Ottawa Daily News: December 31, 2025
Last Updated: December 31, 2025 at 1:45 PM ET
Ottawa residents face a critical health warning this New Year’s Eve as a severe flu season claims three young lives in the region. With influenza activity rated “VERY HIGH” and accelerating, health officials urge immediate vaccination. Meanwhile, the city prepares for frigid celebrations with free OC Transpo service after 6 PM and an urgent food recall affecting popular frozen snacks.
As Ottawa rings in 2026, residents need to balance celebration plans with serious health precautions. The combination of extreme cold (wind chill -22°C), a dangerous flu outbreak, and holiday service closures means preparation is essential. This guide rounds up what Ottawa residents need to know today—from staying safe and healthy to enjoying free transit and New Year’s festivities across the capital.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Three children have died from flu in the Ottawa region this month—get vaccinated immediately if you haven’t. Free OC Transpo starts at 6 PM tonight. Check your freezer for recalled Pillsbury Pizza Pops (E. coli contamination). Dress for -22°C wind chill. Most city services close early today.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Tuesday, December 31, 2025 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -10°C, wind chill -22°C, 40% flurries |
| 🚗 Traffic | Free OC Transpo after 6 PM |
| 🎉 Top Event | NYE celebrations at Lansdowne, Aberdeen Market |
| ⚠️ Alert | Severe flu season - 3 pediatric deaths |
Critical Health Alert: Severe Flu Season Claims Young Lives
As of 1:00 PM ET, December 31
Image: Health officials urge Ottawa residents to get vaccinated immediately as flu season intensifies
Three children aged 5–9 have died from flu-related complications in the Ottawa and Eastern Ontario region during the first two weeks of December alone. For more details on this developing health crisis, see our earlier coverage on flu deaths among Ottawa children.
This marks the most dangerous flu season in recent memory for the capital region. CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario) recorded over 300 positive flu tests in just the first 10 days of December—compared to only 11 during the same period last year. The dominant strain is H3N2, accounting for 99.4% of confirmed cases nationally.
Influenza activity in Ottawa is now rated as “VERY HIGH” and accelerating rapidly. According to Ontario Health, province-wide influenza test positivity reached 32.4% in week 51 (ending December 20), up from 28% the previous week. The statistics for children are particularly alarming: children aged 5–11 show positivity rates of 73.3%, while adolescents aged 12–19 exceed 67%.
The influenza vaccine remains highly effective at preventing severe outcomes—vaccination reduces hospitalization risk by up to 75% in children. However, the vaccine takes approximately two weeks to develop full immunity, making immediate action critical.
Symptoms to watch for include fever, cough, body aches, and sore throat. Vulnerable populations—seniors, children under 5, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions—should seek medical attention promptly if symptoms develop.
What To Do Now (Health)
Get vaccinated today if you haven’t already—pharmacies and clinics are open. If family members show respiratory symptoms, cancel or reschedule holiday gatherings to reduce transmission. Seek immediate medical care if young children develop high fever, difficulty breathing, or symptoms that worsen after initially improving.
Food Safety Recall: Pillsbury Pizza Pops Contaminated with E. coli
As of 12:00 PM ET, December 31
Image: Check your freezer immediately for recalled Pillsbury Pizza Pops products
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued an urgent recall for four varieties of Pillsbury brand Pizza Pops due to E. coli O26 contamination.
As of December 22, 23 illnesses and 5 hospitalizations across Canada have been linked to this outbreak. Ages of those affected range from 1 to 87 years old, demonstrating the widespread risk.
Recalled products (do not consume):
- Pizza Pops Pepperoni + Bacon (760g, 2.85kg packages; best-before June 9–10, 2026)
- Pizza Pops Supremo Extreme Pepperoni + Bacon (3kg boxes; best-before June 10–12, 2026)
- Pizza Pops FRANK’s RedHot Pepperoni + Bacon (380g, 4-pack; best-before June 14, 2026)
E. coli contamination may not cause visible spoilage, making these products particularly dangerous. Symptoms of E. coli infection include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
What To Do Now (Food Safety)
Check your freezer immediately for any recalled Pizza Pops products—do not consume them under any circumstances. Discard recalled products or return them to your retailer for a full refund. Clean and sanitize all surfaces, utensils, and hands that may have contacted recalled products. If you’ve already consumed a recalled product and develop symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
Free Transit Tonight: OC Transpo New Year’s Eve Service
As of 11:00 AM ET, December 31
Image: OC Transpo offers free rides starting at 6 PM on New Year’s Eve
OC Transpo, funded by Safer Roads Ottawa and MADD Ottawa and Area, is providing free transit beginning at 6 PM tonight through the early morning hours of January 1.
