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5 Winter Festivals in Ontario Locals Look Forward to Every Year
Aside from the countless Hallmark Christmas movies etched onto my brain, the main reason I look forward to the holidays in Ontario is its many winter festivals. It’s during these fun times that make the season that much jollier, showcasing the natural friendliness of Canadians.
If you’re planning on visiting Ontario but don’t know which month to choose, this list is your sign to stop by during wintertime! Yes, it will be extremely cold, but you’ll have an absolute blast attending the region’s festivals during these freezing times.
Whether you’re a fan of ice wine, sledding, live music, or anything in between, there’s a winter festival in Ontario for you. Keep reading to discover these events, and who knows, maybe they’ll make your winter extra memorable!
Winterlude Festival
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Address: Ottawa and Gatineau
Date: Early January to late February
Highlights: Rideau Canal Skateway, Ice Sculpture Competition, Beaver Tail
The Winterlude Festival is held from the end of January to early February, so I always saw it as an extension of the holiday season. During these weeks, you’ll find festivities in the streets of Ottawa, with the most famous spots being the Rideau Canal Skateway and the Crystal Garden.
The Rideau Canal Skateway needs no introduction, as it’s one of the top winter attractions in the entire Ontario province. It’s the largest natural skating rink in the country that’s free for everyone to enjoy, even if you have zero prior experience, thanks to its beginner classes.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking to get a sense of the artistic scene in Ottawa, you MUST stop by the Crystal Garden. It’s a mesmerising ice sculpture competition held at Confederation Park, where you’ll find beautiful handmade frozen statues of mermaids, Roman warriors, etc.
Pro tip:
While you’re in the city, make sure to try at least one Beaver Tail at the ByWard Market. It’s an Ottawan staple that every pastry lover should try, especially the cinnamon sugar flavour!
Barrie Winterfest
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Address: Barrie
Date: February 1 and 2
Highlights: Ice carvings, live music shows, food trucks, Snow Valley’s mini tube slide
Barrie is a hidden gem in Ontario that tourists often overlook because of its proximity to Toronto. However, come February 1 and 2, every year, this city transforms into one of the most fun-tastic destinations, complete with ice sculpting competitions, food markets, and live music!
One of my favourite places to check out during this festival is the vendor market, which features a plethora of food stalls and trucks offering Canada’s finest comfort food. Recently, sugar-coated fruits have been trending, but I still stick to the proven and tested poutine!
The Snow Valley is also a top destination during this festival, as it’s filled with fun things to do, like going down the mini tube slide! During the 2025 Winterfest, a talented artist named Siggi Buhler created a snow sculpture maze to add more fun to the festival.
Pro tip:
Before heading from one attraction to another, keep an eye out for warm-up zones to help you avoid freezing your nostrils. These usually come in the form of fire pits, where you can also roast some marshmallows!
PolarFest Selwyn
Media credit: selwyntownship
Address: Township of Selwyn
Date: Late January to early February
Highlights: Fireworks show, charity hockey game, ice carvings, polar plunge
PolarFest Selwyn is a prime example of Ontario’s sense of community, and it’s showcased during the festival’s annual Polar Plunge. This activity is held at the frozen lake of Chemong, and participants must make a donation before diving into the freezing water.
To add more quirkiness to this already fun and fulfilling activity, participants are required to dress according to the year’s theme. For instance, 2025’s theme was retro TV shows, and never did I think that I would see a Smurf plunging into an ice-cold lake.
However, this activity is barely scratching the surface of what you can expect from this festival, as you’ll also find ice sculpture contests, races, and a friendly charity hockey game! Personally, my favourite part of this festival is the fireworks show that signifies the PolarFest’s beginning.
Pro tip:
If you want to try your hand at snowshoeing or hiking, you should check out Selwyn Conservation Area during your trip! Moreover, this is also a great summer destination where you can ride canoes, arrange picnics, play sports, etc.
Hamilton Winterfest
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Address: Hamilton
Date: Early February
Highlights: Art installations, live music performances, drag performances
Website
Hamilton Winterfest is one of Ontario’s most jam-packed winter festivals, featuring over 70 events spread out through various venues. And, to cater to all these events, the festival lasts seventeen days!
The main attraction here is the HUB, which is located at Jackson Square. It features several art installations, from authentic movie props used in famous flicks like Star Wars and Star Trek.
Moreover, you can expect to enjoy live music acts from local artists in bars across the city.
Pro tip:
While you’re in Hamilton, be sure to check out the magnificent Dundurn Castle to witness one of the most impressive feats of architecture in Ontario.
Goderich Winterfest
Media credit: goderichtourism
Address: Goderich
Date: Mid-February
Highlights: Live music, chilli cook-off, candle-lit walk,
Website
Although mostly known as a Summer town in Ontario, Goderich still offers a memorable winter festival. The Goderich Winterfest is held in mid-February, and it’s a festival of senses featuring cook-offs, local musical acts, and beautiful artworks from the town’s unsung artists.
The chilli cook-off is one of the most competitive winter competitions we’ve ever witnessed—plus, it’s a great way to warm the soul during these freezing times.
However, the highlight of this festival is the candle-lit trail, which features over a hundred handmade lanterns spread throughout the town’s nearby forest. All these events double as fundraisers, so don’t be shy to pledge!
Pro tip:
Check out West Street Willy’s Eatery during your trip here! It offers a cosy atmosphere as well as countless comfort dishes like tacos, poutine, pizza, and more!
