Ottawa Kicks Off Holiday Season with Festive Events Nov. 21-23

UPDATE: Ottawa is buzzing with excitement this weekend as the city launches its holiday festivities from November 21-23, 2023. Residents and visitors are invited to partake in a series of events that promise to kickstart the holiday spirit!

The Ottawa Christmas Market officially opens tonight at Lansdowne. The grand opening includes a highly anticipated Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m., followed by live performances from the Chantal Hackett Band and The Country Lads. Families can meet Santa, who will be present at the market this evening. The Christmas Market will operate from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. today, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. tomorrow, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. More information is available at ottawachristmasmarket.com.

Also lighting up the night is the Luminaire event in the ByWard Market, starting tonight at 5:30 p.m.. This festive celebration features a tree lighting ceremony, a dazzling light show, and a live DJ until 7:30 p.m.. The outdoor market will remain open until 8 p.m. and will continue throughout the weekend with a variety of attractions, including horse-drawn wagons and carollers. Visit byward-market.com/luminaire for details.

Tomorrow, the excitement continues with the Help Santa Toy Parade in downtown Ottawa. Kicking off at 11 a.m., the parade features a new route along Queen Elizabeth Driveway, from the Cartier Drill Hall to Lansdowne Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring toys and donations for the “Help Santa Campaign,” contributing to the CTV and MOVE 100 Toy Mountain initiative.

Don’t miss the Kanata Santa Claus Parade tomorrow morning at 10 a.m., running from Hazeldean Mall to Holy Redeemer. Donations will be collected for the Kanata Food Cupboard.

For sports fans, the Ottawa Charge kick off their 2025-26 season tonight at TD Place against the New York Sirens, with the puck dropping at 7 p.m.. Tickets are available at thepwhl.com.

Other notable events this weekend include the opening of the Watson’s Mill Christmas Market featuring 35 vendors, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and tomorrow. The ADAAWE Indigenous Holiday Market on Saturday will showcase unique local products and gifts from over 20 vendors.

Tonight, the National Arts Centre will host a holiday concert, Gala Noel: Holiday Kickoff, offering a festive musical experience.

For those seeking more holiday magic, the Magic of Lights at Wesley Clover Parks features a stunning drive-through display of over two million lights. The event runs nightly until January 3, benefiting children, youth, and families at CHEO. Tickets and details can be found at magicoflights.com.

Ottawa’s museums are also open for exploration this weekend, including free guided tours of the Senate and House of Commons. For more details on tours, visit rts.parl.ca.

With so many activities happening across the city, Ottawa is truly embracing the holiday spirit. Don’t miss out on the festive fun and community spirit this weekend!