This is your safest and most convenient option for reaching New Year’s Eve celebrations and returning home. All fare gates will be open at O-Train stations—simply board buses without tapping your Presto card.
Transit service schedule for December 31:
- O-Train Line 1 (Confederation Line): Operates 5 AM to 2 AM
- O-Train Line 2 (Trillium Line): Extended schedule 6 PM to 1 AM
- O-Train Line 4 (Airport): Regular weekday timetable
- Buses: Reduced weekday schedule; routes 22 and 23 offer free service 8 PM–2 AM
- Para Transpo: Operates until 3 AM (book trips in advance at 613-244-7272)
- Night Bus Service: Runs downtown after 2 AM when Line 1 closes
Use the OC Transpo Travel Planner app or visit octranspo.com to plan your route. Note that O-Train Line 4 experienced ice buildup issues on December 29—winter-related disruptions remain possible during extreme cold.
Fare increase reminder: Starting January 1, 2026, adult single-fare rides increase from $4.00 to $4.10. Children under 10 continue to ride free.
What To Do Now (Transit)
Plan your New Year’s Eve route now using the OC Transpo app—free service starts at 6 PM. Arrive at stations early as crowds will be heavy. For celebrations downtown, take Line 1 to Rideau or Parliament stations. Consider Para Transpo if you need accessible service (book by calling 613-244-7272).
Weather Alert: Bitter Cold for New Year’s Celebrations
As of 1:30 PM ET, December 31
Image: Extreme wind chill of -22°C expected for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Ottawa
According to Environment Canada, tonight will be bitterly cold with temperatures that demand serious preparation for outdoor celebrations.
Today’s forecast:
- High: -10°C
- Wind chill: -22°C (morning)
- Wind: Gusts up to 40–50 km/h, diminishing through afternoon
- Precipitation: 40% chance of light flurries
Tomorrow (January 1) continues cold with a high of -8°C and partly cloudy skies.
For those attending outdoor New Year’s Eve events at Lansdowne, Aberdeen Market, or other venues, proper winter clothing is essential. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin within 10–30 minutes in these conditions.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Dress in multiple insulated layers with a windproof outer shell—the wind chill of -22°C is the real danger. Wear a hat, scarf covering your face, insulated gloves, and warm waterproof boots. Limit time outdoors during morning hours when wind is strongest. Bring hand warmers for outdoor countdown celebrations. If driving, ensure your vehicle has an emergency kit and full tank of gas.
City Services: Holiday Hours for December 31
As of 10:00 AM ET, December 31
Image: Most City of Ottawa services close early on New Year’s Eve
Most City of Ottawa services operate on reduced schedules today. Complete any essential business before early afternoon closures.
Today (December 31):
- Ottawa Public Library: All branches close at 3 PM
- ServiceOttawa Client Services: Closes early afternoon (varies by location)
- OC Transpo Information Centre: Closed for in-person service
- City recreational facilities: Most close at 3 PM or 4 PM
Closed entirely on January 1:
- All Ottawa Public Library branches
- ServiceOttawa Client Services centres
- City Hall administrative offices
Regular hours resume Monday, January 5, 2026.
For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency city services, call 311 (available 24/7). Snow clearing and emergency road services continue throughout the holiday.
What To Do Now (Services)
Complete any library visits, permit applications, or ServiceOttawa business before 3 PM today. Return library materials to any branch drop box (available 24/7). For urgent city service needs on January 1, call 311. Download any needed e-books or digital library resources before branches close.
New Year’s Eve Events: Where to Celebrate in Ottawa
As of 12:30 PM ET, December 31
Image: Ottawa offers diverse New Year’s Eve celebrations for all ages
Ottawa offers diverse celebrations for families, couples, and party-goers alike. Here are the top events happening tonight:
Family-friendly celebrations:
- Ottawa Christmas Market (Aberdeen Plaza, 1015 Bank Street): Open 2 PM to midnight featuring vendors, food, entertainment, and fireworks at midnight. Free admission. See our complete guide to the Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne.
