5 FREE holiday activities you don't want to miss

Holiday merry-making is in full swing, and we wanted to let you know about several upcoming activities that you don’t want to miss!!

Letters to Santa

Head to the City of Ottawa Archives to create your letter to Santa. You will also get to make crafts, decorate cookies and hear traditional holiday stories.
When: Saturday November 30th, 9am - 3pm
Where: 100 Tallwood Drive

Breakfast with Santa

Go and experience the new food court at Place d’Orleans mall, hang with Santa (and MAYBE some characters from Frozen too!) - all in support of The Ottawa Network for Education School Breakfast Program. For a tiny bit extra, buy one pancake for $1 (practically free, right??)
When: Sunday December 1st, 10am
Where: Place d’Orleans Shopping Centre, Food Court

Illumination Ceremony

Head downtown for the annual illumination ceremony for Christmas Lights Across Canada. NOTE, that this year’s location is at Confederation Park and not on Parliament Hill. There will be performances from Kiesza, Damien Robitaille and Tomson Highway as well as free Beavertails (while supplies last) and the multimedia projection show on Parliament. Visit another night all throughout the holiday season and tour the lighting route.
When: Wednesday December 4th, 5:30 to 8:30pm
Where: Confederation Park

Tree Lighting

You can’t miss the tree lighting ceremony for the biggest and best tree in Ottawa, at the National Gallery of Canada. There will be special treats, art making and free access to current exhibits. And get this….a MINI TRAIN outside!!
When: Thursday December 5th, 5 to 8pm (tree lighting at 6:30 but they suggest you arrive early!)
Where: National Gallery of Canada

Mayor’s 19th Annual Christmas Celebration

Celebrate the holiday season outdoors with campfires, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and skating, or head into City Hall for kid-friendly performances.
When: Saturday December 7th
Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West