While most people head for the tropics in winter, some nordics thrive on chilly fun. Since Canadians spend 8 months of the year in sub-zero temperatures, they choose to make the best of it with numerous Winter Festivals for everyone. Winterlude is Ottawa’s version, coupled with the world’s largest skating rink on the Rideau Canal Skateway.
Since 1979, Ottawans have been celebrating Winterlude or Bal de Neige, now one of their biggest attractions, topping over 1.7 million visitors in 2007. For the first three weekends in February, you can marvel at ice sculptures, hitch a dog sled ride or slide down a giant ice slide at the Jacques-Cartier Park, among other events. Most of the events are centered around the Lord Elgin Hotel, Ottawa’s Landmark 4-star hotel just across from the Confederation Park.
Other wintery things to do include catching a Ottawa Senators hockey game, see a 1950′s nuclear bunker at the Diefenbunker Museum, or go cross-country skiing at Gatineau Park’s 125 miles of groomed trails.
Join Ottawa’s top restaurants as they tout their talents on or around Winterlude. For example:
- b/side Wine & Small Plates Restaurant: wild game and local brew menu for $85 on Feb 3rd.
- Les Fougères: 3-course cider-based dinner with duck at for $70 on Feb 10th.
- Atelier: 12-course gastronomical journey with live music, i. e., “wildest dining experience in Ottawa,” for $160 on Feb 1st.
Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed with your choice to experience Ottawa during Winterlude 2011.
I will be there for 2011 winterlude atleast for those restaurants. Nice picture !
Thanks! I’m really impressed with Ottawa’s gastronomy. It’s worth coming just for the food.