- Wesley Clover Parks: Winter festivities and family-friendly countdown activities
- Lansdowne Park: Outdoor celebrations with food vendors and midnight countdown. Learn more about events at Lansdowne.
Adult entertainment options:
- ByWard Market: Multiple bars, clubs, and restaurants hosting New Year’s parties
- Shenkman Arts Centre: Comedy shows and live entertainment
- Ottawa Conference and Event Centre: Formal dinner-and-dance celebrations
- Downtown lounges and nightclubs: Various ticketed events with live DJs and champagne toasts
Tips for celebrating safely:
- Use free OC Transpo service after 6 PM instead of driving
- Arrive early to popular venues—capacity limits may apply
- Dress warmly in layers for outdoor events (wind chill -22°C)
- Keep your phone charged for transit apps and ride-sharing if needed
- Designate a meeting spot if attending with a group
Housing & Rental Market: January 2026 Opportunities
As of 11:30 AM ET, December 31
Image: Ottawa’s rental market slow season creates opportunities for renters
Ottawa’s rental market is in its slow season, creating favorable conditions for anyone looking to move in January 2026.
Current market conditions (November 2025):
- Average rent: $2,188/month
- 1-bedroom average: $1,951/month (down 3.2% year-over-year)
- 2-bedroom average: $2,478/month (down 0.9% year-over-year)
Automatic rent reduction January 1, 2026: Tenants in multi-unit residential buildings (7+ units) built before 2001 will receive an automatic rent reduction of 0.89% due to municipal tax assessment adjustments. For a $2,000/month rent, this means a decrease of approximately $16/month ($192 annually).
Landlord incentives for January move-ins: Many landlords are offering significant incentives to fill vacancies during the slow winter months:
- 50% off first month’s rent
- One full month of free rent
- Rent-controlled units with fixed rates over multi-year leases
The December–January period is historically the best time to negotiate favorable lease terms in Ottawa.
Schools & Families: Winter Break Continues
As of 10:30 AM ET, December 31
Image: Ottawa students remain on winter break until January 5, 2026
Winter break continues through January 2, 2026. All Ottawa schools—both Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and Ottawa Catholic School Board—resume classes on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Key dates:
- Today (December 31): No school
- January 1–2: No school (statutory holiday + additional day)
- January 3–4: Weekend
- January 5: First day back for all students
For families looking for activities during the remaining break days, consider indoor options given the extreme cold:
- Ottawa Public Library branches (open until 3 PM today)
- Canadian Museum of Nature
- Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Indoor play centres and recreational facilities
Check facility hours before visiting—many operate on holiday schedules.
Community Resources: Food Banks & Support Services
As of 11:00 AM ET, December 31
Image: Most Ottawa food banks operate on reduced holiday hours
Most food banks and meal programs are closed on statutory holidays. Here’s what you need to know:
Today (December 31):
- Centretown Community Food Centre: Closed
- Dalhousie Food Cupboard: Closed
- Centre 507: Open 9 AM–7:45 PM (meals served at 9–10 AM, 12–1:30 PM, 5–6:30 PM)
- Shepherds of Good Hope: Call ahead for meal service hours
January 1 (New Year’s Day):
- Most food banks and meal programs closed
- Limited emergency services available
For immediate food assistance or to find an open location, call 211 (available 24/7) or visit Ottawa Food Bank for updated holiday hours. If you need to exchange items safely during the holidays, check out our guide to safe trade locations in Ottawa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is influenza really that serious in Ottawa right now?
Yes, the situation is critical. Three children aged 5–9 have died from flu complications in the Ottawa region in December alone. CHEO recorded over 300 positive flu tests in the first 10 days of December—compared to just 11 in the same period last year. Health officials rate activity as “VERY HIGH” and strongly recommend immediate vaccination.
Q: What time does free OC Transpo start on New Year’s Eve?
Free transit begins at 6 PM on December 31 and continues through the early morning hours of January 1. All fare gates at O-Train stations will be open, and you can board buses without tapping your Presto card. This service is sponsored by Safer Roads Ottawa and MADD Ottawa.
Q: What Pillsbury products are being recalled?
