Ottawa Daily News: January 13, 2026
Last Updated: January 13, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET
The Ottawa Senators take on the Vancouver Canucks tonight at Canadian Tire Centre, while major news includes the start of O-Train east extension testing toward Orléans and continued federal public service layoffs affecting hundreds of workers across multiple departments.
Ottawa wakes up to a mild winter day with temperatures reaching 2°C but a 40% chance of flurries this morning, with periods of snow expected late afternoon bringing approximately 2 cm of accumulation. Roads remain slippery from recent snowfall, so drivers should exercise caution. The big story this week centres on transit: O-Train testing for the long-awaited east extension to Trim Station is expected to begin soon, potentially opening by late March 2026. Meanwhile, 19 of 24 city councillors have announced plans to seek re-election in October, setting the stage for municipal election season.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Senators face Canucks at 7 PM tonight at Canadian Tire Centre with tickets from $19. O-Train east extension testing begins soon with a target opening by end of March. Federal layoffs continue with hundreds of positions cut across multiple departments. Transit fares increased 2.5% as of January 1, but youth under 18 now ride free on weekends and holidays.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Monday, January 13, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High 2°C, 40% flurries morning, 2 cm snow late afternoon |
| 🚗 Traffic | Roads slippery from recent snow, winter tires required |
| 🎉 Top Event | Senators vs Canucks, 7 PM at Canadian Tire Centre |
| 🏒 Sports | Ottawa 67’s play Friday vs Gatineau at TD Place |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Parliament Hill stands quiet on a January morning as federal policy changes take effect across Canada.
Major Breaking Developments
Federal Government Reduces Immigration Targets for 2026
Canada’s federal government has announced a significant reduction in permanent resident targets for 2026, bringing admissions down to 380,000—a decrease of 15,000 from 2025 and over 100,000 below 2024 levels. The move aims to reduce pressure on housing and healthcare services across the country, including in Ottawa where the rental market remains tight.
Prime Minister Carney Meeting with Coastal First Nations
Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to meet with Coastal First Nations leadership at 9:00 AM in Prince Rupert, BC, followed by a business visit and departure to Beijing. The meetings are closed to media except for pooled photos. Details on federal remote work policy are expected “over the course of the next several weeks,” according to the Prime Minister’s office.
Canada Condemns Iran Over Protester Deaths
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand issued a joint statement with international partners condemning Iran’s regime for protester deaths and arrests, praising demonstrators’ bravery. The statement reflects ongoing international pressure on Iran’s human rights record.
Bank of Canada Holds Interest Rate at 2.25%
The Bank of Canada is maintaining its policy interest rate at 2.25% as of January 2026, amid easing inflation pressures. The stable rate provides some predictability for Ottawa homeowners with variable-rate mortgages, though economists continue monitoring inflation trends.
Municipal Election Season Begins
A significant majority of Ottawa city councillors—19 of 24—have announced plans to seek re-election in October 2026. This creates a notably different competitive environment compared to the previous election, with fewer open seats expected across the city’s wards.
Public Safety
Hydro Ottawa Planned Power Outages Today
Hydro Ottawa has scheduled maintenance work affecting two areas today. Shakewood Street in Orléans South-Navan Ward will experience a power interruption from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. A second planned outage affects Bank Street and Queensdale Avenue in Gloucester-Southgate Ward from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a possible postponement to January 14 if conditions require. Residents in affected areas should prepare by charging devices and having flashlights ready.
No Active Weather Warnings
Environment Canada reports no active weather warnings for the Ottawa area as of early morning. However, with 2 cm of snow expected late afternoon and a risk of freezing drizzle overnight, drivers should remain vigilant. Roads may become slippery through the evening commute.
Ottawa Board of Health Meeting
The Ottawa Board of Health meets today at 5:00 PM, potentially addressing updates from the Medical Officer of Health. Residents can check ottawapublichealth.ca for any announcements following the meeting.
What To Do Now
If you live in Orléans South-Navan or Gloucester-Southgate wards, charge devices and prepare for scheduled outages today. Roads are slippery from recent snow—allow extra time for your commute and ensure winter tires are properly installed. Check Hydro Ottawa’s outage map for real-time updates.
Government & Policy Changes
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Ottawa City Hall, where the 2026 municipal budget takes effect with property tax increases.
