Looking for fun activities in the Ottawa area? Check out these options over the next seven days, starting on Thursday, February 12. Be sure to verify details with the organizers as plans can change at any time.
Until Monday, February 16 |It’s the final weekend of Winterlude—don’t miss your chance to enjoy Canada’s Capital Region’s iconic winter festival! Celebrate the season with exciting featured activities like the Big Bang Festival, Igloofest, and Cool Science Saturday. There’s something for everyone to enjoy before Winterlude comes to a close.
For Winterlude excitement over Family Day long weekend…
- Ongoing | Every winter, the Rideau Canal turns into the Rideau Canal Skateway, aka, the world’s largest skating rink! FREE!
- Friday, February 13 | An outdoor cold yoga session during Winterlude offers participants a chance to slow down and reset in a winter setting. FREE!
- Friday, February 13 to Sunday, February 15 | Celebrate Valentine’s and Family Day during Winterlude in the ByWard Market! Enjoy street curling, live buskers, creative workshops, a vendor market, horse-drawn rides, and explore BLCK Futures at Gallery 55.
- Friday, February 13 to Sunday, February 15 | Take on the Gatineau Loppet, Canada’s largest international cross-country skiing event, welcoming approximately 2,500 skiers from around the world competing in various competitions.
- Saturday, February 14 to Monday, February 16 | Discover the history of Ottawa within the city’s oldest stone building. The Bytown Museum is an ideal Winterlude destination for history enthusiasts and families.
- Saturday, February 14 | During its time as a military base, the Diefenbunker held an annual Winter Carnival. Participate in these historic activities with a modern twist. Outdoor activities are FREE!
- Saturday, February 14 | Young and old, families, couples and friends are invited to come to the Vanier Museopark to tap sugar maple trees in the traditional way.
- Saturday, February 14 to Monday, February 16 | Discover how money has evolved in Canada through engaging objects and hands on exploration at the Bank of Canada Museum. FREE!
- Sunday, February 15 | 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 scenic views of Ottawa’s skyline. Starting from the Canadian War Museum.
- Until Monday, February 16 | Winter Wander: Winterlude Edition adds fresh energy to the street with live DJs, ice sculptures, interactive installations, and photo ready moments throughout downtown. FREE!
- Until Monday, February 16 | Step into The Lantern Grove, a magical forest where light, sound, and winter wonder come together in an immersive experience designed to delight all ages. FREE!
- Until Monday, February 16 | Capital Art Fair Gallery Winterlude Art Show features more than 30 Ottawa-area artists and artisans presenting original winter- and Ottawa-inspired works in gallery and boutique settings. FREE!
For arts, culture and markets…
- Ongoing Wednesdays through Sundays |At Le Petit Chef, guests enjoy a playful animated chef who appears on their plates between courses, adding whimsy to the meal, blending 3D projection with creative gastronomy. Held at Tulip Restaurant and Bar.
- Fridays and Saturdays | Dance the night away at Club Aléa in the Casino du Lac-Leamy with its lineup of talented DJs!
- Ongoing on Fridays and Saturdays | Live music is featured at the Hard Rock Café. FREE!
- Friday, February 13 | Experience the energy of Brazilian Carnaval, presented by Saravah. Celebrate Brazilian culture with live music, a DJ, delicious food, drinks, carnival costumes and dancing at the 27 Club.
- Friday, February 13 | Presented by MODO-LIVE, The Bronson, and Hot 89.9, Heated Rivalry Night transforms The Bronson into a high-energy dance party inspired by the world of Heated Rivalry.
- Saturday, February 14 to Sunday, February 15 |The A7G Round Dance returns for its ninth annual edition, taking place on unceded Algonquin Anishinabeg territory. Horticulture Building at Lansdowne. FREE!
- Saturday, February 14 | Make sure to catch an incredible music show from the Chamberfest Concert Series.
- Saturday, February 14; Monday, February 16 | Enjoy affordable, family-friendly Ottawa 67’s hockey games at TD Place Arena at Lansdowne, in the lively downtown Glebe neighbourhood.
- Sunday, February 15 | Explore over 85 local vendors year-round at the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market every Sunday. FREE!
