Ottawa Daily News: Saturday, January 4, 2026
Last Updated: January 4, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET
Major changes are reshaping life in the capital this weekend. Federal tax cuts worth up to $420 per person took effect January 1, while city property taxes climbed 3.75% and transit fares rose 2.5%. On Monday, O-Train Lines 2 and 4 finally launch after years of delays, connecting Riverside South to the airport and downtown. Today marks the final day for beloved holiday exhibits at museums across Ottawa—and with wind chills plunging to -27°C, it’s the perfect excuse to stay indoors and catch them before they close.
This Ottawa news roundup covers everything residents need to know heading into the first full weekend of 2026. From new immigration policies affecting Express Entry draws to scam alerts targeting locals, from live music tonight at Rainbow Bistro and House of TARG to free skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway, here’s your complete guide to what’s happening in Canada’s capital.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Federal tax changes save workers up to $420 this year while Ottawa property taxes rise 3.75%. O-Train Lines 2 and 4 officially launch Monday, January 6. Today is the final day for Winter Wonders exhibits at Science and Tech, Aviation, and Nature museums. Expect brutal cold with wind chills to -27°C this morning. The Senators beat Winnipeg 4-2 last night and host Detroit on Monday.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Saturday, January 4, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -14°C, wind chill -27°C morning, clear |
| 🚗 Transit | Normal service; Lines 2 & 4 launch Monday |
| 🎉 Top Event | Final day: Winter Wonders museum exhibits |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators vs. Detroit Red Wings, Monday 7:30 PM |
Breaking News and Important Updates
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Parliament Hill and the Peace Tower in winter, where federal policy changes affecting Ottawa residents originated. Learn more about the history of Parliament Hill.
Federal Tax Cuts and Benefits Now in Effect
The new year brought tangible savings for Ottawa workers. Canada’s lowest federal income tax bracket dropped to 14% on January 1, 2026, reducing taxes for most employees. According to Government of Canada calculations, individuals can save up to $420 annually, while couples filing jointly may save up to $840. Income tax brackets also received a 2% inflation adjustment, meaning more of your income is taxed at lower rates.
The TFSA contribution limit remains at $7,000 for 2026, while CPP and EI premiums increased slightly due to higher maximum insurable earnings. Climate Action Incentive payments—the carbon rebate—update on January 5, with eligible Ontario families receiving up to approximately $1,180 per year, paid quarterly. For complete details on payment dates and eligibility, see our Carbon Rebate Ontario guide.
City of Ottawa Budget: Property Tax Increase
Ottawa City Council approved a 3.75% property tax increase for 2026. For a home assessed at around $415,000 (the city average), expect to pay roughly $160–$170 more on your annual property tax bill. Recreation program fees, water/sewer rates, and garbage collection charges also rose with the new year.
Ontario Fire Code: New Carbon Monoxide Rules
New Ontario Fire Code rules effective January 1, 2026 expand mandatory carbon monoxide alarm requirements. Homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages must now have CO alarms installed near every sleeping area and on every storey—including levels without bedrooms. Check your home today and install additional detectors if needed. For complete requirements, fines, and installation guidelines, see our Ontario CO alarm requirements guide.
Ontario HST Relief for First-Time Homebuyers
Good news for first-time buyers: Ontario removed the provincial portion of HST (8%) on new homes up to $1 million. For homes between $1 million and $1.5 million, the reduction is partial. This can save qualifying buyers thousands at closing—potentially up to $80,000 on a million-dollar home. For complete details on eligibility, how to apply, and what Ottawa buyers need to know, see our Ontario HST Relief guide for first-time homebuyers.
What To Do Now
Check your first January 2026 paycheque—you should see slightly lower federal tax deductions. Your carbon rebate payment arrives January 5 if you filed 2024 taxes. If you have a gas furnace, fireplace, or attached garage, verify you have CO alarms on every level of your home including the basement.
