Ottawa Daily News: Wednesday, January 8
Last Updated: January 8, 2026 at 9:30 AM ET
Prime Minister Mark Carney will host all of Canada’s premiers in Ottawa on January 29 to tackle rising trade tensions with the United States—a critical summit that could shape the country’s economic direction for years to come. Meanwhile, Ottawa residents woke up to higher transit fares this week as OC Transpo’s 2.5% increase took effect, and the Rideau Canal Skateway continues to offer ideal conditions for winter recreation.
Today marks a day of change for Ottawa. Federal immigration policies are tightening with significant reductions in permanent resident admissions and temporary visas, while locally, property taxes and municipal fees are climbing under the city’s newly approved budget. But it’s not all about rising costs—museums across the capital are throwing open their doors for free Thursday evening admission, and the weather is cooperating beautifully with mild temperatures perfect for skating the world’s largest outdoor rink.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: PM Carney announces January 29 premiers’ summit in Ottawa to address U.S. trade tensions. OC Transpo fares jumped 2.5% this week (monthly pass now $138.50). Rideau Canal Skateway is fully operational with excellent ice conditions. Take advantage of free museum admission tonight after 5 PM at the National Gallery and Museum of Nature.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Wednesday, January 8, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | Cloudy, high 2°C, low -5°C, wind chill -7°C morning |
| 🚗 Traffic | Normal conditions; patchy fog clearing by noon |
| 🎉 Top Event | Free Thursday Nights at National Gallery (5-8 PM) |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators vs Avalanche (away, 9 PM ET); Charge vs Goldeneyes (Fri 7 PM) |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Parliament Hill prepares for the upcoming premiers’ summit on January 29.
Major Breaking Developments
PM Carney to Host Critical Premiers’ Summit January 29
Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a high-stakes meeting with all of Canada’s premiers in Ottawa on January 29 to address escalating trade tensions with the United States. The summit comes as CUSMA (Canada-U.S.-Mexico Trade Agreement) review discussions stall, with ongoing disputes affecting steel, aluminum, and softwood lumber industries. Minister of U.S. Relations Dominic LeBlanc will formally launch CUSMA talks mid-January, setting the stage for what many consider Canada’s most significant trade negotiations in years.
Adding to the diplomatic push, PM Carney departs for China on January 13 for discussions on trade, energy, agriculture, and security—part of a broader strategy to diversify Canada’s trading relationships away from dependence on the American market.
Economic Outlook Dims on Tariff Concerns
Deloitte’s latest forecast projects Canada’s GDP growth slowing to 1.5% for 2026, citing U.S. tariff impacts on business investment and consumer spending. Ottawa-area businesses dependent on cross-border trade should monitor developments closely as negotiations unfold.
Immigration Policy Undergoes Major Restructuring
Canada’s immigration system is seeing its most significant changes in years. The 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan shows permanent resident admissions dropping to 380,000 (down 15,000 from 2025), student visa issuance plummeting to 155,000 (down a dramatic 282,000 from 2025), and temporary worker allocations falling to 230,000 (down 135,000). The first Express Entry draw of 2026 issued 574 invitations to Provincial Nominee Program candidates on January 5, with CRS scores for Canadian Experience Class draws predicted around 512-524.
What To Do Now
Ottawa businesses should review their workforce planning as immigration pathways tighten—temporary worker caps and student visa reductions take effect immediately. If you’re sponsoring skilled workers or international students, confirm application timelines with IRCC to avoid delays in an increasingly competitive system.
Government & Policy Changes
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Ottawa City Hall, where the 2026 budget was recently approved with a 3.75% property tax increase.
City of Ottawa Budget Now in Effect
The 2026 City of Ottawa budget brings a 3.75% overall property tax increase, adding approximately $166 to the average urban homeowner’s annual bill and $108 for rural homeowners. Within that increase, Ottawa Police Service receives a 5% boost to its tax levy while OC Transpo’s transit levy climbs 8%.
