We are getting close to December and the Christmas events are popping up all around Ottawa! What a joyful and awesome time of the year! Newcomers and long-time Ottawa residents, check out this list of events!
1. Help Santa Toy Parade
This parade is a long-time tradition in Ottawa that is back this year for its 53th edition! It’s organized by the Ottawa Professional Firefighters Association. The purpose is to collect along the parade route donations of new toys for children in need. Traditionally this event attracts 100,000 spectators. On Nov 19 at 11am the parade will start at City Hall. Check out: toyparade.ca
2. Ottawa Chocolate Show
It will feature chocolate makers and chocolatiers from the Ottawa region and across Canada. There will be curated tastings, pairing sessions and seminars. Tickets from 16.46 dollars. Where: At Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave. Nov 19 from 9:30 to 5:30pm. Check out: theottawachocolateshow.ca
3. Magic of Lights
This show has become a tradition in Ottawa for the past seven years. Drive your car through a 2km amazing display of lights. This year they are featuring Prehistoric Christmas, Barbie and Big Foot Monster Truck. Starting Nov 18 until Jan 7. Everyday from 5pm to 10pm. PAID. Check out: magicoflights.com
4. Ottawa Children’s Festival
Bring your kids for engaging educational activities, workshops, and shows by international award-winning artists. Free admission but tickets must be purchased for the shows. Tickets cost $13.69. Where: Canadian War Museum. Nov 19-20. Check out: ottawachildrensfestival.ca
5. Cineplex Community Day
Enjoy a morning screening of a family-friendly movie for free! This event aims to raise funds for BCG Canada, the largest Canadian child and youth organization. Snacks price will be reduced to as low as $2.50. Nov 19 from 9am to 11am. Space is on a first-come, first-served basis. Check out: cineplex.com
6. Ottawa Senators vs New Jersey Devils
Cheer up the Senators in their battle against the New Jersey Devils. Nov 19 at 2pm at Canadian Tire Centre.
7. A Middle East Soirée
Capital Rainbow Refugees features belly dancers, drag queens, and storytellers in order to help LGTBQI refugees. Where: Horticulture Building at Lansdowne. PAID. Nov 18 at 6:30 pm.
8. 613 Flea
Shop from over 140 vendors in this amazing venue. Nov 19 from 10am to 4pm at the Aberdeen Pavilion. Lansdowne. FREE. Check out: @613flea
9. Winter Night Market
Over 50 vendors, a heated patio and hot chocolate. Every Wednesday from Nov 16 to Dec 21. 5-9pm. FREE. At Gloucester Centre. Address: 1980 Ogilvie Road.
10. Gluten Free Exhibitor Fair
Discover new gluten-free businesses and products. Tea and coffee will be provided. At Riverside United Church. 3191 Riverside Drive. Nov 19 from 2:30pm to 5:30pm. FREE.
11. Glebe Craft & Artisan Fair
Nov 19 from 10am to 5pm, and Nov 20 from 10am to 4pm. At the Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Ave. FREE.
12. Eric Robitaille art exhibition
Visit this colourful family-friendly exhibition at Art Plus Gallery on Sussex. It runs from November 16 to December 4. FREE admission.
13. OUC Holiday Bazaar
Nov 19 from 9am to 2pm at Orleans United Church, 1111 Orleans Blvd. FREE admission and parking. http://ouc-bazaar.blogspot.ca
14. Pineview Holiday Craft Fair
Nov 19-20 from 10am to 4pm at Pineview Community Hub, 1700 Blair Rd. FREE.
15. Christmas Farmer’s Market
Nov 19 from 10am to 2pm. At The Log Farm, 670 Cedarview Rd. Free admission.
16. Canterbury Community Association Christmas Craft Fair
Nov 20, 10 am to 3pm. At Canterbury Community Centre, 2185 Arch St. Free admission.
17. Old-Fashioned Christmas & Outdoor Artisan Market
Nov 20 from 10am to 3pm. At Goulbourn Museum, 2064 Huntley Rd, Stittsville.
18. Watson’s Mill Christmas Market
Nov 19-20 from 10am to 4pm. At 5525 Dickinson St, Manotick. Free admission.
Enjoy!!!