Top things to do in Ottawa this February 2025
12 Minute Read
Winter in Ottawa is anything but boring! February is packed with exciting events and activities to keep you entertained all month. Whether you're gliding across outdoor skating rinks, enjoying vibrant winter festivals, catching a live concert, or browsing local markets, there's something for everyone.
Don't let the cold keep you indoors—explore these top things to do in Ottawa this month!
Rideau Canal Skateway
https://www.instagram.com/p/CYzxYs8lsHY/?img_index=1
Where: Rideau Canal, Ottawa, ON
When: Open as of January 11, 2025 (weather permitting)
The Rideau Canal Skateway is the world's largest skating rink, winding through Ottawa at its maximum length of 7.8 kilometres. This national treasure is free to visit, so bring the family out for a day of skating. Along the icy trail are change rooms, skate rentals, food and drink vendors and other amenities.
Ottawa Winter Jazz Festival
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave. and Club SAW, 67 Nicholas St., Ottawa, ON
When: January 30 to February 1, 2025
Enjoy three days of jazz performances, watching artists such as Caity Gyorgy, GEORGE, Don Byron Solo, Tara Kannangara, Ben Wendel, Sarah Neufeld, Richard Reed Parry and Rebecca Foon.
Winterlude 2025
Where: Multiple sites in Ottawa and Gatineau
When: January 31 to February 17, 2025
Experience the magic of winter at this annual festival, packed with fun for all ages over three weekends. Slide into adventure at Snowflake Kingdom, explore the illuminated displays of Lumen Eira in Confederation Park or lace up your skates for events like Glow Night. Enjoy activities like an outdoor maze, live performances, special exhibitions at local museums, and stunning ice sculptures on Sparks Street. Sip a warm drink and discover everything you need for an unforgettable winter!
Donovan Woods
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 1, 2025
Blending musical genres of folk, country and pop, this Canadian artist gave us songs like Portland, Maine, I Ain't Ever Loved No One, and Burn That Bridge across his discography. His seventh studio album, Things Were Never Good If They're Not Good Now, was released in 2024.
Love Is In The Air Valentine's Craft Market
Where: Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: February 1, 2025
Square Lemon Artistic Association hosts seasonal craft markets throughout the year, and this Valentine-themed market gives you plenty of time to find a gift for that special someone. Browse from more than 50 local vendors.
Ottawa Senators
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: February 1, 22 and 26, 2025
Prepare to cheer, 'Go Sens go!' sporting your favourite red, white and gold apparel to support Ottawa's home team. Join fellow fans in the stands, indulging in stadium eats as you enjoy the hockey game.
Book with your CAA Membership handy to save big on home game tickets to see the Ottawa Senators and 10% off official merch. Plus, save $15 on parking in Lot 4.
Happiness Art: Open Studio
Where: Ottawa Art Gallery, 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, Ottawa, ON
When: February 2, 2025
Join Happiness Habits 613 for the first in-person art event of 2025 and connect with like-minded people as you work on your project. Start something new or bring in a current piece, whether drawing, painting, beading, sewing, writing or something else. Enjoy the community spirit as background tunes play.
Beginners Line Dance
Where: D.A. Studio, 1177 Brookfield Rd. E, Ottawa, ON
When: February 2, 2025
All ages are welcome; no experience is necessary to join a beginner's line dance class. It's a drop-in class, so no registry is required.
Lansdowne Farmers' Market
Where: 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
When: February 2, 9, 16 and 23, 2025
The Lansdowne Farmers' Market runs throughout the year, each Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Browse from more than 85 local vendors, stocking up on produce and homemade goodies.
SoulRhythms
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 4, 11, 18 and 25, 2025
Take yourself on a travel experience across Africa and the Caribbean through movement and dance. Traditional and modern moves will be celebrated and taught during the 45-minute class, suitable for all levels.
Undercurrents
Where: Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: February 5 to 15, 2025
This contemporary theatre festival brings together artists from various backgrounds, cultures, and art forms to showcase their talents in an intimate setting.
Ottawa 67's
Where: TD Place, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 5, 9, 12, 16, 17, 21, 23 and 28, 2025
Feel the electric energy of Lansdowne and catch an OHL game at TD Place. Enjoy a classic hockey night in Canada with stadium food as you wear your favourite red and black merch.
Save 25% on select Ottawa 67's home games and 10% off official merchandise when you are a CAA Member.
