The BIG BANG Festival transforms your National Arts Centre into a giant sonic playground. Musical adventures invite children and their families on a…
The annual Winterlude festival celebrates Canadian winter culture and events. People from around the world gather to experience winter fun, cultural and culinary delights and outdoor adventures the first three weekends in February.
Winterlude was first celebrated in 1979 to celebrate Canada’s unique culture and climate, featuring Trotting on the Rideau; a horse race on the Rideau Canal Skateway. The festival has evolved but its mission stays the same; celebrating Canada’s cold winters and warm spirit.
Try to get a pic with the mystical Winterlude mascots; the Ice Hogs!
2026 Winterlude highlights
This year, experience Winterlude across the Ottawa-Gatineau region at Confederation Park in downtown Ottawa, and Jacques-Cartier Park (North Section) just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau. The festivities begin on January 30, 2026 until February 16, 2026.
Beyond the two key Winterlude sites, make sure to check out Igloofest, the world’s coldest music festival back by popular demand (headliner: Steve Aoki!). The festival is happening from February 12-14.
Head to the ByWard Market on Feb 6 and 7 for Barbegazi – freestyle snowmobile performances – where you can watch athletes launch up to 40 feet in the air in the heart of Ottawa’s nightlife district.
Foodies rejoice! From January 31 – February 6, check out Capital City Bites at restaurants across the city. 40+ restaurants showcasing prix fixe menus, exclusive offers and limited-time items. Discover Ottawa one plate at a time.
Finally, no Winterlude experience is complete without enjoying outdoor skating in the Capital region! Glide on the world’s largest outdoor skating rink on the Rideau Canal, visit a landmark rink at City Hall, Lansdowne or Rideau Hall (the Governor General’s residence) or try a skating trail through the forest!
Confederation Park
Winterlude returns to Confederation Park! Steps away from Parliament Hill, the National Arts Centre and other Ottawa landmarks, you’ll find ice sculptures, live shows and the Lantern Grove (NEW!).
Jacques-Cartier Park – North Section
Grab your snowpants! The Snowflake Kingdom at Jacques-Cartier Park is a can’t miss for those seeking a true Canadian winter experience. Snow slides, winter activities, a Ferris wheel – guaranteed fun for adults and kids! Plus, come out select evenings for Afterslide.
Winterlude events you can’t miss out on
Embrace Winter Run
A winter running race offering marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, 3K, and a 1K Kids Snowy Shuffle. Enjoy a closed course along the Ottawa River, with…
Great Canadian Kilt Skate
Winter 2026, dates to be announced
Put on your kilt (or come as you are!) and join the Great Canadian Kilt Skate at Lansdowne Park. Glide around the outdoor rink to lively music, savour…
Igloofest Gatineau
Don’t miss Igloofest, one of the world’s coolest music festivals, coming to town as part of Winterlude! Get ready to light up the night in your…
Indigenous Experiences – Winterlude Mini Pow Wow
Winter 2026, dates to be announced
Experience a mini Pow Wow featuring a Grand Entry or opening ceremony, intertribal dances, and performances by invited drum groups, along with dancers…
Rideau Canal Skateway
Every winter, the Rideau Canal turns into the Rideau Canal Skateway, aka, the world’s largest skating rink! From roughly January to late February or…
More tips for a magical Winterlude experience
Winterlude Packing Guide
Visiting Canada’s capital during the annual Winterlude festival is like stepping into a winter wonderland!
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