Family Fun Things to Do in Ottawa in December

Family activities in Ottawa in December are abundant, making it a memorable month for many. Whether it’s taking a drive to enjoy the holiday lights, taking in a show, anxiously waiting to hit the slopes, gliding across the many outdoor rinks, or the many other joyful activities for families to enjoy this holiday month there are lots of things to keep you and your family busy!

Family Activities in Ottawa in December

Make the Season Kind

Formerly known in Ottawa as Project Give, CBC’s annual holiday charity drive in support of local food banks has raised over $51 million for food banks and charities across Canada since 2015. This year, CBC Ottawa’s Make the Season Kind event will take place on Thursday December 5 at Sacred Heart High School, and will feature local performers and programming in support of the Ottawa Food Bank.

Parade of Lights

Kick off December with the Stittsville Parade of Lights on Saturday December 7. This beautiful parade will make it’s way down Main Street with amazing floats beautifully decorated. The Village Square Park will be lit and you can share in some hot chocolate, cookies and a visit with Santa!

Stanley’s Christmas Village

Stanley’s Christmas Village is awaiting you and your family for a special winter wonderland experience. With sleigh rides, hot chocolate and a visit with Santa the kids will be all smiles and you can also grab a freshly cut Christmas tree or special goodies from the shop on the farm. Reservations are required.

Vintage Village of Lights

Cumberland Heritage Village Museum is lit up with over 30,000 holiday lights were you can drive through and travel back in time with a festive soundtrack. Upon leaving this fun filled adventure you will receive a special take away cookie decorating kit, hands on crafts and a special telegram from Santa. Operating Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 4pm to 9pm until Sunday December 22.

Head to the Spa

Koena Spa is hosting their second (now annual?) Family Day on Tuesday December 24th. This special day is for children ages 8+ with an adult and is promised to be full of relaxation, hot and cold baths, saunas, and relaxation! Why not schedule in a little relaxation this holiday season for you and your littles? It’s $49 per person and runs from 8am until 6pm.

Alight at Night

Upper Canada Village is one special holiday spot that many families visit year after year. With over a million lights this special village brings holiday magic to a whole new level. Don’t forget to grab a Beavertail while enjoying the scenery filled with holiday music. We suggest going on a weekday evening if you would like to beat the crowds, this is a popular spot!

Trees of Hope for CHEO

Head to the Fairmont Chateau Laurier to view the beautiful holiday trees and vote for your favourite in support of CHEO!  Many companies and organizations have raised funds and decorated holiday trees for you to enjoy all in support of CHEO. Why not make it a day and enjoy some of the other fun places downtown Ottawa has to offer?

Magic of Lights

One of the other fun family activities in Ottawa in December is the Magic of Lights. This drive through experience at Wesley Clover Park has become a popular destination over the last several years. Running through December to Saturday January 4th, you have many opportunities to experience the magic.

Butterflies in Flight

Head over to the Canadian Museum of Nature for their special exhibition of “Butterflies in Flight” that runs until Saturday January 4th for a some fun family activities in Ottawa. Take a break from the winter weather with a world of brilliant, live butterflies—back by popular demand! Experience the beauty of nature up close as these delicate creatures soar freely in the Solarium. A warm tropical paradise welcomes dozens of new pupae from Costa Rica and the Philippines every week.

Copyright: Parc Omega

Winter Escape

Looking for a quick winter getaway with your family? Why not head to Chateau Montebello for a fun filled evening. Enjoy relaxing in the large indoor pool and by the cozy fireplace playing some of your favourite family board games or reading a book. While you are here check out Parc Omega as they have a new special drive through experience with the wolves!

Hit the Ice

With many outdoor rink options throughout the Ottawa area some of our favourites are the Rink of Dreams located at City Hall,  Lansdowne behind the Aberdeen Pavillion and The Little Penguin Trail in Gatineau which is a beautiful 5.5km+ skating trail through the golf course.

Catch Some Hockey!

Catch a Gatineau Olympiques game at the Slush Puppie Arena for some fast moving and thrilling hockey. The Gatineau Olympiques are part of the Quebec Junior Hockey League and they offer a great game while also being a great price for the whole family to enjoy.