Winterlude

What to do during Winterlude 2025 – 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
Winter 2025, dates to be announced
Decorated hospital beds (with a rider in costume) are pushed by 4 costumed teammates. Prizes are awarded for fastest, best-decorated bed, and best…
BeaverTails Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival
Winter 2026, dates to be announced
At the BeaverTails Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival, international teams race beautifully decorated dragon boats on the world’s largest skating rink in…
Big Bang Festival
A one-of-a-kind festival of musical adventures, inviting children and their families on a colourful journey featuring a rich array of sound concepts…
BougeBouge Ottawa
The unique indoor 5K at Rideau Centre and Rogers Centre Ottawa is back! This event, in collaboration with Winterlude is back and will conclude your…
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…
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…

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Make the festival extra special and do these activities, too

Gatineau Park, winter, Snowshoeing
Wonderful winter adventures 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.
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
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Keep kids entertained in Ottawa Family Day weekend! Find many free outdoor activities, sports, dining options, museums, and animal attractions.
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Ottawa’s seven national museums
Visit seven of Canada’s nine national museums in Ottawa!
breakfast, brunch
Hot brunch spots in Canada’s capital
Browse a few of the tastiest brunch places in the Ottawa.

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