Ottawa Daily News: January 10, 2026
Last Updated: January 10, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET
A major immigration protest is set to take over Parliament Hill this afternoon as Stand United Canada organizers call for marches across the downtown core, while the Ottawa Senators gear up for a Saturday night showdown against the Florida Panthers at Canadian Tire Centre.
Ottawa residents wake to a Friday with plenty of activity across the capital. The city enters 2026 with new tax rules already in effect, transit fare hikes of 2.5%, and property taxes climbing 3.75% for the average homeowner. Strong winds overnight gusted up to 90 km/h, though conditions are calming this morning. Flu season continues to strain local hospitals, with three children recently dying from complications at CHEO. Tonight offers everything from punk rock at House of TARG to country music at Red Bird, while the 613flea market returns to Lansdowne with 150 vendors.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Parliament Hill hosts a major immigration protest at 1:00 PM today. Ottawa Senators face Florida Panthers at 7:00 PM. New 2026 taxes and transit fares are now in effect. Strong winds overnight are easing, but snow arrives Saturday evening. Flu activity remains high at Ottawa hospitals.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Friday, January 10, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -1°C, cloudy, snow overnight |
| 🚗 Traffic | Expect delays near Parliament Hill (protest 1 PM) |
| 🎉 Top Event | 613flea Market at Lansdowne (free) |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators vs Panthers, 7:00 PM at CTC |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 10, 2026
Image: Parliament Hill prepares for a major immigration protest today.
Major Breaking Developments
Parliament Hill Immigration Protest Today at 1:00 PM
Stand United Canada is organizing a major protest on Parliament Hill this afternoon, with marches planned across Ottawa’s downtown core. The demonstration advocates against current immigration policies and government overreach, with participants expected from across Canada. Residents should plan for significant congestion around Wellington Street, Sparks Street, and surrounding areas from early afternoon into the evening.
Federal Government Deploys Military to Manitoba First Nation
The federal government announced Thursday it is sending Canadian Armed Forces personnel to Pimicikamak Cree Nation in Manitoba, where a prolonged power outage since late December 2025 has damaged over 200 homes and forced evacuations. The emergency response includes generator support, heating equipment, and humanitarian aid as crews work to restore electricity to the remote community.
Federal Immigration Cuts Take Effect for 2026
Canada has officially reduced permanent resident admissions to 380,000 for 2026, down from 395,000 in 2025. Student visa issuance dropped dramatically to 155,000 from 437,000 last year, while temporary worker admissions fell to 230,000 from approximately 365,000. These reductions aim to bring temporary residents below 5% of Canada’s population by 2027.
Public Safety
13-Year-Old Caught Driving in Barrhaven
Ottawa Police stopped an unlicensed 13-year-old driver on Strandherd Drive in Barrhaven on Thursday afternoon. The youth was driving slowly with two peers in the vehicle, reportedly heading to get candy. No injuries occurred, and parents were notified. The incident serves as a reminder about vehicle security and parental supervision.
Hydro Ottawa: No Major Outages
Following overnight winds gusting 70-90 km/h, Hydro Ottawa reports no active major outages this morning. Crews are monitoring conditions and prepared to respond to any storm impacts. Residents should secure loose outdoor items as gusty conditions may continue into midday.
Special Weather Statement in Effect
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for strong winds late Thursday into early Friday, potentially causing utility outages and hazardous driving conditions. The winds are tapering off this morning, but residents should remain alert. Snow is expected Saturday evening with 4-10 cm accumulation possible.
What To Do Now
If attending the Parliament Hill protest, use public transit and expect extended travel times. Downtown parking will be extremely limited, and several streets may close to traffic. Keep devices charged in case of any remaining power issues from overnight winds.
Government & Policy Changes
As of January 10, 2026
Image: New taxes and fees are now in effect for Ottawa residents in 2026.
City of Ottawa: New Taxes and Fees
The 2026 City of Ottawa budget brings a 3.75% property tax increase, adding approximately $166 per year for the average urban homeowner and $93 for rural residents. Water, sewer, and stormwater rates also rose, with households using 230 cubic metres annually now paying roughly $40 more per year (approximately $1,118 total).
