Ottawa Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Ottawa and surrounding areas

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Christmas Markets (17 events) Christmas Lights (5 events) Christmas Shows (5 events) Other Christmas Activities (13 events)
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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.

Find the best Ottawa Christmas happenings this year!

Ottawa Christmas Events

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Christmas Markets

17 events
Ottawa Christmas Market • Nov 21 – Dec 31

European-style Christmas market with local artisans and entertainment

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Christmas Lights

5 events
Magic of Lights Ottawa • Nov 21 – Jan 3, 2026

Dazzling drive-through light displays and interactive Holiday Village.

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Christmas Shows

5 events
Candlelight Concerts in Ottawa • Nov 7 – May 22, 2026

Intimate concerts by candlelight

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Other Christmas Activities

13 events
Clarence-Rockland Christmas Parade of Lights • Nov 30

Annual illuminated Christmas parade tradition

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Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Ottawa Christmas Market
    European-style Christmas market with local artisans and entertainment
  2. Magic of Lights Ottawa (Nepean)
    Dazzling drive-through light displays and interactive Holiday Village.
  3. Winter Lights Across Canada
    Thousands of dazzling lights across Canada's Capital Region
  4. Alight at Night Festival (Morrisburg)
    Over one million lights illuminating a historic village.
  5. Trees of Hope for CHEO
    Community-decorated trees supporting children's hospital.
  6. Candlelight Concerts in Ottawa
    Intimate concerts by candlelight

This Week / Coming Up (6)

Metcalfe Farmers' Christmas Market Sat, Nov 8
Perth Festival of Lights Sat, Nov 15
Cornwall Santa Claus Parade Sat, Nov 15
Help Santa Toy Parade Sat, Nov 22
ADAAWE Indigenous Holiday Market Sat, Nov 22
Nepean Kars Community Christmas Market Sun, Nov 23

Christmas Parties Near Ottawa

Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Ottawa.

Holiday Dining at Fairmont Château Laurier

Elegant holiday dining in a historic Ottawa landmark.

📍 Ottawa

Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Ottawa

Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Ottawa.

Toy Mountain Parade

Community parade supporting Salvation Army's Toy Mountain

📍 Ottawa • Nov 29

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Also Near Ottawa

Kanata

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Ottawa Christmas FAQ

When are the best times to visit?

Weekday evenings tend to be less crowded. Peak times are weekends in December, especially closer to Christmas.

Is parking available?

Most events offer on-site parking. Check individual event pages for specific parking information and fees.

Are venues accessible?

Most venues are accessible. Contact individual events for specific accessibility accommodations.