Beyond property taxes, residents will see increases across multiple municipal services: transit fares up 2.5%, water and sewer rates rising, garbage collection fees climbing, and business licence fees increasing 3-12% depending on category. Short-term rental licence fees jump 8.3%, and the Municipal Accommodation Tax (affecting hotels and tourism) rises by one percentage point.
Federal Tax Changes Take Effect
For 2026, federal personal income tax bracket thresholds have been indexed up approximately 2%, slightly reducing federal tax owing for many taxpayers by pushing more income into lower brackets. The Canada Pension Plan enhancement continues with two earnings ceilings: the first rising to $74,600 and a second ceiling at $85,000, meaning increased CPP deductions for middle and higher-income earners.
Ontario Pay Transparency Rules Now Mandatory
Major updates to Ontario’s Employment Standards Act took effect January 1, 2026: employers with 25 or more employees must now include expected pay or salary ranges in all public job postings—a significant change for Ottawa job seekers who will now have clear compensation information upfront.
Jobs & Employment
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Federal departments are issuing layoff notices this month as Budget 2025 workforce adjustments begin.
Federal Layoffs Underway
Multiple federal departments are issuing workforce adjustment notices this month, with thousands of positions targeted by 2028-29 under Budget 2025 directives. Natural Resources Canada affects approximately 700 indeterminate employees with 400 position cuts planned; Public Service Commission of Canada impacts 157 workers; Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada cuts 94; Department of Finance eliminates 74; and Privy Council Office reduces 19 positions. Affected unionized employees should contact PSAC or PIPSC for redeployment options.
Job Fairs This Week
Today, January 8: Scotlynn Hiring Event for Class 1/AZ drivers and Owner Operators in Cornwall, Kingston, and Brockville (RSVP required). Tomorrow, January 9: VON Online Job Fair, fully virtual format.
Minimum Wage Holds Steady
Ontario’s general minimum wage remains at $17.60/hour until September 30, 2026, with projections of approximately $18/hour taking effect October 1, 2026 based on 2.2% CPI indexation. EI premiums for 2026 have dropped to $1.63 per $100 of insurable earnings, with maximum worker contributions capped at $1,123.07.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
IRCC changes effective January 2026 affect study permits, work visas, and settlement services.
Study Permit Changes
Effective January 1, 2026, master’s and PhD students are exempt from Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) requirements for study permits, offering some relief amid broader restrictions. However, study permit caps continue with provincial allocations, and Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) changes now require CLB 5 language scores and field-of-study alignment for non-degree graduates.
Settlement Services in Ottawa
Newcomers can access free support through several organizations: Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) offers multilingual orientation, counselling, and referrals at 613-725-0202. The YMCA Newcomer Information Centre provides immigration guidance and housing/employment referrals. World Skills Employment Centre delivers job coaching, resume help, and In-TAC IT/accounting training.
Language Training
Free LINC/ESL classes for permanent residents are available through Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board at St. Nicholas Adult High School (613-228-9060) and online evenings, covering levels 1-7 with childcare available. OCDSB offers in-person and online LINC/ESL at six Ottawa locations, Monday-Friday 9am-3:30pm.
Health & Wellness
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Ottawa ERs are experiencing high patient volumes during respiratory illness season.
ER Wait Times Running High
Ottawa hospitals are managing significant patient volumes during the winter respiratory illness surge. Real-time emergency room wait times across Ontario—including The Ottawa Hospital, CHEO, and Queensway Carleton—can be tracked on ER Watch, which updates every 15 minutes. Ottawa ERs often exceed the provincial average of 2 hours for initial physician assessment, with CHEO recently reporting waits up to 4.3 hours.
Respiratory Illness Season
Flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases are rising in Ottawa, with sharp increases in serious pediatric flu cases noted in recent weeks. Ottawa Public Health urges vaccinations: flu and updated COVID-19 shots are free at pharmacies or OPH clinics (ages 6 months-5 years). RSV vaccines are available for adults 75+ or high-risk 60+ via providers or OPH.
Walk-In Clinics Today
Appletree Medical Centre at 2573 Baseline Rd. welcomes walk-ins today: registration at 8:30 AM, Dr. Oosthuizen available 9 AM-4 PM for upper respiratory issues (613-482-0118). Ottawa River Walk-In Clinic hours: Monday 9 AM-2:30 PM, Tuesday-Friday 9 AM-5 PM, Saturday 10 AM-3 PM.
