Check out this list of events and activities taking place in and around Ottawa this December 2024. Click on the event title for more information.
Alight at Night | November 29 – December 1
Upper Canada Village | 13740 County Road 2 | Morrisburg
This all-ages event invites you to unwind in a 19th-century village lit by over a million lights. Enjoy activity stations and visit St. Nicolas, stop by the sound and light show as the lights dance to your favorite holiday music. Ride the free miniature train or make dinner reservations at Willard’s Hotel or grab a seat at the Harvest Barn. Add this enchanting experience to your trip and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Wellington Village Holiday Shopping Night | December 5
Wellington West | Ottawa
Visit Wellington Village for a festive night that includes treats, goodies, store specials, a visit from Santa, various family events and much more. Start checking off your Christmas list while supporting local.
The Nutcracker presented by Les Petits Ballets | December 6 – 7
Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe | 101 Centrepointe Drive | Ottawa
Witness the classic story of Clara and her festive adventures after she receives a Nutcracker on Christmas Eve. From battles of mice and toy soldiers, to whirling snowflakes, joyful sweets, and everything in-between, this production choreographed by Olesya Egorov is sure to delight audience members of all ages!
All of My Favourite Things Artisan Market Series | December 7
55 Byward Market Square | Ottawa
Explore a vibrant selection of local artisans, crafters, and creators showcasing their talents! Browse the outdoor tents along William Street, between George and York Streets, then head upstairs to Gallery 55 for even more unique finds.
This festive market, nestled in the heart of the ByWard Winter Market, offers the perfect opportunity to shop local and discover handcrafted treasures this holiday season!
Ottawa Santa Shuffle | December 7
Lansdowne | Ottawa
A 5km Fun Run and 1km Elf Walk for all ages and skill levels in proud partnership with the Running Room. Participants are encouraged to wear their funkiest festive running attire for a day of laughter and fun.
Stittsville Parade of Lights | December 7
Stittsville Main Street | Ottawa
A community favourite, drawing thousands of spectators along Stittsville Main Street parade route as dozens of beautifully decorated community floats set the tone for Santa’s much anticipated arrival at the end of the parade. Merry makers are encouraged to stay for the lighting of Village Square Park, and to share in some hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit with Santa immediately following the parade.
Mochitsuki | December 8
Preston Event Centre | 523 St. Anthony Street | Ottawa
Mochitsuki Market will be packed with exciting Japanese cultural performances and martial arts demonstrations. Try your hand at mochi pounding.
Saint Nicolas And A Ceremony Of Carols | December 8
Christ Church Cathedral | 414 Sparks Street | Ottawa
Two of Britten’s most enduring Christmas works brought to life in an ambitious community performance.
Featuring Nils Brown as Saint Nicolas, the Boys and Girls choirs of Christ Church Cathedral and young instrumentalists drawn from across Ottawa.
Metcalfe Farmers’ Christmas Market | December 14
Greely Community Centre | 1448 Meadow Drive | Greely
Come and join Metcalfe Farmers’ Christmas Market! All of vendors are local, and make, create, bake or grow all of their products. There’s everything that you need for all of your Christmas holiday needs. There’s free parking and an ATM on site. You’ll also find hot prepared food. It’s a great time to come and shop and support local.
Adàwàning: Indigenous Women’s Art Market | December 14
National Arts Centre | 1 Elgin Street | Ottawa
The Indigenous Women’s Art Market showcases the diverse and incredible creations of Métis, Inuit, and First Nations makers. Explore a variety of products, including jewelry, beadwork, paintings, sculptures, mittens, moccasins, coffee, crafts, and much more.
2025 Pre-Party Bash! Ottawa’s Ultimate New Year Celebration! | December 14
3 Brewers Sparks | 240 Sparks Street | Ottawa
Celebrate the year’s end early at Ottawa’s Ultimate New Year Pre-Party Bash! Join the Ottawa Social Networking Group for an evening of cocktails, music, and dancing. Connect with new people and toast to the future with Ottawa’s most social crowd—spaces fill quickly, so reserve your spot today!