Recreation program fees, garbage collection charges, and short-term rental licence fees (up 8.3%) all increased with the new year. The Municipal Accommodation Tax on hotel stays also rose by 1 percentage point, affecting tourism and local event costs.
Federal Tax Relief Measures
New federal income tax brackets took effect January 1, reducing the lowest marginal rate. Earners making $58,523 or less benefit from the reduced rate, potentially saving taxpayers up to $420 annually. Canada Child Benefit and Child Disability Benefit payments also increased.
The federal consumer carbon tax remains cancelled (eliminated April 2025), though industrial carbon pricing rose to $110 per tonne, which may show up indirectly in fuel and goods prices over time.
Ontario Law Changes
New Ontario Fire Code rules effective January 1 expand carbon monoxide alarm requirements for residences and buildings. Ontario also strengthened impaired-driving penalties, with tougher roadside suspensions and longer look-back periods for repeat offenders. Pay transparency rules now require firms with 25+ employees to disclose salary ranges in job postings.
Jobs & Employment
As of January 10, 2026
Image: Federal workforce reductions continue while tech sector hiring remains active.
Public Service Reductions
Federal plans target 40,000 public service job cuts by 2028-29 through attrition and workforce adjustments, with notices already issued to hundreds of workers in Ottawa. Return-to-office mandates for federal and provincial employees aim to boost downtown economic activity.
Healthcare Layoffs
Royal Ottawa Place long-term care announced 15 staff cuts including nurses and personal support workers, citing budget constraints. Perley Health (formerly Perley and Rideau Veterans) is adjusting 52 positions, primarily float pool roles, with redeployment efforts underway.
Tech Sector Hiring
Active tech hiring continues with positions at High Tech Genesis (software developers, embedded engineers), Fidus Systems (senior designers), and Fullscript (support specialists, back-end developers). Deloitte is recruiting Tech & Transformation co-op students for summer/fall 2026 placements in Ottawa.
Wage Updates
Ontario’s general minimum wage remains at $17.60/hour until October 1, 2026, when a projected increase to approximately $18 takes effect based on CPI. Employment Insurance benefits increased for 2026, allowing up to $110 more weekly for eligible claimants.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of January 10, 2026
Image: Settlement services continue supporting newcomers across Ottawa.
IRCC Updates
Recent IRCC changes simplify study permits for master’s and PhD students by removing Provincial Attestation Letter requirements, while pausing new Start-up Visa applications and Home Care Worker pilots. The excessive demand threshold for health services was updated effective January 2, and Ministerial Instructions now allow processing of up to 10,000 Parents and Grandparents Program applications in 2026.
Express Entry Draw
Draw #390 on January 7 targeted the Canadian Experience Class with 8,000 invitations to apply issued at a CRS cutoff of 511. Category-based draws continue prioritizing healthcare workers, trades professionals, educators, and French speakers. No draws were reported for January 10—check the official IRCC rounds page for updates.
Ottawa Settlement Services
Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) provides needs assessments, housing and health orientation, and family settlement plans. Catholic Centre for Immigrants offers free confidential services including document guidance and supportive counselling. YMCA Newcomer Information Centre assists with immigration questions, housing, employment, and healthcare access. Free LINC language classes are available through Ottawa Catholic School Board with childcare options.
Health & Wellness
As of January 10, 2026
Image: Ottawa hospitals face extended wait times amid high flu activity.
Hospital Wait Times
Ottawa hospitals are experiencing elevated emergency room wait times. The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus reports average first assessment waits of 3-3.5 hours, exceeding provincial averages. Montfort Hospital sees total stays up to 6 hours for low-urgency patients. CHEO and Queensway-Carleton face 2.6-3.5 hour waits for initial assessment. Check ottawahospital.on.ca for real-time updates.
Flu Season Update
Flu activity remains high in Ottawa, with wastewater levels four times higher than early 2025 baselines. Approximately 17% of hospital patients are affected compared to the 13% average. Three children recently died from flu complications at CHEO. COVID levels remain moderate and stable, while RSV is high but stable.
