Whether or not this is your first winter in Ottawa, you’ve probably heard of an event called Winterlude. From February 1st-18th 2019, events are going to take place all across the city, as well as in Gatineau, you can visit massive snow sculptures, skate along the Rideau Canal and enjoy so many other winter-themed events that are usually low to no cost. Winterlude is also making a conscious effort to showcase Indigenous culture and LGBTQ2+ community pride this year. I often find it difficult to find the motivation to leave the house in the winter unless absolutely necessary since it is so cold and often gray. Winterlude is a great way to fight the winter blues and get outside. Here’s my Winterlude To-Do List for 2019!
1. Skate on the Rideau Canal
Of all the Winterlude events, this one has got to be the most iconic. Skating is a great workout and a fun activity to do by yourself, on a date, or with a bunch of your friends. If you’re a great skater, challenge yourself to skate the whole length of the canal. If you’re more of a beginner skater (or don’t know how to skate at all), no worries. People of all skill level will be on the ice. You could even walk the canal in your boots. Treat yourself to a Beavertail on the ice as a yummy treat too.
2. 32nd Crystal Garden International Ice-Carving CompetitionSome of the most talented ice carvers are coming to Ottawa for this event. Come see artists turn simple blocks of ice into gorgeous masterpieces in the Byward Market. This event is sponsored by the Canadian Ice Carvers’ Society so you know it’s going to be a big deal. This event is fun for those interested in art and sculptures. You’ll probably be in the Byward Market anyway hitting up Zak’s or one of the bars in the area so why not stop by to watch the best of the best make gorgeous sculptures?
3. Unikkaaqtuarniq: Stories from the NorthAsinabka Film & Media Arts Festival presents Unikkaaqtuarniq: Stories from the North, an outdoor screening highlighting Indigenous filmmaking from the Arctic. Experience films by Indigenous filmmakers from northern cultures projected in a theatre made of snow. The films that will be played will be announced soon!
4. Standing Up, Standing Out: Selections from the National Portraits Collection of The Arquives
Get to know some of the trailblazers who have improved the lives of LGBTQ2+ individuals and communities in Canada through their work to overcome oppression and barriers to equality. This large-scale photo exhibit presents a selection from the National Portrait Collection of The Arquives (formerly the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives).
So what’s on your Winterlude To-Do List?