Family weekend and Valentine’s Day are approaching. Have you already planned something exciting? If not, here is a great idea: Why not go to Ottawa and celebrate the winter with Winterlude festival?

Winterlude begins on February 5th and continues until February 21st.  You can expect amazing winter activities and events. My personal favorite is skating on Rideau Canal. In winter, this historic waterway becomes the world’s largest skating rink! During the Winterlude, the Canal is the site of the Winterlude Triathlon, the Bedzzz Annual Bed Race, skating demonstrations, workshops and much more. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t skate, you can still have fun by exploring the Canal on foot.

My next favorite thing is the BeaverTail. It is a delicious pastry that is stretched to the shape of a beaver’s tail and float cooked on oil. I am yet to discover the different flavours of toppings that they have: cinnamon, chocolate, maple, etc. What could be better than a piping hot BeaverTail after a long day of skating on the Canal?

Another place to visit is Jacques-Cartier Park. Here you can admire marvelous snow sculptures and have fun in the biggest snow playground in Canada.

At Rogers Crystal Garden you can admire masterpieces created by fusion of art and ice. You will have the best experience if you stop by at night, when lighting turns the ice sculptures into a magnificent sight.

You can also enjoy fine dining at Taste of Winterlude that gives you a chance to discover the many flavours of Ottawa. However, remember that Valentine’s Day is not included in Taste of Winterlude and make sure to make reservations well in advance since at this time the city is overcrowded with tourists.

There are many other things to see and do in Ottawa. For example, you can take a tour of the Parliament building. At night, the lightening of Parliament is gorgeous and it is a wonderful place for a romantic walk. Take the opportunity to visit Governor General’s residence, but don’t forget to make reservations for the tour. After the tour of the Governor General’s residence you may have a look at the Prime Minister’s house.

Whether you want to wonder around the Byward market, watch a movie on the giant snow screen or listen to the concert drinking hot chocolate, I am sure that you will enjoy this trip!