The 48th edition of Winterlude, Ottawa's premier winter festival, concluded on Family Day Monday after three bustling weekends that drew more than half a million visitors, according to estimates from Tourism Ottawa. Organizers, tourism experts, and attendees alike hailed it as a banner year, with cold but sunny conditions creating perfect settings for the festivities.
Ideal Weather Conditions Boost Festival Success
Melanie Brault, director of capital celebrations with Canadian Heritage, which organizes Winterlude, noted that unpredictable winter weather in Ottawa has posed challenges in recent years. However, this year's stretch of chilly temperatures proved advantageous. "The fact that it was so cold the first two weekends of Winterlude, although you had to dress warmly and stay safe, enabled us to keep the ice carvings alive throughout," Brault explained. "This means everyone could enjoy them, and we even added more sculptures each weekend."
Ice Carving Competition Returns to Confederation Park
The annual ice carving competition, a marquee event of Winterlude, moved back to its traditional location in the Crystal Garden at Confederation Park this year, after being held on Sparks Street and other downtown spots in recent editions. On the opening day, January 30, temperatures plunged to around -35°C, yet 12 teams of ice carvers began crafting their masterpieces at 10 a.m., using 18 blocks of ice each over 30 hours. This year's theme celebrated Canada's northern identity, with intricate designs drawing crowds to the Crystal Garden.
Visitor Numbers and Economic Impact
Steve Ball, president of the Ottawa Gatineau Hotel Association, reported that downtown hotels were fully booked during the event, with increased occupancy even on weekdays. "All indications are it was a banner Winterlude," Ball said. "Early data suggests a hugely successful event with a significant economic impact on the Ottawa-Gatineau region." In addition to the ice sculptures, popular destinations included the Snowflake Kingdom in Gatineau's Jacques-Cartier Park and the Rideau Canal Skateway, which the National Capital Commission announced would close temporarily due to warmer temperatures after the festival ended.
Community and Cultural Highlights
Families and visitors flocked to Confederation Park on the final day, enjoying the last glimpses of ice sculptures and winter activities. The festival's success underscores its role as a key cultural and tourism driver in the capital region, blending art, sport, and community engagement in a winter showcase that continues to evolve and attract widespread participation.