Jobs and Employment
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Downtown Ottawa office towers, where federal job cuts are beginning to impact thousands of public servants.
Federal Public Service Job Cuts Begin
January 2026 marks the start of significant federal workforce reductions. The government plans to eliminate approximately 40,000 public service positions nationally from a peak of 368,000 jobs, with departments beginning to notify employees this month.
Departments sending layoff notices in January include:
- Natural Resources Canada: ~700 employees warned, with ~400 positions cut by 2028–29
- Public Service Commission: 157 workers
- Crown-Indigenous Relations: 94 employees
- Finance: 74 positions
- Privy Council Office: 19 positions
- IRCC: ~300 positions over three years
Ottawa-based federal workers are particularly affected, with estimates suggesting roughly 28,000 civil service jobs will be reduced in the National Capital Region through attrition, early retirement, and workforce adjustment.
Tech Sector and Private Hiring
Ottawa’s tech ecosystem remains active. Platforms like Built In Ottawa list new postings across software engineering, IT, cybersecurity, data science, and startup roles. Export Development Canada (EDC) has IT internships with a January 14, 2026 application deadline for summer 2026 positions.
January Job Fairs and Events
- Jan 7: Business Networking “Elevating Your Potential” at CRAFT Beer Market, 6 PM
- Jan 9: Virtual Technology Job Fair (online)
- Jan 12: Virtual Entry-Level Job Fair (online)
- Jan 20: “My First Job in Canada” workshop, 150 Isabella St., 10 AM–12 PM
- Jan 21: ASHRAE OVC Career Fair (HVAC/Mechanical), 2:30–6:30 PM
- Feb 12: Ottawa Career Fair and Training Expo, Rogers Centre
Minimum Wage and EI Updates
Ontario’s general minimum wage is approximately $18.00 CAD per hour as of January 2026. The maximum weekly EI benefit increased to $720 CAD for claims starting on or after January 6, 2026. A temporary measure waives the EI waiting period for new claims between March 30, 2025 and April 11, 2026.
Immigration and Newcomers
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Newcomers to Ottawa can access free settlement services across the city.
Express Entry: New Physician Category Announced
IRCC confirmed a new Express Entry category specifically for physicians with at least one year of eligible Canadian work experience within the past three years. Invitations will issue in early 2026, signalling IRCC’s preference for already-integrated talent filling urgent labour gaps.
No Express Entry draws have been reported yet in January 2026. Based on 2025 patterns, early January predictions include:
- PNP draws: ~700 ITAs, CRS 720+
- CEC draws: ~5,000 ITAs, CRS 512–524
- French-language draws: CRS 390–415
Study Permit Changes
Master’s and doctoral students at public Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) no longer need Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL) for study permit applications as of January 1, 2026. This simplifies applications despite overall caps of up to 408,000 permits nationally.
Settlement Services in Ottawa
Free services are available for permanent residents, refugees, and workers:
- CCI Ottawa: Needs assessment, document guidance (health cards, SIN), housing advice, citizenship prep
- YMCA Newcomer Information Centre: Referrals, computer access, adaptation support
- OCISO: Settlement services and referrals
- CSC Vanier: Information/navigation, workshops, free form printing
- LINC/ESL classes: Free language training through OCSB schools (childcare available)
Health and Wellness
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Ottawa hospitals are managing elevated respiratory illness cases this winter season.
Flu Season Alert: Child Deaths Reported
Ottawa faces elevated respiratory virus activity. Three children aged 5–9 died from flu complications in Eastern Ontario in early December 2025, prompting urgent vaccination calls from Ottawa Public Health. Influenza A and RSV cases continue rising sharply.
