One of the things I love most about Ottawa is how much the city and the people who live here embrace and celebrate winter. Growing up in Vancouver we were lucky if we got snow at all during the winter season, so needless to say I had to buy my first real winter coat and boots when we moved here (no more Lululemon raincoat and Hunter boots all year long). And, although the winter season can drag a little long here, I love how people get outside and make the best of the snow and cold.

Winterlude, is perhaps the best example of this seasonal celebration (and there will be plenty of Winterlude blog posts to follow), but I REALLY love all of the local winter fun days that go on in so many Ottawa communities.

Dovercourt’s Winter Carnival

So this fun community event took place this past weekend at Westboro’s Dovercourt Recreation Centre. It was my family’s second time attending.

This year was pretty different than last year simply because it was so much warmer! It was a balmy +2 degrees, and that made for a huge turnout. No one was skating due to the slightly slushy ice conditions, but that didn’t stop the large crowd from having a blast.

Dovercourt’s sledding hill was packed, and there were long line ups for face painting and horse drawn carriage rides through the neighbourhood. But, even with all the people, we had a great time as a family and loved seeing so many people out from the community.

Dovercourt also offered a “float-in-movie” inside the rec centre’s pool. Swimmers could bring along their own floaties and watch “Finding Dory” from the pool (which happens to be very warm, perfect for kids). We didn’t take part in the float-in-movie because our kids are still a little young, but it sure looked like fun!

If you missed out on the Dovercourt Winter Carnival, never fear! This was really just one of the first community winter celebrations, there are still so many more to come. Here are a few ones I know about, and they’re coming up quick, so get out your calendars!

Westboro Beach Winter Carnival

January 28, 1:30-4:30 pm – Westboro Beach

This is another Westboro event, this one taking place on the small beach along the Ottawa River. There will be a bonfire and tobogganing. Hot chocolate and cookies will also be offered. The event is free, but donations are accepted. So bundle up and get out and enjoy the fun!

The Governor General’s Winter Celebration

January 28, 12:30-4:00 pm – Rideau Hall

Snowshoe and cross country ski. New for Canada’s 150th birthday, you can lace up your skates in the refurbished Winter Pavilion and skate on Rideau Hall’s historic outdoor rink, which is now refrigerated. Visitors can tour the ceremonial rooms where the governor general fulfils official duties, welcomes dignitaries and honours Canadians.

Those attending are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the Ottawa Food Bank and Moisson Outaouais or winter clothing for the Snowsuit Fund.

Free parking will be available on the streets in the surrounding neighbourhood. Limited parking for mobility-impaired guests will be available on the Rideau Hall grounds via Princess Gate.

Shiverfest: Manotick’s Winter Carnival

January 27-29 , Manotick 

The winter carnival kicks off on Friday night at Centennial Park at 6:30 pm with outdoor skating, sledding, hot chocolate and timbits.

Also Friday night at Manotick Arena from 6:00-6:50 pm there will be a skating exhibition by local, young skating stars. Also at the arena, there will be a family skate from 7:00-8:00pm and following that there is a magic show.

Saturday morning will feature the Kiwanis pancake breakfast at Manotick Arena Hall at 7:30 am – 11:00 am. The Arena Hall will also host a children’s fun time for kids aged 2-6 years old. There will be crafts, face painting and a fire truck tour. There will be horse drawn carriage rides leaving from Centennial Park from 10:00 am-noon.

There will be chili cook-off at the Manotick Legion from noon-2:00 pm on Saturday afternoon. It’s a popular event, where you get to be the judge of both the professional and amateur entries.

Sunday’s events seem to focus mostly on a trivia event at Mill’s Tavern. I’m thinking that’s maybe not the best day for families. So looks like Friday and Saturday are your best bets!

For more information check out http://www.manotickvca.org

CCA Winter Carnival

February 5, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, Woodroofe Park

This is another great community event, happening just off Woodroofe, not far from the Carlingwood Mall. There will be skating, a bonfire and a horse drawn trolley ride. Stay for lunch and still make it home in time for the Super Bowl!

Glabar Park Winter Fun Day

February 18, 12:00-3:00pm, Kingsmere Park (STILL TO BE CONFIRMED)

This date has yet to be confirmed, but right now February 18 is looking pretty good for this winter celebration. Skating, hockey, games, hot dogs on the BBQ, and a bonfire with roasted marshmallows. I will try and confirm this date asap. But if you live in or around this neighbourhood, you won’t want to miss it!

So get outside, meet some members of your community and make the most of our Canadian winter!