Ottawa Public Health urges everyone aged 6 months and older to get flu and COVID vaccines. Book appointments at ottawapublichealth.ca or call 1-833-943-3900. Pharmacies and community hubs also offer vaccinations.
Walk-In Clinics Today
Appletree Medical at 225 Preston Street is open today with Dr. Hussain from 12-9 PM (registration starts 11:30 AM), with current waits around 25 minutes. The 421 Rideau Street clinic accepts in-person registration from 8:30 AM-8 PM. Quebec patients are welcome at most locations.
What To Do Now (Health)
With flu activity at four times baseline levels, get vaccinated if you haven’t already. If you need non-urgent care, consider walk-in clinics rather than emergency rooms. Wash hands frequently, stay home if sick, and watch for symptoms in children given recent pediatric flu complications.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of January 10, 2026
Image: Ottawa residents should remain vigilant against ongoing phone and online scams.
Phone Scams to Watch
Grandparent Scams remain prevalent, with callers posing as lawyers claiming a relative needs urgent bail money. A December 2025 Ottawa case nearly cost one senior $6,000 before family members intervened. The scammers pressure secrecy and demand immediate payment. Learn more about grandparent scams targeting Ottawa seniors.
CRA Scams feature automated threats of arrest for unpaid taxes, demanding payment via gift cards or Bitcoin. The legitimate CRA never threatens arrest, demands gift card payments, or asks for Bitcoin. Hang up immediately on such calls.
Bank Investigator Scams use spoofed caller IDs to claim account issues, tricking victims into sharing PINs or handing cards to fake couriers. Never give banking information to inbound callers—contact your bank directly using the number on your card. Read our full guide on bank investigator scams in Ottawa.
Online and Text Scams
Phishers are sending fake CRA texts and toll/parking fine messages (like PayTool scams mimicking the 407 ETR), with over 900 Canadian victims reported recently. Look for poor grammar, unsolicited urgent payment demands, and spoofed sender details. Never click links in suspicious texts—delete them immediately.
Marketplace Fraud
Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace scams include fake e-transfers leading to phony bank sites that steal login credentials. One Ontario victim lost $6,700 last November. Read our detailed guide on online marketplace scams in Ottawa for tips on staying safe. Always meet in public locations such as police station parking lots for in-person transactions, and only accept verified payments.
Romance and Crypto Scams
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre issued a warning January 8 about romance frauds building fake online relationships that lead to investment requests, often involving cryptocurrency. Our guide to romance scams and dating fraud explains the warning signs. Regulators shut down 3,900 fake crypto platforms in 2025. Red flags include guaranteed high returns, blocked withdrawals, and strangers requesting account access.
Report scams to: Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. Canadians lost over $643 million to fraud in 2024.
Transit & Getting Around
As of January 10, 2026
Image: OC Transpo continues service with several route detours and fare increases in effect.
OC Transpo Service Updates
OC Transpo reports ongoing service reliability challenges with over 6% of bus trips undelivered due to maintenance backlogs on electric buses. Short-term actions prioritize critical routes serving hospitals and schools.
Current Detours:
- Route 90: Detour near Canada Post Roadway/Brookfield/Heron using Riverside Drive
- Route 10: Downtown via Laurier/Bronson
- Routes 11/57/61/62/63/75/82/85: Lincoln Fields Transitway ramp closure
Winter 2026 schedule changes effective January 5 added trips on Route 26 from Blair Station with frequency boosts on Route 45. Transit fares increased 2.5% as of January 1.
O-Train/LRT Status
Line 1 east extension to Trim remains delayed to early 2026 due to track and concrete deficiencies. Testing is expected soon but no opening date has been announced. The Walkley Station northbound elevator is out for maintenance—use Heron Station as an alternative. LRT performance has improved to 98.8% reliability, up from 97.1% in 2024.
Road Construction
Highway 417 eastbound Nicholas off-ramp closed until 2 AM today. Route 90 detours around Canada Post Roadway sewer work continue. Check Ottawa 511 for real-time updates.
