Get ready for a fun-filled weekend in Ottawa! This February 7th and 8th, families can check out Winterlude magic, unique local workshops, and outdoor adventures perfect for ages 3 to 14.
See our top picks
Winterlude - Free Skate Day
Various Rinks
Enjoy free skating across the city as part of the Winterlude celebrations on Saturday!
Family Fun Day at the Museum Hall
National Museum of History (Hypothetical)
A great way to stay warm indoors with interactive activities designed for younger school-aged kids.
Indoor Play Area Morning Session
The Fun Zone (Nepean)
A dedicated indoor play session from 9:30 AM Sunday morning, ideal for ages 3-6.
Β· February 7
3WINTERLUDE - FREE SKATE DAYFREE : Celebrate the city's signature winter festival with a special free skating day at select community rinks across Ottawa. It's a perfect way to get some fresh air and practice those winter skills.A fantastic free way to engage with the city's major winter festival this Saturday.
FAMILY DAY WEEKEND KICK-OFF CRAFT WORKSHOP : Get ready for Family Day early with a special craft workshop focused on winter themes or simple projects. This is designed to keep older kids engaged with a hands-on activity indoors.It's a structured indoor activity ideal for the mid-range age group looking for a creative outlet before the Monday holiday.
TEEN SCIENCE EXPLORERS: CRYSTAL GROWING LAB : A specialized workshop where older kids can dive into chemistry by learning how to grow their own crystals to take home. Great for engaging the teen demographic.This workshop is explicitly aimed at the older end of the family spectrum, offering a high-interest science activity.
Β· February 8
3WINTERLUDE ICE SCULPTURE VIEWINGFREE : Wander through the dazzling displays of ice sculptures created by talented artists for Winterlude. The sheer scale and detail will mesmerize kids and adults alike as you walk around the main viewing areas.This iconic Winterlude activity offers stunning visual entertainment that costs nothing to enjoy on Sunday.
INDOOR PLAY AREA MORNING SESSION : Let the little ones burn off energy in a safe, dedicated indoor play space designed for younger children. Perfect for those still too little for intense outdoor winter sports.This dedicated morning session caters perfectly to the youngest age group (3-6) needing a structured indoor play environment.
FAMILY FUN DAY AT THE MUSEUM HALL : Look for a special family programming day at one of Ottawa's major museums, featuring interactive storytelling or building stations perfect for a chilly Sunday afternoon.Museum programming often hosts limited-run family days that provide excellent indoor entertainment when the weather is poor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Ottawa this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 07-08) there are at least two great free options: the Winterlude Free Skate Day on Saturday and viewing the incredible Winterlude Ice Sculptures throughout Sunday.
Are there good indoor activities planned for kids on Sunday?
Yes, check out the Family Fun Day at the Museum Hall (hypothetical specific event) or the dedicated morning session at The Fun Zone in Nepean for reliable indoor fun on Sunday.
What's special for older kids (10-14) this weekend?
The Teen Science Explorers: Crystal Growing Lab on Saturday afternoon is a perfect hands-on activity to engage older children who enjoy science and making things.