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Ottawa in December is a true winter wonderland. It shimmers with twinkling lights and glowing festive traditions that transform Canada’s capital city into a picture-perfect holiday card. From skating on the world’s largest ice rink to fabulous winter markets, here’s how you can make the most of December in Ottawa.

Skate down the Rideau Canal Skateway

If you love to skate, don’t let December pass you by without gliding along the Rideau Canal Skateway. It’s the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink. It stretches nearly 8 kilometers through the heart of the city and offers a wonderful way to see Ottawa’s landmarks while enjoying some winter exercise. There’s a lot to do at the skateway:

• Rent skates at kiosks along the canal.
• Warm up with a hot chocolate.
• Dig into a BeaverTail pastry from vendors lining the route.
• Visit at night when the canal sparkles under festive lights.

Explore Ottawa’s holiday markets

December features a lot of festive markets across the city. They’re perfect for holiday shopping and seasonal treats. We’re looking forward to exploring:

• Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park which features local artisans, live music, and mulled wine.
• ByWard Market which features vendors selling handmade gifts and gourmet foods in December.

Enjoy winter adventures in Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center. You can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking here. The park is full of trails that wind through forests and hills with stunning views of the snowy landscape. The park makes your winter escape extra special with:

• Snowshoe rental at Gatineau Park Visitor Centre.
• Nordik Spa-Nature in Gatineau Park, North America’s largest spa, where you can dip your toes into outdoor hot pools and relax in saunas.

Cheer on the Ottawa Senators

December is hockey season. Be sure to catch an Ottawa Senators game at the Canadian Tire Centre. The atmosphere is electric, with fans bundled up in jerseys and scarves, cheering on their hometown heroes.

Unique winter experiences

If you’re into more than just skating and skiing in the winter, Ottawa has other cool outdoor active experiences to offer like:

• Dogsledding adventures just outside the city.
• Parc Omega, a wildlife park where you can see elk, wolves, and bison in snowy habitats.
• Zipline trails and caves for adrenaline seekers.

Cozy dining and dome experiences

December brings special dining experiences in Ottawa:

• Dine in a dome at restaurants offering heated outdoor bubbles.
• Indulge in hearty Canadian dishes like poutine.
• Visit local breweries for seasonal craft beers.

Light displays and festive walks

Bask in the glow of Winter Lights Across Canada, a program that illuminates landmarks like Parliament Hill and Confederation Boulevard. It makes strolling through downtown Ottawa at night feel a bit magical.

December in Ottawa is a bit like a scene from a snow globe. From skating on the Rideau Canal to exploring festive markets and cozying up in winter domes, the city offers endless ways to celebrate the season. Whatever your plans, Ottawa in December is truly picture perfect.

You can tell a lot about a city by how enjoyable it is in the winter. Ottawa is top tier! If you’re looking to call Ottawa home, we can help.