Get in the holiday spirit with these Christmas activities in Ottawa
20 Minute Read
Summary
- Ottawa’s 2026 holiday season features light trails, festive bar pop‑ups, and European‑style Christmas markets across the region.
- Residents and visitors can enjoy tree farms, Santa parades, winter festivals, and historic village light displays from late November through early January.
- Holiday event highlights include Magic of Lights, A Country Christmas, Miracle on Elgin, Ottawa Christmas Market and Help Santa Toy Parade.
Holiday lights
From dazzling drive-through displays to historic villages aglow, these Christmas lights in Ottawa and nearby communities brighten the season.
Trees Of Hope
Where: Fairmont Château Laurier, 1 Rideau St., Ottawa, ON
When: November 16, 2026 to January 6, 2027
Ignite the magic of the holiday season by visiting uniquely decorated Christmas trees at Fairmont Château Laurier, in support of the CHEO Foundation. Stroll through the halls of this grand hotel and vote for your favourite tree throughout the season. This year’s theme is "The Gifts We Treasure: A Gilded Christmas of Hope."
Magic of Lights
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Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 411 Corkstown Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: November 20, 2026 to January 2, 2027
Featuring more than two million sparkling lights and more tunnels than ever, take a drive to enjoy a display of festive, colourful light displays. Cruise along this glowing trail admiring different characters and festive sets before exploring the holiday pit stop at the end on foot. At the pit stop, you can take festive photos, grab a treat, walk through the twinkling tunnel, and mail your letter to Santa.
Lansdowne Tree Lighting Ceremony
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
When: November 20, 2026
Coinciding with the start of the Ottawa Christmas Market, circle the massive evergreen at Lansdowne for a bright tree lighting ceremony. The lights will start glowing at 6 p.m. Watch the tree sparkle each evening, then stick around to enjoy carolers, visit Santa and browse the local market vendors.
Festival Of Lights
Where: Perth, ON
When: December 5, 2026
The charming town of Perth comes alight with a festive glow and numerous holiday events throughout the season. The Crystal Palace will glow with lit-up Christmas trees starting November 14, 2026, and you can go inside to admire them during various events. Spot the twinkling from outside on any evening, as the building is made of windows.
Things get even brighter on December 4 with the annual Festival of Lights. Singers will kick off the evening in style with a choir performance and the town will light up from above at 6:15 p.m. during a spectacular drone show. Enjoy many other festivities throughout the season, such as Once Upon a Christmas featuring a Mistletoe Market, wagon rides and Santa’s workshop on November 21, 2026.
Winter Wander
Where: Sparks St., Ottawa, ON
When: November 17, 2026 to January 2, 2027
Holiday installations and sparkly lights will adorn Ottawa's pedestrian street, so you can get into the spirit and take festive photos. Enjoy the lively sights and sounds, interact with the glowing displays and pop into nearby restaurants and cafés to warm up with a treat.
Alight At Night Festival
Where: Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd. 2, Morrisburg, ON
When: November 27, 2026 to January 2, 2027 (select dates)
Take a stunning holiday walk through what feels like a vintage Christmas postcard. Admire the quaint, historic buildings in Upper Canada Village as they are decked out with colourful lights. Visit Saint Nick in his toy factory, sing along with carolers, cozy up in a horse-drawn carriage, ride a life-sized toy train and be enchanted by the sound and light show. Extend the fun with dinner reservations at the Harvest Barn or Willard's Hotel, among other dining options.
Vintage Village of Lights
Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Rd., Cumberland, ON
When: November 27 to December 20, 2026 (select dates)
Take a step back in time and enjoy a traditional Christmas day in an early 1900s village, admiring festive displays and countless string lights. The village museum has quaint old buildings and villagers ready to inform you about work and recreation from decades past. Get cozy near a bonfire, decorate gingerbread cookies, visit Santa and more.
A Country Christmas Holiday Lights Stroll
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd. A, Ottawa, ON
When: December 5 to 30, 2026 (select dates)
Head down to Saunders Farm during their evening Christmas events and stroll through sparkling walking paths covered in lights. Both the Holiday Light Stroll and Arboreal Lux Light Walk open at 5 p.m. as the sky blackens. After admiring the lights, you can warm up by a bonfire with hot chocolate and treats and purchase holiday decor to bring home. Pre-book tickets online.
