Deep snow not stopping Family Day activities in Ottawa

Families across the capital braved the cold to enjoy the final day of Winterlude. CTV’s Dave Charbonneau reports.

Many across the city made the most of the long weekend, heading outdoors to celebrate Family Day.

From skating on the Rideau Canal, to enjoying the last day of Winterlude, there was no shortage of activities.

Chris Waddington and his kids spent the holiday at Snowflake Kingdom in Gatineau.

“A little cold out here, but it’s a great place to spend time with the family,” Waddington said.

Despite the cold, Snowflake Kingdom was a popular spot for both kids and adults.

“Family Day, last day of Winterlude, and we want to enjoy it together,” one visitor said.

“We figured it was a good day to come, lots of snow, and it’s been a great day so far,” another added.

With a true Ottawa winter in full force, some say there’s no better time to embrace it.

“You’ve got to get out and make something of winter. It’s a real one for a change,” said Tyler Harris.

After a day of tubing at Winterlude, some looked forward to another Ottawa tradition.

“We want to get a Beavertail on the Canal,” one child said.

The Rideau Canal was also a busy spot on Monday, with skaters roasting marshmallows on the world’s largest rink.

“It’s really fun because you get to spend time with your family but also do something I really love, which is skating,” said Aldesa Deloughery.

“We wanted to be together as a family and be outdoors,” added Andrew Grimston.

Others took a final look at Winterlude’s ice sculptures on Sparks Street.

“I think they’re quite beautiful. It’s the perfect day. Perfect weekend. I love it,” said Julianna Cromwell.

Officials say this year’s Winterlude was one of the most successful yet.

“2025 was a huge success,” said Melanie Brault, director of capital celebrations for Canadian Heritage.

“From the thousands of smiling faces we’ve seen at all of our official sites, here on Sparks Street, over at Snowflake Kingdom, at Jacques-Cartier Park, every weekend, we’ve seen so many people coming out, tourists really coming into the city.”

At City Hall, Mayor Mark Sutcliffe hosted his annual Family Day skate at the Rink of Dreams.

“This is a great chance for families in Ottawa to come downtown and enjoy the Rink of Dreams and just be together on Family Day,” he said.

For many, it was a cold but enjoyable day on the ice.

“Beautiful day. It’s cold, but it’s good to get out,” said skater Susan Blundon.

Despite a cold and windy Family Day, it was a unanimous “no” from children when asked if they’d rather be in school.