Winterlude

What to do during Winterlude 2023 – Winterlude events and activities

Every February, the Ottawa area becomes the epicentre of an international ice sculpture festival – Winterlude. People from around the world gather to both create and admire the incredible craftsmanship of the ice sculptures.

Along with the ice sculptures comes an array of events and activities perfect for couples, families, and groups to participate in each weekend of the month!

Winterlude events you can’t miss out on

Accora Village Bed Race
Accora Village Bed Race
Decorated hospital beds (with a rider in costume) are pushed by 4 costumed teammates. Prizes are awarded for fastest, best-decorated bed, and best…
food
Canadian Culinary Championship
Celebrate Canadian culture and attend this respected culinary competition that will feature many talented Canadian chefs who will showcase their…
fire show
Frost & Fire Winter Festival
Join residents over the long Family Day weekend for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities for people of all ages.
guitar, music
Guitare Alla Grande guitar festival
Chamber orchestra Thirteen Strings premieres an innovative new project as part of this guitar festival, with award-winning guitarists Adam…
music
Ottawa Winter Jazz Fest
Live shows by Sarah Neufeld, Kenny Barron, Thus Owls, and more!
RCMP Musical Ride Stables
RCMP Musical Ride Stables Open House
The Open House has been an annual tradition in the community since 1996 and once again a Winterlude partner event. Bring your family and friends to…

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Make the festival extra special and do these activities, too

Gatineau Park, winter, Snowshoeing
Wonderful outdoor winter activities in Ottawa
Looking for fun things to do outside this winter by yourself, with friends or with loved-ones? Stay active by skating, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and more.
Nordik Spa-Nature
Dreamiest places for a romantic winter retreat in Ottawa
Love is in the air! No matter the season, romance is alive and well in Ottawa all year round. We’ve rounded up some of the area’s best spots to relax, reconnect, and warm up with the one you love this winter season.
Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day ideas in the Ottawa region
Looking for great ideas on how to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year? See how you can spoil your spouse, friends, or yourself in Canada’s capital.
Canadian Museum of History
Family Day Weekend: an Ottawa Itinerary
Keep kids entertained in Ottawa Family Day weekend! Find many free outdoor activities, sports, dining options, museums, and animal attractions.
National Gallery of Canada
Ottawa’s seven national museums
Visit seven of Canada’s nine national museums in one city! Ottawa is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Canadian culture, history and more.
breakfast, brunch
Hot brunch spots in Canada’s capital
Browse a few of the tastiest brunch places in the Ottawa area that serve classic egg breakfasts, inventive dishes, mimosas, Caesars and much more.

Stay up to date

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