Winter Lights Across Canada
Where: Various locations in downtown Ottawa, ON
When: December 7, 2026 to January 7, 2027
Ottawa's downtown, including many parks and parliament buildings, are adorned with twinkly lights and holiday displays. Enjoy the beginning of the winter season with glowing trails and string lights strung throughout the capital region. Make an evening of it and follow the pathway of lights, with a map of the route available online.
Taffy Lane
Where: Taffy Ln., Ottawa, ON
When: Typically starts December 1
Each holiday season, the residents of Taffy Lane in Orleans cover their front lawns with epic Christmas displays that draw crowds of locals. The street turns into one-way traffic in December, so you can drive along this festive trail, admiring an array of holiday decorations for free. If you park a few blocks away and walk, you'll be able to miss some of the traffic delays.
Parc des Chutes Coulonge Festival of Lights
Where: Parc des Chutes Coulonge, 100 Prom. Du-Parc-des-Chutes, Mansfield-et-Pontefract, QC
When: November 27, 2026 to January 3, 2027 (select dates)
An impressive gorge waterfall will light up with colourful lights during winter evenings, for an annual holiday festival. Stroll along an illuminated route and admire the falls aglow with Christmas colours, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or some BBQ by a bonfire, and browse festive markets on November 28 and December 12. You may also get a chance to spot Santa, visiting on select Saturdays.
Light up the Night — Almonte
Where: Mill St., Almonte, ON
When: December 4, 2026
Artists, musicians, and other performers hit the stage for a twinkling outdoor concert as activities and festive treats line the street. The winter show concludes with a fabulous display of fireworks, so you’ll be surrounded by magical lights above and around you, with string lights covering buildings and trees in town. Warm up with a Beavertail and hot chocolate by a crackling fire.
Festive restaurant pop-ups
Discover festive restaurant pop-ups in Ottawa serving holiday cocktails, seasonal treats and over-the-top Christmas decor.
Santa’s Secret Speakeasy
Where: 73 York St. (Lower Level), Ottawa, ON
When: Open November 13, 2026
Say the password for entry at Ottawa’s hidden holiday bar. Cozy up with your favourite person to sip festive cocktails (or mocktails) and bite into tasty apps surrounded by twinkly lights and sparkling decor of gold, red and green. Immerse yourself in a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere with a Canadian cottage meets aprés-ski vibe. Hit up the photobooth before you leave!
Miracle On Elgin
Where: Elgin Beer Project and Good Neighbour, 399 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: Open November 19, 2026
With new holiday themed drinks and festive decor, as well as old classics, visit two neighbouring locations exploding with Christmas cheer. Wear your cheesiest Christmas sweater to Elgin Beer Project, where the vibes are kitschy, rowdy, and tangled string lights. Good Neighbour’s atmosphere is a bit more classic, cozy holiday with just as many twinkling and festive colours. Sip flavourful, festive cocktails from fun holiday glassware.
Sippin' Santa
Where: The Standard, 360 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: Open November 19, 2026
Start singing ‘Mele Kalikimaka’ as you’re transported to Christmas in Hawaii at The Standard’s annual holiday pop-up. Surround yourself with tropically festive décor and sip drinks with hints of lime, coconut or pineapple from holiday character-themed glassware.
Festive Afternoon Tea at Château Laurier
Where: Fairmont Château Laurier, 1 Rideau St., Ottawa, ON
When: Starting November 16, 2026
An elegant dining experience of English scones, artful mini sandwiches and decadent sweets, paired with a curated selection of teas receives a holiday makeover each winter. With a subtle touch of holiday flavours, such as peppermint, enjoy a high tea tradition next to beautifully decorated Christmas trees and sparkling lights.
Five Golden Rings at Union 613
Where: 315 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: Open November 16, 2026
Restaurant Union Local 613 will be decked out in kitschy, nostalgic Christmas decor, from sparkling tinsel and rainbow lights to an array of Santas in all shapes and sizes. Surround yourself with the festive explosion during dinner as you sip on winter cocktails or enjoy sweets and mini sandwiches at Sunday high tea. Stay tuned for workshops such as ornament crafting and gingerbread house building.
Nan's Parlour Christmas Explosion
Where: 73 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON
When: Open November 13, 2026
Sparkly, merry and oh-so-tasty, this granny-chic cocktail bar will be decked out with holiday decorations throughout December. Festive music, winter cocktails and extravagant vintage decorations await. Enjoy a Christmas-themed menu and special events throughout the pop-up. There are usually tarot card readings and bingo nights every month, so stay tuned for festive versions of those, along with other Christmassy activities.