City of Ottawa 2026 Budget Now in Effect
The 2026 City of Ottawa budget brings a 3.75% property tax increase, adding approximately $166 to the average urban homeowner’s annual bill and about $93 for rural homeowners. Water and wastewater rates increase by 4.5%, while solid waste fees rise by about $2 per month to roughly $267 annually.
Municipal Fees Rise Across the Board
Many municipal fees have increased for 2026, including business licence fees (up roughly 3.3%), Ottawa Police Service charges for record checks and collision reports, and marriage licence and civil ceremony fees. The municipal accommodation tax on hotels and short-term rentals like Airbnb increases by one percentage point to 6%, with extra revenue earmarked for the Lansdowne 2.0 project.
Federal Tax Brackets Adjusted for Inflation
Federal personal income tax brackets have been inflation-indexed for 2026, with the lowest 14% bracket now applying up to approximately $58,523 of income. All federal thresholds have shifted up by about 2%, slightly reducing federal tax for many workers.
$300 Seniors Payment Issued Today
The Canada Revenue Agency is issuing a one-time $300 payment to eligible seniors today, automatically deposited to help with rising costs for groceries, utilities, and health expenses.
Jobs & Employment
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Federal office buildings in downtown Ottawa, where workforce restructuring continues.
Federal Layoffs Continue Across Departments
Federal departments are issuing layoff notices this month, targeting hundreds of positions as part of workforce restructuring toward 40,000 reductions by 2028-29. Affected departments include Natural Resources Canada (approximately 700 indeterminate employees, 400 positions by 2028-29), Public Service Commission (157 workers), Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (94), Department of Finance (74), and Privy Council Office (19).
TCC Canada Opens Downtown Ottawa Office
TCC Canada opened a new flagship office in downtown Ottawa on January 5 at 135 Laurier Avenue West. A VIP reception is scheduled for January 21 to promote collaboration spaces—RSVP via events.com for details.
Job Fairs This Week
Several employment events are scheduled for the coming days. On January 14, OPP Uniform Recruitment takes place in Ottawa, alongside VON’s Online Job Fair. Ottawa Police Service holds an Officer Recruitment session on January 15 from 1:00-3:00 PM at the YMCA EAC West (1642 Merivale Rd). On January 16, YSB hosts Banking Careers with RBC in Ottawa.
Wage and EI Updates
Ontario’s minimum wage holds at $17.60 per hour through September 2026, with a projected increase to approximately $18 per hour in October. Employment Insurance maximum insurable earnings rise to $68,900 (up from $65,700), with maximum weekly benefits increasing by up to $110.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Settlement services across Ottawa help newcomers navigate immigration processes and community resources.
IRCC Policy Updates for 2026
Several changes took effect January 1, 2026. Master’s and PhD students are now exempt from Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL) requirements, streamlining their study permit process. Certain entrepreneur pathways have closed, and home care worker pilots are paused. Open work permits for TR-to-PR applicants have been extended until December 31, 2026.
Express Entry Status
No specific Express Entry draws have occurred as of January 13, 2026. Recent 2025 draws had CRS cut-offs around 521 for Canadian Experience Class, with predictions for early 2026 PNP draws at 720+ and CEC at 512+. Candidates should monitor their IRCC accounts for updates.
Settlement Services Available
YMCA Newcomer Information Centre offers free personalized support on immigration, housing, employment, education, and health with multilingual staff. Ottawa Chinese Community Service Centre (OCCSC) provides drop-in assessments at 400 Cooper St. Somali Centre for Family Services delivers citizenship prep sessions at local libraries. LINC/ESL classes for permanent residents are free via Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board and OCDSB at multiple Ottawa locations.
Health & Wellness
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Hospital emergency departments remain busy as respiratory virus season continues.
Respiratory Virus Activity Elevated
Flu levels are very high, RSV is high, and COVID-19 is low but rising in Ottawa, with increased ER visits among children and seniors. Ottawa Public Health recommends vaccination for all eligible residents.
Free Vaccines Available
Free COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines (for ages 75+) are available at pharmacies, healthcare providers, and Ottawa Public Health clinics. Nearby Renfrew County lists a clinic on January 15 at Renfrew Service Hub from 12:20-1:20 PM.
Hospital Wait Times
Real-time emergency room wait times are available through provincial trackers like ER Watch, which updates every 15 minutes. CHEO reports its department as very busy, prioritizing the sickest patients first, with historical averages exceeding 4 hours for initial assessments.
