Winterlude is an annual winter festival in Ottawa, spanning three weekends in February. We’ve been fortunate to attend multiple celebrations in Canada’s capital, consistently discovering new activities to enjoy. Our nation’s capital continually finds unique methods to celebrate winter in the great white north.

A weekend in Ottawa serves as the perfect getaway for all, providing an excellent antidote to the February blues. This Winterlude itinerary outlines a three-day adventure in Ottawa, celebrating this fantastic event. Winterlude takes place from February 2, 2024, to February 19, 2024.

Winterlude 2024 Closures and Cancelations: The Rideau Canal Skateway is currently closed due to the mild weather Canada has been experiencing in recent years. Check the Winterlude website for more information on when it will reopen.

All About Winterlude in Ottawa 2024

Winterlude occurs every February for three weeks, and 2024 marks the 46th celebration of this event. It is one of the most exciting things to do in Ontario. The event spreads throughout the city and into the neighboring Gatineau in Quebec. Key venues for Winterlude include the Rideau Canal, ByWard Market, Sparks Street, Confederation Park, and Jacques Cartier Park in Gatineau.

1. Rideau Canal Skateway

During winter, the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforms into the world’s largest skating rink in Ottawa. Fingers crossed it will open soon, as this is our favorite winter activity in Ottawa.

Stretching over 7.8 kilometers through the heart of Ottawa, the Skateway is essential for attendees of Winterlude. You’ll find warming huts and eateries along the canal, along with skate rentals available at the venues around town.

2. Other Places to Skate in Ottawa

If the Canal remains closed, other ice skating rinks will certainly be open. A popular option is The Sens Rink of Dreams located by City Hall, where you can enjoy hot chocolate and Beavertails rinkside.

Rideau Hall, built in 1872, is a historic skating arena situated on the site of Canada’s Governor-General’s residence.

3. Ice Sculpture Competition

Winterlude’s ice sculpture competitions represent a highlight of the festival, attracting artists from around the world who transform blocks of ice into stunning works of art. This year, the ice sculptures will be displayed on Sparks Street from February 2 to February 19.

Regular ice sculpting demonstrations and competitions allow attendees to witness artisans at work, and there may even be opportunities to try carving your own piece. Due to warmer weather, the ice sculptures could be at risk of melting this year.

4. Sparks Street

Sparks Street is the hub of entertainment, featuring street artists and lively street parties. The Ottawa Winter Pride festival coincides with Winterlude, featuring burlesque performers braving the cold in 20-degree weather for a fun, festive show.

DJs maintain the energy between acts, while food stalls and outdoor bars keep appetites satisfied and spirits high. For families, the Sparks Street Ice-Cade offers winter carnival games, including ice ring toss, ice air hockey, and ice benches.

As neon lights illuminate the street, you can easily spend an evening bar-hopping or discovering various parties throughout the city.

5. Jacques Cartier Park – Snowflake Kingdom

Jacques Cartier Park’s Snowflake Kingdom is an ideal destination for families. With outdoor events, mini igloos, introductory skiing lessons, and fun events, it’s well worth the trip across the river.

This is the perfect place for those with kids or anyone young at heart. From February 2 to 22, 2024, the park offers various winter experiences in Snowflake Kingdom.

6. Snowtubing

Snowtubing also takes place at Jacques Cartier Park. To avoid long waits, we recommend arriving early to enjoy the snow tubing park. Dave and I frequently refer to snow tubing as the ultimate couch potato thrill ride. Simply sit on an inner tube and let gravity do the rest. Please note that these are temporary tubing lanes, so you will need to walk back up while carrying your tube.

This activity is an excellent way to exhaust the kids for the day. Two snow tubing sections with about six lanes each are ready for Winterlude, ensuring the lines are manageable.

7. Winter Ziplining

Jacques Cartier Park is home to a zip line that offers stunning views as it glides over the park and near the river. After climbing the elevated platform, we donned our harnesses and soared over Snowflake Kingdom.

• Cost: $10 for each ride or $20 for unlimited access for the day.
• If I had kids, I’d opt for the $20 unlimited option.

8. Winterlude Mascots

The Ice Hogs family, friendly mythical creatures, serves as Winterlude’s official mascots, bringing the magic of winter to Ottawa. According to fun lore, these mascots cherish the cold and celebrate winter’s beauty, making them perfect embodiments of the festival’s spirit.

The Ice Hogs Family represents the warmth and friendliness characteristic of both the festival and the city of Ottawa during winter. Be sure to snap a photo with them!

9. The Canadian Museum of History

Our Frozen Planet is an immersive multimedia experience currently offered at the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa. Embark on a breathtaking educational journey across three continents and experience the icy landscapes of the polar regions. Witness the Northern Lights, polar bears, narwhals, and massive ice flows.

This remarkable exhibition is a must-see, especially in our favorite museum in Ottawa. While visiting, you’ll also gain insight into Canadian history and indigenous cultures.

10. Dow’s Lake Dragon Boat Races

Regrettably, the Dragon Boat Festival is canceled this year due to Dow’s Lake not freezing.

11. ByWard Market

Visitors frequently seek warm spots to take a break while exploring Ottawa’s winter outdoors. ByWard Market features both outdoor shopping and an indoor main building filled with cafes and shops, making it an ideal venue to escape the cold for a while.

Outdoor restaurants and bars abound, offering shopping and festive activities. Ice sculptures and street performers enliven the ByWard Market area.