The Pedaler Express
Where: Starting at the Ottawa Christmas Market
When: November 20 to December 20, and 31, 2026 (select dates)
Ottawa’s party bike is turning festive with a holiday ride, The Pedaler Express. Select your tour date and time as the pedal party rides from the Ottawa Christmas Market through the Glebe. Enjoy the holiday spirit as you ride through the streets while singing Carol-oke, and grab your included treat back at the market.
Barrhaven Christmas Explosion
Where: The Heart & Crown, 3161 Strandherd Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: Open November 23, 2026
Strings of tinsel, colourful lights, vintage Santa figures, hanging ornaments and twinkly trees, the Heart & Crown’s Barrhaven location will be decked out in holiday decor from floor to ceiling. Experience the Irish pub atmosphere and food with extra Christmas sparkle and a special holiday drink menu.
Christmas markets
Shop for local gifts, sip warming drinks and enjoy live entertainment at Christmas markets in Ottawa and nearby communities.
Metcalfe Farmers’ Christmas Market
Where: Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Dr., Greely, ON
When: November 7 and December 12, 2026
Fill your fridge with fresh produce and work on your holiday shopping list at the Metcalfe Farmers’ Christmas Market. Eat some warm food, listen to live music, and browse local vendors for gifts like preserves, coffee, decorations, and more.
Holiday Market at Robert Plante Greenhouses
Where: 4228 Navan Rd., Navan, ON
When: November 14 and 15, 2026
Discover festive decor, unique gifts, fresh food and, of course, seasonal plants including poinsettias and pines, from more than 300 market vendors. Sip cozy winter drinks as you enjoy the warmth of the greenhouse to experience some holiday magic and start your Christmas shopping.
Ottawa Christmas Market
Where: Aberdeen Plaza at Lansdowne, Marché Way, Ottawa, ON
When: November 20 to December 31, 2026 (select dates)
Transport yourself to winter in Germany or Austria with a visit to Ottawa’s European-style Christmas market, complete with booths resembling miniature chalets. Browse a variety of local vendors selling treats, ornaments and handmade gifts under a canopy of sparkling lights. Sip on hot chocolate or mulled wine and enjoy 16 days of live entertainment, festive workshops, and special events such as a DJ skate night, a silent disco and more.
Christmas Craft Market
Where: Watson’s Mill, 5525 Dickinson St., Manotick, ON
When: November 21 to December 6, 2026 (select dates)
Spend a cool day kicking off your Christmas shopping at the historic Watson’s Mill and Dickinson House. There will be 35 vendors each weekend selling a variety of locally made goodies. On the final evening of the market, stay late with a cup of hot chocolate to enjoy a sunset ensemble of carolers.
Indigenous Holiday Market
Where: 338 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
When: November 21, 2026
Peruse unique Indigenous-made items and gifts from more than 20 different vendors. You’ll find jewelry, beadwork, art, clothing and much more, all meaningfully created from Indigenous makers. Keep checking things off your holiday shopping list and get cozy with some traditional festive treats.
HoliYay Craft Market
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: November 22, 2026
The annual HoliYay Market is returning to the National Arts Centre, where you can find something for anyone on your shopping list. Stay warm as you browse local makers and artists selling jewelry, prints, candles, ceramics, clothing and many more unique handmade gifts.
The Museum’s Christmas Market
Where: Canadian Museum of History, 100 Laurier St., Gatineau, QC
When: November 26 to 29, 2026
The Grand Hall of the history museum comes alive each holiday season with festive lights and Christmas market booths. More than 100 exhibitors will be set up in front of the towering windows and Indigenous carvings, where you can browse for handmade treats, artisanal spirits, holiday decorations, artistic woodworking, fashion accessories and more. Plus, it's free to visit.
Christmas In Old Aylmer
Where: 120 Principale St., Gatineau, QC
When: November 27 to December 6, 2026 (select dates)
Across the river you’ll find a sparkling European-style Christmas market where you’ll shop from more than 55 vendors set up in cabin-style booths. Indulge in festive eats, join workshops like wreath and holiday card making and watch the Santa Claus parade on November 28. Sip hot chocolate as you enjoy the sounds of live music floating through the air.
