Ottawa sparkles with holiday magic this week as concerts, markets, and festive experiences take over the capital! From Shawn Desman’s comeback concert to the opening of a major art exhibition, plus ongoing holiday favourites, December 10-14, 2025 offers something for everyone in the National Capital Region.
This mid-December week delivers an exceptional mix of live music, holiday markets, theatre, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, family entertainment, or solo cultural exploration, our comprehensive guide covers the best events happening across Ottawa this week.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa’s week of December 10-14, 2025 features Shawn Desman and Brad Paisley concerts, Stairwell Carollers, Celtic Christmas at NAC, Muppet Christmas Carol screenings, Originals Craft Show, Ottawa Christmas Market, 613Holiday Night Market, new art exhibitions, outdoor skating, and drive-through light displays.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Week | December 10-14, 2025 |
| 📍 Locations | Venues across Ottawa |
| 🎟️ Events | Concerts, markets, theatre, exhibitions |
| ⏰ Highlights | Shawn Desman, Brad Paisley, NAC events |
Concerts and Live Music
Shawn Desman - Wednesday, December 10
Canadian R&B sensation Shawn Desman brings his nostalgic hits to Ottawa for a special holiday season performance.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025
- Venue: Check local listings for venue
- Genre: R&B, Pop
- Expect classic hits from the early 2000s
The Toronto-born artist is known for tracks like “Shook,” “Get Ready,” and “Spread My Wings.” This concert promises to take Ottawa audiences on a trip down memory lane while showcasing Desman’s enduring stage presence.
Stairwell Carollers - Wednesday, December 10
Ottawa’s beloved Stairwell Carollers continue their annual tradition of exquisite choral performances during the holiday season.
About the Performance:
- Renowned Ottawa choir
- Traditional and contemporary carols
- Stunning vocal harmonies
- Perfect holiday atmosphere
- Multiple performance dates throughout December
The Stairwell Carollers have been an Ottawa institution for decades, known for their exceptional acoustics in heritage venues and their commitment to choral excellence.
Celtic Christmas at NAC - Wednesday, December 10
The National Arts Centre presents Celtic Christmas, a beloved annual tradition featuring the sounds of Celtic holiday music.
Concert Highlights:
- Traditional Celtic instruments and vocals
- Holiday favourites with Celtic arrangements
- World-class musicians
- NAC’s stunning Southam Hall venue
- Family-friendly performance
Illustrative image only.
Brad Paisley - Saturday, December 13
Country music superstar Brad Paisley brings his guitar virtuosity and hit songs to Ottawa for a weekend concert event.
What to Expect:
- Multiple #1 country hits
- Incredible guitar work
- Entertaining stage presence
- Mix of classic hits and newer material
- Perfect weekend entertainment option
Paisley’s catalogue includes beloved songs like “Mud on the Tires,” “Alcohol,” “Online,” and “Remind Me.” His live shows are known for exceptional musicianship and audience interaction.
Theatre and Film
The Muppet Christmas Carol at NAC - December 11-13
The National Arts Centre screens the beloved Muppet Christmas Carol with a special presentation format.
Screening Information:
- Dates: December 11-13, 2025
- Venue: National Arts Centre
- Family-friendly classic
- Perfect holiday movie experience
- Tickets available through NAC box office
This 1992 classic starring Michael Caine alongside Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the Muppet gang has become a holiday staple for families worldwide. Seeing it on the big screen at the NAC adds extra magic to the experience.
Why It’s Special:
- Michael Caine’s acclaimed performance as Scrooge
- Faithful adaptation of Dickens’ tale
- Beloved Muppet characters
- Memorable songs
- Appeals to all ages
Art Exhibitions
Hold True Opening - Karsh-Masson Gallery
The highly anticipated “Hold True” exhibition opens December 11 at Ottawa City Hall’s Karsh-Masson Gallery.
Exhibition Details:
- 41 regional and international artists
- Multiple media and styles
- Opening reception: Thursday, December 18, 5:30-7:30 PM
- Free admission
- Runs through March 29, 2026
This major exhibition explores themes of authenticity and artistic truth through diverse artistic perspectives.
Camera and the City - Ottawa Art Gallery
The Ottawa Art Gallery presents “Camera and the City,” examining urban photography and the relationship between photographers and urban spaces.
Gallery Information:
- Location: Ottawa Art Gallery, 50 Mackenzie King Bridge
- Ongoing exhibition
- Free admission
- Accessible venue
- Worth combining with other downtown activities
Holiday Markets
Ottawa Christmas Market - Lansdowne
The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne continues to draw crowds with its European-inspired holiday shopping experience.
Market Features:
- Local artisans and vendors
- Holiday food and beverages
- Live entertainment
- Festive atmosphere
- Family-friendly activities
- Multiple vendor cabins
Operating Hours:
- Open daily through the holiday season
- Extended evening hours
- Indoor and outdoor sections
- Check ottawachristmasmarket.com for specific times
613Holiday Night Market - Friday, December 12
The 613Holiday Night Market offers evening holiday shopping with a unique Ottawa twist.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
- Evening hours for after-work shopping
- Local vendors and artisans
- Holiday-themed goods
- Food and refreshments
- Festive atmosphere
This night market provides an alternative to traditional daytime shopping, perfect for those who work during regular market hours.
Originals Craft Show - EY Centre
The Originals Christmas Craft Sale continues at the EY Centre through December 14, celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Show Information:
- Location: EY Centre, 4899 Uplands Drive
- Dates: Through December 14, 2025
- 500+ artisans
- Handmade gifts and crafts
- Free parking
- Ottawa’s largest craft show
What to Find:
- Handmade jewelry
- Pottery and ceramics
- Textiles and clothing
- Wood crafts
- Gourmet foods
- Holiday decorations
- Unique gifts
Illustrative image only.
