We’ve got lots of Winterlude activities happening on the Family Day weekend, plus some great music shows and festivals!
All Weekend
BIG BANG Festival is taking place all weekend at the National Arts Centre. The annual event for families features shows and free activities on February 15-16.
Broadway Across Canada’s TINA – The Tina Turner Musical runs February 11-16 at the NAC. Limited tickets remain online.
undercurrents festival continues through to February 15 at the Arts Court. Learn more about this year’s festival in our preview here and stay up to date on the latest reviews here.
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Get ready for the Oscars and check out films playing at the ByTowne and Mayfair theatres in the first half of February.
Aurora Ottawa celebrates the unique magic of Ottawa winters on February 14 and 15.
The 47th edition of the Gatineau Loppet takes place February 14-16. More than 2000 people have registered for cross country ski races over the weekend.
Over one hundred drones will take to the skies above the Snowflake Kingdom (Jacques-Cartier Park) for Winterlude in the Stars happening Friday and Saturday at 7pm.
IglooFest is making its debut in Gatineau this weekend with an outdoor festival at Place des Festivals Zibi. Check out our preview here.
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Centretown Cold Plunge is raising money for two community organizations: Centre 507 and the Centretown Community Health Centre. Sign up online, raise funds, and take the plunge on February 14, 15, or 16.
Thursday
Check out dueling pianos live at Manor Lounge, Escape Manor’s Elgin Street location.
Grab your pals and celebrate Galentine’s Day at Nan’s Parlour with special cocktails, friendship bracelets, and a DJ.
Friday
Looking for ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Ottawa? Check out this post! More ideas include Dangerous Curves Burlesque, a trip to one of the area’s many local spas, heart shaped doughnuts from SuzyQ, or a meal out at a local restaurant (including heart shaped pasta from La Bottega or Chef Ric’s).
Saturday
Spark Beer turns 5! Celebrate with new releases, live music, great pizza, and for the first time: brunch!
The Diefenbunker Winter Carnival is happening February 15 from 12:30-3pm at the outdoor rink at the Huntley Community Association.
The Vanier Sugar Shack will be tapping maple trees on Saturday and they’re looking for volunteers to join them.
NAC English Theatre will host a Black Out Night that will coincide with the evening performance of Controlled Damage. According to the NAC’s event page, “NAC Black Out Nights offer Black audiences, and their guests, an opportunity to enjoy performances with their community, showcasing the vibrant spectrum of the Black experience. As always, everyone is welcome to join the Black Out Night during the performance of Controlled Damage, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and celebration.”
Westboro Beach Community Association is hosting a Winter Carnival on Saturday afternoon.
Sunday
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The Vanier Sugar Shack maple season kicks off on February 16 with your chance to eat at Canada’s only urban sugar shack.
Harbour Harvest is a fishing derby fundraiser happening February 16 at the Nepean Sailing Club. You can register online ahead of time or day of. No previous experience or fishing license needed!
À La Dérive Brasserie Artisanale is hosting a beer and knitting afternoon from 12-5pm.
Bonus: Family Day Monday
If you’re along Sparks Street checking out Winterlude activities, consider a stop in at the Bank of Canada Museum. While the City of Ottawa museums are closed on Family Day, many of the national capital region’s other museums are open and a great spot to visit on a chilly day.
Family Day marks the end of Winterlude and there are plenty of activities happening around town: check out the full schedule of events here.
Amuse Bouche comedy is taking place again on the 22nd, and it will definitely sell out, so get your tickets in advance!
For more of what’s happening in Ottawa, stay tuned to @apt613 on X. 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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