Parking and Gas
City parking rates increased: maximum daily rate now $26 (from $25), hourly rate $8 (23% increase). Residential parking permits rose to $792 annually. Ottawa gas prices average $1.235/litre as of January 8, steady around $1.22-$1.24 recently.
Live Music Tonight
As of January 10, 2026
Image: Ottawa venues offer live music across multiple genres tonight.
Friday Night Shows
Punk Rock Winteruption at House of TARG
- Time: 8:00 PM doors, 8:30 PM music
- Location: 1077 Bank Street
- Lineup: Positive Charge, Sugar Bomb!, Sunshine Overload, Ociosa (Montreal), NIMBY
- Cover: $15 | 19+ with valid ID
Benjamin Dakota Rogers & Zachary Lucky at Red Bird
- Time: 8:00 PM (doors 7:00 PM)
- Location: 1165 Bank Street
- Genre: Country/Americana
- Tickets: $25 in advance
Emilie Steele & The Deal with The Mill Rights at Irene’s Pub
- Time: 9:00 PM
- Location: Irene’s Pub
Heart & Crown in ByWard Market
- Southbound Boots Duo: Heart Stage, 9 PM-1 AM
- Kimberley Gabie Band: McGintey’s Stage, 10 PM-2 AM
Hard Rock Café Ottawa
- Free live music tonight
The Rainbow Bistro
- Hip-hop events including Moun Fou Album Release at 76 Murray Street
Theatre & Shows
January 2026
Image: The National Arts Centre presents Clue - A New Comedy this weekend.
This Weekend
Clue - A New Comedy at National Arts Centre
- Saturday: 1:00 PM (from $78) | 7:30 PM (from $285)
- Sunday: 1:00 PM (from $73) | 7:30 PM (from $121)
- Location: NAC Southam Hall, 1 Elgin Street
- A murder mystery comedy based on the classic board game and film
Candlelight Jazz & Soul: Tribute to Jazz Greats
- Time: Saturday, 6:30 PM
- Location: Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper Street
- Performer: Jennarie
- Tickets: From $30
- Multi-sensory experience with thousands of candles
Comedy
Nick Burden at Laugh Lounge
- Time: Friday, 8:30 PM
- Tickets: General admission via StubHub
Nightlife & Clubs
Shrek Rave by MODO-LIVE
- Location: ParKTheatreCafe
- Tickets: myparktheatre.com
Country Night at The Prescott
- Time: 9:00 PM
- Tickets: $8-$10
The Vault
- Late night event starting 11:00 PM at 36 Bentley Avenue
Sports This Weekend
As of January 10, 2026
Image: The Ottawa Senators host the Florida Panthers tonight at Canadian Tire Centre.
Ottawa Senators vs. Florida Panthers
The big game of the weekend brings the Florida Panthers to Ottawa for a Saturday night showdown. Learn more about the Ottawa Senators franchise history and their journey in the NHL.
- Date: Friday, January 10, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Kanata
- TV: NHL Network
- Tickets: Starting from $32 via Ticketmaster or SeatGeek
Ottawa Charge (PWHL)
The Ottawa Charge women’s hockey team returns to action following their Friday victory against Vancouver.
- Next Home Game: Sunday, January 11 at 1:00 PM
- Location: TD Place or Canadian Tire Centre
Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
No home game for the Ottawa 67’s this weekend. The team plays away at Sault Ste. Marie on January 9 and at Sudbury on January 11 at 2:05 PM. Check CHL.ca for tickets and streams.
Ski Conditions
Camp Fortune (Chelsea, QC)
- Weekend hours: Saturday 9 AM-9 PM, Sunday 9 AM-7 PM
- Machine-groomed conditions
Calabogie Peaks
- Reliable base (30-50 cm average)
Mont Cascades
- Open with variable conditions—check resort site for updates
Museums & Attractions
Open January 10, 2026
Image: Ottawa museums offer free youth admission through January 15 under the Canada Strong Pass.
Free Youth Admission Extended
Children and youth 17 and under receive free general admission to Ingenium museums (Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Science and Technology Museum) through January 15, 2026, under the Canada Strong Pass program. Many museums also offer free entry from 4-5 PM daily.
