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From Tourism Ottawa
February 13, 2025
Looking for fun activities in the Ottawa area? Check out these options over the next seven days, starting on Thursday, Febuary 13. Be sure to verify details with the organizers as plans can change at any time.
Until Monday, February 17, 2025 | Take part in the winter season’s flagship event in Gatineau and Ottawa! Winterlude returns with its must-see ice sculptures, snow slides and the Rideau Canal Skateway. With over 600 indoor and outdoor activities, the event also features shows, exhibits, interactive urban art installations, performances by street artists and much more. Whether you’re looking for something to do with the family, on your own, as a couple or with friends, Winterlude has something to offer! See the calendar of events for more information. Most activities are FREE!
For some Winterlude excitement over Family Day weekend…
Ongoing | Discover the legacy of the beaver, a Canadian icon for 50 years! Beaver Tales invites you to celebrate this industrious animal — Canada’s official symbol for half a century — during Winterlude at the Canadian Museum of History.
Friday, February 14 to Monday, February 17 | DJs Live from the Booth: Winterlude Edition is an exciting addition to the annual Winterlude festival on Sparks Street. This outdoor DJ series complements the festival’s themes while promoting inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility for both performers and visitors.
Ongoing |Young and old alike can have fun while taking part in winter sports and activities outside on the grounds of the official residence and workplace of Canada’s Governor General at Rideau Hall’s Winter Celebration. FREE!
Friday, February 14 to Monday, February 17 | Celebrate Winter Pride in the ByWard Market district with an unforgettable evening of inclusivity, creativity and fun. FREE!
Friday, February 14 to Sunday, 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. FREE!
Saturday, February 15 to Monday, February 17 | Experience the magic of winter with a horse-and-carriage ride, Winter Aerialists, and Wood Carving Demonstrations through the ByWard Market. FREE!
Sunday, February 16 | Step into a winter wonderland as Elsa from Frozen visits the Grand Pizzeria and Bar for a magical family-friendly event. Bring the kids for a day filled with fun and joy. FREE!
Friday, February 14 to Monday, February 17| Check out LüX, a striking arch-like structure offers a sensory experience with a sound and light show that blends traditional sugar shack tunes with electronic rhythms, immersing you in the festive atmosphere of the urban sugar shack.
Until Saturday, February 15 | Bringing its signature blend of world-class artists, dazzling visuals, and vibrant energy to Gatineau as part of Winterlude, Igloofest promises an unforgettable outdoor experience with a lineup featuring international stars and local talent.
Saturday, February 15 | Head to Club Aléa at the Hotel-Casino du Lac-Leamy for the official Igloofest Gatineau’s ‘après-ski wrap up party.
For arts, cultural festivals and celebrations…
Ongoing | From dance workshops to tennis tournaments and Afro-Caribbean chef tasting menus, there are plenty of exciting Black History Month events to choose from.
Friday, February 14 to Sunday, February 16 | Enjoy 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 15 and Sunday, February 16 | Check out the 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 whose diversity and originality make the festival a hit wherever it goes. Happening at the National Arts Centre.
Saturday, February 15 | Explore Black Out Night at the National Arts Centre, offering Black audiences, and their guests, an opportunity to enjoy performances with their community, showcasing the vibrant spectrum of the Black experience. FREE!
Saturday, February 15 | During its time as a military base, the Diefenbunker held an annual Winter Carnival. Participate in these historic activities with a modern twist as you lace up your skates for a day of fun at the outdoor rink.
Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16 | Experience the world in one place at the annual Ottawa Multicultural Bazaar at the Nepean Sportsplex.
Until Saturday, February 15 | Explore Undercurrents, a winter theater festival which showcases contemporary theatre created by local, national, and international artists.
Until Saturday, February 15; Monday, February 17 | The Aurora Ottawa Festival celebrates the unique magic of Ottawa winters bringing the season to life with lights, music, and culture. This year, celebrate the rich heritages of Indigenous and French-Canadian communities that make Ottawa winters so vibrant. FREE!
Tuesday, February 18 | Celebrate Ottawa’s rich and diverse history at Heritage Day at Ottawa City Hall. FREE!
For sports and outdoor activities…
Thursday, February 13 | Cheer on the Ottawa Charge as they take on the Minnesota Frost happening at TD Place.
Saturday, February 15 | Engage with scientists and engineers as they showcase exciting and fascinating science experiments and activities at the Canada Science and Technology Museum.
Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16 | Participate in a guided snowshoe hike along trail 60 to uncover animal tracks. Discover the strategies animals have to survive the harshness of winter. At Gatineau Park Visitor Centre. Snowshoes are provided. FREE!
Sunday, February 16 | 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.
Sunday, February 16; Monday, February 17 | Support the Ottawa 67’s as they play against the Kitchener Rangers and the North Bay Battalion at TD Place.
Find out more great activities to do in and around Ottawa by checking out Ottawa Tourism’s Event Calendar or have a look at the Ottawa Insider Blog!
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