Winterlude set to return to Ottawa

The National Capital Region's flagship winter festivalWinterludeis set to return this February for its 46th edition.

In a media release, Canadian Heritageannouncedthe event will feature programming that"combines winter with rich culture, artistic creativity and a celebration of Canada's diversity."

The festivities are set to run from Feb. 2-19.

This comes after a warm winter last year dampened much of the celebration. Unseasonably high temperatures melted ice sculpturesandprevented the opening of the Rideau Canal Skatewayfor the first time in the popular attraction'sfive-decade history.

It was the festival's first year returning to in-person events after the COVID-19 pandemic forced it to go virtual in 2021 and 2022.

At Winterludethis year,visitors can expect to enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activitiesincluding performances, street artists, exhibits and interactive art installations.

The Snowflake Kingdom will belocated in the northern part of Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau, Que., for snow tubing, obstacle coursesand many more activities.

On Sparks Street,there will be ice sculptures every weekend for the Winterlude Ice-Carving Showcase. New this yearis "Buskerfest Winterlude edition."

Activities such as the first-ever Capital Pride Ice Parade and the Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festivalcan also be found on the Rideau Canal Skateway.

A full list of events is available onthe Winterlude website.