Vaccination recommendations:
- Flu shots: Everyone 6 months and older
- RSV vaccines: Adults 75+ or 60+ at risk (through primary care or clinics)
- COVID boosters: Available at pharmacies and OPH hubs for high-risk groups
Hospital Emergency Wait Times
Ottawa hospital emergency departments consistently exceed provincial averages, with recent data showing waits of 2.6 to 3.5 hours for first physician assessments at:
- Queensway-Carleton Hospital
- Ottawa Hospital General and Civic Campuses
- CHEO
- Montfort Hospital
High-acuity cases are prioritized. Check live wait times on The Ottawa Hospital and CHEO websites before visiting for non-emergencies.
Walk-In Clinics Open Today
- 421 Rideau St: 613-789-7707 (register in-person, hours vary)
- 2430 Bank St: Check Skip the Waiting Room for availability
Mental Health Resources
Crisis support is available 24/7:
- Distress Centre of Ottawa: 613-238-3311
- Mental Health Crisis Line: 613-722-6914 (ages 16+)
- 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988
- Text support: 343-306-5550 or chat at dcottawa.on.ca (10 AM–11 PM)
The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre opens an urgent psychiatric care clinic in April 2026 offering same/next-day assessments.
What To Do Now
If you haven’t received your flu shot yet, book one immediately—child deaths have been reported locally and cases are rising. If you or someone you know is struggling mentally, the 988 crisis line is available by call or text around the clock. For non-urgent care needs, check Skip the Waiting Room before heading to a walk-in clinic.
Police News and Safety
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Ottawa Police continue investigations from overnight incidents.
SIU Investigation: West End Incident
Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating an incident from early Saturday, January 3, 2026, near Longfield Drive and Cambrian Street. A 35-year-old man experiencing a mental health crisis was seriously injured after officers broke vehicle windows and deployed a conducted energy weapon. The SIU is clarifying circumstances surrounding the man’s injuries.
Child Exploitation Arrest
Ottawa Police’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit arrested Trevor Newcombe, 41, following a December 30 search warrant in the city’s east end. He faces charges related to importing and possessing child sexual abuse material. Anyone with information should contact the ICE Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 5660, or ICE@ottawapolice.ca.
No Major Incidents Overnight
No significant fire department calls, traffic accidents, road closures, missing persons alerts, or emergency warnings were reported in the last 24 hours. No power outages, water main breaks, or boil advisories are active.
Scams and Fraud Alerts
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Phone scams continue targeting Ottawa residents—never send gift cards or wire transfers to unknown callers.
Active Scam Threats in Ottawa
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and Ottawa Police warn residents about ongoing fraud schemes. Ottawa victims lost millions in 2025, with trends continuing into 2026.
Phone Scams to Watch:
- CRA imposters: Callers claim you owe taxes and threaten arrest unless you pay immediately via gift cards or wire transfer. The CRA never demands instant payment.
- Grandparent scam: Someone claims to be your grandchild in trouble, urgently needing money for bail or medical bills. Learn more about AI voice cloning grandparent scams targeting Canadians.
- Tech support scam: Callers claim your computer is infected and request remote access or payment.
How to protect yourself: Hang up immediately. Verify claims by calling the agency directly using numbers from official websites. Never send gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers to unknown callers.
Online Marketplace Fraud: Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace robberies continue. Use Ottawa Police Safe Trade Zones—like Ottawa HQ on Elgin Street—for in-person exchanges. Meet in public and verify buyer/seller profiles.
Romance and Investment Scams: “Pig butchering” schemes—where scammers build romantic relationships online before pushing fake crypto investments—have hit Ottawa residents for $1.6 million+. Read our guide on romance scams in Ottawa to recognize the warning signs. Red flags include overseas “military” contacts needing funds and investment platforms with impossibly high returns.
Report fraud: Ottawa Police Fraud Unit at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300, and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501—even if you didn’t lose money.
Transit and Getting Around
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
O-Train service continues normally today; Lines 2 and 4 launch Monday, January 6.