Breakaway: Art Show
Where: 50 Bennett St., Carleton Place, ON
When: Wednesday to Sunday until February 9, 2025
This member-run art store allows local artists to connect with the community and sell artwork. You'll find paintings, photographs, jewelry and pottery, among other art forms. Any art lover is sure to find something unique.
Disney On Ice Presents Mickey's Search Party
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: February 6 to 9, 2025
The magic of Disney comes to life on ice with Mickey's Search Party. Join Mickey and friends as they perform world-class skating and acrobatics in a search for Tinkerbell. Explore fairytale worlds, from crossing the Marigold Bridge in Coco and sailing with Moana to singing with Frozen's Elsa and seeing characters from Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast.
Shiverfest
Where: Manotick, ON
When: February 6 to 8, 2025
Popular events such as the pancake breakfast, chilli cookoff, snowshoe race and bingo are returning to Manotick's Shiverfest this year. Cool new activities like an open mic night and musical concert will also be cool.
Unikkaatuarniq: Snowscreen By The Asinabka Festival
Where: Lansdowne Park, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
When: February 7 to 9, 2025
Immerse yourself in Indigenous films on an outdoor screen composed of snow. Dress for the weather and enjoy a post-screening DJ and performances, hot drinks and a warming station. Everyone is welcome to this free event.
Canadian Ski Marathon
Where: Montebello, QC
When: February 7 to 9, 2025
Traverse the stunning Quebec winter landscape at North America's oldest cross-country skiing event. Skiers of any age and skill level can sign up for various trail distances, ranging from 12 to 160 kilometres.
613 Flea
Where: Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way, Ottawa, ON
When: February 8, 2025
Shop from more than 150 unique vendors in this ever-changing marketplace. Discover handmade gift items and baked goods, vintage clothing, antiques, bath and body items, and more.
Fête Frissons
Where: Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd., Ottawa, ON
When: February 9, 2025
Visit this free annual event for performances, artmaking, workshops and storytelling.
TINA – The Tina Turner Musical
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 11 to 16, 2025
Head out for an evening of theatre to be captivated by the inspiring journey of Tina Turner, a force of woman who broke down barriers on her way to becoming the Queen of Rock n' Roll. Enjoy the much-loved songs as you follow along with her comeback story.
Yoga Under The Stars
Where: Aquatopia Water Garden Conservatory, 2710 March Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: February 12 and 26, 2025
Focus on mindfulness, body and soul as you soak in the Aquatopia greenhouse's lush oasis. February 12 is a partner's yoga night to strengthen your bond for a romantic yoga session. February 26 will be a hatha yoga flow.
Dueling Pianos
Where: Manor Lounge, 292 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 13, 2025
A display of classic hits spanning several decades awaits you as you watch the Dueling Pianos perform at Manor Lounge. They typically play requests, as well as harmonies, solos and some impromptu moments. Food and drinks will be served during the event.
Igloofest Gatineau
Where: Place des Festivals Zibi, 60 Rue Jos-Montferrand, Gatineau, QC
When: February 13 to 15, 2025
This month, the most extraordinary music festival will have you dancing under the winter sky. Get ready to party as electronic musicians hit the stage for a performance of epic beats. Some artists in the lineup include Michael Sparks, Eric Prydz, Kat2kat and Seven Lions. Bring out your winter coats and the best dance moves.
Ottawa Charge
Where: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 13, 20, 22 and 26, 2025
One of the PWHL's inaugural six teams is the capital city's Ottawa Charge. Check out how women's hockey is redefining the game for a night of high energy, from the Lansdowne area down to the ice in TD Place.
Notes Of Love
Where: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 14, 2025
Take your special someone out for Valentine's Day to a fundraiser concert supporting OrKidstra. An evening of music and community awaits as the concert explores themes of love and how it enriches our lives, from childhood joy to Canada's passion for hockey.
Romantic Dinner In Tropical Greenhouses
Where: Robert Plante Greenhouses, 4228 Navan Rd., Navan, ON
When: February 14, 2025
Bring your loved one to an exclusive romantic dinner with a three-course menu in a tropical greenhouse.
OSDS Friday Swing Dance Night
Where: 174 Wilbrod St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 14, 2025
Swing the night away with live music and new steps. It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned dancer or new to swing dancing; this evening of swing dancing is open to all. The evening begins with a beginner lesson, no partner needed if you don't have one, followed by social dancing.
Centretown Cold Plunge
Where: Uncommon, 140 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 14 to 16, 2025
Take this winter challenge and take an icy cold plunge to raise funds for Centre 507 and the Centretown Community Health Centre. Warm up in the sauna and enjoy hot drinks, DJ sets, and family-friendly activities.