Mental Health Resources
The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre provides 24/7 crisis support: call (613) 722-6914 or (613) 238-3311, text (343) 306-5550 (10 AM-11 PM), or chat at dcottawa.on.ca. A new urgent care clinic opens April 2026 for same/next-day psychiatric assessments (age 16+), no referral needed.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Ottawa Police and CAFC warn residents about persistent phone and online fraud schemes.
CRA and Grandparent Scams Active
Ottawa residents continue facing aggressive scam attempts in early 2026. CRA impersonators are threatening arrest for unpaid taxes, demanding payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency. Tech support calls falsely claim viruses on your computer, seeking remote access to drain accounts. Grandparent scams pose as lawyers urgently needing bail money for a relative.
Red flags include aggressive threats, unfamiliar numbers, or requests for immediate funds—legitimate government agencies never demand payment this way. Hang up immediately, verify independently through official websites, and report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
Phishing and Government Impersonation
Phishers are mimicking CRA and bank emails with links to fake sites designed to steal your credentials. Scammers also pose as CAFC or police officers, promising refunds but fishing for personal information. Watch for urgent demands, spoofed sender addresses, or suspicious links—legitimate CRA emails end in @cra-arc.gc.ca. Forward suspicious emails to phishing@cra-arc.gc.ca.
Marketplace Fraud Warning
Sellers on Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace are being targeted with fake e-transfer confirmations that lead to phony bank sites harvesting login credentials. Victims have lost thousands as scammers drain their accounts. Watch for altered links (e.g., scotia.bank.com) or pressure for quick deals without in-person meetings. Use secure payment apps, meet publicly, and verify transfers have fully cleared before handing over items.
Romance and Crypto Scams
Romance fraudsters build trust online before requesting money for “emergencies” or pushing cryptocurrency “investments” with fake celebrity endorsements. AI deepfakes and pop-ups amplify crypto cons promising quick riches. Never send money to online contacts, research investments via CheckFirst.ca, and cease contact if pressured.
Identity Theft and Counterfeit Currency
Ottawa Police have noted a surge in counterfeit currency since December 2024. Package scams claim unpaid fees for bogus deliveries. Identity theft via stolen cards continues post-burglaries. Monitor your statements, use credit freezes for protection, and report losses to banks and police immediately. Contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 for local reports.
What To Do Now
If you’ve received suspicious calls or emails today, do not engage—hang up or delete immediately. Check your bank and credit card statements for unfamiliar charges. For in-person sales, meet at Ottawa Police station parking lots which offer safe exchange zones. File reports with CAFC even if you didn’t lose money, as this helps track fraud patterns.
Transit & Getting Around
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
O-Train Line 1 is operating normally today with no reported disruptions.
OC Transpo Service Status
No major service disruptions are reported for OC Transpo, O-Train, or Para Transpo today, though a train stuck at Tunney’s Pasture caused delays yesterday. O-Train Line 1 operates normally from Tunney’s Pasture to Blair, with the eastern extension to Orléans expected in early 2026.
Fare Increases Now in Effect
Transit fares increased 2.5% as of January 1, 2026: adult monthly passes now cost $138.50 (up from $135), and single rides are $4.10. Looking ahead, O-Train Line 1 frequency will improve to 6-7.5 minute intervals during off-peak weekday hours starting April. From Canada Day, afternoon transfer periods extend to 105 minutes, and youth under 18 will ride free on weekends and holidays.
Para Transpo Note
Some new buses were pulled offline as of January 7 due to heating issues, which may affect Para Transpo service. Public consultations for the 2026-2029 accessibility plan are ongoing.
Gas Prices
Regular gas holds steady at 123.9 cents per litre in Ottawa as of January 6, with no change reported.
Road Conditions
Roads are generally clear today with patchy fog that should dissipate by noon. Ongoing construction includes Highway 417 lane closures (eastbound Rochester to Bank, westbound to O-Train corridor) with detours via Carling Avenue. Colonel By Drive has a single-lane closure near Clegg Street for lighting rehabilitation. Check the OC Transpo app for real-time updates.
Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
House of Targ hosts Catalyst 12 electronic music night featuring local and visiting DJs.
Ottawa’s live music scene offers several options tonight for those looking to shake off the winter chill.
House of Targ
- Event: Catalyst 12 - Live Electronic Music
- Artists: HUG MOSH, NIGH, CLINT HOUSE, LUC LIGHT, VJ Auchtorok
- Time: Doors 8 PM
- Age: 19+
- Price: $10 advance/PWYC or $15 door
Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Shop
- Event: House ⌀f K’s New Years Party
- Artists: House ⌀f K (headliner), Prince Juno, J!M!
- Time: Doors 6:30 PM, show 7 PM
- Age: 19+
- Price: $15 advance, $20 door
Heart & Crown ByWard (67 Clarence St.)
- Event: Southbound Boots Duo
- Stage: McGintey’s stage
- Time: 9 PM to 1 AM
- Price: No cover
Absolute Comedy Ottawa (412 Preston St.)
- Headliner: Clifford Myers
- MC: Craig Fay
- Time: 8:30 PM
- Shows: Multiple dates through January 11
Theatre & Shows Coming This Month
January 2026 Theatre Calendar
Clue - A New Comedy runs at NAC Southam Hall through this weekend.
Clue - A New Comedy
The classic murder mystery game comes to life at the National Arts Centre’s Southam Hall. Based on the iconic board game and the beloved 1985 film, this comedic whodunit features a stellar cast navigating the mansion’s many rooms as bodies pile up and suspects multiply.
- Venue: NAC Southam Hall
- Dates: Tonight through this weekend
- Time: 7:30 PM
- Tickets: From $192
Can We Be Friends?
An interactive puppet show for children ages 3-8 exploring themes of friendship through music, storytelling, and puppetry.
- Venue: National Arts Centre
- Date: January 11, 2026
- Languages: English and French performances available
Free Thursday Nights at the National Gallery
Not theatre, but worth noting: the National Gallery of Canada hosts Free Thursday Nights tonight from 5-8 PM, featuring music, snacks, art activities, and themed tours—all with free admission.
Sports This Weekend
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Ottawa sports fans can catch the Senators on TV tonight as they face Colorado on the road.
Ottawa Senators (NHL)
The Senators (20-16-5, 8th in Atlantic Division) face the Colorado Avalanche tonight at Ball Arena in Denver. Puck drop is 9 PM ET (7 PM local). The Avalanche sit atop the Central Division at 31-4-7, making this a challenging matchup. Watch on TSN5 (Canada). No home games this weekend.
Ottawa Charge (PWHL)
Friday, January 9 at 7 PM, the Charge host the Vancouver Goldeneyes at TD Place (1015 Bank Street). Ottawa is riding a three-game winning streak after a dominant 5-2 victory over Minnesota, with Brianne Jenner scoring twice. Recent games have sold out—tickets available through PWHL.com.
Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
Tonight at 7 PM, the 67’s play at North Bay Battalion (Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens). Weekend schedule: January 9 at 7:07 PM vs. Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (away); January 11 at 2:05 PM at Sudbury Wolves. Tickets from $26 on Vivid Seats.
Ottawa Redblacks (CFL)
The CFL is in the off-season. The Redblacks’ 2026 season opener is June 6 vs. Edmonton Elks at TD Place Stadium.
University Sports
No Carleton Ravens or Ottawa Gee-Gees games this weekend. Capital Hoops Classic (the annual rivalry basketball event) tickets go on sale today, January 8, for the February 6 matchup. The doubleheader features women’s basketball at 6 PM and men’s at 8 PM at TD Place—over 100,000 fans have attended since the rivalry began in 2007.
📚 Deep Dive: Complete Guide to Capital Hoops Classic 2026 - Tickets, parking, food, and tips for Ottawa’s biggest university basketball event.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
National museums offer extended Thursday hours with free evening admission.