Mental Health Resources
The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline offers 24/7 support for ages 16+ via call or text. Ottawa Distress Centre provides crisis line at (613) 238-3311, text (343) 306-5550 (10 AM-11 PM), and online chat.
Walk-In Clinics
The Ottawa Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic on Montreal Road in Vanier serves approximately 6,000 residents with primary care and mental health support—no family doctor needed. Centrum Pharmacy in Orléans offers walk-ins Fridays and Saturdays 9:30 AM-1:30 PM at 210 Centrum Blvd; bring your OHIP card.
What To Do Now (Health)
With flu levels very high and RSV elevated, consider getting vaccinated if you haven’t already—free shots are available at local pharmacies without appointment. If you need emergency care, check ER Watch for current wait times before heading to the hospital. Call 9-8-8 if you or someone you know needs mental health support.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Phone scams continue targeting Ottawa residents with aggressive demands for immediate payment.
Ongoing Scam Threats
Ottawa residents face ongoing risks from common scams including phone frauds impersonating authorities, phishing via email or text, and online marketplace deceptions. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reports that scammers continue evolving tactics using AI and phone number spoofing.
Phone Scams to Watch For
CRA scammers call claiming unpaid taxes, demanding immediate payment via gift cards or wire transfers, often threatening arrest. Tech support fraud involves pop-ups or calls warning of viruses, urging remote access or payments. Grandparent scams feature urgent calls about a relative’s arrest or accident needing bail money. Remember: CRA never requests payment via gift cards or threatens immediate arrest.
Email and Text Phishing
Phishers send fake CRA, bank, or government emails with malicious links mimicking legitimate alerts. Recent “smishing” attacks use texts about unpaid tolls or parking fines (often $6.97) from spoofed agencies, stealing data via fake websites. Always hover over links to check URLs before clicking, and watch for spelling errors or spoofed domains.
Marketplace Safety
Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace scams include fake e-transfer confirmations linking to phony bank sites. Some in-person meetups have turned into robberies. Use Ottawa Police Safe Trade Zones at police station parking lots, accept cash only, and reverse-image search photos of items before buying. Watch out for tow truck scams and door-to-door construction scams as well.
How to Report
Contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300 for local incidents. Report all scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or antifraudcentre.ca, even if you didn’t lose money. Freeze credit via Equifax or TransUnion if you’ve shared personal information.
Transit & Getting Around
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
OC Transpo operates with winter service schedules as roads remain slippery from recent snow.
O-Train East Extension Testing Begins Soon
Testing for the O-Train East extension into Orléans is expected to begin “relatively early in the new year,” with a realistic target for opening by end of March 2026. The extension will run from Blair Station to Trim Station, bringing rapid transit to the eastern suburbs.
Winter 2026 Service Changes
Routes 17 and 25 have been extended via Hemlock Road in Wateridge, removing Mikinak Road service. Short trips on route 24 now end at the future Montréal Station. Route 26 has added trips from Blair Station at 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, and 12:50 PM. Route 45 now offers 15-minute evening frequency.
Active Detours
Routes 41 and 48 detour on Walkley Road near St-Laurent due to construction (effective January 10), missing stops including Walkley/St Laurent (8315)—use Elmvale B (3053) or Walkley/Halifax (8491). Route 12 skips Jasmine Crescent on Ogilvie Road. Route 90 detours on Canada Post Roadway with one lane between Brookfield and Heron. Blair Station northbound elevator is out for maintenance.
Fares and Parking
Transit fares increased 2.5% on January 1, with adult single-ride at $4.10 (cash $4.15). Youth under 18 ride free on weekends and holidays. Parking rates have increased: maximum daily $26 (up from $25), hourly $8. Annual residential permit is now $792. Gas prices are steady at 131.9 cents per litre.
What To Do Now (Transit)
Check OC Transpo’s real-time app before heading out, as Blair Station elevator is closed and several routes are detouring around Walkley Road construction. Roads are slippery from recent snow—allow extra travel time whether driving or waiting for buses.
Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Ottawa’s live music scene offers everything from organ recitals to pub rock on a Tuesday night.