Carp Christmas Market
Where: 3790 Carp Rd., Carp, ON
When: November 27 and 28, 2026
This holiday market is your last chance to shop from local vendors at the Carp Farmers’ Market until next spring. As you explore more than 70 local vendors at this quaint village's outdoor market, enjoy the festive sights and sounds of live music. Bring a non-perishable item to the food drive if you’re able.
Marché de Noël de Montebello
Where: 545 Rue Notre-Dame, Montebello, QC
When: November 27 to December 6, 2026 (select dates)
In the heart of Montebello village, an enchanting Christmas market pops up that will remind you of the cozy markets in Europe. Browse a variety of vendors from wooden hut booths under a canopy of twinkly lights, as you enjoy the sounds of live entertainment. Go see the alpacas and say hi to Santa when he visits.
Greely Good Holiday Market
Where: 5770 Bank St., Greely, ON
When: November 28 and 29, 2026
Firepits, cider, twinkle lights, hot soup, live music, and festive drinks; the holiday version of this weekly market has all the great locally made items you’re looking for. Browse sweet treats, clothing, bath and body products, candles, stationary, ceramics, jewelry, vintage pieces and more, all with a cozy Christmas feel.
Xmas Night Market
Where: Dominion City Brewing Co., 5510 Canotek Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: December 5, 2026
Sip on something tasty and warm up by a fire after browsing a variety of vendors from pop-up tents. You’ll find delicious bites under the holiday lights as well as gift ideas for your own wish list. The market starts at 1 p.m., so you have the whole afternoon to check it out.
613Christmas
Where: Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: December 5 and 6, 2026
This massive marketplace is an ever-changing lineup of unique treasures, vintage pieces and antique finds, along with locally made treats and items. Find some holiday decorations and gifts for everyone on your list at the Christmas edition of 613Flea.
RA Holiday Market
Where: 2451 Riverside Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: December 6, 2026
Discover gifts and goodies from more than 100 vendors, as you enjoy live holiday music, a supervised Kids Zone, and complimentary hot chocolate. Three festive market areas are split into the themes North Pole, Candy Cane Lane and The Snow Globe.
Originals Christmas Craft Sale
Where: Cohere Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: December 9 to 13, 2026
Artisans and makers will be set up as vendors to shop 100% Canadian goods this holiday season. Clothing, fine jewelry, body care, homeware, kids’ toys and gourmet foods will be for sale. Listen to live music as you enjoy the ease and warmth of the indoor market.
Christmas tree farms
Cut down the perfect evergreen and enjoy wagon rides, hot chocolate and family activities at Christmas tree farms near Ottawa.
Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm
Where: 951 8th Conc. S., Pakenham, ON
When: November 12 to December 24, 2026 (Tree sales from November 20)
If it feels like you’re stepping onto a holiday movie set, that’s because you are. This Christmas tree farm is so dreamy that multiple Hallmark Christmas movies have been filmed here. Take the wagon ride out to cut down your own tree or choose from a fresh selection of pre-cuts, plus find other festive decor in the farm shop. Grab a hot dog, hot cider and watch the kids run wild as they play on hay structures, a tubing hill and zip line. Santa visits on select weekend days from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Thomas Tree Farm
Where: 6421 McCordick Rd., North Gower, ON
When: Open November 20, 2026
Cut down a balsam, spruce or scotch pine Christmas tree after enjoying a hay wagon ride out to the field. You can indulge in complimentary hot chocolate and cookies by a warm fire after picking your tree. There is also a play area for your little ones to climb and enjoy.
Boise Brabant
Where: 721 Ch. Martel, Casselman, ON
When: November 21 to December 20, 2026 (select dates)
Balsam fir, Fraser fir, white spruce and blue spruce are available to cut down at this East-end tree farm. Pick up a sled and saw before heading out to the field of trees and take some family photos at the holiday display before you leave. Cash only payment.
Hillcrest Tree Farm
Where: 7357 Fourth Line Rd., North Gower, ON
When: Open November 28, 2026
Spend an afternoon enjoying crisp fresh air as you pick and cut your ideal Christmas tree and warm up by a large fire pit, available on weekends. Cut your own spruce or balsam fir, and find pre-cut Fraser firs and wreaths in the indoor forest.
MacGowans Christmas Tree Farm
Where: 4611 Mohrs Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: Open November 21, 2026
On the banks of the Mississippi River, experience the joy and tradition of cutting down your own Christmas tree from a large selection of balsam firs, white spruce and some Fraser firs. Take a wagon ride out to the field and warm up with a homemade cookie and hot chocolate by a crackling fire. Browse the farm shop for ornaments and fresh wreaths.
