Excited about Christmas craft shows and holiday events? Keep reading!
While I happily sing ‘This is Halloween’ over and over again during pumpkin carving, I quickly change from Scary season to Festive Season as the clock strikes 12.
Sure, I’m not decorating yet or putting on the holiday music (we have a November birthday in this family mid month that we use as our starting point) but that doesn’t mean I’m not already dreaming about sugar plums at night (and during the day).
That’s why I love hearing about craft shows and shopping events to help Ottawa residents kick of their shopping, or, just get in some of the spirit of the season by treating themselves to handmade or artisinal items.
The Nepean Sportsplex Christmas Craft Show runs from October 31 until November 3 and is filled with over 100 local crafters. Every day, for all four days, the event begins at 10 and concludes at varying times (if you need to swing by at a later time, you’ll want to try and go on Thursday and Friday when the show closes at 8 pm.)
Nepean Sportsplex Christmas Craft Show Details:
October 31 – November 3
Thursday, October 31, 10 am to 6 pm
2 for 1 admission all day
Friday, November 1, 10 am to 8 pm
2 for 1 admission from 5 to 8 pm
Saturday, November 2, 10 am to 6 pm
Sunday, November 3, 10 am to 4 pm
Admission prices
Adults $7
Seniors/Youth $5
Children (under 12) free
Sales and the box office are cash or debit only, no credit cards.
-city of ottawa website
Find out more on their Facebook Event page
Plan to shop this weekend at the Nepean Sportsplex Christmas Craft Show and get a head start on your holiday shopping!
So you want to have a turkey dinner but aren’t feeling like you want to make it? I get it. In the past, I’ve outsourced turkey dinner for Thanksgiving and Christmas before (something I hadn’t thought of until the Pandemic) but there are many benefits.
If you are still considering outsourcing turking dinner in Ottawa, here are some places to check out that are offering a turkey takeway – please note, some will feed one, a couple, a family of 4-6 and larger families so you’ll need to do some research depending on your needs!
Also, be sure to account for leftovers 😉 Or at least, that’s what I recommend.
Yup, this is last minute but that’s ok! You can still change your mind about doing it yourself. There are no rules!
please note – I’m listing places in Ottawa that are offering turkey meals, but they may be sold out (of some portions at least). You’ll have to check to find your fave, but it’s also good to save the list of these businesses for other meals, catering, snacks etc. And as always, follow them on social or join their newsletters to keep in the know!
Thanksgiving Dinner for 8. I’ve ordered (often) from here and always love it. This meal includes turkey breast (not a whole turkey), dressing, sides, and a pumpkin pie!
The order deadline for a takeaway meal for 5 or 10 is October 5! But we’ve had their Christmas dinner turkey takeaway and loved everything.
Where to buy dessert for Thanksgiving in Ottawa
Are you in charge of bringing dessert to your family or friend gathering? Here are some places to check out that have seasonal offerings (and yes, pumpkin pie!)
Order online for pick up or to grab at the Orleans Farmers’ Market. Yes, you can get pumpkin pie but also grab some brownies (trust me). (ps – you may be able to find fresh turkey to cook here too!)
Preorder online to avoid items selling out. I love that they offer a small and large size for pie so you can customize your dessert offerings based on guests.
Don’t want to bring a pie? How about stuffed cookies? I can tell you right now (since I’ve had them), these will change everything you know about cookies. They even have seasonally themed options like the pumpkin cheesecake cookie!
March Break for many families in the Ottawa area is March 11-17.
Not sure what to do? While we are looking forward to some quiet days without the hustle and bustle of a busy high school semester, I also know that many families (ourselves included) will be looking for some new and fun activities to enjoy for kids of all ages.
Please note that some activities are free, and others are ticketed/paid admission events.
March Break with Kids in Ottawa
Go Goat snuggling
Do I need to say anything else? Since our Beach Goat visit when we were in PEI this summer, goats have become a bit of an obsession for this family. Near Ottawa, in Winchester, at Vanderland The Barnyard Zoo, you can book a private goat snuggling session.
