It’s the first weekend of the 49th annual Winterlude, a tradition that brings thousands of tourists to the National Capital Region to enjoy free activities and family fun for all ages. For the Vilnefff family, Saturday is a jam packed day. “We came over to the winter kingdom to try out all the different winter sports and festivities,” said Hilary Villneff, who was enjoying the ambiance of the festival. “We have been snowboarding, sledding, and we tried lacrosse.” The group of four made a quick stop for a warm beavertail before it’s off to the next activity at Snowflake Kingdom, one of the premier spots for the winter tradition. “It’s just a great opportunity to embrace winter,” said Miles Villneff. “It’s been such a true winter this year, so it’s been nice to embrace and enjoy some of the winter activities that go with it.” Every year the celebration of the season draws thousands of tourists to Ottawa and Gatineau to enjoy free activities for all ages, including obstacle courses, snow igloos, tubing, and more. “We’re hopeful and expecting a lot of people with everything that we’re offering this year,” said Martin Routhier, a spokesperson for the event. “We went from 400 blocks of ice to a thousand so it means a lot more carvers, a lot more to experience, and we hope people will come out and enjoy it.” Simone Moniz and her family came from Cambridge in Southwestern Ontario, more than a five-hour drive away. “This is our first time at Winterlude because we usually come in the summertime and so far, so good,” said Moniz. “We just got here so we’re going to go try out some activities.” Others to the capital from Montreal to spend time with friends. “I have one friend from Montreal, she visited us here in Ottawa because she wanted to experience the winter here in Ottawa like it’s a destination,” said Stella Cagulada, who was at Winterlude with friends. At Confederation Park, the Winterlude Crystal Garden showcases ice sculptures and animations. Activities also being hosted in the ByWard Market and near the Rideau Canal. Winterlude runs until Feb. 16.