Fallowfield Tree Farm
Where: 6100 Fallowfield Rd., Stittsville, ON
When: Open November 21, 2026
Spend a day breathing in fresh air as you cut down your own Christmas tree and take advantage of family-friendly activities. Take a tractor or horse-drawn sleigh ride (weather permitting), roast marshmallows over a fire, and watch the kids jump on bouncy castles, play on hay structures, pet farm animals and go down tunnel slides.
Johnston Brothers Tree Farm
Where: 2853 Porter Rd., Kemptville, ON
When: Opening November 28, 2026
Continue a beautiful family tradition or start a new one by cutting down your Christmas tree at a family farm. After picking out the perfect evergreen, enjoy a hot chocolate or coffee and a warm snack from one of the on-site food vendors. Kids and adults will love the magic of a horse drawn wagon ride, available on the first two weekends of December. The farm is cash only.
Stanley’s Christmas Village
Where: 2452 York's Corners Rd., Edwards, ON
When: December 5 to 20, 2026 (select dates)
Santa and his elves are waiting to welcome you to the North Pole where you can search for the perfect Christmas tree to bring home. Take advantage of all the festive village activities: ride a tractor, visit Santa’s elves, enjoy some kids’ crafts, say hi to the big guy in red, stroll along the dazzling holiday trail, warm up with hot drinks and more.
Country Christmas Days
Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Rd. A, Ottawa, ON
When: December 5 to 30, 2026 (select dates)
Experience a festive day full of activities, including snowy wagon rides, elf performances, visiting Santa, twinkling light trails and holiday treats by campfires. Photo-worthy Christmas displays will surround you, and you can enjoy the outdoor mazes and play structures that Saunders Farm is known for. Visit the tree lot to find a magical Christmas tree to decorate at home, or a fresh wreath.
Parades
Watch Santa, festive floats and twinkling lights take over the streets at Christmas parades in Ottawa and surrounding towns.
Help Santa Toy Parade
Where: From Somerset St. W. to Lansdowne Park, Ottawa, ON
When: November 21, 2026
Santa is coming to town, so gather along the route southbound along Queen Elizabeth Driveway to Lansdowne. Admire whimsical holiday floats and donate what you can to Ottawa's Toy Mountain, which supports local children who may otherwise not receive gifts this year. The fun kicks off at 11 a.m.
Santa's Parade of Lights
Where: St. Joseph Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: November 28, 2026
Line the street and prepare to sing “Here Comes Santa Claus” because Ottawa’s east end parade is back along St. Joseph Boulevard on the evening of November 28. Watch for Santa and other holiday characters and floats starting at Youville Drive.
Santa Claus Parade
Where: Principale St., Old-Aylmer, QC
When: November 28, 2026
Head over to the Quebec side of the river to enjoy a Santa Claus parade as part of the Christmas in Old Aylmer events. The parade begins at 6 p.m. from the marina, going down Rue Principale to Boulevard Wilfrid-Lavigne.
Stittsville Parade of Lights
Where: Stittsville Main St., Ottawa, ON
When: December 5, 2026
Enjoy a holiday parade down Stittsville Main Street with dozens of floats and an appearance by Santa, before the countdown to the lighting of the park’s Christmas lights. Listen to the sounds of a choir singing carols and grab a cookie and hot chocolate before the evening parade kicks off.
Perth Santa Claus Parade
Where: Perth, ON
When: December 5, 2026
Many different Christmas festivities are happening in the small town of Perth, including the annual Santa parade. This year’s parade theme is Elves Gone Wild, so keep your eyes peeled for new floats. Line the town streets along Wilson Street West and Gore Street before it starts at 5 p.m. at The Factory on Sunset Boulevard.
Santa Shuffle
Where: Lansdowne Park, Marché Way, Ottawa, ON
When: December 5, 2026
Register for this holiday fun run to race, jog or stroll in a one-kilometre or five-kilometre path supporting The Salvation Army. Once registered, fundraise what you can and pick up your race kit, which includes your festive racing tee. Feel free to add some festive accessories, like Santa hats or reindeer ears, to your race look.
Make the holidays extra sparkly with a CAA Membership
Starting at just $30 a year, CAA Members can enjoy discounts on everything from dining out to filling up on fuel, as well as other benefits with our Rewards partners. You can compare Membership plans online or visit the CAA Store closest to you, such as CAA Ottawa.