Honestly, just check out their Instagram to see that it literally means you’ll get to snuggle goats. You need to privately message to book your time.
Visit Parc Omega
A family favourite of ours, Parc Omega is a nice day trip outing to take with the kids. At this time of year, you’ll just be missing their maple season but there is still a lot to do during your visit. Kids of all ages LOVE seeing the animals and of course feeding them carrots!
Plan a Staycation or Mini Getaway
We don’t have to plan a week-long vacation over the March Break (although admittedly, I would also love to do that) but a night or two away at a nearby location is sometimes the perfect break. It also means less stress since the drive is typically shorter and you don’t feel like overpacking the same way!
In Ottawa, many of our local hotels have amazing March Break packages that include visits to Museums and other activities (for example, the Lord Elgin has a family package that looks like a lot of fun and Brookstreet is always a great family hotel! Or, check out Fairmont Chateau Montebello for swimming, indoor activities and outdoor adventuring.) Being a tourist in our own city can be a blast.
Enjoy Maple Syrup Season Activities
I’ve always loved maple syrup season and sugar bush activities. During March Break, plan a trip to a local sugar bush to enjoy pancakes, learn about the making of maple syrup and play outside! Check out Proulx Farm or Stanley Farms.
Have a HOOT at a Museum!
Take your pick of which museum you want to visit in Ottawa because there are so many to choose from (we are fortunate that way!) But of note, the Owls Rendez-Vous at the Canadian Museum of Nature is ending on April 1 and I recommend that one (I need to take my kids too!) You can read about it from my previous visit here.
Also, over at the Children’s Museum (a part of the Canadian Museum of History), there are March Break activities in celebration of Anne of Green Gables! Fitting for fellow PEI lovers (or fans of the classic story).
Get hands-on at your local library
I love going to the library even when there are no events happening. If you have kids of any age, it’s a worthwhile outing. Everyone gets to browse for a new book to enjoy (and with the extra time at home during March Break, it’s a good time to get a stack!) A
TIP: if you didn’t already know, you can borrow video games for most systems (including older ones – shout out to the Wii fans) so it’s a nice little perk. There are movies too for family movie night. This is also a free activity!
In additional to creating your own self-guided fun at the library, there are many FREE events happening during March Break. Many require a pre-registration (although there are some drop-in activities) but you can browse all of the activities on the Ottawa Public Library website.
Take a walk outside
I know it seems so simple, but everytime we used to take the kids for a walk on a path or at Gatineau Park, we loved it – and it’s easy to forget how sometimes the simple activities (and the free ones) end up being filled with memories. You can create an outdoor scavenger hunt or just bundle up (in snow pants or rain pants depending on the weather!) and head outside!
So you want to do something special for Valentine’s Day, but prefer to stay home. Or maybe you have to stay home since finding a babysitter or heading out for the night can be difficult and expensive. Whatever the reason, keep reading for some delicious at-home take out ideas:
Andy and I used to go out for Valentine’s Day. It was a guaranteed date night and always meant good food. That didn’t change when we had the kids, although going out for a Wednesday night exclusive menu wasn’t as easy, so instead, we started bringing Valentine’s Day to our own dinner table.
We would set up and enjoy a fancy dinner when babies went to bed, or toddlers and preschoolers joined us at the table (with their own sweet menu). That tradition has continued for most years.
Sometimes it’s a fancy take-out meal from one of our fave restaurants, or pizza, or something quick. Sometimes we make it at home.
But the goal is just to come around the table, say cheers to our own little romantic story and life we have created and are working for, and be with those we love.
However, that’s just our experience. I know that Valentine’s Day looks different for many. Maybe you’ll have friends and family over, or maybe you are a single parent (or will be solo) this year. Many of these take out options are offered for one adult with child menus added on, or for larger groups when ordered in multiples.
Whatever your plans, if you want to start your own at-home Valentine’s Day tradition (with the kids, or when they are sleeping) here are some places in Ottawa to order from.
You’ll want to open each link to see their full menu, I only mention bits of them sometimes (and hardly do them justice). Also, many of these will likely sell out!
