The holidays are here and all across Ottawa sparkling Christmas lights are lighting up the night sky. Take your family on a mini road trip across the city to see light shows, drive-through visits and small communities lit up to celebrate.

• Winter Lights Across Canada: Parliament Hill is lit up with a multimedia projection show featuring moving lights and soundtracks to match, showcasing Canadian landscapes. After viewing this show, you can head to the downtown core to view thousands of sparkling lights spread throughout Confederation Park and other sites that make up the Pathway of Lights. This outing is the perfect way to check out what the city has to offer in the most magical way. 

• Magic of Lights: Pile the family into your car and head to Wesley Clover Park for the Magic of Lights drive-through experience. With over a mile of themed light displays from prehistoric creatures to larger-than-life objects, you can enjoy this show completely from the comfort of your car. Heads up: Be prepared for a bit of a wait in line. This is a popular event.

• Ottawa’s Christmas Market: The European-style Christmas market at Lansdowne Park showcases 35 local vendors, making it the perfect spot to buy last-minute gifts and support local creators. On top of that, sparkling lights are strung across the venue and large holiday-themed ornaments are on display to get that perfect Insta-worthy photo. Afterwards, you can explore the area and check out shops and restaurants that also display their own Christmas spirit. The market is open until the 23rd.

• Alight at Night: If you’re up for a drive, the Alight at Night Festival at Upper Canada Village has over one million sparking lights on display along heritage buildings, trees and fences. This one-of-a-kind holiday experience is worth the drive and is sure to get you excited for the holiday season. 

Festive lighting can be found all over the city – even in smaller neighbourhoods! Drive around your community and hunt for the best Christmas lights. Two to consider are Taffy Lane in Orléans (a long-time attraction for Christmas-light-loving families) and the Turcotte family home in Stittsville, which has attracted thousands since 2020 for its over-the-top movie-themed displays. This year’s version, which is a fundraiser for the local food bank, is based on the movie Elf.

We hope your holidays are filled with laughter, fun, and joy with the people who surround you. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!