Winterlude 2026 showcases Ottawa at its winter best, with ice sculptures, skating, hot beverages, and snow-filled fun.
From January 30 to February 16, the city turns into a giant winter playground, with events spread across downtown, Confederation Park, Jacques-Cartier Park, and the Rideau Canal.
Whether you’re coming for a weekend or planning a full winter getaway, a little planning makes everything smoother.
In this guide, we’ll share with you what to expect, where to eat, where to stay, and where to park so you can enjoy it all without stress.
To get the most out of your experience, use our Winterlude events parking page to book parking in advance or on the day of your visit.
Grab your warmest coat and let’s plan your Winterlude adventure.
JUMP TO:
How to Book Your Parking for Winterlude
Best Hotels to Stay During Winterlude 2026
Tips for Attending Winterlude 2026
Winterlude Activities
One of the best things about Winterlude is how much there is to do. Events are spread across Ottawa and Gatineau, and there’s something for every vibe, whether you want family-friendly fun, outdoor adventure, music, food, or culture. Some events are iconic Winterlude staples, while others add a fresh twist each year.
Here’s a breakdown of the events worth adding to your Winterlude plan.
Barbegazi
ByWard Market | February 7-8
Barbegazi is a winter obstacle race that turns the ByWard Market into a snowy playground. Teams race their snowmobiles through creative challenges that mix athletic effort with pure fun. Even if you’re not racing, it’s entertaining to watch, loud, lively, and very Winterlude.
Pibòn Festival
ByWard Market | January 30 – February 1
The Pibòn Festival brings Indigenous art, culture, music, food, and activities to the ByWard Market. Expect traditional entertainment, family-friendly programming, and plenty of reasons to hang around and soak up the festival energy between events.
Ice Sculptures Exhibition
Confederation Park | January 30 – February 16
The Ice Sculptures Exhibition is a Winterlude classic. Talented artists transform massive blocks of ice into intricate sculptures that appear even more impressive after dark. It’s an easy walk-through event and perfect for photos.
Igloofest Gatineau
Place des Festivals Zibi | February 12 – 14
Igloofest Gatineau adds a music festival vibe to Winterlude with electronic beats and outdoor dancing. It’s high-energy, bold, and perfect for experiencing winter nightlife across the river. And if you want to travel a bit further, Montreal throws an amazing Igloofest event till the 7th of February.
Mini Pow Wow and Indigenous Artisans Market
Canadian Museum of History | February 12 – 14
This event celebrates Indigenous culture through dance, music, and art. You can watch live performances, learn about traditions, and browse handmade goods from Indigenous artisans. It’s meaningful, welcoming, and a great way to experience a different side of Winterlude.
Afterslide Evenings
Jacques-Cartier Park | February 6-7
Afterslide Evenings take snow sliding into the night with lights, music, and a fun party atmosphere. It’s a great option if you want something active after dinner that still feels relaxed and playful.
The Nordic Race
Jacques-Cartier Park | February 8
The Nordic Race is all about winter endurance. Participants take on cold-weather challenges with the choice of 1km, 5km, or 12km races that test strength and stamina. Even if you’re not competing, it’s exciting to watch and adds a high-energy edge to the festival.
Taste Ottawa: Capital City Bites
Jacques-Cartier Park | January 31 – February 6
Taste Ottawa shines a spotlight on the city’s food scene during Winterlude. Over 40 restaurants across the capital offer special menus and winter-friendly comfort dishes. It’s perfect for warming up between outdoor activities.
Winterlude Triathlon
Terry Fox Athletic Facility |February 1
The Winterlude Triathlon combines skating, running, and cross-country skiing into one unique race. It’s fast-paced, fun to watch, and highlights just how creative winter sports can be.
How to Book Your Parking for Winterlude
Make the most of your Winterlude experience by booking parking ahead of time instead of circling downtown. Use our Winterlude events parking page to see all available parking lots near the festival sites and book your spot with ease.
You can book your parking ahead of time if you like having a plan, or wait until the day you go and book a spot in just a few taps on your phone.
Either way, you’ll know exactly where you’re headed before you arrive, which makes getting to the festival much smoother.
Best Hotels to Stay During Winterlude 2026
If you’re travelling into the city for Winterlude, choosing the right hotel can make the whole experience easier and warmer. Staying close to downtown puts you near the Rideau Canal, major Winterlude sites, and plenty of food and entertainment options.
These hotels are popular picks for Winterlude visitors and offer comfort after long days spent outside in the cold.
Lord Elgin Hotel
100 Elgin Street
4-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$
The Lord Elgin Hotel is a Winterlude favourite thanks to its unbeatable location across from Confederation Park and close to the Rideau Canal. It’s classic, cozy, and perfect if you want to walk to skating, ice sculptures, and downtown events without needing a car.
