What to Do in Ottawa: Weekend Preview February 19-21

What to Do in Ottawa: Weekend Preview February 19-21

If you weren’t happy to wake up to -20ºC temperatures this morning (coupled with the record-breaking amount of snowfall Ottawa has seen over the past few days), we have some good news. Whether is expected to warm to around 0º this weekend, and on Saturday the warm temperatures mean we’ll get rain instead of snow! With that in mind, here’s what’s happening around Ottawa this weekend:

Elmdale Bookfest

BookFest is an iconic event/fundraiser that happens in late February every year, and this year’s edition is finally here! This year’s BookFest runs on Friday (9-9) and Saturday (9-4). Students, parents, and people in the community donate used books, and these books are then sold to a loving home (and the cycle can continue next year!) These prices can’t be beat – I was an Elmdale student in the late 90s and prices haven’t changed! Adult books are $1-$3, while children’s books are available for as little as 50 cents (cash only). Proceeds go toward Elmdale Public School and local charities selected by Elmdale Cares, the student-led fundraising committee. There are also great snacks and prizes, and this is a fun event for the whole family. To donate books or volunteer at next year’s event, contact elmdalebookfest at gmail.com.

Ottawa Senators versus Detroit Red Wings

The Ottawa Senators, forever hovering at “fake .500” (26-26-6 at the time of writing, with a game tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes on the schedule), need to make some quick movement if they expect to play a playoff game come April. The Detroit Red Wings, 9 points ahead of the Senators at the time of writing, are one of the many playoff teams that Ottawa is chasing, so a win here could go a long way. According to sportsclubstats.com, Ottawa has a 2.7% chance of making the playoffs – but that won’t stop us diehard fans from cheering them on and encouraging another miracle run like we saw last season. Head down to Canadian Tire Centre on Hockey Night in Canada and cheer on Karlsson and the Sens!

Chill Factor in Downtown Rideau

Rideau Street is host to Chill Factor, which wraps up on Saturday. Chill Factor is an “edgy celebration of culture, cuisine and couture.” Events include Undercurrents at Arts Court, the Viennese Winter Ball at Westin Hotel, and a season 3-course table d’hote menu at Metropolitain Brasserie.

Baltic-Nordic Film Festival

The 6th annual Bright Nights Baltic-Nordic Film Festival wraps up this weekend, so don’t miss your chance to catch a movie. Taking place at Carleton University’s River Builidng Theatre, admission is $13 for the general public, $9 for seniors and CFI members, and free for Carleton students and staff. Playing this weekend are romantic drama 2 Nights Till Morning from Finland (starring Canadian actor Marie-Josée Croze), Hrútar (Rams) from Iceland, and Pakeliui (When You Wake Up) from Lithuanian. All films have English subtitles.

Ottawa Boat and Sport Show

The EY Centre is host to the Ottawa Boat and Sport Show this weekend. Learn about wildlife, see the latest boats, get fishing gear, watch the work of a renowned chainsaw artist, try your luck in the free casting post, and so much more! Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and 10-15-year olds, while kids 10 and under are free.

Have a lovely weekend, everyone!

 


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