Kids DIY Terrarium Workshop
Where: Aquatopia, 2710 March Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: February 15, 2025
Your little plant lover will love this hands-on workshop that combines creativity, learning, and storytelling. The event starts with a guided tour of the greenhouse, followed by time for creating a terrarium, with everything provided for this mini plant ecosystem. Each guest will leave with a goodie bag.
Big Bang Festival
Where: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON
When: February 15 and 16, 2025
Musical sounds will echo throughout the NAC building during this one-of-a-kind music festival geared to children and their families. Explore the mini-concerts and interactive experiences, many of which events are free.
Ottawa Multicultural Bazaar
Where: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: February 15 and 16, 2025
Visit Ottawa's world tour as you dive into a sea of diverse products, services and traditions. Browse different stalls filled with crafts, clothing and gifts, indulge in festive flavours and join cultural workshops such as henna painting.
Orleans Comic Book & Novelty Show
Where: 110 Place d'Orléans Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: February 16, 2025
Dress in your best cosplay outfit and explore over 100 vendor tables featuring comics, collectibles and novelties. You'll be able to see props from the Dr. Who Society show, visit the Ghostbusters car and admire a giant LEGO display. Different artists and writers will also be in attendance.
Embrace Winter Run
Where: 1 Vimy Pl., Ottawa, ON
When: February 16, 2025
An official Winterlude event, this scenic winter run will guide you through a stunning Canadian landscape, with race lengths for everyone. Choose to participate in a half marathon, 10K, 5K, and 3K, or a kids 1K. Race photography, post-race snacks and hot chocolate, prizes and local discounts are included in your registration.
Darcy & Jer: Average At Best Tour
Where: Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: February 18, 2025
This comedic married duo, which you may recognize from Instagram or TikTok, is bringing its brand-new show to Ottawa. Enjoy the commentary on their neurodiverse relationship, relatable parenting, and life as an average middle-aged couple.
Heritage Day
Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: February 18, 2025
Honour Ottawa's rich diversity as you explore special exhibits from local museums and heritage organizations at Ottawa City Hall. The 2025 theme is Heritage Champions: Crafting a Legacy of Preservation and Innovation. Chat with heritage professionals, ask questions and find new ways to connect with our past. The official ceremony starts at noon.
Ottawa Black Bears
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: February 21 and 28, 2025
You can catch Ottawa's professional lacrosse team competing during their inaugural season. This first season ends in April, so don't miss out on discovering a new sport and a local team to cheer on.
Jamie Fine: If This Is It... Tour
Where: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave., Ottawa, ON
When: February 22, 2025
One of Ottawa's own, Jamie Fine, started to make it big as half of the duo Elijah Woods x Jamie Fine, giving us popular songs like Ain't Easy and Want You Back. She went solo with her album Sellout and gained international success with her hit If Anything's Left. Catch her performing here in her hometown.
The Coldest Night Of The Year
Where: 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, ON and other Ottawa locations
When: February 22, 2025
This annual fundraiser supports local charities and raises awareness of issues of homelessness and hunger. It takes place in multiple Ottawa locations, including downtown, Centretown, Westboro, and Kanata. Create a team, raise money and awareness, and walk, wheel, or stroll as you help support the city's most vulnerable.
First Annual Spring Farmers' Market
Where: Greely Community Centre, 1448 Meadow Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: February 22, 2025
Head to Greely for an early spring market at the Metcalfe Farmers' Market. There will be more than 50 vendors to browse from.
Sens Skills
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr., Ottawa, ON
When: February 23, 2025
The Ottawa Senators team splits into two squads for head-to-head ice competition challenges. Watch them see who's the fastest, has the hardest shot, and can best control the puck and other contests. Enjoy the family day with fans of all ages and enter contests as you watch the Senators hit the ice with some players from other teams. While there, make sure to visit the CAA kiosk for free swag.
The DATENIGHT Tour
Where: 1681 Cyrville Rd., Ottawa, ON
When: February 26, 2025
Spend the evening laughing on a date night comedy tour, with clean comedy geared to couples. Andy Beningo and Leland Klassen are headlining, plus you can enjoy a live game show and other surprises.
Bring along your CAA Membership
Starting at only $30 a year, CAA Members enjoy discounts on everything from restaurants and fuel to savings on car rentals and travel insurance, among many other benefits. You can view the list of 126,000 partner locations worldwide and join online.
