Winterlude returning to Confederation Park

The Urban Sugar Shack on Sparks Street. (Josh Marano/CTV News Ottawa

Winterlude activities will be returning to Confederation Park this winter, with the popular ice sculptures to be set up in the downtown Ottawa park.

Canadian Heritage announced the lineup and programming for the 48^th edition of Winterlude, which will be held in Ottawa and Gatineau from Jan. 30 to Feb. 16. Activities will take place in Confederation Park and at Jacques-Cartier Park.

“The iconic national festival will be back again this winter, showcasing the country’s unique winter identity, rich cultural diversity and creativity,” Canadian Heritage said.

“This year, people are invited to take pride in celebrating the joys, northern traditions and magic of winter. In cooperation with our many partners, we have put together diverse programming to delight people of all ages.”

The Crystal Gardens will be held at Confederation Park, just steps from the Rideau Canal Skateway. It’s the first time Winterlude activities have been held in Confederation Park since 2018, with ice sculptures and other events being placed on Sparks Street in recent years.

Canadian Heritage says Confederation Park will host the Winterlude Ice-Carving Exhibition, the Ryan Hill Ice-Carving Public Challenge; the Lantern Grove light experience, and the OLG Sugar Shack Village featuring entertaining shows.

The Snowflake Kingdom will be located at Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau. Canadian Heritage says activities in Jacques-Cartier Park will include the Tim Hortons Chinook Super Cline, the Nordic Race in Nomades du Parc on Feb. 8, and an illuminated Ferris wheel.

“The Afterslide Evenings for teens will take place on February 6 and 7, from 6 to 10 p.m., presented by Winterlude and Igloofête,” Canadian Heritage said.

“In cooperation with AdoGatineau, these evenings will feature a unique DJ atmosphere, plenty of activities, and the chance to wear your best retro winter looks and experience two of the season’s coolest parties, free of charge.”

According to the Canadian Heritage website, there will be DJs on Sparks Street for a “winter dance floor” during Winterlude.

On Feb. 6, 7 and 8, the ByWard Market will host Barbegazi, a “high-octane winter action sports” event with “free stunt shows.” There will also be a “Create and Celebrate” event in the ByWard Market during the Family Day long weekend, with street curling, live buskers, creative workshops, a vendor market and more.

Canadian Heritage says the free Sno-Bus shuttle service will be available on Saturdays and Sundays during Winterlude and on Monday, Feb. 16, to provide transportation between Winterlude sites.

IN PICTURES: A look back at Winterlude through the years

For a full list of activities, visit the Canadian Heritage website.