Chill Out This February: Winterlude 2024 Unveils Exciting Calendar of Events
Brace yourselves for a frosty feast of festivities as Winterlude comes back this 2024 and unveils its eagerly anticipated calendar of events. The capital is about to transform into a winter wonderland, with an array of activities to warm even the coldest hearts.
But before we get into all the fun things to do during Winterlude, make sure to don your coziest winter clothes so you don’t catch a chill. With that out of the way, let’s skate right into Winterlude’s calendar of events!
Snowphy Trophy
WHEN: February 2, 2024
WHERE: The Glebe, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Winterlude brings back the beloved Snowphy Trophy snowman-building competition to the lively Glebe neighborhood! Between February 2 and 19, channel your inner sculptor and craft a snow creation that captures the essence of winter wonder.
100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force
WHEN: February 2, 2024
WHERE: National War Memorial, Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5A4, Canada
In commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Canada reflects on a century of aerial excellence. This free event is open to all and invites you to explore a captivating timeline showcasing the Air Force’s initial 100 years.
Lansdowne Park Skating Court
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
WHERE: 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa ON
Skate on the state-of-the-art refrigerated ice rink at Lansdowne Park and relish the winter atmosphere.
Rink of Dreams
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 9:00 am – 11:00 pm
WHERE: 110 Laurier Ave. West, Ottawa, ON
Experience the magic of skating on the Rink of Dreams, which is another state-of-the-art refrigerated ice rink, and indulge in a Beavertails right after.
Parliament: The Immersive Experience
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 9:30 am to 4:00 pm
WHERE: 211 Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON
Don’t miss an immersive multimedia experience and explore the heart of Parliament. This family-friendly event showcases the iconic landmark in a unique and engaging way.
Celebrating Indigenous Cultures
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa, ON
This event offers you a glimpse of Indigenous experiences and languages through an exhibition and an audio guide sharing stories from Cold War history.
Winter Crafts
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Bytown Museum – 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa ON
Get creative with winter crafts at the Bytown Museum and create snowflakes, control the northern lights, and learn words in Anishininiimowin with DIY crafts.
Bytown Museum Snowfolk
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Bytown Museum – 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa ON
Bring snow to life by building and decorating snowfolk outside the Bytown Museum with your family and friends.
Hot Drink Service
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Bytown Museum – 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa ON
If you’re getting a bit chilly from all the winter fun, you can warm up with hot drinks in Ottawa’s oldest stone building. The Hot Drink Service at the Bytown Museum provides a cozy retreat for everyone.
Tales from Bytown
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Bytown Museum – 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa ON
History buffs are in for a treat as “Tales from Bytown” allows you to step back in time and meet inhabitants from the old days and listen to tales of old winter celebrations.
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
The Winterlude Ice-Carving Showcase celebrates Nunavut’s 25th anniversary and is presented by Tim Hortons. Renowned artists Kevin Ashe and Ryan Hill will craft a monumental ice sculpture, highlighting the rich heritage and culture of Nunavut.
Métis Life During the Bison Hunt
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, between Elgin St. and Metcalfe St., Ottawa
In another captivating ice-carving showcase presented by Tim Hortons, artists Mowafak Neema and Don Lowing pay homage to the Métis Nation.
Ojibwe Spirit Horses, Inspired by Ronda Snow
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, between Elgin St. and Metcalfe St., Ottawa
The Winterlude Ice-Carving Showcase continues with an homage to the First Nations. Ross Baisas and Antonio Baisas will craft a monumental ice sculpture inspired by Ronda Snow, bringing the Ojibwe Spirit Horses to life.
Meet Doctors Without Borders staff
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
WHERE: Corner of Metcalfe and Sparks, Ottawa
Take the time to visit the “Little Birds” ice sculpture and meet Doctors Without Borders staff. And if you can, write a message in solidarity with over 100 million forcibly displaced people globally.
Indigenous Performances on Sparks
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Experience the best of Indigenous performances and entertainment on Sparks Street and marvel at the showcase of cultural richness and artistic expression.
Unikkaaqtuarniq – Stories from the North
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
WHERE: Aberdeen Plaza, Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
Journey into the world of Indigenous films from the circumpolar North with this unique outdoor experience. Here, you’ll get the chance to enjoy captivating stories projected on a theatre made of snow.