Music as Sanctuary Concert
St. Andrew’s Church (82 Kent St.) hosts an organ recital featuring Matthew Larkin’s performance of J.S. Bach’s Art of Fugue at 7:00 PM. Admission is by free will offering, making this an accessible option for classical music lovers. For more on Ottawa’s free church concert series and organ recitals, see our complete guide.
Heart & Crown ByWard Market
The iconic Irish pub at 67 Clarence St. hosts two events tonight. “Low IQ Trivia” with host Sean runs from 8-10 PM in Nan’s Parlour, followed by live music with uOttawa Scotty on the Heart Stage from 9 PM to 1 AM. Great for a casual Tuesday night out in the ByWard Market.
Red Bird Open Stage
Red Bird Live Music hosts its regular Tuesday open stage starting at 8 PM. Local musicians can sign up to perform, and audiences enjoy an eclectic mix of styles from rock to folk.
Angela Verbrugge at Night Oat
Jazz vocalist Angela Verbrugge performs at Night Oat on Gladstone—check venue for exact time. Her vocal jazz style brings sophistication to Ottawa’s mid-week music scene.
Absolute Comedy
Stand-up comedy at 412 Preston St. runs Tuesday nights at 8:30 PM. Tickets are $15, offering an affordable laugh for the mid-week blues.
Theatre & Shows Coming This Week
January 2026 Theatre Calendar
The National Arts Centre hosts the world premiere of “Copperbelt” through January 24.
Copperbelt - World Premiere at NAC
The National Arts Centre presents the world premiere of “Copperbelt” by Natasha Mumba, running January 13-24. This drama explores family, wealth, and identity through the eyes of a mining company manager, featuring Canadian and Zambian artists. For tickets and showtimes, call 1-844-985-2787 (ARTS) or email info@nac-cna.ca.
Amanda Rheaume at GCTC
Singer-songwriter Amanda Rheaume performs at the Great Canadian Theatre Company on Sunday, January 18 at 7:30 PM. Known for her folk-roots sound and powerful storytelling, this is a must-see for fans of Canadian music.
Magic at the Manor
Magician Michael Bourada brings interactive magic, mentalism, and deception to Manor Lounge (292 Elgin St.) on Wednesday, January 14. The show includes a dining experience—perfect for date night.
Weekly Comedy
Absolute Comedy on Preston St. runs shows Friday through Sunday with tickets at $25, while Tuesday night shows are just $15.
Sports This Week
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
The Ottawa Senators take on the Vancouver Canucks tonight at Canadian Tire Centre.
Ottawa Senators vs Vancouver Canucks - TONIGHT
The Senators host the Canucks at 7:00 PM at Canadian Tire Centre (1000 Palladium Dr., Kanata). Tickets start from $19 via SeatGeek, and CAA members can save $13 on parking. This is the home team’s first game of the week before hosting Montreal on Friday.
Senators vs Montreal Canadiens
The next home game is Friday, January 17 at 7:00 PM at Canadian Tire Centre. Tickets start from $120 for this always-popular matchup against the Habs.
Ottawa 67’s OHL Hockey
No 67’s game today, but junior hockey fans have a busy weekend ahead. Friday, January 16: Gatineau Olympiques visit Ottawa 67’s at 7:00 PM at TD Place. Saturday, January 17: 67’s travel to Gatineau at 4:00 PM. Sunday, January 18: Peterborough Petes visit at 3:00 PM at TD Place.
CFL Offseason
The Ottawa Redblacks are deep in the offseason. The 2026 CFL regular season begins June 6 when the Elks visit TD Place Stadium.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Ottawa’s museums offer discounted admission through the Canada Strong Pass until January 15.
Canada Strong Pass - Last Days
Youth under 18 get free entry and young adults (18-24) receive half-price admission at participating museums through January 15. This is your last chance to take advantage of this holiday discount program. See our guide to free museum hours in Ottawa for more details.
National Gallery of Canada - CLOSED
The National Gallery is closed January 13-16 for annual maintenance. Regular hours resume Friday with the collection spanning Indigenous, Canadian, and international art.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
Open 9 AM to 5 PM today. Adult admission approximately $25, but half-price with Canada Strong Pass; youth free with pass. Features technology history exhibits and science demonstrations.
Canadian Museum of Nature
Open 9:30 AM to 5 PM (Thursday until 8 PM, free after 5 PM). Adult tickets $24, with discounts available. Current highlights include “Qikiqtait” on Inuit knowledge (until 2027), dinosaurs, and live animal exhibits.