Where to get a take-out Valentine’s Day meal in Ottawa
This has been our go-to for many Valentine’s Days in years past. We would set up a fancy dinner table for the four of us and everything. This year, you have a variety of entrees to choose from so you can serve any palette, but I have to say it’s often the desserts that will have the kids requesting this again in the future!
Pelican Grill is offering their lobster dinner meal that includes two starters, sides and dessert (with local Ottawa delivery) and it’s one to impress. We’ve actually ordered this for New Year’s Eve in the past, and love it. This splurge from the sea will have you talking all night long.
Speaking of Pizza, check out local company Nonna’s Famous Pizza Box. Order DIY Pizza Kits and get hands-on as family so dinner becomes dinner and entertainment! Little hands love to help in the kitchen so a make-your-own-pizza night would be a lot of fun and still encourage wee ones to get to bed on time (especially with Valentine’s Day being a school night!) Plus, the kits also include cookies to decorate! Their delicious kits are available for pick up for delivery.
I’m already drooling thinking about Taj’s dinner package. Their Valentine’s Day menu is available with meat, vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. While this all-in-one combo is meant for two people, parents know that sharing with the kids is usually on the table and a good way to go. Choose an appetizer and a main dish with the level of spice you like. It comes with rice, naan, and rice pudding for dessert. A portion of the specials will support the Ottawa Food Bank.
Why do I write these articles? I just end up hungry and wanting everything. This next menu sounds amazing: Red Apron is serving up a Year of the Dragon inspired menu! Place your order by calling or via email for pick up or delivery.
Maybe instead of a three course meal, you just want to have a lovely cheese and charcuterie board while sipping some cocktails or mocktails? If that’s the case, you won’t want to miss the Good Grazes Valentine’s Day box. You can even order it for a weekend date night pre-Valentine’s day if you want as orders (for pick up or delivery) are accepted between Febraury 11 and 14.
If you know charcuterie is what you want, you can also check out The Piggy Market’s Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Boards. This is a dinner sized portion with 4 meats, 3 cheeses, crostini and other bites. PLUS the locally-made wooden board that it is presented on is all yours to keep. So really, you are gifting yourself (or your partner) amazing food AND a useful kitchen item. The Piggy Market always has amazing food so while you are there, check out their other offerings like their delicious bread. Delivery is also available (spoiler – Tuesdays are free delivery but you can order for any day on Tuesday to get the offer!)
Maybe you prefer to tuck the kids in bed before digging into a delicious meal. I’ve been there, done that. If you are looking for an at-home experience that is unique, check out the Valentine’s Day at-home menu from Next. Each all-in-one meal box for 2 (for pick up or delivery) has a 7 course meal (that is not a typo – seven), extra little bites, wine and cocktails. There are instructions and a video from Chef Michael Blackie so you can prep, plate and say cheers! Delivery is free!
While there 2024 meals are sold out, bookmark their site for future special events! We have ordered from there MANY times over the past couple of years and can confidentally say everything is delicious. You’ll get a restaurant meal that requires very little preparation and heating up at home. We love these boxes.
I hope whatever you decide to do (if you decide to order in) you enjoy the evening. Or at the very least, get yourself from chocolate and enjoy that 😉 And no, I haven’t made our decision yet but I need to order soon!
Halloween is on a Tuesday this year, which means that weekend right before October 31 will be filled with family friendly and fun activities around Ottawa.
There’s always something about a Halloween/Fall event that I love. Although this year I may spend part of the weekend carving pumpkins, here are some activities in Ottawa that you might want to check out!
Halloween Activities in Ottawa 2023
First, I’m going to share some of the Halloween haunts and highlights from when my own kids were little. Every year, I happily tried to find Halloween activities to take them to because, let’s be honest, I love it.
I have fond memories and photos from many of these places!
There are so many activities to do at Saunders Farm, and while there is a nighttime option (that brings more scares), the daytime one itself always had enough fright. If scary isn’t your family’s thing, that’s ok – take the hay ride instead of the haunted ride, and skip the scary house!