Museum Hours Today
| Museum | Hours | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Science & Technology Museum | 9 AM - 5 PM | Adults $19, Youth free (Canada Strong Pass) |
| Canadian Museum of Nature | 9:30 AM - 4 PM | Adults ~$20, Free Thursdays 5-8 PM |
| National Gallery of Canada | 9:30 AM - 5 PM | Free for children 11 and under |
| Canadian War Museum | 9 AM - 5 PM | Adults $28 CAD |
| Canada Aviation & Space Museum | 9 AM - 5 PM | Adults $16.75, Youth free |
| Diefenbunker | 11 AM - 4 PM | Underground Cold War bunker tours |
Special Events Today
Canadian Museum of History
- Sparking Imagination: Build-it! Zone
- Neon Creations glow painting
- Cool History: Hockey exhibit
- Public tours available ($5 extra)
National Gallery of Canada
- Winter Family Storytime: 10:00-10:45 AM
- Free for children 11 and under, Indigenous peoples
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of January 10, 2026
Image: The Rideau Canal Skateway status depends on ice conditions—check NCC updates.
Rideau Canal Skateway Status
The Rideau Canal Skateway is currently temporarily closed due to unseasonably warm temperatures and recent rain affecting ice conditions. The 7.8-kilometre skating route from Bank Street to Dow’s Lake requires ice thickness of at least 30 cm before the NCC can open it safely.
When open, the Skateway operates 24/7 with free access and features concession stands serving BeaverTails, hot chocolate, and warming huts along the route. Check the NCC website or call 613-239-5234 for daily ice condition updates.
City Outdoor Rinks
Local outdoor rinks across Ottawa follow city hours, typically dawn to 10 PM. Our outdoor skating rinks guide covers all 300+ city rinks with locations and amenities. Check ottawa.ca for neighbourhood rink conditions and opening status.
613flea Market at Lansdowne
The 613flea marketplace returns to Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne today with over 150 vendors selling vintage items, antiques, handmade goods, and food. Entry is free.
Dining & Nightlife
As of January 10, 2026
Image: ByWard Market offers the best selection of live music venues and restaurants tonight.
ByWard Market Highlights
Heart & Crown stands out tonight with dual live music stages and Irish pub vibes, open until 2 AM. The Rainbow Bistro at 76 Murray Street provides a legendary live music atmosphere in one of Ottawa’s most iconic venues.
The general ByWard Market area buzzes with dining, shopping, and entertainment options until 10 PM—one of Ottawa’s oldest and most vibrant neighbourhoods. Barrio near ByWard continues serving South American street food.
Happy Hour Specials
Several spots run daily happy hours active tonight:
- Chop Ottawa Hunt Club: 2 PM-6 PM and 9 PM-close (lounge)
- Rabbit Hole: Classic cocktails $12, 4 PM-7 PM
- The Senate & Clarendon Tavern: 5-7 PM deals in ByWard Market
New and Reopening
Grounded Kitchen reopens today after upgrades, potentially featuring BBQ and cocktails. Check venue social media for latest offerings.
Library Programs & Free Events
January 10, 2026
Image: Ottawa Public Library branches offer free programs for all ages today.
Ottawa Public Library Programs Today
Multiple free drop-in events run across OPL branches today:
Sunnyside Branch
- Preschool Play: 10:00 AM (puppets, crafts, blocks)
Cumberland Branch
- Writers’ Group: 10:00 AM
Carp Branch
- Exam study space: 10:00 AM
- Family Storytime: 10:30-11:00 AM
- Stay & Play: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Manotick Branch
- Spoken word writing workshop with poet Khaleefa “Apollo the Child” Hamdan: 10:30 AM
North Gower Branch
- Crafting for kids: 10:30 AM
Richmond Branch
- Reading Buddies for ages 5-8: 11:00 AM
Free Museum Access
A joint OPL Storytime occurs at National Gallery of Canada (380 Sussex Drive) at 10:00 AM today. Ingenium museums continue offering free youth admission through January 15.
Mental Health Support
CMHA Ottawa offers ongoing drop-in peer support groups for mental health recovery, both online and in-person. Sessions are free and confidential—check their website for times.
