We know it’s tempting to curl up under the covers and not come out until spring, but humans don’t hibernate for the winter. We could complain about the season or try to escape it — but we prefer to embrace the activities and adventures winter has to offer.
Whether you want to travel across the country or stay close to home, here are some ideas to help you plan your winter to-do list.
Ride the rails
If you love snowy landscapes — but not winter driving — a train journey may be just the ticket. Venture across Canada for a look at snow-covered mountains and lakes, or take a weekend jaunt to your favourite city for a festival or special event.
Winter travel is a good time to find deals, especially if you want to redeem rewards points. Keep your eyes open for packages and discounts this season — especially if you’re travelling with children and students or you’re over age 60. (See How to get a deal on a train ticket for tips.
Visit the capital
While there’s no shortage of indoor activities to take advantage of — like touring the many museums and galleries or watching an Ottawa Senators game, for example — but there’s lots to do outdoors in Ottawa. Cross-country ski or snowshoe the nearly 200 kilometres of trails in Gatineau Park, or skate along the Rideau Canal.
Another must-do activity: Winterlude (weekends, February 3 – 20, 2012), which features family-friendly events of all kinds. For something a little more deluxe, come to town January 26 to February 20, 2012 for Taste of Winterlude when local restaurants offer up fine dining, wine tasting and prix-fixe menus. (For more information, visit the National Capital Commission website.)
Enjoy the festivities
Of course, Ottawa isn’t the only place to find a fun festival this winter. One of the best known events our country has to offer may just be the Carnival du Quebec (January 27 – February 12, 2012) with its iconic mascot, Bonhomme de Neige. With the arts, sports and winter fun, there are events to suit just about every budget and interest. Other festivals include:
Ice Magic Festival, Lake Louise, Alberta, January 20 – 29, 2012
Perth-Andover Winter Carnival, New Brunswick, February 8 – 19, 2012
Montreal Highlights Festival, Quebec, February 16 – 26, 2012
Saskatoon Blues Festival 2011, Saskatchewan, February 23 – 26, 2012
Snowking’s Annual Winter Festival, Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, starting March 2, 2012
Pacific Rim Whale Watching Festival, Tofino and Ucluelet, British Columbia, March 17 – 25, 2012
SnoBreak, Labrador, Newfoundland, around the end of March
The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, Brandon, Manitoba, March 26 – April 31, 2012
This list is just a handful of activities — for more events, look to local tourism websites and your area’s local events calendar.
