Winterlude

We’ve got lots of Winterlude activities happening on the Family Day weekend, plus some great music shows and festivals!

It looks like we are in for a mild February weekend and it couldn’t be better timing, as there is a ton of fun stuff going on outdoors this weekend. There is also plenty happening inside, for you indoor cats, as well.

Finally, we’ve reached the last weekend of January! Winterlude kicks off this weekend, and for the first time in a long time, the weather is cooperating for the winter festival, and keeping the canal open and sculptures frozen! If the outdoors aren’t your jam, there is plenty to do inside this weekend too, from live music, to craft markets and seed planting workshops.

It’s the second weekend of Winterlude and we’re keeping our fingers crossed that the Rideau Canal will reopen. In the meantime, we’ve got a jam packed weekend of winter fun!

Local music enthusiasts can look forward to an equally strong lineup of Ottawa artists like Jasmine Trails, Pony Girl, fanclubwallet, Alanna Sterling, Craig Cardiff, Summersets, Loon Choir, Graven, Steph La Rochelle, and more.

The smarch-like weather of late hasn’t been great for outdoor winter activities, but there’s plenty to do both indoors and out—just be sure to check conditions or official websites/social media accounts before checking out the outdoor events.

It’s *technically* the second weekend of Winterlude, but after a rollercoaster week of weather, the Rideau Canal still hasn’t opened and ice carvings are starting to melt (despite the best efforts of NCC staff!). That said, there are still some great Winterlude-esque activities to enjoy this weekend, plus a number of other great Ottawa events.

Welcome to another winter weekend in the 613! The temperatures are finally dropping to levels that we’re used to this time of year, and hopefully, that doesn’t keep you from getting out there for some fun. Not only is this weekend the beginning of Winterlude, but it is also the first weekend of Black History month, which means there are so many creative and thought-provoking events around town to enjoy.

Things are starting to look up for us, Ottawa. Both the days and the Rideau Canal Skateway have gotten longer this week, and we may be on the precipice of a cautious reopening. (Maybe. Don’t quote me.) February is the shortest month of the year, so let’s get through it gracefully, with heart and some optimism for the approaching spring!

Plasticine, the squishy plastic modelling clay every toddler knows and loves, can be employed to make art that looks similar to an oil painting done with a palette knife.

It’s a long weekend for many and there is plenty taking place all weekend long. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, exploring the city with family, or enjoying a special night with a loved one, here are some ways to make the most of this weekend.