O-Train Lines 2 and 4 Launch Monday
After years of delays, the new O-Train Lines 2 and 4 officially commence service on Monday, January 6, 2026. The initial rollout follows a phased approach:
- Service days: Weekdays only (Monday–Friday) for minimum two weeks
- Route: South Keys to downtown, extending to Ottawa International Airport
- Airport connection: Approximately 8 minutes from South Keys Station
- Parallel bus routes: B2, 99, and 97 operate seven days a week as backup
If conditions prove stable, weekend service may expand by January 20, with full seven-day operations (6:30 AM–midnight, 7:30 AM Sundays) anticipated by early February. For complete route details, station maps, and tips for opening day, see our O-Train Lines 2 and 4 launch guide.
Current Transit Service
No major OC Transpo service disruptions are reported for January 4. O-Train Line 1 runs normally. Para Transpo follows standard schedules.
New 2026 fares (as of January 1):
- Adult single ride: $4.10
- Adult monthly pass: $138.50
- EquiPass, Community Pass, and Access Pass: Unchanged
Roads and Construction
- Highway 417: Eastbound lane reductions between Island Park and Kent (ongoing)
- Airport Parkway: Uplands Drive reduced to one lane each way through May
- St. Patrick Street Bridge: Two lanes each direction until 2027
Driving Conditions
Expect slick roads from cold temperatures and prior snow. No major closures, but allow extra travel time. Gas prices average $1.223 per litre as of January 3 evening.
Municipal parking lot rates increased under the 2026 budget: 30-minute maximum now $8 (from $6.50), daily maximum $26.
Live Music and Entertainment Tonight
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Ottawa’s live music venues offer great shows tonight from blues to arcade gaming parties.
Where to Catch a Show Tonight
Rainbow Bistro (ByWard Market area) The iconic live blues and roots club features regular bands on weekend nights. Expect a proper show tonight rather than just background music. Casual, local-scene crowd with cocktails, beer, and dancing in a compact room that’s all about the stage.
House of TARG (Bank Street) Tonight is FREE-PLAY SUNDAY: After Dark, running 8 PM to midnight. This bar and pinball/arcade hall regularly features live performances alongside the games. Known for pierogies, casual bar food, and a very relaxed, playful atmosphere different from the Market pub crawl scene.
The Laff (ByWard Market) This historic pub dating to 1849 features frequent live music and a lively, often packed atmosphere late into the night. Pub grub, good beer selection, and bar games make it an easy spot if you want loud, social energy plus a band.
Irene’s Pub The Sunday Night Revue runs 8:30 PM to 11:30 PM with live music showcasing local talent.
Chapter One Famous live concert (NO PRESSURE) starting at 9 PM with VIP tables available.
Nightlife and Dancing
Bailao Entertainment at Amigos Sports Bar hosts a Cumbia Workshop and party starting at 7 PM—a great way to kick off the new year with Latin dance.
Atomic Rooster (Centretown) runs a steady lineup of live music, often local bands or cover acts, with a full menu of burgers, sandwiches, and late-night bites. Open until 2 AM.
Theatre and Shows
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Theatre performances continue at venues across Ottawa.
Now Playing
Hansel and Gretel Go West at Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC) This holiday panto by OttawaMusicals runs through January 4, 2026—today is the final day. A family-friendly musical theatre experience. Check the GCTC website for exact showtimes.
Coming Soon
Clue at National Arts Centre opens January 6, 2026. Based on the iconic 1985 film and classic board game, this comedic whodunit brings the mystery to life on stage.
The NAC has no performances listed for January 4, but the winter season picks up next week with multiple shows.
Sports This Weekend
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
The Ottawa Senators defeated Winnipeg 4-2 last night and host Detroit on Monday.
Ottawa Senators (NHL)
Last Night’s Result: The Sens defeated the Winnipeg Jets 4-2 on Saturday, January 3. Thomas Chabot scored twice, with Drake Batherson and Claude Giroux also finding the net.
