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Last updated: November 11, 2024


Get pumped for the festive season in Ottawa! Our guide highlights all the top holiday events and activities. For those deeply connected to Ottawa and those just making connections, our guide is your festive roadmap.

One of the must-see attractions is the Ottawa Christmas Market, where enchanting stalls offer artisanal treats and unique gifts in a charming winter setting. The Magic of Lights delights visitors with dazzling displays illuminating the landscape, creating a whimsical atmosphere for all ages. And the Alight at Night event is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring stunning light displays that transform the village into a winter wonderland. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.



Ottawa Holiday Light Displays


What to Expect:

Over a mile of spectacular light displays.

Description:

Magic of Lights is a dazzling drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters. Enjoy spectacular light displays, including a larger-than-life sparkling Holiday Barbie display and life-sized dinosaurs from Prehistoric Christmas.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: Magic of Lights

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What to Expect:

Dazzling light display on historic village buildings and grounds.

Description:

Stroll through Upper Canada Village, adorned with over one million lights, historic buildings, and festive atmosphere. Enjoy holiday music, BeaverTails, and more in a picturesque setting perfect for families, couples, and friends.

Where: Morrisburg | More Info: Alight at Night

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What to Expect:

Dazzling outdoor tree lighting with live music and treats.

Description:

The Ceremonial Christmas Tree Lighting at the Canadian Museum of History features a stunning 14-meter tall tree adorned with thousands of white lights, illuminated in the museum's plaza. Enjoy music and dance performances by Ensemble folklorique de la Gatineau, along with complimentary hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, and maple taffy.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: Ceremonial Christmas Tree Lighting

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What to Expect:

Continuous lighting of decorated Christmas trees.

Description:

The Festival of Lights features continuous viewing of decorated Christmas trees outside the Crystal Palace, lit from 4:00 p.m. until dawn, with additional viewing inside during events.

Where: Perth | More Info: Festival of Lights

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Ottawa Holiday Markets and Shopping


What to Expect:

Extensive local vendor offerings and festive atmosphere.

Description:

The Ottawa Christmas Market is a vibrant holiday event located at Aberdeen Plaza, featuring over 50 local vendors offering unique gifts, traditional Christmas items, and local flavors. The market is surrounded by snow-capped heritage buildings and wooden chalets, creating a festive atmosphere with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights and decorations. It includes live music, workshops, and attractions for all ages, including Santa's Workshop and free crafts for kids.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: Ottawa Christmas Market

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What to Expect:

Unique shopping and dining experience with local vendors and festive atmosphere.

Description:

The Ottawa Christmas Market is a European-style holiday event featuring over 50 local vendors, festive lights, and decorations, live entertainment, and a variety of food and beverage options. It offers a range of shopping options, including holiday gifts and traditional Christmas items, along with workshops and attractions for all ages.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: Christmas Glow Ottawa

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What to Expect:

Unique shopping experience with local vendors and festive atmosphere.

Description:

The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne features over 50 local vendors offering holiday gifts, traditional items, and unique food and beverages. The event includes festive lights, decorations, live music, and workshops for all ages.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: Christmas Market at Lansdowne

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Ottawa Holiday Shows and Entertainment


What to Expect:

World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.

Description:

Sleeping Beauty is a classic ballet by Marcia Haydée, set to Tchaikovsky's magnificent score. It tells the tale of Princess Aurora, cursed by the evil fairy Carabosse, who falls into a deep sleep that can only be broken by true love's kiss. The production features opulent costumes, grandiose sets, and a nuanced portrayal of evil.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: Sleeping Beauty

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What to Expect:

All-new version of "The Lost Christmas Eve" tour featuring fan-favorite compositions.

Description:

Trans-Siberian Orchestra is a symphony orchestra known for its elaborate rock operas and holiday-themed performances, blending hard rock with Christmas classics.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: Trans-Siberian Orchestra

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Ottawa Holiday Giving Opportunities


What to Expect:

Parade supporting local families with toy donations.

Description:

The Help Santa Toy Parade is a joyous event where Santa Claus and friends parade through Ottawa, delivering joy to children. The parade features jugglers, bands, dance and singing performances, and floats. It supports local families by providing toys through Toy Mountain.

Where: Ottawa | More Info: 54th Help Santa Toy Parade

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Ottawa Other Holiday Activities


Ottawa Gift Guide

Ottawa Holiday News

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