Canadian War Museum
Open standard hours (9:30 AM to 5 PM). Admission around $20-28 CAD for adults, with Canada Strong Pass discounts. Features military history artifacts and veteran stories.
Canadian Aviation and Space Museum
Open 9 AM to 5 PM; free admission from 4-5 PM daily. Adult tickets approximately $22. Displays aircraft from WWII to modern space technology, including Canadarm exhibits.
Diefenbunker
Open 11 AM to 4 PM (January/February Tuesday-Sunday). Adults $14 plus HST, seniors $13, students $10, youth $8. Explore Canada’s Cold War bunker history with underground tours. Learn more in our Diefenbunker visitor’s guide.
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
The Rideau Canal Skateway is open for the season, weather permitting.
Rideau Canal Skateway
The world’s largest skating rink is open with the full 7.8 km stretch available as of early January, weather permitting. The skateway typically operates 24 hours once conditions allow, but check NCC.ca for closures due to temperature fluctuations. Skate rentals and beaver tails are available at various points along the canal, with great views of the Château Laurier and Parliament Hill.
City Outdoor Rinks
Jim Tubman Chevrolet Rink and other city outdoor rinks operate 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekends, weather dependent. Lansdowne Skating Court runs 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Check Ottawa.ca for real-time rink conditions.
Ski Conditions
Camp Fortune is open with light snow expected (around 0.1 cm today), temperatures around 0°C max/-10°C min, with winds up to 43 km/h. Check skicentral.com for lift and trail status. Calabogie Peaks reports a good base of 30-50 cm, open for skiing. Mont Cascades has an 18-inch base with machine-groomed surface, operating 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Dining & Nightlife
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
The ByWard Market offers dining and entertainment options throughout the week.
Happy Hour Specials
Multiple venues offer daily happy hours. The Grand Pizzeria features $12 artisanal pizzas and $7 drafts from 3-5:30 PM. Heart & Crown and other pubs offer ongoing drink deals like $6 beers or $10 cocktails during set times.
ByWard Market Tonight
ByWard Public Market operates 9 AM to 10 PM with various dining options. Heart & Crown at 67 Clarence St. stands out for confirmed live music and trivia tonight. ALORA offers Italian dishes and cocktails, ideal for groups celebrating.
Coming Soon to Chinatown
A new Chinese restaurant plans to open early 2026 at 700 Somerset St. W., taking over the former Yangtze space. No exact opening date has been announced, but Chinatown regulars should watch for updates.
Rainbow Bistro
The legendary live music venue at 76 Murray St. features blues, rock, and Canadian artists throughout the week. Check their schedule for tonight’s lineup.
Library Programs & Free Events
January 13-19, 2026
Ottawa Public Library branches offer free programs for all ages throughout the week.
Glow Party at National Gallery
Thursday, January 15 brings a black-light craft party with DJ and dancing at the Scotiabank Great Hall, National Gallery of Canada. Wear white or neon for the best effect. Check gallery website for tickets and timing.
Paint Night at Osgoode Legion
Wednesday, January 14 features a step-by-step guided painting class creating a sleeping fox image. This event is nearly sold out, so register quickly if interested.
Vision Board Making
Thursday, January 15 at Anina’s Café in Vanier, Breathe Move Make hosts gentle qigong exercise combined with vision board creation—a perfect way to set intentions for the new year.
James Joyce Association Event
Saturday, January 17 at St. Brigid’s Centre for the Arts on St. Patrick St., enjoy tea, live music, and readings from James Joyce’s “The Dead.” Guests are invited to wear Edwardian attire for this literary afternoon.
BON Market
Saturday, January 16 at the National Arts Centre (1 Elgin St.), a community pop-up features women-led African and Caribbean businesses, art, and food. For more on Ottawa’s African and Caribbean restaurants, markets, and community, see our complete guide.
Weather Outlook
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 13, 2026
Light snow expected this afternoon with temperatures hovering around freezing.
Today’s Forecast
High of 2°C with a low around -1°C to 1°C overnight, holding steady near 2°C into the night. Cloudy conditions with a 40% chance of flurries in the morning, transitioning to periods of snow late afternoon with approximately 2 cm accumulation expected. Risk of freezing drizzle overnight makes roads potentially hazardous.