Weather Outlook
As of January 10, 2026
Image: Snow arrives Saturday evening with 4-10 cm accumulation expected.
Today’s Forecast
Ottawa sees mainly cloudy skies today with a high of -1°C and wind chill near -6°C. Light winds up to 15 km/h. No precipitation during the day, but snow arrives overnight with the low remaining around -1°C.
Special Weather Statement
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for strong winds gusting 70-90 km/h late Thursday into early Friday. The winds are tapering off this morning. Residents should secure loose outdoor items.
Weekend Outlook
Saturday, January 11: Cloudy skies with a 60% chance of flurries. High near 0°C, low -13°C. Snow begins in the evening with 4-10 cm accumulation expected, creating potentially hazardous conditions.
Sunday, January 12: Mix of sun and cloud with a 60% chance of snow. High -4°C, low -5°C. Additional accumulation possible.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Prepare for snow Saturday evening into Sunday—clear vehicles early and allow extra travel time. If you have outdoor activities planned Saturday, complete them before evening. Keep devices charged and check on elderly neighbours as temperatures drop to -13°C overnight.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Friday, January 10:
- Parliament Hill Immigration Protest @ 1:00 PM (FREE)
- 613flea Market @ Lansdowne Aberdeen Pavilion (FREE)
- Ottawa Senators vs Florida Panthers @ Canadian Tire Centre, 7:00 PM ($32+)
- Punk Rock Winteruption @ House of TARG, 8:00 PM ($15)
- Benjamin Dakota Rogers & Zachary Lucky @ Red Bird, 8:00 PM ($25)
- Nick Burden Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:30 PM
- Live music @ Heart & Crown ByWard Market, 9:00 PM (FREE)
Saturday, January 11:
- Winter Family Storytime @ National Gallery, 10:00 AM (FREE)
- Clue - A New Comedy @ NAC, 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM ($73-$285)
- Candlelight Jazz & Soul @ Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 6:30 PM ($30+)
- Ottawa Charge (PWHL) Home Game @ 1:00 PM
All Weekend:
- Free youth museum admission (ages 17 and under) at Ingenium museums through January 15
- Museums open with standard Saturday hours
- Camp Fortune and Calabogie Peaks skiing
- Rideau Canal Skateway: Check NCC for status updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time is the Parliament Hill protest today?
The Stand United Canada immigration protest begins at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 10, 2026, at Parliament Hill. Organizers plan marches across Ottawa’s downtown core. Expect traffic delays around Wellington Street, Sparks Street, and surrounding areas from early afternoon into the evening.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open this weekend?
The Rideau Canal Skateway is currently temporarily closed due to unseasonably warm temperatures and recent rain affecting ice conditions. The 7.8-kilometre skating route requires at least 30 cm of ice thickness before the NCC can open it safely. Check the NCC website or call 613-239-5234 for daily updates.
Q: What time do the Ottawa Senators play tonight?
The Ottawa Senators host the Florida Panthers on Friday, January 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET at Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata. Tickets start at $32 via Ticketmaster or SeatGeek. The game broadcasts on NHL Network.
Q: How much did Ottawa property taxes increase for 2026?
The 2026 City of Ottawa budget includes a 3.75% property tax increase, adding approximately $166 per year for the average urban homeowner and $93 for rural residents. Transit fares also increased 2.5% as of January 1.
Q: What is the weather forecast for Ottawa this weekend?
Friday sees a high of -1°C with cloudy skies and snow overnight. Saturday brings a 60% chance of flurries with 4-10 cm snow expected in the evening, high near 0°C and low -13°C. Sunday features a mix of sun and cloud with more snow possible.
Q: Are Ottawa museums free this weekend?
Children and youth 17 and under receive free admission to Ingenium museums (Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Science and Technology Museum) through January 15 under the Canada Strong Pass. Many museums also offer free entry from 4-5 PM daily.
Q: What are the current ER wait times at Ottawa hospitals?
Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus reports average first assessment waits of 3-3.5 hours, exceeding provincial averages. Montfort Hospital sees total stays up to 6 hours for low-urgency patients. CHEO and Queensway-Carleton face 2.6-3.5 hour waits. Check ottawahospital.on.ca for real-time updates.
