Ottawa Daily News: December 20, 2025
Last Updated: December 20, 2025 at 8:00 AM ET
Ottawa enters the final weekend before Christmas under a public health crisis as three children have died from influenza complications in December alone—a tragic and unusual cluster that has prompted urgent appeals from health authorities for residents to get vaccinated before holiday gatherings begin.
As the National Capital Region prepares for the holiday rush, residents face a sobering reality: the flu season has hit Ottawa harder and earlier than usual, with CHEO reporting a staggering 27-fold increase in positive flu tests compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators host the Chicago Blackhawks this afternoon at Canadian Tire Centre, city council has approved new traffic enforcement units, and snow showers are expected to make roads slippery as temperatures hover around -3°C. Here’s everything happening in Canada’s capital on this Saturday before Christmas.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: A critical flu epidemic is gripping Ottawa with three children dead in December. The Senators face the Blackhawks at 3 PM after a dominant 4-0 shutout win Thursday. Snow showers are expected this afternoon and evening with accumulation up to 2 cm. Holiday events continue at ByWard Market, Lansdowne Park, and Wesley Clover Parks. The O-Train Line 1 will have delayed service tomorrow (Sunday) starting at noon for Stage 2 integration work.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Saturday, December 20, 2025 |
| 🌡️ Weather | Morning -9°C → Afternoon -3°C, snow showers, wind gusts 31 km/h |
| 🚗 Traffic | Possible icy roads tonight; O-Train normal today, delayed 8 AM-noon Sunday |
| 🎉 Top Event | Christmas Lights Walking Tour (FINAL NIGHT) - 7 PM, Sparks & Metcalfe |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators vs. Blackhawks, 3 PM at Canadian Tire Centre |
Health Crisis: Three Children Dead as Flu Epidemic Hits Ottawa Hard
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: CHEO and Ottawa health officials urge flu vaccination as pediatric deaths spike.
Ottawa is facing its most severe flu season in recent memory, with three children between the ages of five and nine tragically dying from influenza complications in December 2025. Dr. Trevor Arn, Ottawa’s medical officer of health, confirmed the unusual cluster of pediatric deaths, emphasizing that while flu-related fatalities do occur across Canada each year, witnessing three deaths in a single month is highly concerning.
The numbers from the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) paint a stark picture of the outbreak’s severity. Between December 1 and 10, 2025, CHEO registered 300 positive flu test results—compared to just 11 cases during the identical period in 2024. This represents a staggering 27-fold increase in flu activity, prompting hospital officials to express serious concerns about the volume of flu-related emergency visits.
Ottawa Public Health has classified influenza activity in the city as “very high” and continues escalating. The health unit has issued urgent appeals for all residents to receive flu vaccinations immediately, with Dr. Arn stating: “We are still ahead of the holiday season, before people gather and visit one another, making this the most crucial time to get vaccinated.”
The crisis extends beyond Ottawa. Nationally, as of December 6, 2025, more than five children across 15 children’s hospitals in eight of Canada’s ten provinces have died from influenza, including cases in Ontario. Health officials have warned that this is just the beginning of the 2025-26 flu season, and the situation may intensify as families gather for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
CHEO officials have asked family physicians across the Ottawa region to intensify their efforts against influenza, including promoting vaccination and providing early treatment for high-risk patients. Pharmacies and public health clinics throughout Ottawa continue to offer flu shots, with most locations operating on extended holiday hours.
For residents planning holiday gatherings, health authorities recommend:
- Get vaccinated immediately if you haven’t already
- Stay home if you feel unwell
- Wash hands frequently and cover coughs and sneezes
- Consider wearing masks in crowded indoor settings
- Seek medical attention promptly if flu symptoms worsen
What To Do Now (Health)
Three children have died this month—get your family vaccinated before Christmas gatherings. Pharmacies and clinics are open with extended holiday hours. Keep sick family members home, and if symptoms worsen (difficulty breathing, persistent fever), seek medical care promptly.
Weather Outlook: Snow Showers and Gusty Winds for the Holiday Weekend
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: Snow showers expected in Ottawa Saturday afternoon through evening.