Wind and Wind Chill
Wind chill hits -5°C this morning from south winds at 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h. Current southwest gusts to 35 km/h make it feel like -6°C. Dress in layers if spending extended time outdoors.
No Active Warnings
Environment Canada reports no weather alerts in effect for Ottawa as of early morning.
Extended Outlook
Wednesday brings periods of rain or snow as temperatures fluctuate around freezing. By Thursday, extreme cold arrives with a high of -12°C (feeling like -18°C with wind chill). The weekend looks cold and cloudy: Saturday high of -5°C with a 40% chance of snow, Sunday high of -8°C with a 40% chance of flurries.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Expect 2 cm of snow this afternoon making roads slippery for the evening commute—allow extra travel time and ensure winter tires are installed. The real cold arrives Thursday with highs of -12°C and wind chills near -18°C, so plan warm clothing for the end of the week. Charge devices tonight in case freezing drizzle causes localized power issues.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Tuesday, January 13:
- Senators vs Canucks @ Canadian Tire Centre, 7 PM ($19+)
- Music as Sanctuary Concert @ St. Andrew’s Church, 7 PM (Free will offering)
- Low IQ Trivia @ Heart & Crown, 8-10 PM
- Live Music with uOttawa Scotty @ Heart & Crown, 9 PM-1 AM
- Red Bird Open Stage @ Red Bird Live Music, 8 PM
Wednesday, January 14:
- Magic at the Manor @ Manor Lounge, 292 Elgin St. (Evening)
- Paint Night @ Osgoode Legion (Nearly sold out)
Thursday, January 15:
- Glow Party @ National Gallery, Scotiabank Great Hall (Evening)
- Vision Board Making @ Anina’s Café, Vanier
- OPP Uniform Recruitment (Ottawa)
- Ottawa Police Recruiting @ YMCA EAC West, 1-3 PM
Friday, January 16:
- Frost Mayhem 2026 Kickoff @ Solena Nightclub, Gatineau ($10+, 18+)
- Ottawa 67’s vs Gatineau @ TD Place, 7 PM
Saturday, January 17:
- Senators vs Canadiens @ Canadian Tire Centre, 7 PM ($120+)
- Ottawa 67’s @ Gatineau, 4 PM
- BON Market @ NAC, 1 Elgin St.
- James Joyce Event @ St. Brigid’s Centre (Afternoon)
Sunday, January 18:
- Ottawa 67’s vs Peterborough @ TD Place, 3 PM
- Amanda Rheaume @ GCTC, 7:30 PM
All Week:
- Copperbelt @ NAC (Through January 24)
- Rideau Canal Skateway (Weather permitting)
- Canada Strong Pass museum discounts (Through January 15)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time do the Senators play tonight?
The Ottawa Senators host the Vancouver Canucks at 7:00 PM at Canadian Tire Centre. Tickets start from $19 via SeatGeek, and CAA members can save $13 on parking. The arena is located at 1000 Palladium Dr. in Kanata.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open today?
Yes, the Rideau Canal Skateway is open with the full 7.8 km stretch available as of early January, weather permitting. Check NCC.ca for real-time conditions, as temperature fluctuations can cause closures. The skateway typically operates 24 hours when open.
Q: When will the O-Train east extension to Orléans open?
Testing for the O-Train East extension is expected to begin in early 2026, with a realistic target for public opening by end of March 2026. The extension will run from Blair Station to Trim Station, finally bringing rapid transit to the eastern suburbs.
Q: How much did transit fares increase in 2026?
Transit fares increased 2.5% as of January 1, 2026. Adult single-ride is now $4.10 (cash $4.15). Youth under 18 ride free on weekends and holidays. Starting in April, the afternoon transfer window extends from 90 to 105 minutes.
Q: Is the National Gallery open today?
No, the National Gallery of Canada is closed January 13-16 for annual maintenance. Regular hours resume Friday. Other museums including the Science and Technology Museum, Museum of Nature, and War Museum are open today.
Q: What is the Canada Strong Pass?
The Canada Strong Pass offers free museum entry for youth under 18 and half-price admission for young adults (18-24) at participating Ottawa museums. The pass runs through January 15, 2026—today and tomorrow are the last days to use it.
Q: What are the current flu and COVID levels in Ottawa?
Flu levels are very high, RSV is high, and COVID-19 is low but rising in Ottawa, with increased ER visits among children and seniors. Free vaccines are available at pharmacies and Ottawa Public Health clinics without appointment.
