Ottawa Daily News: December 26, 2025
Last Updated: December 26, 2025 at 8:00 AM ET
Ottawa wakes up to a frigid Boxing Day with temperatures plunging to -14°C as two major events collide: the kickoff of the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship and the annual Boxing Day shopping frenzy.
The capital city transitions from Christmas celebrations to hockey fever as Team Canada prepares to face Finland tonight at Canadian Tire Centre. Meanwhile, thousands of shoppers brave the cold to hunt for deals at malls across the city, with Tanger Outlets opening as early as 7 AM. Weather forecasters warn of incoming snow later this afternoon, adding an extra layer of challenge for both shoppers and hockey fans heading home.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Boxing Day brings the World Juniors opening games to Ottawa with Team Canada facing Finland at 7:30 PM. Malls are packed with sales, and snow is expected by late afternoon. Garbage pickup is delayed by one day due to the Christmas holiday.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Friday, December 26, 2025 |
| 🌡️ Weather | -14°C (feels like -22°C), snow expected PM |
| 🏒 Top Event | World Juniors - Canada vs Finland at 7:30 PM |
| 🛍️ Shopping | Major Boxing Day sales at all malls |
| 🚗 Traffic | Heavy congestion expected in Kanata and downtown |
World Junior Championship Begins in Ottawa
Image: The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship kicks off in Ottawa with games at Canadian Tire Centre and TD Place.
The most anticipated sporting event of the holiday season officially begins today as Ottawa co-hosts the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship. The tournament brings together the world’s best under-20 hockey talent to Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata and TD Place at Lansdowne Park.
Tonight’s Marquee Match: Canada vs Finland
Hockey fans have circled December 26 on their calendars for months. Team Canada takes the ice at 7:30 PM EST at Canadian Tire Centre for their tournament opener against Finland. A sold-out crowd is expected, and the atmosphere promises to be electric as young Canadian stars begin their quest for gold on home soil.
Traffic around Palladium Drive is expected to be heavy starting from 5:30 PM as fans make their way to the arena.
Full Tournament Schedule for December 26
| Time | Teams | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 12:00 PM | Slovakia vs Sweden | TD Place |
| 2:30 PM | USA vs Germany | Canadian Tire Centre |
| 5:00 PM | Czechia vs Switzerland | TD Place |
| 7:30 PM | Finland vs Canada | Canadian Tire Centre |
The tournament runs through January, with Ottawa hosting group-stage games before the action moves for the medal rounds. For complete details on venues, tickets, parking, and fan zones, check out our World Junior Championship 2025 Ottawa Guide.
Ottawa Senators Update
The Senators are on a holiday break and idle today. Their last game was a 3-2 overtime loss to the Buffalo Sabres on December 23. The World Juniors currently occupy Canadian Tire Centre, with the Sens resuming play after the tournament concludes.
Boxing Day Shopping Frenzy Hits Ottawa Malls
Image: Crowds descend on Ottawa shopping centres for Boxing Day deals.
Malls and big-box stores across the capital opened their doors early this morning for the annual Boxing Day sales extravaganza. Shoppers should expect significant lineups and parking shortages, particularly in Kanata and the downtown core.
Shopping Centre Hours for December 26
| Mall | Hours |
|---|---|
| Tanger Outlets | 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Rideau Centre | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Bayshore Shopping Centre | 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| St. Laurent Centre | 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Place d’Orléans | 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM |
Tanger Outlets in Kanata opened earliest at 7:00 AM, drawing deal-hunters before dawn. Expect delays on Highway 417 near the Palladium Drive exit due to the combined volume of shoppers and World Junior hockey fans.
LCBO and Grocery Store Hours
Select LCBO locations are open today from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, including branches at Rideau & King Edward, Bank & Walkley, and Strandherd & Greenbank. Most other locations remain closed.
Major grocery chains including Loblaws and Metro are open with modified hours, typically 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM—a welcome change from yesterday’s Christmas Day closures.
Breaking News: Christmas Day Collision in Barrhaven
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: Ottawa emergency services responded to a serious collision on Christmas morning.
Ottawa emergency services responded to a serious two-vehicle collision on Christmas morning at the intersection of Strandherd Drive and Greenbank Road in Barrhaven.
First responders arrived at the scene shortly after 7:00 AM on December 25. The incident required extensive use of extrication tools—commonly known as the “Jaws of Life”—to free a trapped occupant from one of the vehicles.
The extrication took approximately 10 minutes. Ottawa Paramedics assessed two patients at the scene; one was transported to the hospital with minor injuries, while the other declined treatment.
Roads were cleared later in the morning. Ottawa Police continue to remind drivers to exercise caution at intersections, especially with the fluctuating winter weather conditions creating potentially hazardous road surfaces.
Fire Services Update
Following a fire earlier this holiday week in the 1800 block of Frobisher Lane in Alta Vista, Ottawa Fire Services remained on high alert. Displaced residents from that incident are being supported by community services. No new major structural fires were reported overnight into December 26.
Weather Alert: Snow Expected This Afternoon
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: A frigid Boxing Day morning greets Ottawa residents with temperatures well below freezing.
