Winterlude, one of Ottawa’s most highly anticipated events, kicked off this past weekend with a flurry of excitement and entertainment. From chills to thrills, the opening weekend of Winterlude did not disappoint.
The festivities began on Friday evening with the official opening ceremony at Confederation Park. The park was transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with ice sculptures, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display. The crowd was in awe as they watched the sky light up with vibrant colors, marking the start of Winterlude.
On Saturday, the Rideau Canal Skateway opened for its 50th season, welcoming skaters of all ages to glide along the frozen waterway. Despite the chilly temperatures, families and friends bundled up and hit the ice, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. The Skateway, which stretches over 7.8 kilometers, is a beloved tradition for many Ottawans and visitors alike.
In addition to the Skateway, Winterlude also offers a variety of activities and events for all ages. From ice slides and snow sculptures to ice skating shows and culinary experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Snowflake Kingdom at Jacques-Cartier Park is a popular spot for families, with its giant snow slides and interactive games.
One of the highlights of the opening weekend was the Winterlude Ice Dragon Boat Festival. This unique event, which combines the traditional sport of dragon boat racing with the winter element of ice, drew in a large crowd to Dow’s Lake. Spectators cheered on the teams as they raced across the frozen lake, showcasing their strength and teamwork.
As the weekend came to a close, Winterlude continued to impress with its diverse and exciting lineup of activities. The Snowflake Ball, a formal dinner and dance event, was a hit among adults, while the Snowflake Soirée offered a more casual evening of live music and drinks.
Overall, the opening weekend of Winterlude was a resounding success, drawing in thousands of visitors and locals to celebrate the joys of winter. With two more weekends to go, there is still plenty of time to experience all that Winterlude has to offer. So bundle up, grab your friends and family, and join in on the fun at Winterlude.
