Winterlude 2026 Unveils First-Ever Ferris Wheel to Boost Festival Sustainability
Ottawa-Gatineau's 48th annual Winterlude celebration is set to feature a landmark addition in 2026: a 50-foot ferris wheel at Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau. This marks the first time the iconic winter festival has included such an amusement ride, with organizers highlighting it as a key step toward creating a more sustainable and weather-resilient event.
A Long-Awaited Attraction for Winterlude
According to Melanie Brault, director of Capital Celebrations at Canadian Heritage, the federal department overseeing Winterlude, the ferris wheel has been in planning for years. "We've actually been super excited about bringing a ferris wheel for the last number of years," Brault said. "We've been trying to figure out how to make room for it in the park, and this year we finally were able to make it happen and we're super excited."
Crews have already cleared snow in a corner of Jacques-Cartier Park to prepare for the installation. The ferris wheel will offer free rides throughout Winterlude, which runs on weekends from January 31 to February 16 across various locations on both sides of the Ottawa River.
Enhancing Sustainability and Reducing Weather Dependence
Organizers emphasize that the ferris wheel is part of a broader strategy to make Winterlude less reliant on unpredictable winter weather. By incorporating attractions that operate regardless of snow or ice conditions, the festival aims to ensure consistent enjoyment for visitors. This move addresses the frequent challenges posed by the region's variable climate during late winter.
Brault notes that the ferris wheel serves multiple purposes: it acts as a meeting spot, provides entertainment, and offers stunning photo opportunities, much like it did during summer events such as Bluesfest. However, she advises attendees to dress warmly, as the open-air seats provide little protection from the cold.
Other New Features at Winterlude 2026
Beyond the ferris wheel, Winterlude 2026 includes several other enhancements:
- Lantern Grove: A new illuminated installation adding to the festival's nighttime ambiance.
- Return of Ice Sculptures to Confederation Park: The Crystal Garden of ice sculptures is moving back to Confederation Park after a period on Sparks Street, offering a more sheltered and scenic setting.
- Snowflake Kingdom: Jacques-Cartier Park will feature snow slides, mazes, games, kids' activities, and music-making, with the ferris wheel providing panoramic views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa and Rideau rivers.
"It's just another fun opportunity of something to do with your family," Brault added. "Make sure that you're dressed appropriately, with the tuque, the scarf, the mittens. It's another way to come out and celebrate our Canadian winter."
With these additions, Winterlude 2026 promises to blend traditional winter festivities with innovative attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages while adapting to environmental uncertainties.