Saturday’s weather will present the first significant winter challenge of the holiday weekend as snow moves into the National Capital Region. According to Environment Canada, the morning began cold and clear with temperatures near -9°C and light winds around 10 km/h gusting to 26 km/h.
Conditions deteriorate significantly in the afternoon as snow showers are expected to begin, with temperatures rising slightly to around -3°C. Winds remain relatively light at 11 km/h with gusts reaching 22 km/h during the afternoon hours. Snow accumulation of about 0.4 centimeters is likely during daylight hours.
Evening conditions bring more challenging travel circumstances. Snowfall continues into the night with temperatures holding steady near -3°C, but winds will pick up considerably. Wind speeds increase to 14 km/h with gusts reaching 31 km/h, creating significant wind chill conditions. Snow accumulation may reach 1.8 centimeters by evening, and icy surfaces could develop as temperatures fall and gusty winds persist.
Sunday Forecast: Environment Canada predicts periods of light snow with a high of -2°C, and lows dropping to -15°C overnight with clearing conditions expected. The region should anticipate approximately 6 days of snow over the next two weeks, with a total snow accumulation of 12.2 centimeters expected for the remainder of December.
For those heading out to holiday events or last-minute shopping, the City of Ottawa recommends:
- Allow extra travel time
- Clear snow from vehicles before driving
- Check road conditions before departing
- Have winter emergency supplies in vehicles
What To Do Now (Weather)
Snow showers start this afternoon with 1-2 cm expected—clear your car and allow extra travel time for last-minute shopping. Roads may be icy tonight with gusts up to 31 km/h. Sunday brings a sharp drop to -15°C overnight, so prepare for a cold Christmas Eve week.
Ottawa Senators Host Chicago Blackhawks in Saturday Matinee
Image: The Ottawa Senators take on the Chicago Blackhawks at Canadian Tire Centre.
The Ottawa Senators return to the ice Saturday afternoon with a 3 PM puck drop against the Chicago Blackhawks at Canadian Tire Centre. Ottawa enters the matchup riding high after a dominant 4-0 shutout victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday, December 18—their second home game in three days.
Thursday’s Victory Recap: Captain Brady Tkachuk led the way with two goals, while veterans David Perron and Claude Giroux added single markers. Goaltender Linus Ullmark was the star between the pipes, recording his first shutout of the season by stopping all 24 shots he faced. The convincing win demonstrated the kind of complete team effort that has characterized Ottawa’s best performances this season.
Current Standings: The Senators sit at 16-13-4 with 36 points in the Atlantic Division. Tim Stutzle continues to lead the team offensively with 15 goals and 34 points, providing dynamic firepower alongside Drake Batherson and Tkachuk. The power play remains a strength, ranked fifth in the NHL with a 25.7% conversion rate (27 goals on 105 chances).
About the Opponent: The visiting Chicago Blackhawks arrive in Ottawa with a 13-15-6 record and 32 points after winning just once in their last four games. Phenom Connor Bedard, who scored a hat trick in Chicago’s 7-3 victory over the Senators back on October 28, leads the Blackhawks’ offence. This represents the second and final meeting between the teams in the 2025-26 regular season—Ottawa will look for revenge after that early-season defeat.
Ottawa 67’s: In OHL action, the Ottawa 67’s face Brantford this afternoon at TD Place Arena with a 3 PM start time. The 67’s are coming off a 2-1 home victory over the Windsor Spitfires last Sunday.
City Council: New Traffic Enforcement Units Now Patrolling Ottawa Streets
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: Ottawa Police have launched new district-based traffic enforcement units.
Ottawa Police launched new “district-related traffic units” on December 15, 2025, marking a significant response to community concerns about speeding and street racing throughout the city. Chief Eric Stubbs announced the initiative following months of planning and budget discussions.
Each of Ottawa’s four districts—East, West, South, and Central—now has dedicated traffic enforcement teams consisting initially of one sergeant and four constables per district. Plans call for expanding each unit to seven constables as staffing allows.
