We’re back!! After a one-month break, we’re ready to bring you our curated list of weekend events and things to do in Ottawa! It was a nice and necessary pause to come back recharged.
Now February is here, and it looks like a very busy month thanks to Winterlude, Ottawa’s iconic winter festival.
Winterlude is one of the most popular and largest events in the capital, so don’t miss out on the many awesome activities and events. Bundle up, head outside, and enjoy!
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19 events you won’t want to miss this weekend in Ottawa
1.Winterlude
Enjoy one of Ottawa’s most popular festivals: admire its beautiful ice sculptures, try the fun snow slides, and the new addition, a Ferris wheel; enjoy live music and many free outdoor winter activities.
When: Jan 30-Feb 16
Where: Jacques Cartier Park (Gatineau) Confederation Park, Byward Market, Sparks St, and other venues.
Details: https://www.canada.
2. Barbegazi
Don’t miss sky-high levels of adrenaline with ice-cold freestyle snowmobile performances reaching up to 40 feet in the air. FREE.
When: Feb 6-8. Fri 7pm-7:30pm; Sat 2pm-2:30pm and 7pm-7:30pm; Sun 2pm-2:30pm.
Where: York St. Byward Market
Details: IG @bywardmarket
3. Rideau Hall Winter Celebration
An afternoon of free outdoor activities, captivating performances and more than a few surprises. Tour the Rideau Hall state rooms and skate on its historic skating rink. A free Winterlude shuttle will run in a loop from downtown (intersection of Metcalfe and Queen Streets) to Rideau Hall every 30 min between noon and 4pm. FREE.
When: Saturday Feb 7, 12:30pm-4pm.
Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Dr.
Details: gg.ca/en/visit-us/rideau-hall/
4. Afterslide
Two special evenings programmed especially for teenagers and young adults featuring DJ performances, an illuminated Ferris wheel, tube sliding, a 360° camera and much more! Free coffee and hot chocolate. FREE.
When: Feb 6- 7, from 6pm to 10pm.
Where: Snowflake Kingdom at Jacques Cartier Park.
Details: https://www.canada.
5. Unikkaatuarniq: Snowscreen by the Asinabka Festival
Experience Indigenous films from the circumpolar North outdoors in a theatre made of snow. There will be post-screening DJ & VJ performances, hot drinks and warming stations. The films last approximately one hour. FREE and donations are welcome.
When: Feb 6-7-8, 6pm-9pm.
Where: Feb 6-7, Lansdowne Park (Outside the Horticulture building & Aberdeen Pavilion ) 1000 Exhibition Way. Feb 8 at Beandigen Cafe 106-900 Exhibition Way
Details: https://
6. Shiverfest
Fun for the whole family at Manotick’s winter carnival. Don’t miss the pancake breakfast, horse-drawn sleigh rides, magic show, skating exhibition, scavenger hunt, face painting, crafts, and much more! FREE and PAID events.
When: Feb 6-7
Where: Various venues in Manotick.
Details: https://www.
7. Undercurrents
Enjoy some of the most innovative and thought-provoking works of art from local and national artists. This festival brings together artists from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and disciplines to showcase their talents in an intimate and inclusive setting. Tickets: $0-$50
When: Feb 4-14
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave
Details: https://ottawafringe.
8. Fete Frissons
Come for a fun family day featuring shows, artistic creations, workshops, and storytelling! Food available to purchase from Queensview Cafe, Juice Dudez, Mavericks et Chris’s Ice Cream. FREE.
When: Sunday Feb 8 at 11am
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Orleans
Details: shenkmanarts.ca
9. Greely Winter Carnival
Celebrate the winter season at the Greely Winter Carnival with a variety of activities for all ages including outdoor entertainment, a magic show, sleigh rides, Bingo, brunch and more community fun. Entry is FREE.
When: Feb 5-8
Where: Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Drive, Greely, Ontario.
Details: greelycommunity.ca
10. Elmdale BookFest 2026
Browse thousands of second-hand books spanning every genre, plus games, puzzles and DVDs, at one of Ottawa’s most anticipated annual book sales. Proceeds support local school programs and community initiatives. Entry is FREE.
When: Feb 6-8. Thu 4-9pm; Fri 9am-9pm; Sat & Sun 10am-4pm.
Where: Elmdale Public School, 49 Iona Street, Ottawa, Ontario.