OLG Buskerfest – Winterlude Edition
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Enjoy storytelling, fire shows, juggling, and live music at OLG Buskerfest, where you’ll get to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere even in spite of the chilly season.
149 White Balls, 1 Red – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Challenge yourself to find the red ball among 149 white ones in this intriguing public art installation on Sparks Street.
Drawn Together – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: 60 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON
Leave your mark with the fun and interactive art installation by Studio F Minus where participants engage in a collective artistic experience.
e/motion – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Dive into the joys and sensations of surging water with e/motion, a playful interactive installation where you’ll experience and connect with the art on a sensory level.
Golden Hour – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Capture the period of sunrise and sunset with Golden Hour, a public art installation that bathes Sparks Street in warm light for a captivating display.
Ice Hogs Lounge
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Experience sporadic visits to the Ice Hogs on Saturdays, Sundays, and Family Day at the Ice Hogs Lounge on Sparks Street.
INFRA 2024 – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
INFRA portrays a pack of wolves in glowing hues, seen through thermal imagery, revealing our shared connection to nature in a visually stunning way.
Light Wave – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: 178 Sparks Street, Ottawa
Check out the unique interactive experience of Light Wave where the installation responds to your movements, creating a shifting collage of color and reflection.
The CUBE 2.0 – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Explore the imaginative world of artificial intelligence with CUBE 2.0, which offers a futuristic and visually engaging experience.
The DOOR(S) – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Discover the mystery behind The DOOR(S), a walk-through installation on Sparks Street. Don’t go unless you have the courage to open the doors and explore the secrets within!
The TUNNEL – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Don’t miss the chance to experience the stunning 30m beacon of light with the TUNNEL. This walk-through installation reflects the surrounding urban landscape, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
Wazaakone Woodland Bears – Public Art Installation
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to gawk at three-dimensional sculptures hand-forged from aluminum based on Adam Monture’s paintings.
The Wazaakone Woodland Bears add a touch of artistic elegance to Sparks Street during the Winterlude.
Steph La Rochelle in Concert at The Rainbow
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 8:00 pm to 0:00 am
WHERE: The Rainbow – 76 Murray St, Ottawa, ON
Be part of the BeaverTails Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival’s music showcase at the Rainbow. You’ll also get to enjoy a free concert featuring Steph La Rochelle, providing a delightful evening of live music.
Asuquomo with S.O.A.P.
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm
WHERE: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON
The National Arts Centre presents a captivating evening as Hip Hop Culture takes center stage with Asuquomo and S.O.A.P. This performance is part of the NAC’s inaugural Hip Hop Theatre Festival, offering a unique blend of music and street art.
M.T. Walker in Concert at The Rainbow
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 9:15 pm to 0:00 am
WHERE: The Rainbow – 76 Murray St, Ottawa, ON
The BeaverTails Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival continues its music series at The Rainbow with a free concert featuring M.T. Walker.
Wintersleep in Concert at The Rainbow
WHEN: February 2, 2024 | 10:30 pm to 0:00 am
WHERE: The Rainbow – 76 Murray St, Ottawa, ON
Dance to the music at Winterlude with Wintersleep, another free performance presented by BeaverTails Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival.
The 36th Annual Winterlude Triathlon
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 7:30 am to 12:00 pm
WHERE: Dow’s Lake, Rideau Canal Skateway (1001 Queen Elizabeth Drive, Ottawa, ON)
Participate in Ottawa’s best and most authentic winter sporting event, the 36th Annual Winterlude Triathlon. Participants will get to skate, run, and cross-country ski across scenic locations, including Dow’s Lake and Rideau Canal Skateway.
Arctic: Our Frozen Planet
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
WHERE: Canadian Museum of History – 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, QC
Don’t miss the opportunity to go on a breathtaking expedition across seasons and continents in “Arctic: Our Frozen Planet.” Join the showcase on the CINÉ+ giant screen for a captivating exploration of the frozen wilderness with family and friends.
Enjoy FREE Hot Apple Cider with OLG!
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street
While enjoying the OLG Buskerfest performances on Sparks Street, you can warm up with free hot apple cider to ward off the chill.
Community Winter Pentathlon
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
WHERE: 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
Joining the Community Winter Pentathlon will give you the ultimate winter experience in your backyard as you take on five winter sports in two hours. From skating, snowshoeing, tobogganing, running/walking, to even a scavenger hunt!
