebe for Fan Fest, grab some friends and embark on the new Christmas Adventure from YOW Adventure Tours (Nov. 22 – Jan. 5). This 90-minute, interactive outdoor escape game is the perfect way to explore the local area while having some fun.
As well, the Ottawa Christmas Market, also at Lansdowne Park, is extending its operating hours this year to align with the World Juniors. Keep the festive vibes alive until January 5. And while you’re there, take a ride on the Pedaler Express, a 40-minute party pedal through the Glebe belting your favourite holiday hits. Book your seat in advance.
Elsewhere
Escape Manor is hosting a Hunt for Gold scavenger hunt and offering discounts at all its locations to those who complete it. As well, its Hintonburg location will host World Juniors-themed trivia.
The Bank of Canada Museum (free admission!) has a new hockey photo station. Snap a picture with the iconic five-dollar bank note from the Canadian Journey series, featuring kids playing hockey outdoors.
Take a C’est Bon Food Tour. Buy tickets in advance using the promo code HOCKEY24 and get 15% off either their Taste of the ByWard Market tour or Taste of Canada tour (Dec. 26 – Jan. 5).
Need more ideas for things to do in Ottawa during the World Juniors? Check out these afternoon and evening game-day itineraries.
Visit Windbell Sushi in Kanata for their special Game Day Combo available from December 26 to January 5. For more exciting deals, visit the Kanata Central website.
