Christmas Day brings unique opportunities for festive cheer and family enjoyment across North America. This year, cities from Ottawa to New York City and New Orleans are offering diverse activities and businesses open to the public, ensuring there's something for everyone to do on this special holiday.
Starting with Ottawa, movie buffs can rejoice as several Cineplex and Landmark Cinemas locations will be screening popular films including Mufasa: The Lion King and Gladiator II. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy ice skating at local rinks such as the Rink of Dreams at Ottawa City Hall, which is open weather permitting. Treat your eyes to the dazzling holiday displays around downtown Ottawa and Gatineau during the Winter Lights Across Canada festival, with many locations beautifully illuminated for the season. Those craving some festive eats can book reservations at select open restaurants through platforms like OpenTable.
Moving west, Vancouver offers its own Christmas Day experience, albeit with some closures due to the holiday. While malls such as the Amazing Brentwood and Metrotown will be closed, the Pacific Centre is open for those wanting to shop. Movie theaters continue to operate with new releases including A Complete Unknown, featuring Timothée Chalamet. Families can find activities at the Vancouver Aquarium and public ice rinks, like the popular Robson Square skating rink. Although Stanley Park is closed due to safety concerns from incoming storms, the city has plenty of other parks to explore.
Further down the coast, the Surrey, North Delta, and White Rock areas are buzzing with holiday activity. Residents can enjoy picturesque walks along the waterfront or visit the Bright Walk display featuring over 50,000 lights. Moviegoers can catch family films at various local theaters, and restaurants like Boathouse White Rock and Spice 72 Indian Restaurant are open for festive dining experiences. Nature trails at Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest and other local parks invite visitors to enjoy the beautiful outdoors on Christmas Day.
On the other side of the continent, New York City remains lively on Christmas Day, though many major stores and attractions are closed. Residents and visitors can still take a winter stroll through Central Park or visit iconic spots like the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center, where the Christmas tree is lit all day. Broadway shows like Wicked and Chicago will delight theater fans with performances, adding to the city's enchanting holiday atmosphere. For dining, Chinatown remains open, offering authentic meals amid the holiday celebrations, and several fast-food chains and cafes will also serve customers.
New Orleans, known for its vibrant culture, offers numerous eateries keeping their doors open this Christmas. Restaurants like Broussard's and Oceana Grill invite families to enjoy holiday meals, and guests can explore festive light displays around the city. The NOLA Christmas Fest, featuring various holiday themed attractions, adds to the jolly spirit from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. during the day. For those needing groceries, Ideal Market is available, ensuring families can still get holiday essentials without hassle.
Finally, for residents of Mississauga, those wanting to enjoy the outdoors can take advantage of the ice rink at Celebration Square, which is open until 6 p.m. Many local restaurants including D Spot Cafe and Mandarin are open for customers wishing to skip cooking at home. For those interested in shopping for essentials, several Shoppers Drug Mart locations are operating. Visitors can also take part in the light show at Illumi, where festive displays create Instagram-worthy holiday memories.
Across these vibrant cities, the spirit of Christmas is evident as communities come together, regardless of how they choose to celebrate. Whether one opts for leisurely strolls, enjoying entertaining films, or savory dinners with loved ones, the options on offer provide delightful ways to share Christmas cheer and create lasting memories.
