Feature story
Are you looking for family-friendly holiday events taking place in the heart of the city? Fear not! There are many upcoming festive events taking place at Lansdowne Park throughout November and December. With activities, food, and one-of-a-kind vendors, you are sure to be put in the holiday spirit – and maybe even get some holiday shopping done, too.
613flea
613flea returns to the Aberdeen Pavilion on Saturday, November 18 from 10 am to 4 pm for their final regular market of the year. There will be 150 unique vendors at the ever-changing marketplace that features artisans and eclectic items, handmade goods, antique and vintage finds, great food and more! Admission is always free.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The holiday magic begins in Aberdeen Square on Friday, November 24 from 5 to 9 pm with an unforgettable opening night that includes a spectacular tree lighting ceremony. Picture yourself surrounded by the warm glow of twinkly lights, the sound of carolers, and the enchanting atmosphere that can only be found at the Ottawa Christmas Market. It's the perfect way to start the holiday season.
Outdoor Christmas Market and Santa’s Village Workshop
Stop by the Ottawa Christmas Market, presented by TD, located in the Aberdeen Square. Thousands of Christmas lights and decorations twinkle to create a festive atmosphere that is accompanied by holiday entertainment, local flavours, and, of course, some holiday shopping! To learn more, visit the Ottawa Christmas Market website.
For families, Santa's Village and Workshop are must-visit areas within the market. Here, you can meet Santa Claus himself and engage in fun workshops and activities that will surely delight the kids (and the kids at heart)! This event is free to attend.
From Friday, November 24 to Sunday, December 17, the Christmas Market will be open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at the following times:
- Friday: 5 to 10 pm
- Saturday: 10 am to 10 pm
- Sunday: 10 am to 8 pm
From Wednesday, December 20 to Saturday, December 23, the hours will shift slightly:
- Wednesday to Friday: 5 to 10 pm
- Saturday: 10 am to 10 pm
Ottawa Farmers' Market: Christmas Market
Shop local this holiday season at this very merry farmers' market! Find seasonal produce, handmade holiday decor, tasty treats and more from over 100 producers located in the Ottawa region. Enjoy festive music and eat lunch while you shop.
Visit the Christmas Market inside the Aberdeen Pavilion every Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm from Saturday, November 25 to Saturday, December 23. Plus, get in the spirit at a special Christmas Night Market on Friday, November 24 from 5 to 9 pm.
613Holiday Night Market
Friday nights in December are a great time to get into the holiday spirit at Lansdowne Park! After visiting the Ottawa Christmas Market outdoors, check out the 613Holiday Night Market inside the Aberdeen Pavilion. Over 125 vendors will be offering unique items and admission is always free. These markets will take place on December 1, 8, 15 and 22 from 5 to 10 pm.
"Last December was such a magical way to get into the holiday spirit at Lansdowne Park! Outside, I remember the big fluffy snowflakes that fell through the glittering Christmas lights at the Ottawa Christmas Market while inside the Aberdeen Pavilion the hustle and bustle of holiday shoppers was just electric at the 613Holiday Night Market."
Catherine Knoll, Market Manager 613flea
Santa Shuffle – Presented by The Salvation Army
On Saturday, December 2 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, check out the Santa Shuffle 5km Fun Run and 1km Elf Walk for all ages and skill levels. Participants are encouraged to wear their funkiest festive running attire for a day of laughter and fun. For additional details and to register, visit their website.
To learn more about these and other events at Lansdowne Park, visit ottawa.ca.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.