Next Home Game: Detroit Red Wings at Canadian Tire Centre
- Date: Monday, January 5, 2026 (or upcoming schedule)
- Time: 7:30 PM
- Location: 1000 Palladium Drive
- Tickets: Starting at $14–$17
- CAA Members: $13 discount on select games
The team is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Canadian Tire Centre this season.
Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
No game scheduled for January 4. Next games:
- January 8: at North Bay, 7:00 PM
- January 9: at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 PM
Ottawa Redblacks (CFL)
The CFL season starts in June 2026, so no games this weekend.
University Sports
No confirmed games for Carleton Ravens or Ottawa Gee-Gees on January 4. The basketball rivalry matchup between the two schools occurs around January 9–10.
Museums and Attractions: Final Day for Holiday Exhibits
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Today is the final day for Winter Wonders holiday programming at Ottawa’s national museums.
FINAL DAY: Winter Wonders and Holiday Programming
Today represents the last day for multiple popular holiday exhibitions across Ottawa’s cultural institutions. Arrive early for the best experience. For more on Ottawa’s rich museum scene, explore the history of Ottawa’s museums.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Hours: 9 AM–5 PM
- Address: 1867 St. Laurent Boulevard
- Admission: Adult $19; Youth (3-17) FREE under Canada Strong Pass; Family (max 2 adults) $49
- Today: Final day for Winter Wonders and Luminorama—the museum’s first dynamic light-and-texture exhibition. Interactive illuminated displays and the Tubulum percussion instrument (candy-cane-striped PVC pipes).
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
- Hours: 9 AM–5 PM
- Address: 11 Aviation Parkway
- Admission: Adult $16.75; Youth (3-17) FREE under Canada Strong Pass; Family $42.25
- Today: Final day of Winter Wonders with planetarium shows, Inuit Christmas traditions (Kuujjuaq Candy Drop), and Aurora Borealis-themed crafts.
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Address: 240 McLeod Street
- Admission: Adult (25-64) $24; Youth (13-17) FREE under pass; Seniors (65+) $19
- Today: Final day for “Butterflies in Flight”—over 100 live tropical butterflies from Costa Rica and the Philippines. Timed tickets required. Also featuring Qikiqtait Inuit exhibit (runs until 2027).
National Gallery of Canada
- Hours: 12 PM–8 PM (extended today)
- Address: 380 Sussex Drive
- Admission: Children 17 and under FREE; Ages 18–24 receive 50% discount
- Today: Final day for holiday creative programming including Open Studio, Inspiration Space, Guided Tours, and Spaghetti Chorus interactive music experience.
Canada Strong Pass: Free Youth Admission Through January 15
The Canada Strong Pass offers free or reduced admission for youth at national museums through January 15, 2026. Take advantage of free entry for kids at Science and Tech, Aviation, Nature, and other Ingenium museums.
Skating and Winter Recreation
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
The Rideau Canal Skateway is partially open for the season.
Rideau Canal Skateway
The world’s largest skating rink is partially open with approximately 3.4 km accessible from Somerset to Bank Street. The skateway opened December 31, 2025, and additional sections become available as ice thickness reaches 30+ cm.
- Hours: 24/7 when open (weather-dependent)
- Cost: FREE
- Amenities: Multiple Beavertail stands, Dunrobin Distilleries (19+), equipment rentals at Fifth Avenue
- Contact: NCC Skateway
The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Looking for more winter activities? Check out our guide to free things to do in Ottawa and indoor activities for cold days.
