Ottawa Special Events

Three major events enliven Ottawa. The Canadian Tulip Festival is the most celebrated. It centers on the millions of tulips--some a gift from the Netherlands' government in recognition of the refuge granted to the Dutch royal family during World War II--and other flowers, which are at their peak when the event is held in early to mid-May.

The flowers are planted in masses along the banks of the Rideau Canal and Dow's and Commissioners lakes as well as at Government House (Rideau Hall) and Parliament Hall, forming a wonderful background for the events held at 16 festival sites. Tulip Time, culminating with the Canadian Tulip Festival, features special events each weekend in May.

In addition to the profusion of blossoms, there is a giant flotilla of decorated boats on the Rideau Canal as well as a children's area, a marketplace, a flower and garden promenade, a multicultural village, concerts, the National Capital Marathon and a fireworks display. For more information about the Canadian Tulip Festival phone (613) 567-4447.

The 10-day Central Canada Exhibition in Lansdowne Park is in August. Agricultural and industrial exhibits, horse shows, games, top-name entertainment, craft shows and a carnival atmosphere are all part of the fun.

Paying homage to the games and rites of winter is a Canadian national pastime, and Ottawa celebrates them with an event spread over three Friday-Sunday weekends in February--Winterlude. Parades, fireworks, sleigh rides and snow sculptures as well as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and speed skating competitions, are the main activities held in and around the Rideau Canal area during this spectacular winter carnival.