Holiday Season 2025

Bundle up for a flurry of lights, wonder and magic… ’Tis holiday season!

This year, we’re kicking off things on November 21st with the illumination of the tallest holiday tree in Ottawa and the first ever light show in the ByWard Market District to give you a taste of what’s coming.

Fan-favourites are also coming back, with a sprinkle of novelties here and there all throughout the season.

Holiday Season
Kickoff Events

November 21

Tree Lighting Ceremony

5:30 p.m.
George St. Plaza (55 ByWard Market Sq.)

The heart of the city beats with a new rhythm every season, bringing new life, stories and sparkle to the District.

This year, the ByWard Market will shine brighter than ever as we’re kicking off the 2025 holiday season with the lighting ceremony of the tallest (48 feet. Forty. Eight. Feet.) holiday tree in Ottawa, featuring a live brass band, a strolling fire and light juggling performance, a FREE Beavertails giveaway for the first couple hundred lucky guests, and… a very special announcement you won’t want to miss!

Join us at George Street Plaza, on November 21 at 5:30 p.m., and witness a magical moment that will bring joy, warmth and wonder to the area.

Join the ceremony!

Laser Light Show

5:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
George St. Plaza (55 ByWard Market Sq.)

The tree lighting ceremony does a little more than kick off the season – it sparks a chain reaction that spreads the holiday magic all over the District, beginning with a mesmerizing Light Show, the first ever in the District.

Join us at George Street Plaza, on November 21 at 5:30 p.m., and enjoy a spectacle of lights and music that captures the true spirit of the District during the holiday season.

Can’t make it at 5:30 p.m.? No worries – the Light Show will run again at 7:30 p.m.

Can’t make it at either time? You’re in luck – the Light Show will shine throughout the entire season, giving you plenty of chances to enjoy it!

Outdoor Market

4 p.m - 8 p.m.
William St. (between George St. and York St.)

We wouldn’t be called the ByWard Market District without having a market as part of one of our biggest yearly events!

Minerva Ottawa will be hosting an outdoor market on William Street from 4 to 8 p.m. on November 21, featuring local vendors, artisans, and festive treats that capture the spirit of the holiday season.

Come for the show, stay for the market!

Seasonal
Activities & Events

November 21 - January 1

  • Daily Light Show

    5:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
    George St. Plaza

    George Street Plaza lights up every day at 5:30 p.m. with a captivating light projection show and upbeat ambient music. Be sure not to miss this dazzling experience in the heart of the City!

  • Daily Aurora Light Show

    5 - 11 p.m.
    York St. (between ByWard Market Sq. & Sussex Dr.)

    Ever dreamed of seeing the northern lights up close? Get a glimpse of this mesmerizing spectacle every day from 5 to 11 p.m. on York Street, and let yourself be carried away by their magical dance.

  • Christmas Market by Minerva

    Saturdays, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
    Heritage Hall, 2nd floor

    Heritage Hall comes alive with the spirit of the season, bringing together local vendors and artisans for a festive indoor market. Make your way to the second floor and uncover unique holiday finds and handmade creations.

  • Carolers

    Saturdays & Sundays, 12 - 2 p.m.
    George St. Plaza & William St. Plaza

    It wouldn’t be the holiday season without a sprinkle of joy in the air. Enjoy the carols filling George Street and William Street Plazas every weekend from 12 to 4 p.m., and tune in to the spirit of the season.

  • Horse-drawn Wagon

    Saturdays & Sundays, 1 - 3 p.m.
    Pick-up on William St. Plaza (York St. & William St.)

    Step back in time with a charming horse-drawn wagon ride through the festive streets of the ByWard Market. Hop on every weekend between 1 and 3 p.m. at William Street Plaza to experience this timeless holiday tradition.

  • Outdoor Holiday Market

    Seven Days a Week
    York St., ByWard Market Sq.

    Find your holiday spirit at our outdoor market, where local vendors offer fresh Christmas trees, handmade wreaths, and festive décor to bring the magic of the season home.

Seasonal Activities & Events Calendar