Today’s a great day to visit Ottawa’s world-class museums—many offer free admission after 5 PM on Thursdays.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM (free admission 4-5 PM)
- Location: 1867 St. Laurent Boulevard
- Admission: $19 adult, $12.25 youth 3-17, $49 family
- Highlights: ZOOOM Children’s Innovation Zone, Crazy Kitchen, steam locomotives
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 8 PM (free after 5 PM)
- Admission: $24 adult, $19 child/student
- Highlights: Dinosaurs, blue whale skeleton, Butterflies in Flight, Qikiqtait Inuit exhibit
National Gallery of Canada
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 8 PM (free after 5 PM)
- Highlights: Canadian and Indigenous art, photography, special exhibitions
Canadian War Museum
- Hours: 9 AM - 7 PM (free Thursday 5-8 PM)
- Special: WWII exhibit on dictatorships (until January 18, 2026)
Aviation and Space Museum
- Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM
- Admission: ~$19 adult
Diefenbunker
- Hours: 10 AM - 4 PM
- Admission: $20-25 adult
- Experience: Cold War bunker 75 feet underground
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
The Rideau Canal Skateway is fully operational with excellent ice conditions.
Rideau Canal Skateway
The world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink is fully operational, with 7.8 kilometres open from Rideau Street to Dow’s Lake. Ice conditions are rated “very good” with today’s mild temperatures (-3°C to 2°C) and light winds creating ideal skating conditions.
- Access: Free, 24/7 when open
- Rentals: Capital Skates kiosks available along the canal
- Amenities: Food concessions, warming fires, washrooms, boot cubbies
- Conditions: Check NCC’s Skateway hotline or website for real-time updates
Outdoor Rinks
City outdoor rinks like Jim Tubman Chevrolet Rink are typically open 8 AM-10 PM daily, weather permitting.
Ski Conditions
- Camp Fortune: Open, machine-groomed, 20” base, weekdays 9 AM-9 PM
- Calabogie Peaks: 80% open, 30”+ base, 9 AM-4 PM
- Mont Cascades: Machine-groomed powder, 9 AM-9 PM
Looking for more winter fun? Check out our guide to Ottawa’s best toboggan hills for family-friendly sledding spots.
Dining & Nightlife
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
ByWard Market restaurants and bars offer happy hour specials and live music tonight.
Happy Hour Specials
Looking for after-work drinks? Check out our complete guide to Ottawa happy hours for deals across ByWard Market, Elgin Street, and Westboro.
- Back to Brooklyn (ByWard Market): 5-7 PM daily with 2-for-1 cocktails and 30% off food
- Chop Steakhouse & Bar: 2-6 PM and 9 PM-close in lounge/patio
- Metropolitain Brasserie: Hill Hour 4-7 PM with discounted oysters; Thursday Buck a Shuck
- The Clarendon Tavern: Half-priced food, $7 drinks, $10 cocktails Tuesday-Sunday 4-6 PM
- Social on Sussex: 3-5 PM social hour with $6 drafts, wines, charcuterie boards
- Rabbit Hole (Centretown): 4-7 PM happy hour with $12 classic cocktails
📚 See Also: Best Happy Hours in Ottawa - Drink specials and food deals across the city.
Live Music Tonight
Heart & Crown ByWard (67 Clarence St.) hosts Southbound Boots Duo on McGintey’s stage from 9 PM to 1 AM. Multiple stages ensure live music every night.
Coming Tomorrow
Chick-fil-A Rideau opens January 9—expect lines for the new location.
Library Programs & Free Events
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Ottawa Public Library branches host free drop-in programs throughout the week.
Ottawa Public Library branches offer several free drop-in programs today:
- Cumberland Branch: Mahjong at 10:15 AM (ongoing series, no registration); Coffee Social with puzzles and games 10:15 AM-noon
- Manotick Branch: Mahjong at 10:15 AM (drop-in)
- Rideau Branch: Book Club at 10:15 AM (drop-in)
- Nepean Centrepointe: English Conversation Group at 10:30 AM (drop-in); Book Club at 1:30 PM
- Beaverbrook Branch: Book Club at 1:30 PM (new members welcome)
- Stittsville Branch: Open House for Dementia Support at 1:00 PM (drop-in)
Free Museum Evenings
Both the Canadian Museum of Nature (5-8 PM) and National Gallery of Canada (5-8 PM) offer free admission tonight.
