Winterlude is an annual winter festival held in Ottawa, Ontario and Gatineau, Quebec (collectively known as the National Capital Region).

The event is one of Ottawa's most important tourist draws, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

[2] The focal point of Winterlude is the Rideau Canal Skateway which at 7.8 kilometres (approximately 5 miles) is the largest skating rink in the world.

Their presence brings a touch of magic to Winterlude, delighting both young and old who appreciate the winter season.

[6][7] Winterlude spans three weekends, usually in February, and typically concludes on Family Day, which falls on a Monday.

This results in a less crowded skating rink and pristine ice conditions, with only around a thousand skaters sharing it compared to larger numbers on weekends.

Skate changing shacks and food catering kiosks along the skateway remain open during the weekdays.