Normally we’d celebrate temperatures above zero, but we won’t let the wacky winter weather put a damper on our Winterlude spirit, will we? Here’s what’s happening this weekend in Ottawa:
Winterlude
Winterlude, North America’s largest winter celebration, continues this weekend. This delightful event continues until February 15, so don’t miss it! On Friday night Terra Lightfoot performs at the Crystal Garden (Confederation Park) as part of the Sub-Zero Concert Series. There will event all weekend (weather permitting) along the Canal, at the Crystal Garden, at Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau, Lansdowne Park, and the Byward Market. Check out the Official Calendar of Events for details and last-minute cancellation notices. Also don’t forget to check out Lian Wright of the Ottawa Mommy Club‘s guest blog about families and Winterlude: My Essential Toddler Winterlude Survival Kit. To stay up to date on the Rideau Canal ice conditions, CBC has an ice conditions map.
Governor General’s Foot Guards Concert
The annual Governor General’s Foot Guards Band concert is now an official Winterlude event! Taking place in the Council Chambers at City Hall on Sunday at 2pm (doors open at 1:30pm), this family-friendly event is a celebration of live music. The band will perform standard repertoire plus a mix of film & television arrangements including Band of Brothers, the James Bond series, and even the ever-popular Star Wars franchise. Don’t tell anyone I told you, but you may just spot a few “special guests” present to help awaken “The Force” in the audience. Why encourage your kids to dress up as their best Luke, Leia, Han, or even Chewie for the day? Admission is free! Check out more in yesterday’s article.
Winterlude Stew Cook-Off
25 of the Byward Market’s best restauranteurs gather to create their best winter stews in the 25th edition of the Winterlude Stew Cook-Off on Friday. Competitors include chefs from Murray Street, Lapointe Fish, Luxe, the Clocktower, and the Ottawa Mission. The judges are a who’s-who of Ottawans, including food critic Gay Cook and Ottawa REDBLACKS star quarterback Henry Burris. This all-you-can-eat charity luncheon benefits charity, so take a long lunch on Friday and enjoy some tasty eats!
TD Ottawa Winter Jazz Festival
The Winter Edition of the TD Ottawa Jazz Festival takes over the National Arts Centre Fourth Stage this weekend, running from February 4 to 7. Friday performers including Petr Cancura’s Crossroads with guest Lynn Miles, The Chocolate Hot Pockets, and the Mike Murley Trio. Saturday features John Geggie’s Journey Band, Carol Welsman, and David Virelles and Roman Diaz. Finally, the festival closes with Mouse on the Keys and Montreal Guitare Trio (MG3). Ticket prices vary, but some events are free.
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!
