Ottawa Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Ottawa and surrounding areas
Ottawa welcomes the Christmas season with sparkling Christmas lights and cozy markets centered near the ByWard Market and Parliament Hill. Events like the Ottawa Christmas Market and Winter Lights Across Canada create festive activities and seasonal performances against the capital’s historic backdrop. From holiday attractions to Trees of Hope for CHEO, visitors can enjoy festive walks, markets, and concerts beneath the lights while exploring downtown’s famous landmarks and neighborhoods.
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Christmas Markets
17 eventsEuropean-style Christmas market with local artisans and entertainment
Christmas Lights
5 eventsDazzling drive-through light displays and interactive Holiday Village.
Christmas Shows
5 eventsIntimate concerts by candlelight
Christmas Activities
13 eventsAnnual illuminated Christmas parade tradition
Editor's Picks (6)
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Ottawa Christmas Market
European-style Christmas market with local artisans and entertainment
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Magic of Lights Ottawa
(Nepean)
Dazzling drive-through light displays and interactive Holiday Village.
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Winter Lights Across Canada
Thousands of dazzling lights across Canada's Capital Region
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Alight at Night Festival
(Morrisburg)
Over one million lights illuminating a historic village.
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Trees of Hope for CHEO
Community-decorated trees supporting children's hospital.
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Candlelight Concerts in Ottawa
Intimate concerts by candlelight
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Parties Near Ottawa
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Ottawa.
Holiday Dining at Fairmont Château Laurier
Celebrate the holiday season with exceptional dining experiences at the Fairmont Château Laurier...
View full details →Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Ottawa
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Ottawa.
Toy Mountain Parade
Experience the joy of the season at the 9th annual Toy Mountain Parade!...
View full details →Ottawa Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Ottawa
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Ottawa!
Ottawa Christmas FAQ
Major annual events often include large-scale Christmas markets, extensive holiday light displays across the city, and various festive concerts and performances.
Ottawa embraces many classic Canadian holiday traditions, often amplified by its status as the nation's capital, with events and decorations reflecting national pride alongside community celebrations.
Neighborhoods like the Glebe are renowned for their elaborate and festive residential Christmas light displays. Driving or walking through these areas offers a magical experience.
You can find numerous Christmas markets and local makers in areas like the ByWard Market, as well as at various community centers and pop-up events throughout the city during the holiday season.
Enjoying neighborhood light displays, skating on outdoor rinks like the one at Lansdowne Park, and soaking in the festive atmosphere of areas like the ByWard Market are excellent free options.
Families often enjoy visiting Santa, exploring festive light displays, attending kid-friendly shows, and participating in activities at local Christmas markets.