Q: Is the flu serious in Ottawa right now?
Flu activity remains high in Ottawa, with wastewater levels four times higher than early 2025 baselines. Three children recently died from flu complications at CHEO. Ottawa Public Health urges vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older at pharmacies or community clinics.
Q: What scams should Ottawa residents watch for?
Current scams include grandparent scams (fake lawyer calls demanding bail money), CRA scams threatening arrest, bank investigator scams, and romance/crypto frauds. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre warns that Canadians lost over $643 million to fraud in 2024. Report scams to Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 or CAFC at 1-888-495-8501.
Q: How much is gas in Ottawa today?
Ottawa gas prices average $1.235/litre as of January 8, 2026, steady around $1.22-$1.24 recently. City parking rates also increased, with the maximum daily rate now $26 and hourly rate $8.
Q: What live music is happening in Ottawa tonight?
Tonight features Punk Rock Winteruption at House of TARG ($15), Benjamin Dakota Rogers at Red Bird ($25), Emilie Steele at Irene’s Pub, free music at Hard Rock Café, and multiple acts at Heart & Crown in ByWard Market. The Rainbow Bistro hosts the Moun Fou Album Release.
Q: What happened with federal immigration changes for 2026?
Canada reduced permanent resident admissions to 380,000 for 2026 (down from 395,000), student visa issuance dropped to 155,000 (from 437,000), and temporary worker admissions fell to 230,000. The latest Express Entry draw on January 7 issued 8,000 CEC invitations at a CRS cutoff of 511.
Q: Are there any road closures in Ottawa today?
Highway 417 eastbound Nicholas off-ramp was closed until 2 AM today. Route 90 continues detouring around Canada Post Roadway sewer work. Lincoln Fields Transitway ramp closure affects multiple bus routes. Check Ottawa 511 for real-time updates.
Q: What free events are happening this weekend?
Free events include the 613flea market at Lansdowne, Winter Family Storytime at National Gallery (10 AM), free youth museum admission at Ingenium museums, free music at Heart & Crown and Hard Rock Café, and various Ottawa Public Library programs across branches.
Q: When does Winterlude start?
Winterlude 2026 begins January 30 and runs through February 16, featuring ice sculptures, Snowflake Kingdom snow playground, and Indigenous cultural programming over three weekends. The festival is one of Ottawa’s largest winter celebrations.
Final Summary
Ottawa enters the second week of 2026 with a busy Friday ahead. The Parliament Hill immigration protest at 1:00 PM will draw crowds and likely cause downtown traffic delays, so plan accordingly if heading that way. Tonight’s Senators game against the Panthers offers hockey fans a Saturday evening at Canadian Tire Centre, while music lovers have plenty of options from punk rock to country across the city’s venues.
New 2026 taxes and fees are now in effect, including the 3.75% property tax increase and 2.5% transit fare hike. Flu season continues to strain hospitals with elevated ER wait times, making vaccination and using walk-in clinics for non-emergencies especially important. The Rideau Canal Skateway remains closed awaiting colder weather, but skiing at Camp Fortune and Calabogie remains solid.
Looking ahead, snow arrives Saturday evening with 4-10 cm expected, so complete outdoor activities before nightfall and prepare for slippery roads Sunday. Winterlude kicks off January 30 for those looking forward to Ottawa’s signature winter festival. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy your Ottawa weekend.
Sources & References
Sources cited inline throughout this article:
- Environment Canada - Weather forecasts and alerts
- Ottawa Public Health - Flu updates and vaccination info
- OC Transpo - Transit alerts and service updates
- Ottawa 511 - Road conditions and construction
- The Ottawa Hospital - ER wait times
- City of Ottawa - Municipal services and rink conditions
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre - Scam alerts
- Ottawa Police Service - Safety updates
- National Capital Commission - Rideau Canal Skateway status
- Stand United Canada - Protest organization
- Ottawa Senators - NHL schedule and tickets
- Ottawa Public Library - Program schedules
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media. Information is accurate as of January 10, 2026, 8:30 AM ET.
