The Visit Ottawa Pass gives you admission to your choice of five Premium Attractions/Experiences – plus access to great discounts on a variety of participating attractions, tours, dining, shopping and festivals.
Holiday season in Ottawa: ice skating, snow, Christmas lights and markets
Ottawa sparkles with festive charm during the holidays. From snow-filled adventures and cozy cafés to dazzling lights and cinematic scenery, Canada’s capital is the perfect winter getaway.
Holiday deals for your trip to Ottawa
Ottawa Hotels
Explore hotel deals for your holiday stay in Canada's capital.
Why spend the holidays in Ottawa
A holiday movie capital
Many of your favourite holiday films are shot in the National Capital Region, giving Ottawa a magical, movie-like atmosphere.
A guaranteed festive Christmas
With reliable snowfall, Ottawa is one of Canada’s top spots for a true winter wonderland. Whether the snow is on the ground Christmas morning or not, you’ll find endless spots to enjoy the season’s winter magic.
A balance of cozy and adventurous
Whether you want to skate outdoors, explore snowy trails, or curl up with a warm drink, Ottawa has it all.
Your guide to a winter holiday in Ottawa
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Christmas movie filming locations to visit in the Ottawa area
Visit the many places in and around Canada’s capital where some of your favourite Christmas movies have been filmed. -
Free or nearly free winter activities in Ottawa
Free or nearly free winter activities in the Ottawa area.
Holiday events in Ottawa
From twinkling lights on Parliament Hill to festive markets and pop-up experiences, Ottawa comes alive with holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings or unique seasonal traditions, you’ll find something unforgettable here.
Ottawa Christmas Market
Get into the holiday spirit at Ottawa’s European-style Christmas market—the perfect place for great food, warm drinks, traditional kiosks and a…
Winter Lights Across Canada
Starting in December, nearly 300,000 lights are installed in Canada's Capital Region, highlighting various sites and monuments and creating the…
A Country Christmas
Embrace the festive spirit with family fun at Saunders Farm! Enjoy the Elf Academy Stage Show, meet Santa, and explore snow-covered hedge mazes. Visit…
Magic of Lights
Experience the dazzling Magic of Lights drive-through display this winter. Lined with two kilometers of sparkling LED light displays, this event is…
Alight at Night
This all-ages event invites you to unwind in a 19th-century village lit by over a million lights. Enjoy activity stations and visit St. Nicolas, stop…
Trees of Hope for CHEO
Winter 2025, dates to be announced
Kick-start the holiday season with this magical fundraiser event! Experience in-person or take a virtual tour of the beautifully decorated Christmas…
Plan your Ottawa holiday getaway
From snowy adventures to cozy escapes, Ottawa is where the spirit of the holidays truly comes alive. Share unforgettable moments with your loved ones, discover festive traditions, and maybe even start new ones of your own. Whether it’s the sparkle of lights, the thrill of outdoor fun, or the warmth of gathering together, Ottawa is the perfect place to make holiday memories that last.
What to do in Ottawa at Christmas time?
Ottawa brims with festive holiday activities that capture the magic of the season. Cruise through the dazzling Magic of Lights at Wesley Clover Parks or the Alight at Night Festival in Upper Canada Village. Stroll the Ottawa Christmas Market for a taste of European-style cheer, complete with festive food, warm drinks, and live music. Add to the magic with the Vintage Village of Lights, Taffy Lane, or visit the historic ByWard Market building — a year-round hub where you’ll find delicious eats, one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and even winter activities.
