Things to do in the Outaouais in January
It’s a new year! With the holiday extravaganza behind us and winter officially kicked off, we now have time to enjoy the snow and all the joys of winter! Dress warmly, here are some activity ideas for January.
GO PLAY OUTSIDE!
On January 3rd, enjoy a magical evening skating on the longest Patinage en forêt trail in the Outaouais. The trail will be illuminated by 350 torches to create a magical atmosphere. Enjoy the music, stake under the lights and warm up by the bonfire. Hurry, places are limited!
Bring the whole family to the new Intro-Plus Learning Zone at Sommet Edelweiss this January 4th. On this festive day, enjoy free tubing and warm up with a hot chocolate. Ski and snowboard lessons will also be offered at low cost. Attend the official ribbon-cutting, enjoy the entertainment and enter to win prizes.
Step out of your comfort zone with Échappée Bleue. Put on a dry suit and conquer the Petite Nation river on a paddleboard! And yes, in winter! In small groups, explore the waterways accompanied by an experienced and certified guide during the SUP des glaces. Discover the region from a whole new perspective ad admire the snow-covered landscapes while enjoying an activity connecting you with nature.
Immerse yourself in a magical experience with Snowshoes under the stars, a noctural hike in the heart of Gatineau Park organized by Friends of Gatineau Park. Starting January 17th, every Friday evening this winter, explore the snow trails of Chelsea or Wakefield by starlight. Let yourself be guided by an interpreter who will reveal the secrets behind the adaptive capacity of flora and fauna in winter. Known as the green lung in Outaouais, Gatineau Park is the winter outdoor destination by excellence!
The Chèvres cross-country ski club is coming to the Outaouais this winter. Join them for structured staking-style training sessions on the trails of Gatineau Park. This activity is perfect for learning or perfecting techniques while enjoying an exceptional natural setting.
Don’t have your equipment? Don’t let that stop you! Relais plein air offers cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals, so you can spend an enjoyable day in the park. A waxing room, free parking (P2) and a cafe serving food and drinks are also available to visitors.
Make the most of winter by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at Sentiers Les Renards Blancs, a site of the Corporation plein air de la Lièvre. Discover 15 km of mechanically groomed cross-country ski trails and 10 km of snowshoe trails. Find a trail to suit your level, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or expert. On-site equipment rentals and baby carriers are also available.
One summit is great, bu many is even better! Yes, the Outaouais has plenty of ski resorts for you to hit the slopes this winter. Whether you’re an alpine skier or snowboarder, you’ll find the slopes to meet your expectations. Perfect for the whole family, the Outaouais mountains will appeal to beginners and experts alike.
Perhaps, are you one of these people who swear by snowmobiling in winter? If your answer is yes, then a snowmobile getaway is a must to discover the Outaouais and its hundreds of kilometers of marked trails. A vast territory to explore!
WARM UP INSIDE
Looking for a break from the festivities? Head to the tasting room of À la Dérive Brasserie Artisanale, this January 1st and take part in the Ramen moi en vie event, organized in collaboration with Ras L’Bol. Enjoy a ramen and beer combo, taste oysters, drink beer mimosas and, above all, stock up on beers to take home for dinner with friends.
Chez les Simone – tiers-lieu offers a rich and inspiring January program to foster creativity. On January 7, explore your artistic side with the Ruches d’arts. On January 15, plan your year with a vision board workshop. On January 16, take part in an enriching discussion on resilience with Sarah Bouchkhi. On January 19, take part in a fat bike outing at Le Harfang, express yourself in writing workshops, get an introduction to the enneagram, and much more. Discover a unique, inclusive and safe space designed to connect and share in a feminine spirit.
In January, attend a Gatineau Olympiques game at the Centre Slush Puppie. Introduce your family to the world of field hockey at this new sports complex and share unforgettable moments while supporting the local team. Before or after the game, grab a pizza at 1973 Resto Bar Loft or a cup of coffee at Café Bistro Pat-Burns.