The new units respond to longstanding safety concerns from residents who have witnessed dangerous driving behavior increase on major thoroughfares. Councillor Riley Brockington of River Ward highlighted the problem, noting that speeds on Bronson Avenue near Carleton University have increased by approximately 20 kilometres per hour since automated speed cameras were deactivated by the provincial government. Drivers now regularly exceed the 60 km/h limit, travelling at 80 km/h or higher.
Chief Stubbs acknowledged during council deliberations that while these new units address real safety concerns, they cannot fully compensate for the loss of automated speed enforcement. The police budget for 2026, which passed city council 21-4 on December 10, includes a 5% increase to support initiatives like these traffic units.
Budget Recap: The 2026 municipal budget includes a 3.75% property tax increase, adding approximately $166 to the average homeowner’s annual tax bill. The transit levy will increase by 8%, while police services receive the 5% boost Chief Stubbs spent over three hours defending to councillors.
Holiday Events: Last Weekend Before Christmas in Ottawa
Image: Holiday markets and Christmas events continue throughout Ottawa this weekend.
Christmas Lights Walking Tour - FINAL NIGHT
Tonight marks the last opportunity of the season to experience the Christmas Lights Walking Tour, one of Ottawa’s most beloved seasonal attractions. The tour departs at 7 PM from the corner of Sparks Street and Metcalfe Street, exploring illuminated downtown landmarks including the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, and the National War Memorial. The tour operates on a “pay what you want” basis, though tickets must be purchased in advance online.
ByWard Market Winter Festival
The ByWard Market continues its inaugural ByWard Winter Market festival, featuring illuminated displays and a magical holiday atmosphere. The festival’s centrepiece is a 48-foot holiday tree—the tallest in Ottawa—surrounded by vendor stalls, local artisans, and festive treats. The outdoor Christmas market by Minerva operates on William Street between George and York Streets from 4 to 8 PM on select dates.
Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne
The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park continues through December 31 at Aberdeen Plaza, surrounded by snow-capped heritage buildings and wooden chalets. Thousands of twinkling lights create a festive atmosphere with holiday entertainment, local cuisine, and unique shopping opportunities.
Magic of Lights at Wesley Clover Parks
The Magic of Lights drive-through holiday display operates nightly from 5 PM to 11 PM at Wesley Clover Parks (401 Corkstown Road). The spectacular show features over 2 million LED lights across a 2-kilometre route, including Ontario’s longest light tunnel and a winter village pit stop. Tickets begin at $31.58 per car, and the display continues through January 3. Weekend train rides are available aboard the Aquatarium Holiday Express.
Winter Lights Across Canada
Winter Lights Across Canada illuminates downtown Ottawa with approximately 300,000 lights highlighting various sites and monuments. The “Pathway of Lights” allows families to explore by vehicle or on foot, with special illumination at the National War Memorial, Confederation Park, and the Peacekeeping Monument.
Comedy at Meow That’s Hot
For adults seeking holiday entertainment, “Meow That’s Christmas” comedy show presents five local Ottawa comedians at Meow That’s Hot (519 Bank Street) tonight starting at 8 PM. The 2.5-hour show, hosted by Andrew Lapointe, promises laughs from Ottawa’s vibrant comedy community.
Transit Updates: O-Train Delayed Start Sunday for Stage 2 Work
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: O-Train Line 1 will have delayed service Sunday morning for Stage 2 integration work.
A significant transit disruption is scheduled for Sunday, December 21, 2025. The O-Train Line 1 will commence daily service four hours later than normal, starting at noon instead of the usual 8 AM Sunday opening time. The delay facilitates necessary software upgrades associated with Stage 2 integration work.
Sunday Service Plan:
- R1 bus service will operate between Tunney’s Pasture and Blair stations from 8 AM until noon
- Shuttle buses will be available between St-Laurent and Cyrville stations
- Normal O-Train service resumes at 12:00 PM
The delay reflects ongoing integration challenges as OC Transpo works toward the Stage 2 O-Train east extension. This expansion will extend Line 1 service from Blair Station into Orléans, introducing five new stations and significantly expanding capacity. The pre-trial running phase is expected to require between five to ten days, followed by a mandatory trial period of at least 21 days before the line can officially open to the public.