With hay slides, mazes and a pumpkin patch, this was always a fun outing for us. The kids will love visiting the animals and all of the activities. This event’s last day is October 29.
Dress up and spend Halloween with the animals? YES PLEASE. I have amazing photos of costumed kiddos with the cows from many years ago, and honestly the Farm was one of my favourite places to take the kids, especially when I was solo with them. Now, they’ve expanded their event even further with so many activities AND food options like Nonna’s Famous Pizza.
This event is on the weekend (October 28 and 29) only.
This was a fun activity years ago for us and not too far of a drive beyond Ottawa. With their Acres of Terror Halloween activities, you can choose a less scary daytime outing or the thrilling evening one. The daytime activities are only available on the weekend.
Place d’Orleans is hosting a trick-or-treat event on October 31 from 10 until 12 pm for little ones to collect treats around the Mall. I am pretty sure I took the kids when they were super little to this. What is nice, is that for wee ones who need a nap and early bedtime, this is a funy way to show off costume, gather with friends, and not worry about the weather!
MORE Halloween Activities in Ottawa
While I maybe haven’t been to these events, they sound amazing! Check them out:
Take the kids to the trick-or-treat stations and various businesses in Westboro on Saturday, October 28 from 1 pm to 4 pm. Make time to tour the area to enjoy music, balloon creations, a magician and more.
This event has been happening at Diefenbunker for years and while it’s ONLY availble until Friday, October 27, at the time of my publishing this there were still some tickets available. I love that it focuses on the little ones!
Some local businesses have teamed up on Elgin to provide a Halloween Party on Sunday, October 29 from 11 am until 2 pm (rain or shine!) Some of my favourite businesses are on Elgin. At participating locations, your family can enjoy trick-or-treating, face painting, photobooths, giveaways and more. The Merry Dairy will be there too! Pot and Pantry, The Gifted Type and Boogie and Birdie are three shops that I adore and are participating!
This event is a walk-through at Wesley Clover Parks with tickets available until October 31. The pathway is lit with pumpkins, structures, music and special effects.
This post is paid in partnership with the City of Ottawa
Updated for Halloween 2023!
Halloween is just around the corner and I wanted to share with you an update in partnership with the City of Ottawa.
Trick or Swim or Skate
Once again, the popular trick or swim or skate program is back! You can purchase tickets (booklets of 10 for $10) to hand out on Halloween (these make excellent non-candy, allergy-safe treats!) or as loot bag/party favours. These passes entitles a child to a free public skate at one of the area ice rinks or a free swim at one of the listed public pools!
“Starting October 1, Trick or Swim or Skate is back! Purchase 10 tickets for $10 to swim or skate at City pools and select arenas. This healthy and fun alternative to the traditional candy overload will have all your ghouls and goblins pleasantly surprised.
Tickets are valid for ages three to 15 years.
Tickets can be used from November 1, 2023, until January 31, 2024.
Not valid for wave swims or specialty skating sessions.”
-city of ottawa
If you are looking for more information, visit the City of Ottawa website (where you can also purchase recreation gift certificates if you are planning a party or looking for a unique gift.)
You can purchase your ticket booklets at a variety of community centres.
Here’s where you can find your Halloween Trick or Swim or Skate tickets:
The City of Ottawa is offering before and after school programs for kids aged 4-12.
Are you in search of an after school/after care program for your child in Ottawa?
Many families are looking at care options as the new school session begins (in late August for some, early September for others) and the planning often happens even earlier than that.
I’ve teamed up with the City of Ottawa to bring you information about their before and after school programs. There have been some provincial changes to before and after care programs and more information can be found on the website.
NEW 2023: Register for SINGLE Day options (because a lot of parents are working in a hybrid/work from home setting now!)
Parents will be happy to know that there are care options across the City and there is information available about financial assistance as well. You can find all of the details and register on the website.
Also, 4 and 5 year olds can register for these programs!