Details: IG @elmdaleps
11. Capital CityBites
Taste Ottawa: Capital City Bites invites you to experience the best of Ottawa’s food scene with exclusive menus, special features and limited-time bites at over 40 participating restaurants across the city during Winterlude. Price varies by restaurant and menu.
When: Jan 31 to Feb 6.
Where: Various locations, Ottawa.
Details: tasteottawa.com
12. Ottawa 67’s Games
Cheer on the Ottawa 67’s in back-to-back Ontario Hockey League games against the Brantford Bulldogs and the Owen Sound Attack. Tickets $25.
When: Saturday Feb 7 at 3pm (vs Brantford Bulldogs)
Sunday Feb 8 3pm (Owen Sound Attack)
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St
13. Capital Hoops 2026
Watch top university and community basketball teams compete at Capital Hoops, Ottawa’s premier winter basketball tournament. Tickets from $27.92.
When: Friday Feb 6 at 6pm.
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St
Details: tdplace.ca
14. Ottawa Black Bears vs Calgary Roughnecks
Catch fast-paced professional box lacrosse as the Ottawa Black Bears host the Calgary Roughnecks in a high-energy National Lacrosse League matchup — expect quick transitions, big saves, and nonstop action on the turf. Tickets from $37.
When: Saturday, Feb 7- 7 pm
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa
15. Stew Showdown
Sample and vote on the best hearty stew from local Westboro Village restaurants in this annual friendly competition supporting the Westboro Region Food Bank. A panel of judges and the People’s Choice vote decide the winners while you enjoy delicious stews and community spirit. Tickets are $28 per seating.
When: Saturday Feb 7, 2pm-4pm.
Where: All Royal Canadian Legion – Westboro Branch 480, 389-391 Richmond Road, Ottawa
Details: westborovillage.com
16. Luxe Wed Experience
Ottawa’s biggest Multicultural Wedding Show, featuring 85 vendors, a live show, music, food, and an incredible draw to win wedding services valued at $17,500. Tickets: $15
When: Saturday Feb 7
Where: Infinity Convention Centre, 2901 Gibford Dr, Ottawa, ON K1V 2L9
Details: @luxewedexperience
17. Family Roller Skating
Join the Family Retro Roller Disco at Lansdowne for an afternoon full of fun, music, and skating! Skate to classic disco hits under colorful lights and enjoy a lively, nostalgic atmosphere perfect for all ages and skill levels. Bring your skates or rent a pair on site. Tickets $10.
When: Saturday, Feb 7, 4pm to 10pm.
Where: Lansdowne Park – Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON.
18. Love, Lust & Loss
A thought-provoking theatre piece that explores the twists of human relationships — from the thrills of infatuation to the ache of heartbreak — through rich storytelling and powerful performances. Tickets:
$54.78 – $86.42 CAD.
When: Friday & Saturday, Feb 6,7-7:30pm
Where: 100 Rue Laurier, Gatineau
19. Canadian Ski Marathon
One of North America’s oldest and most scenic cross-country ski experiences. Skiers of all levels set their own pace on classic groomed trails through forests and rolling winter landscapes. It’s not a timed race, but a guided weekend adventure that celebrates winter on skis. Registration varies by distance and category.
When: Friday to Sunday, Feb 6–8
Where: Outaouais region (centered around Montebello, QC)
More things to do in Ottawa
Thursday and Friday
20. Perfect Storm 2026
A weekend esports festival celebrating competitive fighting games; watch top players battle it out in titles like Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8 and more, or soak up the high-energy gaming atmosphere and community vibes. Price: $40
When: Friday–Sunday, Feb 6–8
Where: Ottawa Marriott Hotel
21. The Piano Teacher
This heartfelt theatre production tells the story of Erin, a renowned classical pianist who, after a devastating personal loss, finds herself unable to play or even touch a piano, until an unexpected teacher helps her rediscover music, friendship, and hope. This emotionally rich play combines powerful storytelling with beautiful live music. Tickets start at $30.
When: Feb 4-15, 2pm and 7:30pm.
Where: Great Canadian Theatre Company, 1233 Wellington St W, Ottawa.
22. Capital Art Fair Gallery Winterlude Art Show
Featuring over 30 local Ottawa artists and artisans showcasing original winter themed and Ottawa-inspired art and boutique items, as well as special Winterlude workshops. Warm up to local art with 50% of items under $200. Painting and craft workshops will take place throughout the festival. Extended Winterlude hours on Friday and Saturday nights for a Winter Wander Art Party and an interactive Ice Sculpture.