Four varieties of Pillsbury Pizza Pops are recalled due to E. coli O26 contamination: Pepperoni + Bacon (760g, 2.85kg), Supremo Extreme Pepperoni + Bacon (3kg), and FRANK’s RedHot Pepperoni + Bacon (380g, 4-pack). Check best-before dates of June 9–14, 2026. Do not consume—discard or return for refund.
Q: How cold will it be for New Year’s Eve celebrations?
According to Environment Canada, the high temperature is -10°C but wind chill will make it feel like -22°C, especially in the morning when gusts reach 40–50 km/h. Dress in insulated layers with wind protection. Frostbite can occur within 10–30 minutes on exposed skin.
Q: Are Ottawa libraries open on New Year’s Eve?
Yes, but with reduced hours. All Ottawa Public Library branches close at 3 PM on December 31. Libraries are closed entirely on January 1. Regular hours resume January 2, though some branches may have modified schedules.
Q: When do Ottawa schools reopen after winter break?
All Ottawa schools (OCDSB and OCSB) resume classes on Monday, January 5, 2026. Winter break continues through January 2.
Q: Where can I get a flu shot in Ottawa today?
Most pharmacies offer walk-in flu vaccinations including Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, and Costco Pharmacy. Call ahead to confirm availability. Many locations have extended holiday hours. The vaccine is free for Ontario residents with a valid health card.
Q: Is OC Transpo fare going up in 2026?
Yes, starting January 1, 2026, adult single-fare rides increase from $4.00 to $4.10. Children under 10 continue to ride free on buses and O-Train. Monthly passes and other fare products also see modest increases.
Q: What are the best New Year’s Eve events in Ottawa?
Top options include the Ottawa Christmas Market at Aberdeen Plaza (free, open until midnight with fireworks), Lansdowne Park outdoor celebrations, Wesley Clover Parks winter festivities, and numerous restaurant/bar events in the ByWard Market and downtown core.
Q: Are Ottawa food banks open on New Year’s Eve?
Most are closed. Centre 507 remains open (9 AM–7:45 PM). For emergency food assistance, call 211 (available 24/7) or check the Ottawa Food Bank website for updated holiday hours.
Q: Is rent going down in Ottawa?
Slightly. One-bedroom apartments average $1,951/month (down 3.2% year-over-year) and two-bedrooms average $2,478/month (down 0.9%). Additionally, tenants in older multi-unit buildings receive an automatic 0.89% rent reduction on January 1, 2026 due to tax assessment changes.
Q: What should I do if I have flu symptoms?
Stay home to avoid spreading illness. Contact your healthcare provider, especially if you’re in a vulnerable group (under 5, over 65, pregnant, or have chronic conditions). Seek immediate care for severe symptoms: difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or symptoms that improve then worsen.
Final Summary
December 31, 2025 requires Ottawa residents to balance celebration with caution. The severe flu season—with three pediatric deaths already this month—demands immediate attention: get vaccinated if you haven’t, and avoid gatherings if symptomatic. Check your freezer for recalled Pillsbury Pizza Pops and discard any affected products immediately.
For New Year’s Eve celebrations, take advantage of free OC Transpo service starting at 6 PM. Dress warmly for the -22°C wind chill if attending outdoor events at Lansdowne, Aberdeen Market, or elsewhere. Complete any city service needs before 3 PM as most facilities close early.
Looking ahead to 2026: Schools resume January 5. OC Transpo fares increase slightly on January 1. The rental market remains favorable for those seeking new housing. Stay vigilant about respiratory illness through the winter months. Check out our guide to Ottawa January events 2026 for upcoming activities, and start planning for Winterlude 2026 in February.
Happy New Year, Ottawa—stay safe, stay warm, and take care of each other.
Sources & References
- Environment Canada - Weather forecasts and warnings
- OC Transpo - Transit schedules and free NYE service
- CHEO - Children’s health updates
- Ottawa Public Health - Flu and respiratory illness information
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency - Food recalls
- City of Ottawa - City services and hours
- Ottawa Public Library - Branch hours
- Ottawa Food Bank - Community resources
- Ontario Health - Provincial health statistics
This daily news roundup is compiled from official Ottawa sources and verified reporting. For breaking updates, follow local news outlets and ViaOttawa.
