Looking for ways to make your December extra special?

Whether you're looking for family fun, romantic date nights, or festive outings with friends, Ottawa has something for everyone this holiday season. Most of these activities are budget-friendly (or free), showing you don't need to spend a fortune to experience the magic of the holidays in our beautiful capital city.

Here's your guide to the most enchanting holiday activities to do in Ottawa this December:

1. The Nutcracker at the National Arts Centre

📍 1 Elgin (Southam Hall)

📅 December 5-8, 2024

💸 $31 - $138 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

Nothing says "Christmas is here" quite like The Nutcracker! Watch Clara's enchanting journey with the Nutcracker Prince unfold through stunning choreography and Tchaikovsky's beloved score. This timeless ballet brings holiday magic to life with dazzling sets and costumes that will captivate audiences of all ages.

2. Nan's Parlour Christmas Explosion

📍 73 Clarence Street, Ottawa

 📅 Until January 8, 2025 

💸 Free entry 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

Step into this charming pop-up bar that brings granny-chic decor to a whole new level. With festive cocktails and holiday treats served in the most nostalgic setting imaginable, it's like celebrating Christmas in your grandmother's living room—but with a delightfully whimsical twist!

3. Pubwells Ottawa

📍 96 Preston St. Ottawa 

📅 Various dates throughout December 

💸 Varies by event 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

When the winter chill hits, head to this cozy spot in Little Italy for some warm hospitality and holiday cheer. With live music and special events throughout December, it's the perfect place to gather with friends and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

4. Synthetic Ice Rink

📍Byward Market 

📅 November 22, 2024 to February 17, 2025 

💸 Free 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

Practice your figure eights on this innovative synthetic ice rink, open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Bring your own skates and enjoy all the fun of ice skating without worrying about the weather! Perfect for families or a romantic date night under the winter sky.

5. Saunders Country Christmas Days

📍 7893 Bleeks Rd, Ottawa 

📅 November 30 to December 30, 2024 

💸 $25 - $50 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

This beloved farm transforms into a Christmas wonderland with hayrides, dazzling lights, and a tree farm. Warm up with hot cocoa while exploring the festive attractions and create lasting holiday memories with the whole family.

6. A Very Merry Mystery

📍 330 Kent Street, Ottawa 

📅 November 22 to December 20, 2024 

💸 $25 - $45 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

Join Detective Al Ketchem in solving a festive whodunnit involving a mischievous elf, an event planner, and a disgraced television host. This interactive show combines mystery with holiday spirit for an entertaining evening out.

7. A Very Retro Christmas

📍 Nepean Museum, 16 Rowley Avenue, Nepean 

📅 December 7, 2024 

💸 Free 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

Travel back in time at the Nepean Museum with vintage decorations and holiday crafts that will transport you back to simpler times. This nostalgic event is perfect for families and history buffs alike!

8. Alight at Night Festival

📍 Upper Canada Village, 13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg, ON 

📅 November 29, 2024, to January 4, 2025

💸 $14 - $17 

🚗 Paid parking nearby

Experience more than one million lights illuminating historic buildings at this spectacular festival. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides and seasonal treats as you stroll through this enchanting holiday display. It’s worth the short drive from Ottawa!

9. Behind The Scenes: Magic of Christmas

📍 2935 Conroy Road, Unit 120, Ottawa, Ontario 

📅 November 29 to December 22, 2024 

⏰ Wednesday-Friday: 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

💸 From $15 (Group rates from $80 for up to 5 people) 

🚗 Parking available

Step onto a movie-quality set and journey through an immersive holiday path to the North Pole! Created by the studio behind your favourite local Christmas movies, this magical experience includes a special visit with Santa himself.

10. Winter Lights Across Canada

📍 Various locations across downtown Ottawa 

📅 December 5, 2024, to January 7, 2025 

💸 Free 

🚗 Paid parking at various locations

Take an evening stroll through downtown Ottawa to experience the city's most beautiful light displays. From Parliament Hill to surrounding landmarks, the capital glows with holiday spirit, creating perfect photo opportunities and magical winter moments.

11. ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas 

📍 Algonquin Commons Theatre, 1385 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa

📅 December 7, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

💸 $48 - $60 

🚗 Paid parking

Enjoy this unique holiday show combining ABBA hits with Christmas classics. It's a fun twist on traditional holiday entertainment that will have you dancing in your seat and singing along to your favourite tunes!

12. Jersey Nights Before Christmas

📍 Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe, 101 Centrepointe Dr, Ottawa 

📅 December 18, 2024 

💸 $36.25 - $63.50 

🚗 Free parking

Get ready for a unique holiday celebration as the timeless music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons meets classic Christmas tunes, creating an unforgettable evening of nostalgia and holiday cheer. Perfect for music lovers of all ages.

*Check the specific venues' websites for updated information and ticket availability on holiday activities to do in Ottawa.