When: Jan 30–Feb 16. Friday & Saturday nights open late until 9pm.
Where: Capital Art Fair Gallery, 71 Sparks Street, Ottawa
Details: www.ShopCapitalArt.
23. Djely Tapa – Le soleil d’Afrique de l’Ouest à Orléans
Celebrate the vibrant cultures of West Africa at this multidisciplinary event presented by MIFO, featuring a festive afternoon and evening of artisan kiosks, authentic West African flavours, immersive workshops, and live music. Tickets: $28.25.
When: Friday, Feb 6, 4pm with Djely Tapa performance at 7:30pm.
Where: Richcraft Theatre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Orleans, ON.
24. Snowshoes Under the Stars – Gatineau Park
Take a guided snowshoe trek under the evening sky with a nature interpreter, learning how plants and animals adapt to winter as you explore forest trails by moonlight. Wrap up your night with hot chocolate around a fire or at a cozy spot in the park. Tickets from $15.
When: Friday, Feb 6-7 pm
Where: Gatineau Park (Chelsea/Wakefield, QC)
Saturday
25. The Ryan Hill Ice-Carving Public Challenge
Try your hand at ice sculpting with help from pro carvers in this friendly Winterlude workshop and creative challenge. Learn basic techniques, chip away at a block of ice, and celebrate winter artistry in downtown Ottawa. FREE
When: Saturday, Feb 7, Noon to 5pm
Where: Confederation Park, 101 Elgin St, Ottawa
26. Winter Stewed Cook-Off
Sample delicious signature stews and soups from your favourite ByWard Market District restaurants! Cast your vote for the ultimate crowd favourite. Samples are available by donation, with all proceeds supporting the Lowertown CRC food bank.
When: Saturday, Feb 7, 11am-2pm
Where: George St Plaza, Byward Market
27. A Night of Magic with Magician Michael Conway
Experience an enchanting evening of comedy, illusion, and spellbinding magic as magician Michael Conway takes the stage for A Night of Magic, blending humour and astonishing tricks that captivate audiences of all ages (recommended for kids 5 + and adults alike). Tickets: $32.25.
When: Saturday, Feb 7, 7:30pm.
Where: Richcraft Theatre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Orleans, ON.
28. From Beaver Pelts to Polymer Notes
Explore the fascinating evolution of Canadian money during this Winterlude weekend activity. This interactive exhibit lets visitors of all ages learn how currency in Canada transformed, from the days of beaver pelts in the fur trade to modern polymer bank notes. You can also get creative and design your own bank note at the craft station, making this a fun and educational experience for families and curious minds. FREE.
When: Feb 7- 8, 10am to 5pm.
Where: Bank of Canada Museum, 30 Bank Street, Ottawa.
29. The Phil Collins Story
Experience a tribute concert that brings the iconic music of Phil Collins and Genesis to life with a lead vocalist capturing the signature sound and energy of Collins’ legendary catalogue, backed by world class musicians, perfect for fans of classic rock and ’80s favourites. Tickets available on Ticketmaster (19+).
When: Saturday, Feb 7, 7pm.
Where: Hard Rock Live at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, 4837 Albion Road, Ottawa, ON.
30. Noches de Despecho – Karaoke Latino
Feel the music, feel the heartbreak! Join Noches de Despecho for a night of Latin hits, emotional ballads, and energetic rhythms. Dance, sing, and let the feelings flow. Tickets: $25.
When: Friday Feb 6, 8pm-1am.
Where: Barrio, 115 Rideau St, Ottawa.
Sunday
32. Rink of Dreams
The most popular outdoor refrigerated rink in Ottawa opens for the season! Skate rentals and sharpening are available on site. Also a changing room and a BeaverTail kiosk. FREE. When: Open every day from 7am to 11pm. Where: City Hall, 110 Laurier St W.
33. Rideau Hall Skating Rink
Glide on the historic Rideau Hall skating rink and enjoy its cozy and beautiful Winter Pavilion. FREE. When: November 23 until March 29 (weather depending), Mon-Fri 5pm-8:30pm. Sat-Sun 1pm-8:30pm. Where: Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive.
Back by popular demand! Enjoy a delightful exhibition of live tropical butterflies, including the impressive large blue morpho. Tickets: $6 in addition to the cost of general museum admission. Until Dec 16, get a 10% discount by reserving online. When: Dec 6, 2024-March 2026. Where: Canadian Museum of Nature. Details: nature.ca