Parents can register their child for before OR after care (only one) but I know a lot of working parents will likely want to consider the After 4 program because it extends the working day and may be easier to arrange pick up! All of the details are on the website.
image source: city of ottawa
Here’s some information from the City of Ottawa about the programs
Start or end the school day with fun! Get active with games and sports and be creative with arts and crafts. Some quiet time for homework, too. Make new friends when you join our Club. City of Ottawa is a registered HIGH FIVE® organization. We commit to healthy child development and safety for children’s recreation programs. Choose quality for your kids!
Now is the time to start planning to try and ensure your preferred time and location plus, it will be one more thing to cross off your back-to-school check list.
Disclosure: The City of Ottawa is a blog advertiser. All opinions are my own. This post is meant to serve as information and to share with fellow parents program options.
It’s the July long weekend for most of Canada and while some families will be looking to find Canada Day celebrations this weekend, others may want some different activities to do together.
I have a few ideas for Ottawa families who are looking to kick off the summer and enjoy the long weekend in a different way! These three activities and events look like a lot of fun!
Saunders Farm
Yes, you’ll want to go to Saunders Farm in the summer, not just for the haunting season! This Sunday on July 2 you can get a Buy One Get One Ticket! Purchase your Summer Maze Days ticket online, and show it at the gate to bring a guest!
Details are on their Instagram (but my hot tip: Sign up for the newsletter!)
*this photo was taken when we went in 2021
Indigenous Outdoor Market
On July 2nd , from 10 am until 4 pm, shop the Indigenous Outdoor Market! It’s organized by and taking place beside Maker House (a local ottawa shop that I love purchasing from!)
From their website:
Celebrate the end of Indigenous History Month with this fun event near the store! Support talented Indigenous Makers from across Turtle Island. Shop their unique wares, hear our Keynote Speaker and listen to some live music!
The Canadian Museum of Nature has several exhibits that families will love. The OWLS are back (yay!) and there’s also one all about Wolves. Or take in the Ocean Wise Sea Dome 4D cinematic immersion experience to go under the sea and learn about climate change, ocean health and more. It’s done in a planetarium style format. But you don’t want to wait for this one! While the Owls and the Wolves will be sticking around until 2024, the Ocean Wise event is only here until July 4!
This post is a paid partnership with the City of Ottawa
There are two things I want you to know about:
a) There are still some space in the City’s summer camps available!
b) There is a 10% discount reflected in the pricing
Camps in the City of Ottawa
Don’t panic if you are realizing that you need a summer camp options. While many City of Ottawa camps are indeed full now, there are still some that have availability at the last minute. Phew!
Browse the City of Ottawa website to find a camp in your area, for your child’s age and that has availability. Remember that the fees you see already reflect a 10% discount being offered!
We know how important summer camp days are for many families, and they are a lot of fun for the kids.
There are camps for coders, LEGO lovers, mini chefs, hockey fanatics, and more!
Browse the Ottawa website if you are looking for a summer camp to find a week and location that works for your family.
Not interested in a camp?
Don’t forget there are still summer activities running for kids throughout the summer including special events that only take place for an hour or two on a specific day. (And example? Become a mini Indiana Jones on an archeological dig at the Billings Estate National Historic Site on August 10!) So even if you aren’t looking for a full day/week activity, there’s still plenty happening to keep the kids busy!
Grab your tickets with EARLY ACCESS to the September show dates at the Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe and enjoy this duo in person. I remember watching them when my kids were so little on TV!
Here are the details:
There’s a presale code that is required if you want to get your tickets before they sell out, and tickets are available to the general public starting May 5 but they’ve opened the ticket doors early with a presale.
Then, purchase your tickets and wait until September to enjoy your show.
More about the Wild Kratts coming to Ottawa
The show dates are September 15-16 with multiple shows per day.
There is an option for regular tickets OR VIP tickets.
This performance is fun for all ages, even better for 2 to 10 year old children, but best suited for 3 to 8 year olds.
VIP Meet & Greet description: VIP tickets include admission to a special meet and greet with Chris and Martin Kratt right after the show. Please note that each child attending the meet and greet must be accompanied by an adult, who must also have a VIP ticket.
The performance is 85 minutes total, which includes a 20 minute intermission.
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