East Extension Timeline: Current projections suggest opening within the first quarter of 2026 is now considered “achievable,” though this represents significant delays from original timelines that targeted 2022, then 2024, and then 2025.
Holiday Transit Schedules: OC Transpo is implementing special holiday service from December 20 through January 1:
- Shopper routes operate on regular schedules throughout the holiday period
- Para Transpo holiday service available with bookings up to seven days in advance via 613-560-5000 or on _As of 8:00 AM ET_line
Crime Update: Police Seek Third Suspect in West End Theft Ring
Image: Ottawa Police continue investigating organized theft operations in the city.
Ottawa Police continue investigating a string of high-value merchandise thefts in the city’s west end. On December 19, 2025, police identified a second suspect in connection with multiple theft incidents, leaving one suspect still outstanding.
Suspect Description: The third suspect is described as a woman between 35 and 40 years of age, standing approximately 5 feet 8 inches to 6 feet tall, weighing about 170 pounds. During the incidents, she was wearing a light grey hijab, a long grey winter coat, and carrying a black purse.
Incident Details: The three suspects entered businesses on November 23 at:
- The 1700 block of Carling Avenue
- The 300 block of Richmond Road
- The 600 block of Eagleson Road
In each case, they concealed merchandise in their clothing before fleeing the area. Police had previously announced the identification of the first suspect on December 16.
Anyone with information about the outstanding suspect is encouraged to contact the Ottawa Police Service at 613-236-1222 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.
Research & Healthcare Innovation: Ottawa Hospital Ranks Among Canada’s Top Research Institutions
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: The Ottawa Hospital continues leading medical research in Canada.
The 2025 Research Infosource rankings highlighted Ottawa’s robust healthcare research sector. The Ottawa Hospital (TOH) and University of Ottawa Heart Institute (UOHI) ranked as the top research hospital in Ottawa and among the top 10 in Canada, with $168 million in combined research activity in 2023-24—up from $165 million the previous year.
Dr. Rebecca Auer, executive vice-president of research and innovation at TOH, expressed optimism about the growth: “We’re very pleased that our research activity has continued to grow over the last several years, resulting in more treatment options for our patients, more innovation in our economy and more scientific advances.”
The research spending supports breakthrough work in cancer treatment, cardiac care, and innovative medical technologies. Ottawa’s healthcare research ecosystem benefits from close collaboration between the hospital, the University of Ottawa, and numerous private sector partners.
In academic news, the University of Ottawa and Carleton University will co-host the 2026 Canadian Association of Physicists Congress from June 22-26. The congress will feature a special session on “Physics, Policy, and Peace: The Physicists’ Role in Nuclear Threat Reduction,” along with multiple parallel symposia and the popular Best Student Presentation Competition.
Environment: Council Votes to Protect Greenspace from Development
Image: Ottawa city councillors voted to continue protecting greenspace threatened by development.
Ottawa city councillors voted on December 18 to continue protecting two stretches of greenspace that the National Capital Commission (NCC) is considering for residential development. The decision came after several hours of passionate appeals from local residents, environmental advocates, and poetry enthusiasts who opposed amendments that might disrupt the Poets’ Pathway, a significant walking route through central Ottawa.
However, municipal officials cautioned that the city has limited capacity to impede federal initiatives. If the NCC, a federal Crown corporation, proceeds with development plans, the city may have little recourse to prevent it.
The greenspace debate highlights ongoing tensions between housing needs and environmental preservation in Canada’s capital. With Ottawa’s population continuing to grow and housing affordability remaining a concern, the NCC has been exploring options to develop federally-owned lands for residential purposes.
Community groups have pledged to continue advocating for greenspace protection, arguing that once natural areas are developed, they cannot be recovered. The Poets’ Pathway, in particular, holds cultural significance as it commemorates Canadian literary figures through a series of plaques and monuments along the walking route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How serious is the flu outbreak in Ottawa?
The flu outbreak is extremely serious. Three children between ages five and nine have died from influenza complications in December 2025 alone. CHEO reported 300 positive flu tests between December 1-10, compared to just 11 cases during the same period last year—a 27-fold increase. Ottawa Public Health has classified flu activity as “very high” and urges all residents to get vaccinated immediately before holiday gatherings.
