Last Updated on January 26, 2026 by Samantha
I’ve created a guide to help you make the most of your winter here in Ottawa. Winters in Ottawa can feel like they last a lifetime and for the most part they last a good 4-5 months. Not everyone can afford to travel South and escape this cold so I’ve put together this guide to help make the winter days go by a little bit faster.
Skating on the Canal
Ottawa is celebrating the Canal’s 56th year open as the largest (7.8km) skating rink in the world. The canal is usually open from later December to late February, weather permitting. It is completely free to use but if you don’t have your own skates you can choose to rent a pair.
After skating on the canal, stop and grab a hot chocolate and a beavertail (you won’t be sorry)! Make sure to check the skating conditions here to ensure the skateway is open.
Winterlude
Winterlude is Ottawa’s annual celebration of winter and runs from January 30-February 16, 2026. Ice carvers come from around the world to compete in the annual ice carving competition. Come check out the masterpieces these artists turn a block of ice into! The ice sculptures are beautifully displayed in Confederation Park and on Sparks Street and are beautifully lit in the evenings.
If you head over to Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau you can go to Snowflake Kingdom and enjoy tons of winter activities (including snow slides) for kids of all ages!
Nordik Spa
This has to be my favourite thing to do in the winter. Head to Nordik Spa and enjoy the day relaxing in their thermal experience. The thermal experience involves alternating between hot and cold with a rest period after. Spend the day relaxing at the spa and enjoying a delicious lunch or cocktail!
Head to their website to book your spa experience!
Cross Country Skiing in Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park has over 200km of groomed trails perfect for anyone wanting to go cross country skiing or snow shoeing. Pick up a ski pass in Chelsea, Quebec from the Visitor Centre (daily or seasonal).
Patinage en Foret (Skating through the Forest)
This is exactly what it sounds like – skating through the forest. This trail runs next to Gatineau Park and is approximately 3km long.
Tickets vary in price but are approximately $20 for a single day adult pass. Tickets can be purchased here.
Sens Rink of Dreams
The Sens Rink of Dreams is located at City Hall and runs from December to March from 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m., weather permitting. It is free to use and a great alternative if the canal is closed for poor conditions. Like the canal, skate rentals are on site if you don’t have skates.
Barbegazi
Barbegazi will be coming to the Byward Market from February 6-8, 2026 and will be turning the market into a high-energy winter arena. There will be freestyle snowmobile performances reaching up to 40 feet in the air, a chance to meet athletes and a cook-off! This event will be great for people of all ages and can’t be missed!
William St. Curling Alley
Street curling will be taking over William Street Plaza January 31-February 16 as part of Interlude this year! Come to the plaza and try out curling this winter.
As much as I dislike winter there is some really fun activities to enjoy in Ottawa!
