For three weekends in February, Winterlude brings a world of fun to Canada’s capital region. Here’s a jam-packed, one-day itinerary to help you plan ahead.
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.
Make the festival extra special and do these activities, too
Winterlude Packing Guide
Visiting Canada’s capital during the annual Winterlude festival is like stepping into a winter wonderland!
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.
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.
10 of the best toboggan hills in Ottawa
With 75 approved toboggan hills, Ottawa has some of the best tobogganing in Canada. Here are 10 of the best hills to sled on in the region. Have fun!
Best ice skating experiences in Ottawa
Find out the best sites within the city and in the countryside, skate rental options, amenities and more.
When the temperature drops, Ottawa’s nightlife heats up
Forget about hibernating. From clubs to pubs to outdoor attractions, here are some of the best ways to experience Ottawa’s nightlife this winter.
The best winter activities in Ottawa for families
Some cities freeze over in Winter. Ottawa comes alive as the perfect place for families to play, explore and create lasting memories together. Let the frosty fun begin!
Adventure awaits in Ottawa this winter
Love a good winter adventure? You’ll love Ottawa. Make the most of the season with these top outdoor experiences in Canada’s capital region.
Don’t miss these unique museum-like experiences in Ottawa
It’s no secret: Ottawa is home to some of the best museums in the world. But what other museum-like experiences exist in Canada’s capital? And what wonders do they hold?
Winterlude events you can’t miss out on
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…
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
Winter 2026, dates to be announced
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…
