50 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa – Dec 8-10

How are you feeling about all the snow that has fallen the last two days in Ottawa? It seems that we may just have a white Christmas! Put yourself in the holiday mood with these awesome weekend events. Have fun!

1. Winter lights across Canada

Downtown Ottawa will look amazingly beautiful from this Thursday Dec 7 when plazas and public spaces get decorated with multicoloured lights. Take a stroll and enjoy this gorgeous experience! Some of the best places are: National War Memorial, Confederation Park, Mackenzie King Avenue. FREE.
When: Dec 7 to Jan 7
Where: Downtown

2. Mayor’s Annual Christmas celebration

Celebrate the festive season with the Mayor of Ottawa. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in their very own outdoor cabin. Roast marshmallows around a campfire, enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, hot chocolate, and ice skate on the Rink of Dreams! BeaverTails will be only $2, with all proceeds raised going directly to the Ottawa Food Bank! FREE.
When: Saturday Dec 9 from 2pm to 5pm.
Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave West.

3. Ottawa Christmas Market

Over 45 vendors, live music, workshops for kids, beautifully lit decorations, and the tallest Christmas tree in town. Fridays to Sundays. FREE.
When: Nov 24 to Dec 23. 
Where: Lansdowne Park.

4. Christmas concert

The Choirs of Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica will present their annual Christmas Choral Celebration, directed by the renowned Michel Guimont. All are welcome. Admission by free will.
When: Sunday, Dec 10 at 2:30pm.
Where: Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica

5. Originals Christmas Craft Sale

Shop consciously made Canadian handmade products from over 170 artists, artisans, makers and designers. Live music, photo kiosk, and drinks. Tickets from $4.25. Youth 17 and under free.
When: Dec 6-10. Wednesday to Friday 10am-9pm; Saturdays, 10am-6pm;  Sundays 10am-5pm.
Where: EY Centre, Hall 2, 4899 Uplands Drive. Ottawa.

6. Metcalfe Santa Claus Parade, Food & Toy Drive

The last parade in the city! If you haven’t seen a Santa parade in Ottawa this is your last chance. The route: Victoria St to 8th Line. FREE.
When: Sunday Dec 10, at 2pm.
Where: It starts at the corner of Victoria St and Johannes St.

7. Pique Winter edition

Featuring artists and audiences from a diverse network of underground and emerging cultural scenes. Combines music, visual arts, movement and screen-based presentation in a variety of formats. All ages. Admission is “Pay what you can” with a suggested contribution of $25 to $50.
When: Saturday Dec 9 from 5m to 2am.
Where: Arts Court, 67 Nicholas St.
Details: At Eventbrite

8. Ho Ho Holiday Craft Market

Shop from over 40 local vendors and makers. FREE admission.
When: Saturday Dec 9 from 10:30am to 3pm.
Where: Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Ave.
Details: @squarelemon_ottawa

9. 67`s weekend games

Cheer on Ottawa’s junior hockey team. Tickets from $23 tax incl.
Wednesday Dec 6 at 7pm: vs Oshawa Generals
Friday Dec 8 at 7pm: vs Peterborough Petes
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St.

10. Fan Fair 2023 at the NAC

Join the NAC Orchestra for this much-loved holiday tradition! This fun-filled concert features a festive selection of well-loved classics and all-time favourites, including a performance by special guest Justin Saulnier. FREE. Dec 10, 11am. Canal Lobby Stage, 1 Elgin Street Ottawa.

11. Ottawa Guild of Potters Holiday Pottery Sale

During this free three day event over 30 potters will be filling their booths with gorgeous handcrafted ceramics. You will be able to find functional ware, sculptural and decorative pieces as well as the sweetest ornaments to add a special touch to your holiday gifts. FREE. Dec 8 – 10. Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa.

12. A Country Christmas

From visits with Santa, Christmas activities, shopping for unique gifts at The Farmshop or delighting in the sights of beautiful twinkling lights, there is a lot to enjoy! Dec 1-23. At Saunders Farm.

13. Not Another Market

This one brings a lot of good feelings along with fantastic local and out-of-town vendors, curated treasures, Christmas portraits, trees and treats for sale, vintage, jewellery, florals, housewares, trinkets, art and specialty cocktails! FREE. Dec 3,10,17. Parlour, 1319 Wellington West, Ottawa.

14. Last Minute Craft Show @ Holy Trinity Catholic High School

National Capital Artisans host their one-day Christmas craft show featuring 40 local artisans with unique handcrafted gifts just in time for Christmas. FREE. Saturday Dec 9. Holy Trinity Catholic High School, 180 Katimavik Rd, Kanata.

15. Colombian Christmas Party

The Colombian Association of Ottawa and Gatineau will celebrate its 35 anniversary and a Christmas party with live music, shows, food and drinks. Tickets: $20, children under 6 free. Saturday Dec 9 from 7pm at the Ukrainian Banquet Hall, 1000 Byron Avenue.

16. Nut Cracker

The Ottawa Gay Men’s Chorus is hosting a holiday “Nut Cracker” concert in celebration of love, harmony, and so much fun! Tickets: $30 (includes taxes and fees). Sunday Dec 10, from 3pm to 7:30pm. At The Gladstone Theatre, 910 Gladstone Ave.

17. Home Alone in concert at the NAC

A true holiday favourite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John
Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to pictures by the NAC Orchestra. PAID. Dec 7 – 9. Southam Hall, 1 Elgin Street Ottawa.

18. Free horse-drawn carriages rides

Join the fun with these free carriage rides at the Byward Market on Sundays Dec 10, and 17 from 12pm to 2pm. Pick-up point is on George Street Plaza at 55 Byward Market Square.

19. Winter wonderland Roller Skate Bash

Prepare to GLOW at this Winter Wonderland Roller Skate Bash Dress in dazzling white attire and light up the rink in an enchanting flurry of white magic! PAID. Dec 9, 6pm. 4Wheelies Roller Skating Center, 1101 Baxter Rd, Ottawa.

Upcoming events

20. Holly Cole: A Swinging Christmas with the NAC Orchestra

A preeminent interpretative singer and arranger working between the poles of jazz and pop, Holly Cole will offer a special concert featuring the NAC orchestra. Expect seasonal favourites from two of her most beloved holiday albums: Baby it’s cold outside, and Christmas Blues. Wednesday December 13 at 8pm, Southam Hall at the National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St.

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