Your Guide to Holiday Events & Experiences

1912 at the Fairmont Château Laurier



Karen and Whitney visited the new 1912 bar as guests of Dunrobin Distilleries, and it instantly felt like a holiday escape. With private-label spirits and cocktails like Lady Zoe’s Mistletoe Martini, it’s a perfect spot for a cozy Christmas sip.

Read the story by Lynn Saxberg.

Restaurant E18hteen — Winter Happy Hour

18’s signature Chopin martinis shine even brighter this season. Their Winter Happy Hour runs daily from 4:30–6:30 PM, and their New Year’s Eve five-course tasting menu is a must for festive dining.

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The Hyde

Karen enjoyed a cocktail masterclass with co-owner Caroline Gosselin and Ihab so much that we booked our Christmas Party here. Its intimate atmosphere and expert bartenders make it an ideal venue for holiday celebrations.

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The Commons (187 Sparks Street)

Downtown’s newest gathering spot is officially open. With Happy Goat coffee, local craft beer, wines, and sweet treats, The Commons is an easy all-day option for festive catch-ups from morning to evening.

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Looking for the perfect festive outing? Visit Mādahòkì Farm this holiday season and take home a fresh balsam fir Christmas tree or a beautifully crafted wreath — perfect for adding cozy seasonal charm to your home.

While you’re there, enjoy a full day of holiday fun: browse seasonal treats and decorations at the Marketplace, meet their friendly animals (ponies included!), warm up by the bonfire, and let the kids enjoy the hay climbers and the indoor barn loft filled with swings, colouring, and crafts.

Pricing:

Small Porch Trees (with stand): $50

4–6 ft Trees: $65

6–8 ft Trees: $80

Wreaths: 12": $45 | 14": $55

Pickup available Thurs–Sun, 11 AM–8 PM.

Weekly delivery starts at $30.



Make your holiday gathering deliciously easy at Sidedoor. With room for large groups and a menu built around bold, shareable plates, it’s the perfect setting for festive lunches and seasonal celebrations.

Whether you're planning a casual midday meetup or a full holiday outing, Sidedoor delivers an experience worth sharing.



Looking for something extraordinary to add to your holiday plans? Oriental Legend brings a breathtaking blend of dance, storytelling, and artistry to the Canadian Museum of History from December 18–20. It’s bold, beautiful, and guaranteed to leave you inspired.



Searching for the ultimate New Year’s Eve plan? Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is pulling out all the stops with All That Glitters—a day-to-night celebration featuring live music from 11 AM, premium dining experiences, exciting giveaways, and a high-energy countdown show you won’t forget. It’s glamour, music, and nonstop fun under one roof.



If you’re looking for a gift that feels good to give, look no further than The Snowsuit Fund Holiday 50/50. Your ticket purchase helps keep Ottawa children warm all winter long — while gifting your friends and family the excitement of a jackpot that grows every day.

With the $5,000 Canadian Tire Early Bird prize being drawn on December 12, now is the perfect time to share a little holiday hope.

A gift that supports children, adds excitement to the season, and could even turn into a big win?

That’s holiday magic.

Searching for a standout gift? The Canadian Culinary Championship—January 30–31, 2026—is the perfect pick for any food lover. Ten elite chefs. Three thrilling competitions. Endless creativity.

From Mystery Wine to the high-stakes Black Box challenge, the excitement builds to a spectacular Grand Finale featuring elevated dishes and a Spirit of the West Celebration with Geoffrey Kelly, Barney Bentall, and Matthew Harder performing live.

It’s bold, delicious, and totally unforgettable—the ultimate holiday surprise for the foodie in your life.