Bundle up, Ottawa! A frigid start to Boxing Day has temperatures hovering around -14°C, with wind chill making it feel closer to -22°C.
Today’s Forecast
Daytime: A mix of sun and cloud, remaining very cold throughout the morning and early afternoon.
Evening Commute Alert: Snow is expected to begin late this afternoon or early evening, with approximately 40% chance escalating to steady snow. This timing unfortunately coincides with mall closings and the start of the Canada vs Finland hockey game—plan extra time for travel.
Overnight: Cloudy with snow continuing; low of -14°C.
Looking Ahead: Sunday Storm Watch
Meteorologists are tracking a potential major winter storm for Sunday, December 28. While this won’t affect today’s travel, residents planning to return from holiday trips on Sunday should monitor weather alerts closely and consider adjusting travel plans if necessary As of 8:00 AM ET.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Bundle up for -22°C wind chill if heading to Boxing Day sales or the World Juniors tonight. Snow begins late afternoon—plan to leave malls early to avoid icy evening roads. A major storm may hit Sunday, so monitor forecasts if you have weekend travel plans.
Traffic and Transit Updates
Image: OC Transpo operates on a Saturday schedule for Boxing Day.
Road Conditions
Highway 417 (Queensway): Traffic is moving freely this morning but is expected to slow significantly near Palladium Drive in Kanata this afternoon. The combined volume of Tanger Outlets shoppers and World Junior hockey fans will create congestion.
Downtown: Expect congestion around Rideau Street and King Edward Avenue due to mall traffic at Rideau Centre.
OC Transpo Service
Transit is operating on a Saturday Schedule today, December 26.
O-Train Line 1: Running normally.
Lines 2 and 4: Note that the Trillium Line (Line 2) and Airport Link (Line 4) are preparing for their full opening on January 6, 2025. Currently, bus replacement service B2 runs parallel to these lines.
Special Transit
What To Do Now (Transit)
OC Transpo runs Saturday schedule today—take advantage of the 2-for-1 DayPass for World Juniors trips. Traffic will be heavy near Kanata (Tanger + hockey) and downtown Rideau Centre. Plan your route before leaving and allow extra time.
The 2-for-1 DayPass is valid today! Two customers can ride all day for the price of one pass. This is a great option for families heading to the World Junior games—skip the parking hassle and take transit instead.
City Hall and Municipal Services
Image: City of Ottawa municipal services operate on holiday schedules.
Garbage Collection Delayed
There is no curbside waste collection today. Due to the Christmas holiday, garbage pickup is delayed by one day for the remainder of the week.
If your regular collection day was Thursday, pickup moves to Friday. Friday collection moves to Saturday.
City Services Closed
City Hall and all satellite client service centres are closed today, December 26. Normal operations resume on Monday.
Local Politics: MP Bruce Fanjoy Reflects on Historic Victory
Image: Carleton MP Bruce Fanjoy discussed his plans for serving the riding in a holiday profile.
In a holiday profile published yesterday, Carleton MP Bruce Fanjoy reflected on his upset victory over Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre in the 2025 federal election.
Fanjoy, now settled into his role as Member of Parliament, emphasized his focus on local constituency issues rather than national political drama. Key priorities include public service changes and affordability concerns affecting Carleton residents.
“I view the election as ‘Act One,’” Fanjoy told reporters. “Now I’m focused on ‘Act Two’: serving the riding rather than just being known as the ‘giant killer.’”
The MP plans to continue door-knocking throughout the winter months to maintain direct contact with constituents, an approach that helped him secure his surprising electoral victory.
Crime and Safety Updates
Image: Ottawa Police maintain increased patrols during the holiday shopping season.
Police Activity
The Ottawa Police Service has not reported any major criminal incidents overnight from December 25-26. Officers continue to maintain high visibility during the holiday period.
RIDE Program Active
Police continue their holiday RIDE checkpoints across the city. Officers are visible on major arterial roads monitoring for impaired driving. With Boxing Day celebrations and hockey games tonight, the RIDE program will be in full effect—plan a safe ride home.
Shopping Safety Reminder
With crowded mall parking lots, Ottawa Police have issued reminders for shoppers to “Park Smart”:
- Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles
- Lock all doors and close windows
- Park in well-lit areas
- Be aware of your surroundings
“Smash-and-grab” thefts are more common during the holiday shopping rush. Don’t leave gifts or shopping bags visible in parked vehicles. For more tips, read our guide on car break-in prevention in Ottawa.
Community and Charity News
Image: Ottawa’s generous community spirit shines during the holiday season.
Holiday Fundraising Success
Ottawa’s generous community spirit was on full display this holiday season. The Christmas Cheer Breakfast, held earlier this month, announced it successfully raised $130,000 for local charities, supporting over 11,000 households across the region.
The Ottawa Senators’ Ignite Hope Telethon also announced a final tally of over $168,000 raised for CHEO and community support programs. These funds will help children and families in need throughout the coming year.
What’s Happening Today
World Juniors Fan Zones: Festivities are expected around Lansdowne Park (TD Place) and in Kanata for visiting international hockey fans. Food vendors and entertainment will be available near both venues.
