The Winter months in the Capital are arguably some of the most enjoyable for its residents and their families. Christmas has passed, yuletide memories have been made, and we’ve welcomed the New Year with wide opened arms. And with the anticipation of new beginnings in 2018, we take in a deep breath of fresh, brisk air and bundle up to embrace what this year has to offer; including the great outdoors. In fact, with the many winter-filled activities that our City and surrounding areas have to offer this Winterlude season, it’s nearly impossible to sit idle as the cold passes us by. Here are a few activities that you and your family can partake in this winter to celebrate Winterlude’s 40^th birthday year:

 

• Lansdowne’s Winter Garden: beginning February 2^nd and ongoing to the 19^th, Lansdowne Park at Aberdeen Square will be transformed into a “glowing winter garden of sculpted snow and lanterns”. Bring your friends, your families and your hot chocolates as you walk through and enjoy this open space of winter magic.

 

• Confederation Park: quite possibly Winterlude’s centerpiece. Throughout the duration of this year’s festivities, Confederation Park will once again become our City’s central space of enchantment and masterpiece. Open daily from 9AM-11PM (and on February 19^th from 8AM-5PM) the Park’s Crystal Garden will have you in awe as renowned Canadian artists turn simple blocks of ice into magnificent works of art.

 

• Snowflake Kingdom: 350 Laurier Street in Gatineau is now home to the Ice Hog Family – Winterlude’s favourite mascots. Surrounded by a vast winter playground of several activities and Canadian winter traditions (including the legendary Super Slides), the Snowflake Kingdom is the spot for you and the kids! Check out the park’s hours of operation and special events here!

 

• Sens Rink of Dreams: Who’s up for a leisurely skate, a delicious Beaver Tail and a stroll through the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame? If these activities sound like your ideal winter’s day, then City Hall is calling your name. Located directly across from the heart of Winterlude at Confederation Park, the Marion Dewar Plaza at City Hall is the perfect spot for you and the family to enjoy some quality time and create some lasting memories. On-site skate rentals are available!

 

Winterlude officially launches on February 2^nd at 9:30AM at Jacques-Cartier Park North. Be sure to dress warm and bring the family along to meet the Ice Hog Family at Snowflake Kingdom to kick-start 2 weeks of fun-filled festivities! 40 never looked so good!