Community Events
PMCA Ottawa hosts Euchre nights at a community centre starting 6:45 PM (low/no cost). CNETS support group for NET patients meets on Zoom at 7:30 PM (Montreal-based, open to Ottawa residents).
Weather Outlook
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 8, 2026
Mild January conditions continue today with cloudy skies and temperatures near freezing.
No active weather warnings for Ottawa today. Conditions are ideal for outdoor winter activities.
Today (Thursday, January 8)
- High: 2°C
- Low: -5°C overnight, rising to -3°C evening
- Conditions: Cloudy, dissipating morning fog
- Wind: Up to 15 km/h, wind chill -7°C morning
- Precipitation: Low risk, mainly dry
Friday, January 9
- High: 3°C
- Conditions: Light rain transitioning to light snow
- Accumulation: 23.3 mm rain, 2.1 cm snow
Weekend (January 10-11)
- Saturday: High -1°C, 40% chance snow/rain, low -3°C
- Sunday: High -2°C, 40% flurries, dropping to -11°C overnight
What To Do Now (Weather)
Today offers the best outdoor conditions until Saturday’s snow arrives. Hit the Rideau Canal Skateway now—mild temperatures and light winds make for ideal skating. Dress in layers as morning wind chill near -7°C moderates through the afternoon. Friday brings a transition to winter weather, so plan indoor activities or prepare for messier conditions by the weekend.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Friday, January 9:
- Ottawa Charge vs Vancouver Goldeneyes @ TD Place, 7 PM (PWHL hockey)
- Clue - A New Comedy @ NAC Southam Hall, 7:30 PM (from $192)
- Ottawa 67’s @ Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 PM (away game)
- VON Online Job Fair (virtual)
- Chick-fil-A Rideau opens
Saturday, January 10:
- Ottawa Farmers’ Market Winter Markets begin @ Aberdeen Pavilion, 1000 Exhibition Way
- Absolute Comedy @ 412 Preston St (shows nightly)
- Rideau Canal Skateway (weather permitting—40% snow chance)
Sunday, January 11:
- Can We Be Friends? puppet show @ NAC (ages 3-8)
- Ottawa 67’s @ Sudbury Wolves, 2:05 PM (away)
- Rideau Canal Skateway (expect colder temperatures, -11°C overnight)
All Weekend:
- Free museum Thursday evenings (tonight only for free admission)
- Rideau Canal Skateway (7.8 km open, free)
- Camp Fortune, Calabogie Peaks, Mont Cascades skiing
- Winterlude 2026 coming January 30 - February 16
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the premiers’ summit in Ottawa?
Prime Minister Mark Carney will host all of Canada’s premiers in Ottawa on January 29, 2026, to address U.S. trade tensions and the CUSMA review. This high-stakes meeting comes as tariff disputes affect key industries including steel, aluminum, and softwood lumber.
Q: How much did OC Transpo fares increase?
OC Transpo fares increased 2.5% effective January 1, 2026. Adult monthly passes now cost $138.50 (up from $135), and single rides are $4.10. Starting July 1, 2026, youth under 18 will ride free on weekends and holidays.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open today?
Yes, the Rideau Canal Skateway is fully operational with 7.8 kilometres open from Rideau Street to Dow’s Lake. Ice conditions are rated “very good,” and today’s mild weather (high of 2°C, light winds) creates ideal skating conditions. Skating is free and available 24/7 when the canal is open.
Q: Which museums have free admission today?
The National Gallery of Canada and Canadian Museum of Nature both offer free admission Thursday evenings from 5-8 PM. The Canada Science and Technology Museum offers free admission from 4-5 PM daily.
Q: What are the federal layoff numbers for Ottawa?
Multiple federal departments are issuing workforce adjustment notices in January 2026. Natural Resources Canada affects approximately 700 employees with 400 position cuts; Public Service Commission impacts 157 workers; Crown-Indigenous Relations cuts 94; Finance eliminates 74; and Privy Council Office reduces 19 positions.
