There are many holiday events and activities happening around Ottawa over the next few weeks. What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with fun festivities the whole family can enjoy! I’ve rounded up some of my favourite activities to enjoy this December.
Open every evening from 5:00pm to 10:00pm until January 7th, Magic of Lights is a truly impressive drive through holiday light display. It features holiday scenes and characters the whole family will enjoy and you can take in the sights from the comfort of your own vehicle. They’ve added some new themed areas this year too so it’s definitely worth checking out even if you’ve been in the past.
Held in Aberdeen Square at Lansdowne, this beautiful market brings together over 35 local vendors and an abundance of entertainment and activities. This is such a fun spot to spend a few hours during the day or make it an evening out with friends and family. The market is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for five weeks beginning November 25th so you can shop, eat, drink, and be merry!
A Country Christmas Holiday Light Festival
While you’ve probably been to Saunders Farm in the fall for a spooky time, you may not know they transform the farm into a winter wonderland in December. They have a colourful, lightshow walking trail, market shops, a bonfire, and are serving up cider, wood-fired pizzas, and beavertails. About a 30 minute drive West of the city, you don’t have to travel far to get the full country Christmas experience.
While we’ll need some snow in the forecast, Ottawa is home to many wonderful trails, one of which is the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail. This multi-use, groomed trail spans from Mill Street Brew Pub to Westboro Beach and is open to everyone whether you’re walking, skiing, snowshoeing, or fat biking. Need a break? Stop by Remic Rapids Bistro’s Nordic Village for something to eat or drink when it opens soon for the Winter season.
When it comes to decorating their homes, some people really love to go all in for the holidays. See the coolest light displays and most decorated houses in Ottawa by checking out Explore 613’s 2022 Holiday Map. This map can be easily added to Google Maps, allowing you to take a self-guided tour of some pretty impressive holiday decorations.
About an hour south of the city, Upper Canada Village is holding its magical Alight at Night Festival, where the heritage village sparkles in over 1 million lights. With Pommier Horse Drawn Carriage Rides, dining options, village shopping, and even appearances from Santa, this is one holiday festivity you won’t want to miss.
Spend time with friends, learn a new skill, and leave with a beautiful piece to decorate your home. Taking a wreath workshop is a lovely way to get your home ready for the holidays. Many local florists offer seasonal workshops that are worth checking out. One in particular, Maison Anthea, is opening up their studio for in-person Wreath Workshops throughout December where they provide all the materials, instruction, and a festive atmosphere.
Ian’s Christmas Adventure Park
Just west of Ottawa in Beckwith, you’ll find Ian’s Christmas Adventure Park, a “cut-your-own-tree” farm and so much more! They also have Christmas movie nights under the stars, a candy cane lane with lights, a sledding hill, a skating rink, Christmas decor and crafts for sale, and even Santa. Make a whole day or evening out of getting a tree by taking a trip to Ian’s Christmas Adventure Park.
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