After a frosty week, it’s expected to be “warmer” this weekend (-19°C with the windchill is positively toasty, right?) So put on your long johns, toque, and three pairs of mittens to enjoy some of the great events happening in Ottawa this weekend.
Ottawa Senators versus New York Islanders
After a successful 2-1-0 California road trip that saw Ottawa nab two come-from-behind wins against the Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks, the Senators return home to face the New York Islanders on Friday night. At the time of writing, Ottawa is 4 points behind the Islanders in the standings, though New York has two games in hand. Ottawa has struggled with consistency all season long and currently hold a 22-18-6 record. On the bright side, they are only one point behind the New Jersey Devils for the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, with a game in hand – and the two teams clash tonight in Newark. Therefore, Ottawa could conceivably go into Friday night’s tilt holding down a playoff spot. Tickets are still available, so brave the Canadian Tire Centre parking lot and cheer on the boys!
Asian Lunar New Year
Come to The Hilton at Casino du Lac-Leamy on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday to celebrate Asian culture and ring in the Asian Lunar New Year! 2016 is the Year of the Monkey, so this event is a celebration of playfulness. Enjoy the sounds of traditional and pop Asian groups and, of course, dance the traditional Lion Dance. The food at this event will be incredible, with celebrated Asian chefs from all across Ontario cooking up delights like BBQ squid and Hong Kong-style Bubble Waffles. Tickets are $5 in advance and will be more expensive at the door, so it’s wise to purchase in advance. Children under 10 have free admission.
Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show
The Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show takes over the EY Centre this weekend. If you are planning to improve your home in 2016, this event is the perfect way to get started. Find inspiration, discover new products, or connect with a contractor who can bring your vision to life. Bryan Baeumler of Leave it to Bryan and Disaster DIY will be on hand to discuss renovations done right, along with other special guests from the area. Admission is $13 at the door and $10 online, while admission is free for children 12 and under. Don’t forget, parking fee is $8 at the EY Centre.
Mandarin Dumpling Festival
In celebration of Chinese New Year, Mandarin buffet in Orleans is hosting its annual Dumpling Festival. Additions to the buffet line include Dim Sum classics like Har Gow, Siu Mai, Beef Potstickers, and more. The Dumpling Festival continues until February 28th.
NFL Conference Championships
The AFC Championship game between the New England Patriots and Denver Broncos kicks off at 3 PM – this is going to be a legendary game, perhaps the final time we see Peyton Manning and Tom Brady face off. They will battle for the right to face the winner of the NFC Championship game on Superbowl Sunday. On the NFC side of the ticket, the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers will go head-to-head at 6:40 PM. Head to your favourite sports bar to watch the games with fellow fans and rivals, or host your own Sunday party with appetizers galore.
If you’d prefer to go at your own pace, Ottawa is the perfect place for family-friendly outdoor activities like skiing, skating, or just backyard igloo building.