City Outdoor Rinks
Rink of Dreams (City Hall)
- Address: 110 Laurier Avenue West
- Hours: 6 AM–11 PM daily
- Cost: FREE (reservations recommended)
- Features: 12,500 sq ft refrigerated surface with glowing evening illumination; nearby Beavertail and hot chocolate vendors
- Skate rentals: Available on-site
Lansdowne Park Skating Court
- Address: 450 Queen Elizabeth Drive (The Glebe)
- Hours: 6 AM–11 PM
- Cost: FREE (reservations recommended)
- Features: Refrigerated surface near restaurants and shops
Ben Franklin Place
- Address: 101 Centrepoint Drive (Nepean)
- Hours: 7 AM–11 PM (weather permitting)
- Cost: FREE
Jim Tubman Chevrolet Rink (Canterbury)
- Hours: Weekdays 8 AM–10 PM; Weekends 10 AM–10 PM
- Cost: FREE
- Feature: Open-air roof provides weather protection while maintaining outdoor ice experience
For more winter fun, explore our guide to Ottawa’s best toboggan hills.
Skiing Conditions
Calabogie Peaks: Machine-groomed powder/granular conditions, open 9 AM–4 PM with 80% trails accessible.
Camp Fortune: Machine-groomed snow (depth ~98–267 cm base), fine granular conditions, multiple lifts and trails open.
Mont Cascades: Generally groomed conditions; check the resort website for current lift and trail status.
Dining and Nightlife
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
ByWard Market restaurants offer diverse dining options tonight.
Best Bets in ByWard Market
Speakeasy Tapas Lounge Tapas bar and cocktail lounge that regularly hosts live performers—reviews call the musicians “hidden treasures.” Strong cocktail and wine list, late-night hours, and a cozy, romantic-feeling room that works well for groups.
The Clarendon Tavern Modern tavern with a big cocktail focus and explicit happy-hour style offerings like “happy hour food,” plus brunch-to-late service on weekends. Elevated pub plates and drinks in a central Market location.
The Brig Pub Compact but busy pub with a patio, good beer and cocktail selection, and late-night food. Popular as a Market drinking hub and ideal as a pre- or post-show stop.
New Restaurant Openings
Ottawa’s culinary landscape expanded significantly in December 2025:
Antheia (Somerset Street West, Chinatown) Upscale plant-based dining by 2023 Canadian Culinary Championship winner Chef Briana Kim. Opened December 2025.
Yan’s Restaurant (Murray Street) Specializes in Armenian and Georgian cuisine.
Akira Back (Château Laurier) Japanese-inspired restaurant from the Seoul-born, Colorado-raised chef-restaurateur operating 30 global restaurants. Confirmed to open early 2026. For more dining options, explore our guides to Ottawa’s best sushi and top hot pot restaurants.
Sparks Street Winter Wander
Sparks Street’s holiday trees, artistic installations, and twinkling lights remain up through January 5. Take an evening stroll along Ottawa’s iconic pedestrian mall for scenic winter ambiance.
Library Programs and Free Events
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Ottawa Public Library branches host free programs this weekend.
Free Events Today
Ottawa Public Library Programs:
- Orléans Branch: Board games and colouring, 1:00 PM
- Greenboro Branch: Games, 1:30 PM
- Stittsville Branch: Cozy puzzle social, 2:00 PM
- Hazeldean Branch: Writing workshop, 2:30 PM
Jack Purcell Community Centre:
- Intro to Social Square Dancing: 1:00 PM (drop-in, no registration)
- Free Community Ice Skate: Same day (check community posts for details)
Free Museum Admission
Under the Canada Strong Pass (through January 15, 2026), youth receive free or reduced admission at:
- Canada Aviation and Space Museum
- Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
- Other Ingenium museums
Art Exhibition
“And I Have Come Upon This Place by Lost Ways”
- Location: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West
- Dates: Until February 8, 2026
- Cost: FREE
- Theme: Science fiction exploring memory, speculation, and myth through time and space
Winter Lights Across Canada
The Winter Lights display runs through January 9, 2026, illuminating landmarks across Ottawa-Gatineau with approximately 300,000 lights:
- National War Memorial
- Jacques-Cartier Park
- Supreme Court of Canada
- Parliament Hill
Weather Outlook
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 4, 2026
Brutally cold temperatures continue in Ottawa this weekend with wind chills reaching -27°C.
