Come celebrate the best parts of Canadian winter during Winterlude in Canada’s capital region, February 2 to 19, 2024
This year, you’ll find your iconic festival favourites, as well as new experiences. As always, you’ll be able to marvel at the sculptures created during the International Ice Carving Competition, catch some fantastic Canadian musical acts, and go crazy at Snowflake Kingdom.
Most festival activities are free and take place in the urban Ottawa-Gatineau region during the first three weekends of February (including Family Day, Monday, Feb. 19).
In true @OntarioCulinary style, we’ve rounded up the best activities for food lovers – by neighbourhood – at this celebrated event. Here’s your foodie-friendly guide to the festival sites in 2024.
The ByWard Market neighbourhood
Within strolling distance of Parliament Hill is the historic ByWard Market district – a popular daytime and nighttime destination with boutiques, restaurants and bars all packed into a four-block square area.
This vibrant area will be the hub for a variety of foodie programming, including:
- Sleigh Rides Around ByWard Market
Discover the rich heritage of the ByWard Market from a whole new vantage point when you go for a historic sleigh ride. - Maple Taffy with Wabanaki Maple
Delight in the magic of taffy pully on February 3rd and 4th presented by Adaawewigamig, featuring the exquisite flavors of Wabanaki maple. Celebrating culture in the most delicious way possible, you’ll be able to choose from elderberry, chipotle and more traditional flavours while supplies last! - Tacos in a Bag
Indulge in the rich tastes of Indigenous culture through Tacos in a Bag, brought to you by Adaawewigamig! On February 3 and 4 delight in an exquisite Indigenous culinary journey, as the vibrancy and authenticity of Indigenous traditions are honoured. Tacos in a Bag will be served until they’re gone, so don’t miss out. - Maple Sugar Making
Set out on a delightful journey of maple sugar crafting at ByWard Market, hosted by Adaawewigamig on February 3 and 4, subject to weather conditions. Join in for live demonstrations at noon and 2 pm on both days.
The Glebe: Snow and food
The Glebe neighbourhood is conveniently located just south of downtown Ottawa. Delicious Winterlude festivities in this area include:
- Ottawa Farmer’s Winter Market
The Ottawa Farmers’ Market stands as a unique producer-only collective, boasting more than 150 vendors all located within 100 kilometres of Ottawa. Discover this beating heart of the city on Sundays.
Also, don’t miss…
Hot Drink Service at the ByTown Museum
Come in from the cold and celebrate winter with the Bytown Museum! You have the choice of a variety of hot drinks to savor as you explore de Commissariat Building. Situated steps from the Rideau Canal Skateway, it invites you to discover the history of the canal and of the region, all while enjoying tea, coffee or good old hot chocolate.
Drink & Draw at the Ottawa Art Gallery
February 15, 6-9pm
Enjoy a night of warming treats and snug cocktails as you draw inspiration from the winter scenes depicted by the Group of Seven, capturing the essence of the season through your sketches.