Would you rather be at one with nature, but warm and cozy inside? Why not treat yourself to a stay in an unique accommodation in the Outaouais? A cabin surrounded by a pack of wolves, a fully equipped dome or a more rustic yurt, it’s all possible for a successful glamping experience. The advantage of sleeping in nature: a restful night of sleep and a huge playground for your favorite winter sports!
There’s more than one way to have fun indoors. For even more places to visit, here are some activities for the whole family to enjoy.
EVENTS TO ADD TO YOU CALENDAR
Enjoy a 360° multimedia experience with the exhibition Parliament: The Immersive Experience. Transport yourself to the heart of the main building in sound and light. Through this sensory show, immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped our country’s history as you visit the spaces reserved for major decisions. You’ll be amazed by the immersive visuals and sound effects!
Until January 7, from Thursday to Monday, come to Parliament Hill and enjoy a multimedia projection presented by Winter Lights Across Canada. Featuring colorful digital imagery and an enchanting soundtrack, this show will dazzle you. Take a photo of yourself in the set-up area and walk along Confederation Boulevard, which will be illuminated by hundreds of thousands of lights to create the Pathway of lights.
From January 17 to 19, take part in the 15th edition of the G-Anime Japanese animation festival at the Palais des Congrès de Gatineau. Meet special guests such as renowned Youtubers and geek artists. Discover the wide range of on-site activities, including show, conferences, workshops, screenings and more. Have fun in the playroom and don’t forget to put on your best costume. Watch the schedule!
Until January 19, visit the First Royals of Europe exhibition at the Canadian Museum of History! Embark upon an epic journey when precious metals were transformed into swords and jewelry, and armies grew to rule. Create your own golden crowns and bracelets. Unleash your creativity by printing on flexible gold paper and adorning your creations with stickers.
On January 24, take part in the first event of Art des archives series, an initiative of the Library and Archives Canada. During the evening, discover the art of collage through a presentation of inspiring works from LAC’s collection. Then, let your imagination run wild and create your own collage in an activity guided by a local artist. The activity is free and all materials are provided. Register now, places are limited!
On January 25, join us at the Estacade for a unique performance of Sherlock Holmes and the Hound of the Baskervilles. This play recounts a thrilling investigation in which the famous detective must solve a series of mysterious murders, with a blend of suspense and humor. Enjoy this theatrical experience with your family and create unforgettable memories.
On January 31, Mamatinée Gatineau offers a unique opportunity for moms to meet other parents while exploring local businesses. The event brings together artisans, designers and services tailored to the needs of expectant moms, young families and grandparents alike. Take a mini-professional photo shoot on site and immortalize precious memories.
On January 31 and February 1st, come to Maniwaki to watch a car race at the Rallye Perce-Neige. Fasten your seatbelts, the bar is set high for this 59th edition! Car enthusiasts will be able to watch dozens of teams battle it out for first place in the Canadian Rally Championship across eight events. Watch as the cars roll over snow-covered pavements and waltz through the trees.
Starting January 31, head to Ottawa and join in the Winterlude festivities. Observe the magnificent ice sculptures, admire works created by renowned artists, and sample sugar shack-inspired products at the kiosks on hand. Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and weather permitting, strap on your skates to skate on the world’s longest natural ice rink.
From January 31, rediscover the Snowflake Kingdom! Have fun with the whole family on huge snow slides! Take part in obstacle courses and children’s activities such as mazes and treasure hunts. Admire the illuminated snow sculptures along the way. Take part in a breakdance competition and learn about native winter traditions.
For even more suggestions, see the complete program on our Events page.
MORE DISCOVERIES AWAITING YOU IN OUTAOUAIS
Escape to the heart of nature with Pimishka Domaine Nature, a true oasis of peace located on the shores of the magnificent Grand Lac Rond. The Domaine offers a selection of unique accommodations, including 6 studios and 8 four-season cottages, providing all the comfort you need for an unforgettable stay.
Explore nearly 30 km of fat bike trails with the Montebello Mountain Bike. Observe majestic landscapes through century-old pine forests and enjoy panoramic views of the Ottawa River. Trails are accessible to all levels, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, and are meticulously groomed.
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Discover what the Outaouais has to offer by visiting our page Things to do.
Cover photo credit : @Red Equipment