Today’s Forecast: Bitterly Cold
Today brings a mix of sun and cloud with biting cold throughout the day. Environment Canada reports:
- High: -13°C to -14°C
- Low tonight: -21°C to -25°C
- Morning wind chill: -27°C (improving to -18°C to -21°C in afternoon)
- Evening wind chill: -24°C to -26°C
- Winds: 15–20 km/h
- Precipitation: 30% chance of flurries early morning; low accumulation risk
- Sunrise: 7:43 AM ET
- Sunset: 4:32 PM ET
No Active Warnings
No weather warnings or advisories are currently in effect for Ottawa. Recent national alerts for snow and cold elsewhere do not apply locally.
Weekend Outlook
Sunday, January 5: Periods of snow with a high near -12°C to -14°C. 60% chance of flurries.
Monday, January 6: Cloudy with a high of -3°C to -7°C. 60% chance of snow overnight.
What To Do Now (Weather)
With wind chills hitting -27°C this morning, limit exposed skin time to under 10 minutes. If heading to outdoor rinks or the Canal Skateway, dress in multiple layers including wind-resistant outer wear, and take warming breaks frequently. Frostbite can develop within minutes in these conditions—watch for numbness in fingers, toes, and ears.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Saturday, January 4:
- Winter Wonders FINAL DAY at Science and Tech, Aviation, Nature museums (9 AM–5 PM, FREE for youth)
- Butterflies in Flight FINAL DAY at Museum of Nature (9:30 AM–5 PM)
- Rideau Canal Skateway (3.4 km open, FREE)
- Rink of Dreams at City Hall (6 AM–11 PM, FREE)
- FREE-PLAY SUNDAY: After Dark at House of TARG (8 PM–12 AM)
- Sunday Night Revue at Irene’s Pub (8:30 PM)
- Hansel and Gretel Go West at GCTC (final day)
Sunday, January 5:
- Senators vs. Detroit Red Wings at Canadian Tire Centre (7:30 PM, from $14)
- Sparks Street Winter Wander (final day)
- Winter Lights Across Canada (continues through Jan 9)
- Outdoor skating at city rinks
Monday, January 6:
- O-Train Lines 2 & 4 LAUNCH (weekday service begins)
- Clue opens at National Arts Centre
All Weekend:
- Rideau Canal Skateway (weather-dependent)
- City outdoor rinks (FREE, various hours)
- Calabogie Peaks, Camp Fortune skiing
- ByWard Market restaurants and bars
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much will I save on federal taxes in 2026?
Individuals can save up to $420 annually thanks to the lowest federal tax bracket dropping to 14%. Couples may save up to $840 combined. You should see slightly lower deductions starting with your first January 2026 paycheque. Income tax brackets also received a 2% inflation adjustment.
Q: When do O-Train Lines 2 and 4 start running?
The new O-Train Lines 2 and 4 officially launch on Monday, January 6, 2026. Service will run weekdays only for a minimum of two weeks, with parallel bus routes (B2, 99, 97) operating seven days a week as backup. Weekend service may expand by January 20 if conditions are stable.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open?
Yes, the Rideau Canal Skateway is partially open with approximately 3.4 km accessible from Somerset to Bank Street. The skateway is free, operates 24/7 when open, and is weather-dependent. Additional sections open as ice thickness reaches 30+ cm.
Q: What happened with the Ottawa Police SIU investigation?
Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating an incident from early Saturday, January 3, 2026, near Longfield Drive and Cambrian Street. A 35-year-old man experiencing a mental health crisis was seriously injured after officers deployed a conducted energy weapon.
Q: How much did Ottawa property taxes increase?
Ottawa City Council approved a 3.75% property tax increase for 2026. For an average home assessed at around $415,000, this adds roughly $160–$170 to your annual property tax bill.
Q: What are the new OC Transpo fares for 2026?
As of January 1, 2026, adult single-ride fare is $4.10 and the adult monthly pass is $138.50. EquiPass, Community Pass, and Access Pass rates remain unchanged.