Play Food and Wine is an excellent choice for lunch, featuring shareable small plates. It’s centrally located at the intersection of York and Sussex Drive, right at the entrance to ByWard Market.

12. Glebe Snowman Building Competition

The beloved Snowman Building Competition is an exciting addition to Ottawa’s Winterlude festivities, taking place in the Glebe, just south of downtown Ottawa. During this competition, participants of all ages gather to build impressive snowmen and sculptures in a picturesque setting, making it a fantastic family-friendly activity.

Participants often surpass traditional snowmen, with prizes awarded for categories such as “Most Creative,” “Largest Snow Sculpture,” “Best Team Effort,” and “Kids’ Choice.” Winners receive Glebe-themed prizes.

13. Where to Warm up in Ottawa – Ottawa Museums

Downtown Ottawa features several museums perfect for popping into during Winterlude. For museum enthusiasts, The National Gallery is just a short stroll from the ByWard Market, housing impressive collections of art, including the iconic sculpture Maman by Louise Bourgeois.

Having visited numerous museums and galleries in Ottawa, our personal favorite is the Canadian Museum of Nature. Also, the Canadian Museum of Science and Technology is a fun spot for families, while the ByWard Museum by the Rideau Locks offers insights into the history of the ByWard Market.

14. Notre Dame Cathedral

A great place to warm up during Winterlude is inside Notre Dame Cathedral.

There seems to be a Notre Dame in every major French city. There’s one in Paris, in Montreal, and yes, Ottawa has its own as well! Be sure to check out its stunning interior located directly across from the National Gallery.

15. Andaz For Sunset

After an afternoon of exploring Ottawa, we headed to the top of the Andaz Ottawa in the ByWard Market for cocktails. This venue offers an unparalleled view of the sunset over the city, making it one of the premier spots in Ottawa.

16. Pop into Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Another exceptional warm-up spot for Winterlude is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier Hotel. Having stayed here on several occasions, we love the hotel’s inviting atmosphere and rich history. Venture to the back of the hotel for boutiques and shops, and take in a photography exhibit showcasing history dating back to the early 20th century.

17. Where to Eat at Winterlude

With so many delightful food options, you might think we’d be too full for dinner. However, after our stroll back to the hotel, hunger struck!

• Joey Landsdowne – A fantastic spot located near the Westin, we enjoyed pasta in a bustling atmosphere on Rideau Street.
• The Brig Pub – Situated in the ByWard Market, it’s a perfect spot for lunch or enjoying a cold brew.
• Riviera Restaurant – Recognized as one of Canada’s best restaurants by EnRoute Magazine, Riviera Restaurant is a must-visit, conveniently located near Winterlude festivities.
• Zoes – An elegant eatery in the Chateau Laurier, serving delectable meals.
• The Grand Pizzeria – Positioned across from Beavertails in the ByWard Market, The Grand Pizzeria is rooted in history, dating back to 1812, offering a vibrant ice bar with fire pits, fabulous pizza, and pasta options.
• Corazon de Maiz – A quaint eatery in the ByWard Market, showcasing incredible tacos and burritos.
• Play Food and Wine – Serves exquisite small plates in a wonderful setting, known for its fantastic service.

Where to Stay in Ottawa

When selecting accommodation, we recommend staying in the downtown area for easy access to most events. Below are four hotels we’ve stayed at and highly recommend:

Westin is the best location for Winterlude. Directly across from the canal, it’s just a short walk to the Skateway’s entrance and connected to the Rideau Centre shopping mall. The Westin also offers a skate lounge, allowing guests to warm up in their gear. See rates and availability here.

Fairmont Chateau Laurier – Known as Ottawa’s most iconic hotel, it dates back to 1912, located directly across from the Westin, making it a perfect place to stay during Winterlude. Check rates and availability here.

The Andaz Hotel is popular for its rooftop patio with stunning sunset views. This business boutique hotel has a gym but no pool or sauna. The rooftop bar is a major highlight. See rates and availability

If we had to choose, we’d opt for the Westin during Winterlude and the Fairmont for all other trips to Ottawa.

How to Dress for Winterlude

Enjoying a winter carnival is easy with the right attire. Before embarking on your adventure, pack these essential winter items:

Base Layers: Merino wool leggings and a base layer shirt effectively wick away moisture to keep you warm.

Mid-layer: A fleece or wool sweater is ideal when paired with a lightweight, windproof, yet breathable outer layer.

Parka and Snow Pants: You’ll be outdoors for extended periods, so be sure to wear a good parka and lined snow pants to keep warm.

Hats: A quality wool hat is crucial; consider balaclavas to keep both your head and neck cozy.

Boots: Choose lined, breathable, and waterproof boots that fit comfortably, allowing for extra socks and toe warmers. Read our winter layering tips to avoid the deep freeze.

Thanks to the National Capital Commission, Winterlude has grown into one of Canada’s most cherished winter festivals, drawing visitors from across the country and worldwide. The NCC’s efforts ensure the festival celebrates the season while showcasing Canadian culture, heritage, and the natural beauty of the national capital region.

So there you have it, your Winterlude itinerary from February 2 to February 19. If you’re in search of a winter adventure this weekend, make your way to Ottawa and celebrate winter with friends and family, enjoy skating, and relish the great outdoors.

Plus, celebrate Canadian Heritage, Indigenous Culture, and significant anniversaries, including the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Eiffel Tower. Indoor and outdoor activities abound for the entire family; we’ll be sharing them all with you today! Check the Canadian Heritage website for the complete list of events.

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