Spring has officially arrived in Ottawa—and there’s no better way to celebrate than getting out and enjoying everything the city has to offer.
Today, March 20, 2025, marks the vernal equinox—the first official day of spring. For Ottawa residents who’ve endured another long Canadian winter, this day represents hope, renewal, and the promise of warmer weather ahead. Whether you’re craving maple syrup, outdoor adventures, or simply a reason to shake off the winter blues, Ottawa has plenty of ways to welcome the new season.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: March 20 is the first day of spring! Ottawa offers sugar shacks, outdoor activities, spring markets, and seasonal events. From maple syrup tastings to scenic walks along the canal, here’s how to make the most of this seasonal milestone.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Thursday, March 20, 2025 |
| 🌸 Event | Vernal Equinox (First Day of Spring) |
| 🌡️ Typical Weather | 0°C to 8°C, variable conditions |
| 🍁 Season Highlight | Maple Syrup Season in full swing |
What’s Special About March 20?
The vernal equinox occurs when day and night are approximately equal in length, marking the astronomical start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. For Ottawa, it signals:
- Longer daylight hours
- Gradually warming temperatures
- Peak maple syrup season
- Early spring blooms beginning to appear
While snow may still be on the ground in some areas, the promise of spring brings a noticeable shift in the city’s energy.
Image: Illustrative image only.
Top Things to Do on the First Day of Spring
1. Visit a Sugar Shack 🍁
There’s no more Canadian way to celebrate spring than with fresh maple syrup. The Ottawa region offers several sugar shack experiences:
Stanley’s Sugarbush
- ��� 2452 York’s Corners Rd, Edwards
- ���️ General Admission: $8.85
- �� Saturdays & Sundays through April 20
- �� Family-friendly fun with sweet treats and farm animals
Vanier Museopark Sugar Shack
- ��� 300 des Pères-Blancs Ave (Richelieu Park)
- ���️ Various events, some FREE
- �� Canada’s only operating urban sugar shack
- �� 40th Anniversary Sugar Festival coming March 24-30
Fulton’s Pancake House & Sugar Bush
- ��� 399 Sugar Bush Rd, Pakenham
- �� Classic sugar shack experience with pancakes and maple taffy
2. Take a Scenic Walk 🚶
As temperatures rise, Ottawa’s pathways become perfect for a spring stroll:
- Rideau Canal Pathway – Watch for the transition from ice to water
- Major’s Hill Park – Views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River
- Arboretum – Early spring blooms and peaceful trails
- Gatineau Park – Hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Note: Some trails may still be muddy or icy in spots
3. Explore Local Markets 🛒
Spring brings renewed energy to Ottawa’s market scene:
ByWard Market
- Open year-round with indoor and outdoor vendors
- Fresh produce, artisan goods, and local restaurants
- Perfect for a spring afternoon wander
Carp Farmers’ Market
- Seasonal opening coming soon
- One of Ottawa’s most beloved outdoor markets
4. Enjoy Spring Events 🎭
March 20 falls during a busy time for Ottawa events:
- ��� Ottawa Home & Garden Show (March 20-23) – Perfect timing to plan spring projects
- ��� Grease at Greely Players (March 19-23) – Live musical theatre
- ��� Ottawa Senators Hockey – Catch a game at Canadian Tire Centre
What You Need to Know About Spring Weather in Ottawa
Typical March 20 Conditions:
| Condition | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 0°C to 8°C (daytime) |
| Precipitation | Mix of rain, snow, or sunny |
| Daylight | ~12 hours |
| Ground | Muddy, wet, possibly snowy |
Dressing for Spring:
- Layer up – Mornings are cold, afternoons warmer
- Waterproof footwear – Essential for muddy trails and melting snow
- Sunglasses – Spring sun can be bright
- Don’t pack away winter gear yet – Snow is still possible through April
Image: Illustrative image only.
Why Spring Matters to Ottawa Residents
After months of winter, the first day of spring represents a psychological turning point for Ottawa residents. It’s a reminder that:
- The darkest days are behind us
- Patios and outdoor dining will soon return
- The Rideau Canal will transform from skating to boating
- Gardens and parks will burst back to life
For many, March 20 is less about the weather (which can still be quite wintry) and more about the promise of what’s coming. It’s a day to look forward, plan summer adventures, and appreciate the unique seasonal rhythm that defines life in Canada’s capital.
Spring Activities Coming Soon
While March 20 is just the beginning, here’s what Ottawa has to look forward to:
Late March - April:
- ��� Tulip Festival preparations begin (May)
- ��� Bike paths fully clear of ice
- ��� Cherry blossoms at Dominion Arboretum
- ��� Outdoor art installations return
May:
- ��� Canadian Tulip Festival – Over 1 million tulips bloom
- ��� Ottawa Race Weekend
- ��� Patio season in full swing
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it really spring if there’s still snow? A: Welcome to Ottawa! The astronomical first day of spring and “feels like spring” often don’t align. Expect variable weather through April.
Q: Are sugar shacks open on weekdays? A: Most sugar shacks operate on weekends during the season. Check individual locations for specific hours.
Q: When does the Rideau Canal fully thaw? A: Typically by early-to-mid April, though it varies by year. The skateway usually closes by early March.
Q: What’s the best way to celebrate the first day of spring? A: Get outside! Even a short walk can help shake off winter blues. Visit a sugar shack, explore a local park, or simply enjoy the longer daylight hours.
Q: Are there any spring festivals in Ottawa? A: The Sugar Festival at Vanier Museopark (March 24-30) is the main spring celebration. The Canadian Tulip Festival in May is the city’s biggest spring event.
Final Thoughts
The first day of spring on March 20, 2025 may not bring instant warmth, but it marks an important milestone in Ottawa’s seasonal calendar. It’s a day to embrace the changing season, indulge in some maple syrup, and start planning for the warmer months ahead.
Whether you celebrate with a visit to a sugar shack, a walk along the canal, or simply by opening a window to let in the fresh air, take a moment to acknowledge the shift. Winter in Ottawa is long—you’ve earned this.
Source: Ottawa Tourism, TodoCanada, CAA North & East Ontario – Summarized and adapted for Via Ottawa readers.
For more things to do in Ottawa, visit What to Do in Ottawa or explore our Events Calendar!
