Ottawa’s beloved independent cinemas are rolling out the red carpet for the holiday season with an irresistible lineup of classic and cult films. The ByTowne Cinema and Mayfair Theatre are transforming into festive wonderlands this December, offering everything from romantic holiday favourites to unconventional seasonal picks that’ll have cinephiles cheering.
Whether you’re craving the warmth of It’s A Wonderful Life or the adrenaline of Die Hard, these historic venues provide the perfect escape from the December chill. Both theatres feature unique programming, special themed events, and that irreplaceable magic of watching films on the big screen with a community of fellow movie lovers.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa’s ByTowne Cinema and Mayfair Theatre are hosting special holiday screenings throughout late December 2025. Expect classics like Love Actually, Home Alone, and It’s A Wonderful Life, plus unconventional picks like Die Hard and Eyes Wide Shut. Special slumber party events and themed double features add extra festive fun.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Dates | December 15-31, 2025 |
| 📍 Venues | ByTowne Cinema & Mayfair Theatre |
| 🎟️ Tickets | Available at bytowne.ca & mayfairtheatre.ca |
| ⏰ Showtimes | Varies by screening |
ByTowne Theatre Highlights
Holiday Classics with Character
The ByTowne Cinema on Rideau Street continues its tradition of curating thoughtful holiday programming that goes beyond the obvious choices. This December, the single-screen gem offers a mix of seasonal favourites and director retrospectives that cinephiles won’t find anywhere else in Ottawa.
The theatre’s intimate setting makes every screening feel like a special event. With its art deco charm and commitment to 35mm film presentations when available, the ByTowne delivers an experience streaming simply cannot replicate.
Featured ByTowne Screenings:
- It’s A Wonderful Life — The timeless Frank Capra classic returns to the big screen
- Sense and Sensibility — Ang Lee’s beloved Jane Austen adaptation for the literary-minded
- Phantom Thread — Daniel Day-Lewis’s final performance in Paul Thomas Anderson’s gorgeous drama
- Fargo — The Coen Brothers’ dark winter tale, perfect for Canadian audiences
Image: Ottawa’s indie cinemas offer a nostalgic moviegoing experience.
Mayfair Theatre Screenings
Where Cult Classics Come to Play
The Mayfair Theatre on Bank Street has built its reputation on the weird, wonderful, and nostalgic. This December is no exception, with a programming slate that embraces both holiday tradition and gloriously unconventional choices.
The Mayfair’s famous slumber party events return this season, offering late-night screenings complete with themed activities, costume contests, and the kind of audience participation that makes these evenings unforgettable.
Featured Mayfair Screenings:
- Love Actually — The holiday slumber party edition with all the romantic chaos
- Die Hard — Yes, it’s a Christmas movie, and the Mayfair celebrates it properly
- Home Alone — Kevin McCallister’s booby-trapped adventure on the big screen
- The Grinch — Dr. Seuss’s green grump brings maximum holiday cheer
Special Events
The Mayfair’s programming extends beyond straightforward screenings. Look for themed double features pairing classic holiday films with unexpected companions—like their tradition of screening Alien alongside festive fare, reminding audiences that in space, no one can hear you sing carols.
Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut also graces the schedule, offering a decidedly adult alternative for those seeking something different during the holiday season.
Holiday Classics Worth the Trip
Why See These Films in Theatres?
There’s something magical about watching holiday films surrounded by strangers who quickly become friends. The collective gasps, laughs, and even the occasional tear create a shared experience that your living room simply cannot match.
The Case for Each Classic:
Love Actually hits differently with an audience. Every romantic subplot, from Colin’s American adventure to the Prime Minister dancing through 10 Downing Street, generates waves of laughter and knowing sighs. The slumber party format at the Mayfair adds pyjamas, hot chocolate, and festive chaos.
Die Hard remains the most hotly debated Christmas movie of all time. Seeing it on the big screen settles the argument definitively—the holiday decorations, the Nakatomi Plaza Christmas party, and Hans Gruber’s unforgettable villainy make this action classic essential December viewing.
It’s A Wonderful Life was made for theatrical presentation. George Bailey’s journey from despair to redemption gains power when experienced collectively. The finale hits harder when you can hear sniffles throughout the audience.
Image: Fresh popcorn and holiday films make the perfect December pairing.
Practical Information
Getting There and What to Know
ByTowne Cinema
- Address: 325 Rideau Street, Ottawa
- Parking: Street parking and nearby lots; transit via Rideau Station
- Website: bytowne.ca
- Concessions: Classic theatre snacks plus local treats
Mayfair Theatre
- Address: 1074 Bank Street, Ottawa
- Parking: Street parking on Bank Street and side streets
- Website: mayfairtheatre.ca
- Concessions: Full snack bar with creative offerings
Ticket Tips
Both venues sell tickets online and at the door, but popular holiday screenings—especially the slumber party events—tend to sell out. Booking in advance is strongly recommended for weekend showings and special events.
Pricing at Ottawa’s independent cinemas remains significantly lower than major chains, making double features and repeat viewings genuinely affordable. Student and senior discounts are available at both venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Mayfair slumber party screening like? A: Slumber party screenings are late-night events where attendees are encouraged to wear pyjamas, bring pillows, and fully embrace the theme. Expect costume contests, themed activities, and an enthusiastic crowd. It’s the most fun you can have at a movie theatre.
Q: Is Die Hard really a Christmas movie? A: The Mayfair and countless fans say yes. The film takes place at a Christmas party, features holiday music, and ends with family reunification. Case closed.
Q: How early should I arrive for holiday screenings? A: Plan to arrive 20-30 minutes early for popular screenings to secure good seats and grab concessions. Both theatres are general admission, so early arrival matters.
Q: Can I bring outside food to these theatres? A: Policies vary, but both venues encourage supporting their concession stands. The snacks are reasonably priced and help keep these independent theatres operating.
Q: Are these screenings suitable for children? A: Films like Home Alone and The Grinch are family-friendly. Love Actually and Die Hard contain mature content and are best for teens and adults. Eyes Wide Shut is strictly adults-only.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s independent cinemas offer something no streaming service can replicate: the communal joy of experiencing beloved films on the big screen, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts who appreciate the magic of cinema.
Whether you choose the ByTowne’s refined programming or the Mayfair’s gleeful embrace of cult classics, you’re supporting local institutions that have served Ottawa’s film community for decades. This December, skip the algorithm and let these curators guide your holiday viewing. The films are better, the popcorn is fresher, and the memories last longer.
Source: Apt613 - Ottawa independent cinema programming
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