The Westin Ottawa
11 Colonel By Dr
11-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$$
The Westin Ottawa is ideal if comfort is a priority. Spacious rooms, indoor access to the Rideau Centre, and proximity to the canal make it a great home base for Winterlude. It’s especially convenient during cold snaps when you want to stay warm between outings.
Sheraton Ottawa Hotel
150 Albert Street
8-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$$
Sheraton Ottawa Hotel offers modern rooms and a central location near Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market. It’s a solid option if you want easy access to multiple Winterlude areas and a comfortable place to recharge after a full day outdoors.
Fairmont Château Laurier
1 Rideau St
8-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$
Fairmont Château Laurier is one of Ottawa’s most iconic hotels and sits right at the edge of the Rideau Canal. Staying here feels like part of the Winterlude experience itself. It’s perfect if you want a memorable stay with beautiful views and immediate access to skating.
Best Western Plus Gatineau-Ottawa Downtown
131 Rue Laurier
12-minute walk to Jacques-Cartier Park
$$$
This hotel is a great option if you’re planning to explore Winterlude events on both sides of the river. It offers good value, comfortable rooms, and quick access to Gatineau attractions, such as snow slides and Igloofest Gatineau.
ARC THE.HOTEL
140 Slater Street
7-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$
ARC THE.HOTEL is a stylish boutique option right in downtown Ottawa, close to Parliament Hill and Winterlude event sites. It offers modern rooms, a quieter vibe, and a more personal feel compared to larger hotels. It’s a great choice if you want to stay central while enjoying a calm and comfortable place to unwind after a full day outside.
Where to Eat and Drink
All that time outside during Winterlude works up an appetite. The good news is that many of Ottawa’s best restaurants and bars are right near the main Winterlude areas like the Rideau Canal, Confederation Park, and the ByWard Market. Whether you want a cozy meal, a quick bite, or a warm drink after skating, these spots are easy wins.
Cocotte Bistro
123 Metcalfe Street
6-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$
Cocotte Bistro is all about comforting French-inspired food in a warm, intimate setting. Think rich flavours, cozy vibes, and dishes that feel perfect after a cold day outside. It’s a great spot if you want a relaxed sit-down meal near the canal.
Forty One Restaurant & Bar
100 Elgin Street
3-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$
Located inside the Fairmont Château Laurier, Forty One Restaurant & Bar offers an upscale dining experience with a calm atmosphere. It’s ideal for a special Winterlude dinner or a refined drink after skating nearby.
Spin Kitchen & Bar
100 Kent Street
15-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$
Spin Kitchen & Bar keeps things casual with Canadian-inspired comfort food and a welcoming vibe. It’s a solid choice for groups and a good place to warm up before heading back out into the cold.
Zak’s Diner
220 Elgin Street
7-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$
Zak’s Diner is a Winterlude classic. Open late and packed with comfort food favourites, it’s perfect for a quick bite or a full meal after skating the canal. Expect a fun, retro vibe and generous portions.
Deacon Brodies Pub
247 Elgin Street
8-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$$
Deacon Brodies Pub brings Scottish pub energy with hearty food and a great beer selection. It’s cozy, lively, and ideal for warming up with friends after a long Winterlude day.
D’Arcy McGee’s
44 Sparks Street
6-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$
D’Arcy McGee’s is a popular Irish pub known for live music, classic pub fare, and a buzzing atmosphere. It’s a fun stop if you want food, drinks, and a bit of energy without straying far from Winterlude action.
Rabbit Hole
208 Sparks St
13-minute walk to Confederation Park
$$
Rabbit Hole is a stylish cocktail bar tucked away near the ByWard Market. Creative drinks and a cozy underground vibe make it a great place to end your night after a full day of Winterlude fun.
Tips for Attending Winterlude 2026
- Dress in layers; Ottawa winters are no joke.
- Plan your route between events; Winterlude activities happen across downtown Ottawa and Gatineau. Group nearby events together to avoid unnecessary travel time in the cold.
- Book parking ahead or know your options; Parking fills up fast near popular Winterlude spots. Using our Winterlude events parking page lets you book in advance or quickly find a spot on the day you go, which saves time and keeps things stress-free.
Conclusion
Winterlude 2026 is the perfect excuse to get outside, explore Ottawa, and enjoy winter at its best.
From skating the Rideau Canal and checking out ice sculptures to great food, live events, and cozy spots to warm up, there’s something for everyone.
A little planning makes the experience even better. Use our Winterlude event parking page to book your parking ahead of time or on the day you go, so getting there is smooth and stress-free.
Bundle up, plan your stops, and enjoy every moment of Winterlude 2026.
You May Also Like:
