Winterlude

Winterlude transforms Canada’s Capital Region into the ideal destination to celebrate Canadian traditions in wintertime.

Winterlude has brightened winter in Canada’s Capital Region since 1979.

With three weekends full of discoveries and traditions, there is something for everyone. Prepare to be astonished by stunning ice sculptures, immerse yourself in the heritage of Canada’s diversity through shows, exhibitions and play around in a gigantic snow playground called Snowflake Kingdom. Urban sites, museums and special events present seasonal programming as well as opportunities to connect with Indigenous culture.

2026

This year, people are invited to take pride in celebrating the joys, northern traditions and magic of winter. In cooperation with our many partners, we have put together diverse programming to delight people of all ages.

A return to Confederation Park
For the first time since 2018, the Crystal Garden makes its long-awaited return to Confederation Park. Located just steps from the Rideau Canal Skateway, this official site will host, among other activities, the Winterlude Ice-Craving Exhibition, presented by Tim Hortons; the Ryan Hill Ice-Carving Public Challenge; the Lantern Grove light experience, presented by Ottawa Tourism; the OLG Sugar Shack Village featuring entertaining shows; and much more.

Evening entertainment and new features at Jacques-Cartier Park

• In addition to the Tim Hortons Chinook Super Slide, the Snowflake Kingdom, located at the northern part of Jacques-Cartier Park, will be offering several new features in co-production with the Ville de Gatineau.
• On February 8, the Nomades du Parc will host the first-ever Nordic Race, Gatineau’s only timed winter race. An illuminated Ferris wheel, a free and unique attraction at the festival, will offer a breathtaking view of the snow-covered landscape.
• The Afterslide Evenings for teens will take place on February 6 and 7, from 6 to 10 p.m., presented by Winterlude and Igloofête. In cooperation with AdoGatineau, these evenings will feature a unique DJ atmosphere, plenty of activities, and the chance to wear your best retro winter looks and experience two of the season’s coolest parties, free of charge.
• The program will highlight certain important anniversaries, including:

• • • The 25th anniversary of space mission STS-100 (Canadarm2) and the first spacewalk by a Canadian astronaut, as well as the launch of the Artemis II mission;
    • The 150th anniversary of the first telephone call;
    • The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games (February 6 to 22);
    • National Flag of Canada Day (February 15).

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Who is it for?

All ages – Family

Date & Time:

January 30 to February 16, 2026

Schedule

Venues:

Various Venues, Ottawa- Gatineau

 

Paid Parking: During Winterlude you can park at these locations:

Queen Elizabeth Drive on Bronson Avenue (temporary parking)
Dows Lake (corner of Preston Street and Prince of Wales Drive)
National Arts Centre (NAC)
Rideau Centre
World Exchange Plaza
Ottawa City Hall and other parking lots operated by the City of Ottawa