What to do in Ottawa this Winter?

BougeBouge in the city!

BougeBouge is coming to the National Capital, Ottawa, this winter, and so should you! Just a stone’s throw from the Quebec border, this city is full of activities to do in winter and, against all expectations, offers a wide range of typical sports!

Of course, the city is overflowing with museums, art galleries, and cinemas, but we want to offer you activities that will make you see the city through a sporty eye, like the BougeBouge Ottawa 5km, by winding through the corridors of the two biggest shopping malls: the Shaw Centre and the CF Rideau Centre!

In fact, this event will take place on February 5th, the very first weekend of Winterlude! Take a look at this year’s program to find out what’s going on during the first three weekends of February and enjoy the many activities that highlight the joys of winter.

The outdoors in the city!

Not yet satisfied with the Winterlude festival? No problem! Ottawa also offers an impressive array of winter sports. Why not go skiing on the 200km of trails in Gatineau Park, or right from downtown on the Kichi Sibi and Rideau trails? And if you prefer downhill skiing, head to Mont Cascade for some skiing or sliding! In fact, there are several hills throughout the city that are open to everyone. We recommend the Greenbelt for maintained and lit trails at night.

A must for the capital in winter is skating. The Rideau Canal offers the largest natural skating rink in the world! And even better, it’s free! Put on your skates and come discover the city by its main waterway. You’ll even be able to taste some typical Canadian delicacies sold in kiosks along the Rideau Canal.

Markets in the city!

If you like these delicacies, head to one of the year-round markets, where local and traditional products are sold. The popular ByWard Market is open daily year-round and features vendors selling local products. The Ottawa Farmers’ Market features hundreds of local vendors who come to Lansdowne Park every Sunday throughout the year to offer their products. Finally, the Ottawa Organic Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 10am to noon to showcase local organic products and talk about organic farming!

Relax in the city!

Finally, after all these activities, you deserve to relax! Ottawa offers 5 spas, two of which offer a spa experience, just minutes from downtown. What better way to end a typical Canadian winter weekend? Koena Spa and Nordik Spa Nature await you.