Outdoor Activities
Rink of Dreams - Ottawa City Hall
The Rink of Dreams at Ottawa City Hall offers free outdoor skating in the heart of downtown.
Skating Details:
- Location: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West
- Free admission
- Skate rentals available
- Beautiful downtown setting
- Open daily, weather permitting
- Perfect for all skill levels
Tips for Visiting:
- Bring your own skates to avoid rental lines
- Dress warmly in layers
- Warm up at nearby cafes after skating
- Best visited in evening for lights
- Combine with dinner downtown
Magic of Lights - Wesley Clover Parks
The 10th anniversary season of Magic of Lights continues at Wesley Clover Parks.
Experience Highlights:
- 2+ million lights along 2km route
- Ontario’s longest light tunnel
- Holiday Pit Stop village
- Per-carload pricing
- Open 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (extended hours)
- Benefits CHEO Foundation
Best Visiting Tips:
- Weeknights typically less busy
- Buy tickets online in advance
- Bring hot chocolate and snacks
- Allow 30-45 minutes for drive-through
- Add time for Holiday Pit Stop
Saunders Farm Country Christmas
Saunders Farm presents its enchanting Country Christmas experience with walking trails through illuminated forests.
Farm Experience:
- Location: Munster, Ontario (southwest of Ottawa)
- Illuminated forest walks
- Live entertainment
- Holiday characters
- Food and refreshments
- Gift shop
- Family-friendly
What Makes It Special:
- Immersive forest environment
- Unique compared to drive-through displays
- Active outdoor experience
- Perfect for families
- Beautiful photo opportunities
Day-by-Day Guide
Wednesday, December 10
- Shawn Desman concert
- Stairwell Carollers performance
- Celtic Christmas at NAC
- Originals Craft Show at EY Centre
- Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne
- Rink of Dreams skating
- Magic of Lights drive-through
Thursday, December 11
- Hold True exhibition opens at City Hall
- Muppet Christmas Carol at NAC
- Originals Craft Show at EY Centre
- Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne
- Rink of Dreams skating
- Magic of Lights drive-through
- Saunders Farm Country Christmas
Friday, December 12
- 613Holiday Night Market
- Muppet Christmas Carol at NAC
- Originals Craft Show at EY Centre
- Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne
- Rink of Dreams skating
- Magic of Lights drive-through
- Saunders Farm Country Christmas
Saturday, December 13
- Brad Paisley concert
- Muppet Christmas Carol at NAC
- Originals Craft Show at EY Centre
- Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne
- Rink of Dreams skating
- Magic of Lights drive-through
- Saunders Farm Country Christmas
Sunday, December 14
- Originals Craft Show (final day)
- Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne
- Rink of Dreams skating
- Magic of Lights drive-through
- Saunders Farm Country Christmas
- Camera and the City at OAG
- Hold True at Karsh-Masson Gallery
Planning Tips
Transportation
Getting around Ottawa this week:
- OC Transpo buses serve all major venues
- O-Train Confederation Line for downtown events
- Parking available at most venues (fees apply)
- Consider rideshare for evening concerts
- Bundle downtown activities to maximize time
Budget Options
Free and low-cost activities:
- Hold True exhibition (free)
- Camera and the City at OAG (free)
- Rink of Dreams skating (free, rental fees apply)
- Window shopping at Christmas markets
- Parliament Hill evening light display
Family-Friendly Picks
Best for kids:
- Magic of Lights drive-through
- Muppet Christmas Carol screenings
- Ottawa Christmas Market activities
- Rink of Dreams skating
- Saunders Farm Country Christmas
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best free activities this week? A: The Hold True art exhibition at Ottawa City Hall, Rink of Dreams skating (bring your own skates), and the Camera and the City exhibition at Ottawa Art Gallery are all free. The Christmas light display on Parliament Hill is also free to view.
Q: Where can I find last-minute holiday gifts? A: The Originals Craft Show at EY Centre (through December 14) features 500+ artisans, while the Ottawa Christmas Market and 613Holiday Night Market offer local vendors with unique handmade items.
Q: Which activities are best for date night? A: The Brad Paisley or Shawn Desman concerts, Celtic Christmas at NAC, Magic of Lights drive-through, and evening skating at Rink of Dreams all make excellent date night options.
Q: What’s best for families with young children? A: The Muppet Christmas Carol screenings, Saunders Farm Country Christmas, Magic of Lights, and Rink of Dreams are all excellent family-friendly choices with activities suited for children.
Q: How do I get tickets for these events? A: Most ticketed events are available through venue websites. NAC events through nac-cna.ca, Magic of Lights through magicoflights.com, and Originals Craft Show tickets at the door or online.
Final Thoughts
December 10-14, 2025 delivers an exceptional week of holiday entertainment across Ottawa. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of Shawn Desman’s R&B hits, the country sounds of Brad Paisley, the artistic depth of the Hold True exhibition, or the simple joy of skating under the stars at Rink of Dreams, this week has something for every taste and budget.
The convergence of major concerts, the opening of a significant art exhibition, ongoing holiday markets, and beloved seasonal attractions makes this an ideal week to embrace the festive spirit. Bundle activities together for a full day of Ottawa exploration, or pick one special event to anchor your week.
Don’t forget to check individual venue websites for the most current hours and ticket availability, especially as holiday schedules may vary. Ottawa’s December is magical, and this week is no exception.
Sources: NAC, City of Ottawa, Ottawa Tourism, venue websites - Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
For more Ottawa events, visit Ottawa Events. Read our detailed guides: Brad Paisley Concert, Jonas Brothers JONAS20, Muppet Christmas Carol at NAC, Hold True Exhibition, and Camera and the City!
