As the holidays are fast approaching, be sure not to miss these special events and activities set to take place in the nation’s capital this weekend.
CityNews has hand-picked some of Ottawa’s best events. Check out our top choices:
Events this weekend: Dec. 13-15
- Adàwàning: Indigenous Women’s Art Market: View and support the work of Indigenous women artists and artisans. Displaying the creations of Métis, Inuit, and First Nations makers. Located at the National Arts Centre, Dec. 14, 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Metcalfe Farmers’ Christmas Market: Local vendors make, bake, or grow all of the products for sale. Free parking. Dec. 14, 9 a.m – 2 p.m, Greely Community Centre.
- Annual Pet Day & Market: Pet-themed vendors, toys, treats and custom gifts. Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus (10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.). Dec. 14, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Located in Robert Plante Greenhouses, 4228 Navan Road.
- All of My Favourite Things Artisan Market Series: Local artisans, crafters, and creators showcasing their handcrafted items. Outdoor tents along William Street, between George and York Streets. Dec. 14, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Capital Sessions: Free community house dance workshops, family and beginner-friendly. Two 30-minute workshops at 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 15, National Arts Centre.
Sporting Events
- Ottawa Senators: Playing against Pittsburg Penguins on Dec. 14 at 7 p.m., Canadian Tire Centre. Click here for details.
- 2025 World Juniors Team Canada vs USports: Dec. 12-13, TD Place. Click here for details.
- Ottawa 67s: Playing against Peterborough Petes, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m., TD Place. Click here for details.
- Ottawa Blackbears: Playing against Barrie on Dec. 13 at 7 p.m., Canada Tire Centre. Click here for details.
Ongoing events and activities in Ottawa
- ByWard Market Synthetic Ice Rink: Open Sunday-Wednesday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Skating is free. A skate-rental kiosk is located nearby.
- Stanley’s Holiday Stroll: Take a stroll through through forest trails with lights and displays. Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm. Every weekend from 10 a.m. – 4p.m., ending Dec. 23rd.
- Magic of Lights: A drive-through display, lined with two-kilometres of LED lights. Nov. 22 – Jan. 4 at Wesley Clover Parks.
- Alight at Night Festival: Over one million lights light up the historic Upper Canada Village. Runs until Jan. 4, from 5 – 9 p.m. every evening.
- Ottawa Christmas Market: Ottawa’s European-style Christmas market. Located in Aberdeen Plaza, Landsdowne. Enjoy seasonal food and drink, local goods, and live performances from Nov. 22 – Jan. 5.
- SoulRhythms: African and Caribbean-inspired group dance classes, designed for all levels. Tuesdays until Dec. 17 at the NAC.
- A Country Christmas: Visit Saunders Farm for holiday-themed shows, Santa Claus, mazes, food, and a holiday light display. From Nov. 29 – Dec. 30.