Q: Are there any flu-related health advisories in Ottawa?
Yes, Ottawa Public Health has issued urgent vaccination calls after three children aged 5–9 died from flu complications in Eastern Ontario in early December 2025. Influenza A and RSV cases continue rising. Flu shots are recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
Q: What museums have free admission today?
Under the Canada Strong Pass (through January 15, 2026), youth receive free admission at Canada Science and Technology Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and other Ingenium museums. The National Gallery offers free admission for children 17 and under.
Q: Today is the final day for what holiday exhibits?
January 4 is the final day for Winter Wonders at Science and Tech and Aviation museums, Butterflies in Flight at the Museum of Nature, and holiday creative programming at the National Gallery of Canada.
Q: What phone scams should Ottawa residents watch for?
Active scams include CRA imposters threatening arrest unless you pay via gift cards, grandparent scams claiming a family member needs urgent money, and tech support scams requesting remote computer access. The CRA never demands instant payment by phone. Hang up and verify claims using official agency phone numbers.
Q: How cold will it be this weekend?
Saturday will reach a high of -13°C to -14°C with morning wind chills of -27°C. Overnight lows drop to -21°C to -25°C. Sunday brings a high around -12°C to -14°C with 60% chance of flurries.
Q: What new restaurants opened in Ottawa recently?
Antheia (upscale plant-based by Chef Briana Kim) opened on Somerset Street West in December 2025. Yan’s Restaurant (Armenian and Georgian cuisine) opened on Murray Street. Akira Back is confirmed to open at Château Laurier in early 2026.
Q: Where can I skate for free in Ottawa?
Free outdoor skating is available at the Rink of Dreams (City Hall), Lansdowne Park Skating Court, Ben Franklin Place, Jim Tubman Chevrolet Rink, and the Rideau Canal Skateway. Reservations are recommended for refrigerated rinks.
Q: What are the ski conditions near Ottawa?
Calabogie Peaks reports machine-groomed powder/granular conditions with 80% trails accessible. Camp Fortune has machine-groomed snow with 98–267 cm base depth. Both are open for the season.
Q: How do I report fraud to Ottawa Police?
Contact the Ottawa Police Fraud Unit at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300. You should also report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501, even if you didn’t lose money.
Final Summary
The first weekend of 2026 brings significant changes for Ottawa residents. Federal tax cuts now in effect will save workers up to $420 this year, while the carbon rebate payments update January 5. Locally, property taxes rose 3.75% and transit fares increased 2.5%, but the big transit news comes Monday when O-Train Lines 2 and 4 finally launch, connecting Riverside South to the airport and downtown.
Today marks the final day for beloved holiday exhibits at museums across the city—if you haven’t experienced Winter Wonders, Luminorama, or Butterflies in Flight, this is your last chance. The Rideau Canal Skateway is open with 3.4 km of ice, and city outdoor rinks are operating throughout the weekend.
Health officials continue urging flu vaccinations after child deaths were reported, and scam alerts remain active for CRA imposters and marketplace fraud. Despite brutally cold temperatures with wind chills to -27°C, Ottawa offers plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy this weekend.
Stay warm, stay informed, and enjoy the first weekend of the new year in Canada’s capital.
Sources and References
- Government of Canada - Federal tax changes and policies
- City of Ottawa - Budget, property taxes, skating rinks
- OC Transpo - Transit service and fares
- Ottawa Public Health - Flu advisories and vaccination
- Environment Canada - Weather forecasts
- National Capital Commission - Rideau Canal Skateway
- Ottawa Police Service - Safety updates
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre - Scam warnings
- Canada Science and Technology Museum - Winter Wonders exhibits
- Canadian Museum of Nature - Butterflies in Flight
- National Gallery of Canada - Holiday programming
- Ottawa Tourism - Events and attractions
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media. Stay warm out there!