Museums Open: Most national museums—including the Canadian Museum of Nature, Canadian Museum of History, and Canadian War Museum—are open today, offering warm indoor alternatives to outdoor activities on this frigid day. Learn more about free museum hours in Ottawa and explore the historic Diefenbunker Cold War Museum.
Health and Education Updates
Image: Ottawa hospitals operate with increased patient volumes during the holiday viral season.
Hospital Emergency Rooms
Emergency rooms at The Ottawa Hospital (Civic and General campuses) and CHEO are operating but seeing high patient volumes typical of the viral season.
Residents with non-urgent ailments are encouraged to use walk-in clinics when possible, though many clinics have re
What To Do Now (Health)
ERs are seeing high patient volumes—use walk-in clinics for non-emergencies when possible. Check your freezer for recalled Pillsbury Pizza Pops (Pepperoni and Bacon varieties) and dispose of them. Get your flu shot while you’re out shopping today.
Food Recall Warning
A reminder for residents regarding Pillsbury Pizza Pops (Pepperoni and Bacon varieties), which were recalled earlier this week due to possible microbial contamination.
If you purchased these products, check your freezer and do not consume them. Return them to the place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of them safely.
FAQ
Q: What time does Team Canada play today in the World Juniors?
Team Canada faces Finland at 7:30 PM EST at Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata. This is the opening game for both teams in the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship. Expect a sold-out crowd and heavy traffic on Palladium Drive starting around 5:30 PM.
Q: Are Ottawa malls open on Boxing Day 2025?
Yes, all major Ottawa malls are open for Boxing Day sales. Tanger Outlets opened earliest at 7:00 AM, while Rideau Centre, Bayshore, and St. Laurent Centre opened between 8:00-9:00 AM. Most close at 9:00 PM, with Place d’Orléans closing at 8:00 PM.
Q: What is the weather forecast for Ottawa today?
Boxing Day starts very cold at -14°C with wind chill making it feel like -22°C. Snow is expected to begin late this afternoon or early evening. A major winter storm is possible on Sunday, December 28, so monitor forecasts if you’re travelling.
Q: Is OC Transpo running on Boxing Day?
Yes, OC Transpo is operating on a Saturday schedule today. The O-Train Line 1 is running normally. A special 2-for-1 DayPass offer is available—perfect for families attending the World Junior games.
Q: When is garbage pickup after Christmas in Ottawa?
Garbage collection is delayed by one day this week due to the Christmas holiday. If your regular pickup was Thursday, expect collection on Friday. Friday pickup moves to Saturday.
Q: Are LCBO stores open on Boxing Day?
Select LCBO locations are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, including stores at Rideau & King Edward, Bank & Walkley, and Strandherd & Greenbank. Most other locations remain closed.
Q: Where are the World Junior games being played in Ottawa?
The 2025 World Junior Championship games are split between two venues: Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata and TD Place at Lansdowne Park. Team Canada plays all their preliminary round games at Canadian Tire Centre.
Q: What happened with the collision in Barrhaven on Christmas?
A serious two-vehicle collision occurred at Strandherd Drive and Greenbank Road around 7:00 AM on December 25. One person was transported to hospital with minor injuries. Emergency crews used extrication tools to free a trapped occupant.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open for Boxing Day?
The Rideau Canal Skateway opening depends on ice conditions. As of this cold spell, the NCC continues to prepare the ice. Check the NCC website for the latest skating conditions and opening announcements.
Q: What are the Ottawa Senators doing during the World Juniors?
The Ottawa Senators are on a holiday break while Canadian Tire Centre hosts the World Junior Championship. They last played December 23 (a 3-2 OT loss to Buffalo) and will resume their schedule after the tournament.
Q: Are Ottawa museums open on Boxing Day?
Yes, most national museums are open on Boxing Day, including the Canadian Museum of Nature, Canadian Museum of History, and Canadian War Museum. These make excellent indoor destinations on this frigid day. Check our guide to free museum admission in Ottawa for more details.
Q: Is there a food recall affecting Ottawa residents?
Yes, Pillsbury Pizza Pops (Pepperoni and Bacon varieties) were recalled due to possible microbial contamination. Check your freezer and do not consume these products. Return them for a refund or dispose of them safely.
Final Summary
Boxing Day 2025 brings a unique combination of excitement and challenges to Ottawa. The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship kicks off with Team Canada facing Finland tonight at 7:30 PM—a sold-out affair that will test the patience of drivers in Kanata. Meanwhile, shoppers brave the bitter -14°C cold for Boxing Day deals at malls across the city.
Keep an eye on the weather as snow moves in this afternoon, potentially complicating evening commutes. And mark your calendar: meteorologists are watching a possible major storm for Sunday. Stay warm, shop smart, and cheer loud for Team Canada tonight!
Sources & References
- CBC Ottawa
- Ottawa Citizen
- CTV Ottawa
- Ottawa Sun
- City of Ottawa
- OC Transpo
- Environment Canada Weather
This daily news roundup is compiled from multiple Ottawa news sources. For breaking updates, follow local news outlets and ViaOttawa. Check out more Ottawa local news and discover what to do in Ottawa this winter.