Q: How much did Ottawa property taxes increase?
The 2026 City of Ottawa budget includes a 3.75% overall property tax increase, adding approximately $166 to the average urban homeowner’s annual bill and $108 for rural homeowners.
Q: Are there any weather warnings for Ottawa today?
No weather warnings are active for Ottawa on January 8, 2026. Expect cloudy conditions with a high of 2°C and patchy morning fog that should clear by noon. The weekend forecast includes 40% chance of snow/rain on Saturday.
Q: What live music is happening in Ottawa tonight?
Tonight’s options include Catalyst 12 electronic music at House of Targ (doors 8 PM, $10-15), Southbound Boots Duo at Heart & Crown ByWard (9 PM-1 AM, no cover), and House ⌀f K’s New Years Party at Avant-Garde Bar (7 PM, $15-20).
Q: When does Winterlude start?
Winterlude 2026 runs from January 30 to February 16, 2026, across multiple venues in Ottawa and Gatineau. The annual winter festival features ice sculptures, snow tubing, live performances, and free outdoor family activities.
Q: What are current ER wait times in Ottawa?
Ottawa ERs often exceed the provincial average of 2 hours for initial physician assessment. CHEO has recently reported waits up to 4.3 hours. Check real-time wait times at ER Watch (er-watch.ca), which updates every 15 minutes for hospitals including The Ottawa Hospital, CHEO, and Queensway Carleton.
Q: Are there any active scams targeting Ottawa residents?
Yes, CRA impersonation scams, grandparent scams, and marketplace fraud remain active in early 2026. Red flags include aggressive threats, demands for gift card or crypto payments, and pressure for quick deals. Report suspicious activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
Q: What are the new Ontario pay transparency rules?
As of January 1, 2026, Ontario employers with 25 or more employees must include expected pay or salary ranges in all public job postings. This affects how Ottawa job seekers can expect to see compensation information displayed.
Q: When is the next Ottawa Senators home game?
The Senators play the Colorado Avalanche tonight (January 8) but away in Denver. Check the team’s schedule for upcoming home games at Canadian Tire Centre.
Q: What free library programs are available today?
Ottawa Public Library branches offer free drop-in programs including Mahjong at Cumberland and Manotick branches (10:15 AM), Book Clubs at Rideau, Beaverbrook, and Nepean Centrepointe branches, and an English Conversation Group at Nepean Centrepointe (10:30 AM).
Q: What’s the gas price in Ottawa today?
Regular gas is holding steady at 123.9 cents per litre in Ottawa as of January 6, 2026, with no significant changes reported.
Final Summary
January 8, 2026, brings significant news for Ottawa residents. The upcoming premiers’ summit on January 29 signals a pivotal moment for Canada-U.S. trade relations, while locally, the effects of the 2026 municipal budget are now being felt through higher property taxes and transit fares. Federal public service workers face an uncertain period as layoff notices roll out across multiple departments.
On a brighter note, Ottawa’s winter attractions are at their best. The Rideau Canal Skateway is fully operational with excellent ice conditions, and today’s mild weather makes it the perfect opportunity to enjoy the world’s largest outdoor skating rink before weekend snow arrives. Museums are offering free Thursday evening admission, providing an affordable cultural option for families and individuals alike.
Looking ahead, mark your calendar for Winterlude 2026 (January 30 - February 16), the Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show (January 29 - February 1), and Friday’s Ottawa Charge game—the women’s hockey team is on a three-game winning streak and generating excitement at TD Place.
Stay warm, stay informed, and enjoy what Ottawa has to offer today.
Sources & References
Sources cited throughout this article:
- Environment Canada - Weather forecasts
- Ottawa Police Service - Safety alerts
- OC Transpo - Transit updates
- City of Ottawa - Municipal news
- Ottawa Public Health - Health advisories
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre - Scam alerts (1-888-495-8501)
- ER Watch - Hospital wait times
- National Capital Commission - Rideau Canal Skateway
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada - Immigration updates
- PWHL - Ottawa Charge schedule
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media.
