The Magic of Christmas 
Magic of Lights: Nov. 17, 2017 – Jan. 6, 2018
Head just west of Ottawa’s downtown core to Wesley Clover Parks for Magic of Lights, a drive-through holiday light display. Nearly one million LED lights are spread over two kilometres, including a 200-foot light tunnel and large LED displays of your favourite winter characters like snowmen, elves and more. Select proceeds from each carload admission benefit the Ottawa Senator’s Foundation.

20th Annual Trees of Hope for CHEO: Nov. 27, 2017 – Jan. 8, 2018
Head to the historic Fairmont Château Laurier hotel to see several beautifully decorated Christmas trees throughout the holiday season during Trees of Hope! Opt to enjoy Afternoon Tea or a meal at the hotel followed by a stroll through the lovely trees located throughout their storied halls. This is a holiday season tradition for many.

The Museum of History’s Christmas Market: Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, 2017
This four-day Christmas market brings over 80 exhibitors to the Canadian Museum of History‘s Grand Hall. Choose from gourmet foods, artisanal spirits, handcrafted jewellery and many other unique handmade gifts. Free admission.

Alight at Night: Dec. 1, 2017 – Jan. 6, 2018 (select dates)
Just a 45-minute drive south of Ottawa’s downtown core in Morrisburg, Ont., you’ll find 1860’s Upper Canada Village adorned with nearly one million twinkling lights, holiday music, carollers and festive snacks. Stroll through the heritage village, take a horse-drawn wagon ride, or ride the life-size, family-friendly Toy Train that winds its way around the village. For a more private experience, reserve a ride in a romantic Pommier Carriage for two – a perfect occasion to propose to that special someone or to celebrate an anniversary!

Christmas Markets
Christmas in the Market: Dec. 2 – Dec. 17 
The ByWard Market neighbourhood is always a festive place to be, especially during their Christmas celebrations. For the first 3 weekends in December, you’ll find Christmas choirs caroling and complimentary wagon rides around the historic area.

Ottawa Farmers’ Market – Christmas Market: Dec. 2 – 23, 2017 
At this Christmas Market, you’ll find over 120 producers from the Ottawa area and beyond presenting their food, arts and craft products. The event takes place Saturdays and Sundays between Dec. 2 and 23 at the Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne, except Dec. 16-17 at the EY Centre. Free admission.

Market at the Barn – Christmas Market: Dec. 1 – 2, 2017
FRIDAY December 1 4 to 7pm
SATURDAY December 2nd 4 to 9pm
Come and experience Christmas at Market at the Barn. A quaint market hosting local products and artisans.

Family Activities
Skating on Parliament Hill: Dec. 7 – 31, 2017
Something new for the bucket list: skating on the first ever skating rink in front of Parliament Hill! Canadian Heritage, the Ottawa International Hockey Festival and the Ottawa Senators have partnered to offer free skating as well as a variety of special winter events, including Canada 150 Skating Day on Dec. 10!

Christmas Entertainment
The Nutcracker at the NAC: Dec. 6 – 10, 2017
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet adds delightful twists like Mounties, hockey and reindeer to this popular show. For more family fun, show up one hour before the showtime for dress-up, arts and crafts, dancing, and more!

A Christmas Carol at the NAC: Dec. 5 – 24, 2017
This beloved holiday classic by Charles Dickens is a popular production by the National Arts Centre’s English Theatre. The one and only Andy Jones as Ebenezer Scrooge brings the story to life! Also make sure to take time to explore the NAC’s beautifully renovated spaces.

More events are listed on the Ottawa Tourism Website