Winterlude 2024: Ottawa’s Beloved Festival Makes a Comeback after Three Years

Winterlude, Ottawa’s most beloved winter festival, is making its triumphant return this coming February 2 to February 19, 2024, after three years. 

The National Capital Commission recently announced the festival’s comeback, promising tons of fun indoor and outdoor activities.

Due to the pandemic, Ottawans were stuck with just the virtual editions in 2021 and 2022, and an unusually warm winter in 2023 put a stop to the festivities. 

Unfortunately, these high temperatures stopped the opening of the Rideau Canal Skateway, leading to the cancellation of many beloved attractions. 

Attractions like the Ice Dragon Boat Festival had to be canceled, and these temperatures even caused the iconic ice sculptures on Sparks Street to melt.

This year, Winterlude is determined to bounce back with an extensive lineup of over 200 planned activities. The festival will feature a special focus on Indigenous culture, showcasing their practices, spiritual beliefs, history, and languages.

If the weather is good, activities on the canal will include the inaugural Capital Pride Ice Parade alongside favorites like the Ice Dragon Boat Festival. There will also be DJ performances, plus rest stops along the Rideau Canal Skateway.

Sparks Street will witness the return of the enchanting ice sculptures and Buskerfest, hosting performers from Ontario and Quebec. 

Snowflake Kingdom, situated in the northern part of Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau, will make a comeback with offerings like snow tubing, obstacle courses, etc.

Getting to attend Winterlude has to be one of the best parts of living in Ottawa, so we definitely hope to see you there soon!