Winterlude, NCC

The official web site is www.canadascapital.gc.ca/winterlude
Every February, Canada’s Capital Region is host to Winterlude, North America’s greatest winter celebration. Three fun-filled weekends of excitement and activity await the whole family! From spectacular ice carvings to an amazing playground made of snow, Winterlude is a great way to take in the best of our Canadian winter. Skate on the world’s largest skating rink — right in the heart of Ottawa! Marvel at majestic snow sculptures and glittering ice sculptures or groove to energetic rhythms at Snowbowl. Our mascots, the Ice Hog Family can be seen skating on the canal and are a favorite with the kids.
Click on any photo to enlarge

Winterlude is of course home to the world’s largest skating rink on the Rideau canal
Winterlude actually takes place across various parts of the city the photos below are from Snowflake Kingdom in Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau.
The following photos are from the 2007 snow sculptures
After visiting the snow sculptures it's time to let the kids have have fun joining the activities on site and most importantly climb the snow hills to experience the ice slides or simply get lost in the snow maze.
When done at Jacques-Cartier Park head for Confederation Park where a spectacular garden of ice comes to life. The best carvers in the world create masterpieces that will take your breath away.
These are the Ice sculptures being created for the 2007 judging that took place later in the afternoon
Winterlude without a 'Beaver tail' is like hot chocolate without marshmallows	These sculptures were still being constructed for the judging later in the day	Unseasonably warm temperatures forced organizers to place many Ice sculptures under large tents

Pros

• It's fun easy to find and it's free
• World Class Ice and Snow sculptures

Cons

• Depending on the weather it can be really cold at times