What time do the Ottawa Senators play today?
The Ottawa Senators face the Chicago Blackhawks at 3 PM ET on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Canadian Tire Centre. The Senators are coming off a 4-0 shutout win over Pittsburgh on Thursday, with Brady Tkachuk scoring twice and Linus Ullmark recording his first shutout of the season.
What’s the weather forecast for Ottawa this weekend?
Saturday will see snow showers beginning in the afternoon with temperatures around -3°C and wind gusts up to 31 km/h. Total snow accumulation of 1-2 cm is expected. Sunday will have light snow periods with a high of -2°C, dropping to -15°C overnight. Roads may be icy and slippery, so drivers should exercise caution.
Is the O-Train running normally this weekend?
The O-Train runs normally on Saturday, but on Sunday, December 21, Line 1 service will be delayed until noon for Stage 2 integration software upgrades. From 8 AM to noon, R1 buses will operate between Tunney’s Pasture and Blair stations, with shuttles between St-Laurent and Cyrville.
What Christmas events are happening in Ottawa this weekend?
Major events include the Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne (through December 31), the ByWard Market Winter Festival with its 48-foot holiday tree, the Magic of Lights at Wesley Clover Parks (5-11 PM nightly), and the Christmas Lights Walking Tour which has its FINAL NIGHT tonight at 7 PM from Sparks and Metcalfe Streets.
What did Ottawa city council decide about the 2026 budget?
Council approved the 2026 budget 21-4 on December 10, with a 3.75% property tax increase (about $166 more for average homeowners). The budget includes a 5% police budget increase and 8% transit levy increase. New traffic enforcement units have already launched in all four city districts.
Where can I get a flu shot in Ottawa?
Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies, walk-in clinics, and public health clinics throughout Ottawa. Many locations are operating on extended holiday hours. The flu shot is free for Ontario residents through the provincial vaccination program. Given the current outbreak severity, health officials urge everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
What’s happening with the LRT east extension to Orléans?
The O-Train Line 1 east extension to Orléans is progressing toward an early 2026 opening, now considered “achievable” by OC Transpo. The extension will add five new stations from Blair Station into Orléans. Software integration work, like Sunday’s service delay, is part of final preparations. The pre-trial running phase will require 5-10 days, followed by 21 days of mandatory trial operations.
How can I help if I have information about the west end thefts?
Ottawa Police are seeking a third suspect in connection with November 23 thefts at businesses on Carling Avenue, Richmond Road, and Eagleson Road. Contact Ottawa Police Service at 613-236-1222 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 if you have information.
What holiday events are free in Ottawa this weekend?
Free activities include walking the Winter Lights Across Canada illumination displays downtown, browsing the ByWard Market Winter Festival (free to walk around), and outdoor skating at the Rink of Dreams outside City Hall. The Christmas Lights Walking Tour operates on a “pay what you want” basis.
Final Summary
Ottawa enters the final weekend before Christmas facing a serious public health challenge as the flu epidemic continues claiming young lives, with three children having died in December alone. While the city prepares for holiday celebrations—from Christmas markets to the Senators game this afternoon—health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated before family gatherings begin.
The weather will cooperate modestly, with snow showers bringing 1-2 cm of accumulation but nothing that should prevent holiday activities. Transit riders should note Sunday’s delayed O-Train start for Stage 2 integration work, with R1 buses filling the gap from 8 AM to noon.
As you head out for last-minute shopping or holiday events, stay warm, drive carefully on potentially icy roads, and consider getting your flu shot if you haven’t already. Tomorrow’s forecast brings colder temperatures and light snow, so dress accordingly.
Sources & References
- Environment Canada Weather Forecasts
- Ottawa Public Health
- CHEO - Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario
- City of Ottawa
- Ottawa Police Service
- OC Transpo
- Ottawa Senators
- CTV News Ottawa
- CBC News Ottawa
- Ottawa Citizen
This daily news roundup is compiled from multiple Ottawa news sources. For breaking updates, follow local news outlets and ViaOttawa. For more on what’s happening in the capital, check out our guides to Ottawa events, winter activities, and hidden gem restaurants.