Beading Workshop at Beandigen Café
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
WHERE: Beandigen Cafe, 106-900 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
Join the beading workshop at Beandigen Café and create your unique pin to celebrate the winter season, and explore Indigenous cultures through artistic expression.
Inuit Art Workshop
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
WHERE: Diefenbunker Museum – 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa, ON
Those who love art are in for a treat as the Diefenbunker Museum offers everyone a chance to dive into the world of Inuit art.
You’ll get to learn about Inuit art forms and participate in an interactive, family-friendly workshop, where you’ll create your own masterpiece inspired by Inuit printmaking.
Trivia Challenge
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Bytown Museum – 1 Canal Lane, Ottawa, ON
Test your knowledge of Ottawa’s history with the Trivia Challenge, where you’ll get a chance to win exciting prizes while enjoying the Winterlude festivities.
Dino Dance
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
WHERE: 155 Queen St, Ottawa, ON
If you’re a dinosaur fan, then this is your chance to join a dino-themed dance at the Canadian Museum of Nature! Roll the giant dice, discover your unique moves, and groove to the beat without a care in the world.
Dino Ice Dig
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street
The Canadian Museum of Nature isn’t done with dinosaur fans as it offers your little paleontologists the opportunity to chip away at an ice block just like a junior ice sculptor. Plus, there’s always a chance to uncover hidden treasures!
Maple Taffy From Wabanaki Maple
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
WHERE: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON
For those with a sweet tooth, you can experience the magic of taffy pulling at EQ3 Plaza on February 3 and 4!
Tacos in a Bag
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
WHERE: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON
Foodies rejoice as Tacos in a Bag presented by Adaawewigamig shows up at the EQ3 Plaza as we celebrate Indigenous culture.
Traditional Hide Tanning
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
WHERE: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON
Uncover the artistry of Indigenous heritage with traditional hide tanning and witness the skilled craftsmanship to learn more about their rich cultural traditions.
Sleigh Rides around ByWard Market
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
WHERE: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON
Enjoy a delightful horse-drawn sleigh ride around the ByWard Market, a quintessential winter classic in Ottawa.
Maple Sugar Making
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
WHERE: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON
Prepare your senses for a sweet celebration of Indigenous culture with maple sugar demonstrations, where you’ll learn the traditional process of making maple sugar.
Rideau Hall’s Winter Celebration
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm
WHERE: Rideau Hall – 1 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON
Join Rideau Hall’s Winter Celebration filled with free, fun, and family-oriented activities that are perfect for all ages!
Dangerous Minds: In Conversation with the Hip Hop Headucatorz
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
WHERE: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON
Join the conversation with the Hip Hop Headucatorz and explore how hip hop’s 50-year history has influenced education and youth engagement. This event is supported by Arts Alive.
Art Workshop with Artist Karen Fleming
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Bank of Canada Museum – 30 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON
Warm up indoors and get creative with artist Karen Fleming, who’ll show you how to make your own sealskin brooch in a hands-on workshop celebrating Indigenous culture.
Family Roller Skating
WHEN: February 3, 2024
WHERE: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
Don’t miss out on the chance to have a family roller skating day in this roller disco session. There will be two sessions, from 2-4 pm and 5-7 pm this February 3.
The Old Black Maple
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
WHERE: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON
Fans of poetry can look forward to “The Old Black Maple,” where there will be live readings of the words of various poets.
Meet and Greet with Ice Carvers
WHEN: February 3, 2024 | 7:30 pm to 8:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON
As part of the Winterlude Ice-Carving Showcase, presented by Tim Hortons, come meet and ask your questions to some of the world’s best ice carvers!
Ottawa Farmer’s Winter Market
WHEN: February 4, 2024 | 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
The Ottawa Farmer’s Winter Market invites you to experience the innovation of local farmers and producers and discover all the fresh and seasonal offerings available.
Tim Hortons CHILL Zone
WHEN: February 4, 2024 | 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
WHERE: Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON
When you’re getting tired of all the festivities you can head to Sparks Street and indulge in a delightful break at the Tim Hortons CHILL Zone. There, you’ll get to treat yourself to a free hot beverage as you take in the vibrant atmosphere of Winterlude.