By: Serge Guenette

Top 5 Family Activities in Ottawa this Christmas

TAGS: CHRISTMAS, OTTAWAY, FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Christmas is days away, which means it’s time to think about fun and magical activities for the whole family to enjoy. From colourful bright lights strung throughout the city to cosy virtual events you can view from the comfort of your couch, Ottawa is filled with family-friendly activities to help get your family in the holiday spirit.

Here are five to get you started.

  1. Saunders Farm Christmas: Head to the farm during the evening for A Country Christmas Drive-Through experience through the farm and forest. Afterwards, you can visit the night patio and Farm Shop for mulled wine, craft beers, hot drinks, seasonal treats and Beavertails for purchase. There are also precut Christmas trees, homemade wreaths and unique gifts.

  2. Location: Goulbourn
    Dates: Daily from 5 p.m. until Jan. 3. Tickets must be bought in advance.

  3. Magic of Lights: If you are out towards the west end of Ottawa, be sure to stop in to view the beautiful Magic of Lights display at Wesley Clover Parks. From holiday scenes and famous characters to digital animation displays of extraordinary LED lights, you and your family will be entertained as you drive through this display in the comfort of your vehicle.

  4. Location: Wesley Clover Parks
    Dates: Daily from 5 p.m. until Jan. 9

  5. Taffy Lane Street of Lights: Over the years, Taffy Lane in Orléans has grown to be one of the most popular neighbourhoods at Christmas time, with stunning displays of over 13,000 LED lights for everyone to view on foot or by car. If you haven’t had a chance to view these lights, make sure to add it to your list!

  6. Location: Taffy Lane, Orléans
    Dates: Each day after 5pm, until Jan. 1

  7. Christmas Lights in Canada: From the comfort of your home, you can experience IllumiNATION; a virtual show taking you across Canada to discover and witness performances from Canadian talents and artists.

  8. Location: Virtual Event
    Dates: Until Jan. 7

  9. Trees of Hope for CHEO: Trees of Hope, held at the Fairmont Château Laurier, has moved online this year and created a virtual voting event for everyone to enjoy from the comfort of their homes. On top of being able to view and vote for your favourite decorated trees, you have an opportunity to give back and make a difference by donating to CHEO.

  10. Location: Virtual Event
    Dates: Until Jan. 4

Although some events have moved fully online and others have been cancelled all together due to the pandemic, this list offers lots of joy and fun for the whole family. Use this holiday season to spend time with your loved ones in your social circle and appreciate your safety, your friends, and your family.