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.
All Weekend
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This week in Ottawa, GRAMMY-nominated singer Joshua Hopkins performs the world premiere of Songs for Murdered Sisters with the National Arts Centre Orchestra. Commissioned specifically for Joshua Hopkins and the NAC Orchestra, Songs for Murdered Sisters is a deeply personal new song cycle composed by Jake Heggie set to original poetry by Margaret Atwood. Learn more (and enter to win tickets) in our post here.
Happiness Habits 613, a grassroots local wellness group, is back for 28 days of free community experiences in February. Learn all about the group and this month’s activities in this post. This weekend, enjoy a hike on Sunday in Monaghan Forest, nordic skiing at Kanata Nordic on Saturday, or a kombucha workshop at NU Grocery on Saturday.
LumberJaxe is offering up a Valentine’s date night special. Nothing says romance quite like sparking wine and axe throwing! (But actually—sign me up!).
Is God Is is a tragicomedy at the National Arts Centre from February 9-18. Tickets are available online.
undercurrents, Ottawa Fringe’s winter festival, showcases the best original, contemporary theatre created by local, national and international artists. The 13th annual festival runs February 8-18. Stay up to date on all the apt613 coverage here, or check out the festival schedule here.
Enjoy a Valentine’s Day concert illuminated by flickering candlelight. A talented string quartet performing songs inspired by Romeo and Juliet on February 11 and 14 at First Baptist Church Ottawa. Tickets and details are available online.
While the Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival was cancelled, there is still a series of free concerts to enjoy at the Rainbow Bistro.
Thursday
Great Gatsby! It’s Murder is a comedic play set in the flapper era — and is also a fundraiser for Operation Come Home’s homeless youth hot breakfast program. Dressing in flapper era attire encouraged but not required. Tickets to the show at the NAC are available online.
Friday
Snowshoe under the stars with Friends of Gatineau Park. Hike in the moonlight, learn how animals survive winter, and enjoy some winter activity! The 3km hike takes place from 7-9pm every Friday.
NYC no-wave legend Lydia Lunch and her band RETROVIRUS will be at Club SAW Friday at 8pm. Tickets are available online. Pay-what-you-can options available (email hello@debaser.ca to arrange PWYC ticket).
Saturday
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra is at the National Arts Centre under the direction of new Music Director Gustavo Gimeno. The TSO celebrates their 100th anniversary this year, with a performance Saturday at 8pm. Tickets are available online.
Wellington West BIG HEART Night Market takes place from 5-9pm with local vendors offering treats under the moonlight. Get all the details here.
Calling all pandemic pups! Get a super cute (and super funny) portrait of your pup during the catch-a-treat fundraiser at Critter Jungle on Carling. Unleash Pet Photography is offering sessions to capture your furry friend mid snack with a portion of each session going to New Beginnings Pet Rescue.
Vintage Pop-up 613 is hosting the first Mystic Market of 2023 at Billings Bridge this Saturday from 10am-6pm.
Night Mod is throwing a vintage French pop up party at Happy Goat Coffee Co. with psych, disco, and new wave music.
Saturday February 11 from 2-5pm, Gallery 101 will host its first 2023 vernissage, celebrating Migrating Seeds featuring work by Anishinaabe artist Ginnifer Menominee, curated by Amin Alsaden. The vernissage will be opened with a ceremony of singing and drumming led by Indigenous elder Grandmother Irene. All are welcome.
Sunday
Stéphanie Plante, Councillor for Rideau-Vanier, is hosting drag bingo at the recently re-opened Brigid’s Well this Sunday from 2-4pm.
This Sunday is Super Bowl LVII which for some means an epic sports battle, and for others means great snacks. Check in with your fav local spots to see if they’re offering up a Super Bowl special: for example, Dominion City and Lil Z’s Pizza are hosting a Super Bowl party plus Dominion City has thrown together a game day super beer pack special.
For more of what’s happening in Ottawa, stay tuned to @apt613 on Twitter. Out snapping photos? Tag us on Instagram @apt613 for a chance to be featured on our feed. Be sure to use the hashtag #Apt613 so we can share your photos!
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