The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne is bustling with holiday magic, drawing crowds of Ottawans eager to soak in seasonal cheer, browse artisan vendors, and indulge in festive food and drink. This beloved annual tradition transforms the Lansdowne grounds into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, live entertainment, and that unmistakable smell of mulled wine drifting through crisp December air.
Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts, seeking a memorable family outing, or simply craving the cozy atmosphere of a European-style Christmas market, Lansdowne delivers. The market runs through the final weekends of December, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience one of Ottawa’s most anticipated holiday events.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne offers European-style holiday shopping with local artisans, festive food, and seasonal entertainment. The market runs Friday through Sunday on remaining weekends in December 2025. Free admission, outdoor setting, and family-friendly programming make this essential Ottawa holiday visiting.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Dates | Weekends through December 22, 2025 |
| 📍 Location | Lansdowne Park, Ottawa |
| 🎟️ Admission | Free entry |
| ⏰ Hours | Friday 4-10 PM, Sat-Sun 11 AM-10 PM |
What to Expect
The Market Atmosphere
Stepping into the Ottawa Christmas Market is like entering a holiday postcard. The Lansdowne grounds transform with:
- Festive Lighting: Thousands of twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere
- Decorated Vendor Chalets: Wooden huts styled after traditional European Christmas markets
- Holiday Music: Live performances and seasonal soundtracks throughout
- Seasonal Aromas: Mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and fresh baked goods
- Cozy Gathering Spaces: Fire pits and heated areas to warm up between browsing
The market captures that European Christmas market magic while showcasing Ottawa’s vibrant local maker community.
Artisan Vendors
The heart of the Ottawa Christmas Market is its carefully curated selection of local vendors:
Gift Ideas You’ll Find:
- Handcrafted jewellery and accessories
- Local art and photography
- Artisan candles and home décor
- Handmade soaps and skincare products
- Gourmet food items and preserves
- Handknit winter accessories
- Locally made toys and games
- Ottawa-themed gifts and souvenirs
Unlike generic holiday shopping, the Christmas Market connects you directly with makers who pour passion into their creations. Many vendors offer customization and gift wrapping services.
Food and Drink
The culinary offerings are a major draw:
Festive Favourites:
- Mulled Wine: The quintessential Christmas market beverage, served warm and spiced
- Hot Apple Cider: Non-alcoholic option with seasonal spices
- Raclette: Melted Swiss cheese scraped over potatoes and pickles
- Sausages: German-style bratwurst and other grilled options
- Roasted Chestnuts: A classic seasonal treat
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and warming, often with gourmet toppings
- Baked Goods: Gingerbread, stollen, and seasonal pastries
Come hungry and plan to make eating part of the experience.
Entertainment and Activities
Live Performances
The market features ongoing entertainment:
- Live musical performances throughout each day
- Carol singers spreading holiday cheer
- Strolling entertainers and performers
- Special appearances that delight children
Check the market’s social media for daily performance schedules.
Family Activities
The Ottawa Christmas Market is designed for all ages:
- Santa Visits: Meet Santa in his decorated chalet
- Children’s Activities: Craft stations and interactive experiences
- Photo Opportunities: Multiple festive backdrops for family photos
- Holiday Decorations: Explore and admire the seasonal displays
Children particularly enjoy the magical atmosphere after dark when lights transform the market.
Special Events
Themed programming enhances certain days:
- Opening and closing weekend celebrations
- Pet-friendly afternoons (check schedule)
- Extended hours on select dates
- Community group performances
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Location: Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank Street, Ottawa
By Car:
- Paid parking available on-site at Lansdowne
- Street parking in the Glebe neighbourhood (limited)
- Consider rideshare during peak times
By Transit:
- Multiple OC Transpo bus routes serve Lansdowne
- Routes 6, 7, and others stop nearby
- Check octranspo.com for real-time schedules
By Bike:
- Bike parking available on-site
- Bank Street bike lanes provide easy access
Best Times to Visit
For Fewer Crowds:
- Friday evening after 6 PM
- Sunday before noon
- Weekdays if operating (check schedule)
For Maximum Atmosphere:
- Saturday evenings when the market is most vibrant
- After dark for best lighting effects
- Opening weekend for full excitement
What to Wear
December in Ottawa requires proper layering:
- Warm winter boots (you’ll be walking on cold ground)
- Heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf
- Layers you can remove if you duck into heated areas
- Comfortable walking shoes (lots of browsing ahead)
Dress warmly—you’ll be outside for most of your visit.
Budgeting Tips
Free:
- Entry to the market
- Live entertainment
- Browsing and atmosphere
Plan to Spend:
- Food and drinks ($15-40 depending on appetite)
- Artisan gifts (varies widely, $10-200+)
- Santa photos if offered
Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards, though most do.
Nearby Lansdowne Attractions
Combine Your Visit
Lansdowne offers more than just the Christmas Market:
The Glebe:
- Bank Street shopping just steps away
- Boutiques, cafes, and restaurants
- Independent bookstores and specialty shops
Lansdowne Food Hall:
- Multiple food vendors if you want to warm up inside
- Diverse cuisine options
- Craft beverages available
Ottawa Farmers’ Market:
- Sunday market operates year-round
- Fresh local products and artisan goods
- Indoor location during winter months
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Ottawa Christmas Market free? A: Yes, admission to the market is free. You’ll only spend money on food, drinks, and purchases from vendors.
Q: Is the market indoors or outdoors? A: The Ottawa Christmas Market is primarily an outdoor event. Dress warmly and prepare for winter weather. Some heated areas provide relief from the cold.
Q: Can I bring my dog to the Christmas Market? A: Policies vary by day. Check the market’s social media or website for designated pet-friendly times. The crowds can be challenging for pets on busy days.
Q: Is there parking at Lansdowne? A: Yes, paid parking is available in Lansdowne’s underground garage and surface lots. Weekend rates apply. Arrive early for best availability during peak times.
Q: What happens if it rains or snows? A: The market operates in typical December weather. Snow actually enhances the atmosphere. Check social media for any weather-related closures or modifications.
Q: When is the last day of the Christmas Market? A: The market typically runs through the last weekend before Christmas. Check the official website for exact closing dates.
Final Thoughts
The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne captures everything wonderful about the holiday season: the warmth of community, the joy of giving thoughtfully-chosen gifts, and the simple pleasure of wandering through a winter wonderland with a cup of mulled wine in hand.
Supporting local artisans feels especially meaningful during the holidays, and the market makes it easy to find unique gifts you won’t see anywhere else. Whether you’re completing your shopping list, introducing out-of-town guests to Ottawa’s holiday traditions, or simply seeking an excuse to embrace the season, the Christmas Market delivers.
Bundle up, bring your holiday spirit, and let Lansdowne’s festive charm work its magic.
Source: Ottawa Christmas Market and Apt613 weekend roundups
For more holiday events, visit Ottawa Events or explore What to Do.