Q: How much did property taxes increase in Ottawa for 2026?
The 2026 City of Ottawa budget includes a 3.75% property tax increase, adding approximately $166 to the average urban homeowner’s annual bill and about $93 for rural homeowners. Water rates increased 4.5% and solid waste fees rose by $2 per month.
Q: Are there any power outages scheduled today?
Yes, Hydro Ottawa has scheduled two maintenance outages today. Shakewood Street in Orléans South-Navan Ward from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and Bank Street/Queensdale Avenue in Gloucester-Southgate Ward from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (may be postponed to January 14).
Q: What is the weather forecast for today?
Expect a high of 2°C with a 40% chance of flurries this morning, transitioning to periods of snow late afternoon with approximately 2 cm accumulation. Wind chill of -5°C this morning. Risk of freezing drizzle overnight. No weather warnings are in effect.
Q: Are there any job fairs happening this week?
Yes, several employment events are scheduled. Ottawa Police Service holds an Officer Recruitment session on January 15 from 1:00-3:00 PM at YMCA EAC West (1642 Merivale Rd). OPP Uniform Recruitment is on January 14 in Ottawa, and YSB hosts Banking Careers with RBC on January 16.
Q: How do I report a scam in Ottawa?
Contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300 for local incidents. Report all scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or antifraudcentre.ca, even if you didn’t lose money. If you’ve shared personal information, freeze your credit via Equifax or TransUnion.
Q: What live music is happening in Ottawa tonight?
Several options tonight: Music as Sanctuary Concert at St. Andrew’s Church (82 Kent St.) at 7 PM features organ music. Heart & Crown in ByWard Market has live music with uOttawa Scotty from 9 PM-1 AM. Red Bird Live Music hosts an open stage at 8 PM.
Q: When are the Ottawa 67’s playing next?
The Ottawa 67’s have no game today. Next home game is Friday, January 16 at 7 PM vs Gatineau Olympiques at TD Place. They also host Peterborough Petes on Sunday, January 18 at 3 PM at TD Place.
Q: What federal benefits are being paid today?
The Canada Revenue Agency is issuing a one-time $300 seniors payment today (January 13) to eligible seniors across Canada. This is automatically deposited to help with rising costs for groceries, utilities, and health expenses. Federal benefit eligibility rules also updated today.
Final Summary
January 13, 2026 brings a mix of major developments and everyday updates for Ottawa residents. The headline story is the Ottawa Senators hosting the Vancouver Canucks at Canadian Tire Centre at 7 PM, with affordable tickets starting at $19. Transit watchers are excited about O-Train east extension testing beginning soon, with a potential opening by late March that would finally connect Orléans to the rapid transit network.
On the policy front, the 2026 municipal budget is now in effect with its 3.75% property tax increase, while federal layoffs continue affecting hundreds of public servants across multiple departments. Eligible seniors should check their bank accounts today for the one-time $300 CRA payment. Health officials warn that flu levels remain very high, so unvaccinated residents should consider getting their free shots at local pharmacies.
For entertainment seekers, the world premiere of “Copperbelt” at the NAC runs through January 24, while tonight’s options include organ music at St. Andrew’s Church and trivia at Heart & Crown. The Canada Strong Pass museum discounts end January 15, so this week is your last chance for free youth admission and half-price young adult tickets at participating venues.
Weather-wise, expect 2 cm of snow late afternoon with temperatures around 2°C today, but bundle up for Thursday when extreme cold arrives with highs of -12°C. Stay safe on the roads, check OC Transpo for detour updates, and enjoy what Ottawa has to offer this week.
Sources & References
Sources cited inline throughout the article:
- Environment Canada - Weather forecasts and warnings
- Ottawa Police Service - Public safety information
- OC Transpo - Transit schedules and alerts
- City of Ottawa - Municipal services and budget information
- Hydro Ottawa - Power outage information
- National Capital Commission - Rideau Canal Skateway conditions
- Ottawa Public Health - Health advisories and vaccination clinics
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre - Scam reporting
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada - IRCC updates
- Canada Revenue Agency - Federal benefits and tax information
- National Arts Centre - Theatre and events
- Ottawa Senators - NHL schedules
- Ottawa 67’s - OHL 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 publication time but subject to change.