Annual Pet Day & Market at Robert Plante Greenhouses | December 14
Robert Plante Greenhouses | 4228 Navan Road | Navan
Celebrate your furry friends with pet-themed vendors, toys, treats and custom gifts.
Snap festive photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus (10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.). Explore 100+ vendors offering handmade goods, holiday décor, jewelry and more.
Food trucks will be on-site to keep you fueled. Bring your pets, make memories, and enjoy a joyful holiday experience — just don’t forget the leash!
CrakdNutz | December 14
LabO Theatre | 60 Waller Street | Ottawa
“CrakdNutz: a holiday circus dream” is a zany adaptation and continuation of the traditional Nutcracker story reminding us that when surrounded by a community of support, dreams can come true.
A Celtic Christmas Celebration | December 18
National Arts Centre | 1 Elgin Street | Ottawa
Join an unforgettable evening featuring the toe-tapping tunes of the Rideau Ramblers and the heartfelt melodies of the Ottawa Celtic Choir. Experience a captivating blend of Celtic Christmas traditions to celebrate the season with lively tunes and cherished songs that are sure to inspire a sing-along.
Handel’s Messiah with the NAC Orchestra | December 18 – 19
National Arts Centre | 1 Elgin Street | Ottawa
Experience the festive magic of Handel’s Messiah, a beloved holiday classic that brings joy to many each season. This year, the performance is conducted by Trevor Pinnock, former NACO Principal Conductor (1991-1996), whose deep connection to the piece adds a special touch.
Joining him on stage are two of Ottawa’s favourite vocal ensembles: the Cantata Singers of Ottawa and the Capital Chamber Choir, bringing their powerful voices to this cherished performance.
Christmas with Music and Beyond | December 21
Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre | 355 Cooper Street | Ottawa
Join Music and Beyond for their annual Christmas concert. Highlighting a medley of beloved Christmas classics to get you in the holiday spirit.
O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy | December 20 – 23
Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe | 101 Centrepointe Drive | Ottawa
Shenkman Arts Centre | 245 Centrum Boulevard | Ottawa
Combining British propriety with an unabashed love for the unexpected, London’s three-time Impresario Award-winning duo present an outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive show, reminiscent of classic British pantomimes.
Rich in wordplay, physical comedy, and cleverly crafted interactive elements, O Christmas Tea offers uproarious fun. It is the duo’s boundless imagination and endearing chemistry that provides the true magic and heart of this performance.
Family Discovery Day at Nordik Spa-Nature | December 24
Nordik Spa-Nature | 16 Nordik Road | Chelsea
Escape the holiday rush and unwind with the whole family at Nordik Spa-Nature. This special Family Discovery Day offers a relaxing, festive experience perfect for creating memories together.
Ottawa Kwanzaa Celebration | December 28
Blu Legacy Convention Centre | 3750 North Bowesville Road | Ottawa
The Ottawa Kwanzaa celebration will include a dynamic showcase of cultural dancers, drumming, singing, music and authentic African and Caribbean cuisine — entertainment for the entire family. It offers an excellent opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of the Ottawa-Gatineau Black Community.
New Year’s Eve Comedy Night | December 31
Shenkman Arts Centre | 245 Centrum Boulevard | Ottawa
Ring in the new year with great Canadian comedians. This is the ultimate way to say goodbye to 2024 and welcome in the new year.
Ottawa New Year’s Eve Charity Ball | December 31
Ottawa Conference and Event Centre | 200 Coventry Road | Ottawa
Join us for an unforgettable night of glamour, champagne toasts, and charitable giving. The Ottawa New Year’s Eve Charity Ball’s promises an evening of opulence, live entertainment, and heartfelt connection, all in support of Journey House.
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