With March Break 2025 swiftly approaching, Ottawa joins other regions across Ontario to welcome families with a plethora of enriching and fun-filled activities. From March 1-16, community centers, museums, libraries, and theaters are rolling out diverse programs catering to children and their families, ensuring plenty of engaging experiences await during this school holiday.
Starting with the beloved Cineplex theaters, families can enjoy family movies for just $3.99 during March Break. According to Cineplex, this initiative kicks off with discounted showings from February 17, aligning with regional school break schedules. CineClub members benefit the most, with no booking fee applied to their online ticket purchases, making outings both budget-friendly and entertaining. Films vary by location, so checking local listings ensures you won’t miss fun family favorites.
Another fantastic option for families is the Cambridge Public Library’s March Break festivities, which run from March 10 to 14. The library is organizing events for all ages with various engaging activities, including drop-in arts and crafts, special performances by local authors and musicians, such as Alison McGauley, who will launch her newest book. The Amazing Race Adventure kicks off the break on March 8 at Queen Square, promising excitement and challenges for participants. “Celebrate books and music as local author Alison McGauley visits Queen’s Square to launch her book,” reported by the Cambridge Public Library.
Meanwhile, museums are gearing up for family fun and learning experiences. Local attractions, including the Canadian War Museum and the Canada Science and Technology Museum, will introduce special programming aimed at fostering curiosity about history, nature, and science. For example, the museum’s features will allow kids to explore the wonders of space and engage with live demonstrations. Whether crafting unique projects at the science museum or enjoying guided tours at the art museum, there will be various ways to learn and explore.
Outdoor activities are underway as well, with several Ottawa attractions offering family-oriented events during March Break. Families can explore the wonders of nature at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, which includes living demonstrations and interactive learning about agriculture. Guided tours of the Diefenbunker, Canada’s Cold War Museum, will showcase history through engaging activities such as crafts, scavenger hunts, and guided explorations of the four-story underground facility. The Diefenbunker promises fun and education for all ages, from March 5 to 16.
For those who love the outdoors, Ottawa's winter charm can be experienced through skating rinks sprinkled around the city, where families can enjoy the last vestiges of winter weather through ice skating. Rinks such as the Rink of Dreams at Lansdowne Park provide perfect spaces for skating enthusiasts and families to gather for some winter fun. Families are also encouraged to explore nature trails nearby or even partake in activities like snowshoeing and fat biking at scenic parks.
Beyond the events aligned with the libraries and museums, the National Gallery of Canada will offer art-inspired activities ranging from storytime to public guided tours, ensuring the love for creativity and imagination flows through every program. Kids are encouraged to participate through sketches and family art adventures during their gallery visits.
"Everyday Superheroes," organized at the Ottawa Museum, invites young heroes to attend hands-on activities where they'll sidestep villains and demonstrate their superhero skills. Educational sessions like crafting superhero gadgets and collaborative challenges will engage children’s creativity and teamwork. "Join us for Superhero Central this March Break and experience our NEW hands-on exhibit Everyday Superheroes!" was reported by the Ottawa museum, highlighting the exciting and interactive components of this vibrant program.
Other exciting performances throughout Ottawa include productions like "Footloose: The Musical," running from March 6 to 9, taking families on musical adventures with catchy tunes to dance along with. Families can also indulge in cultural shows at the Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show, celebrating Canadian music and culture featuring beloved characters from history, including hockey players and Mounties. These engaging experiences cater to diverse family interests, promoting bonding moments.
Ottawa’s vibrant family community doesn’t end here; the enthusiasm spills over with additional events such as seasonal festivals and local landmarks celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, with parades scheduled for March 15. Several performances by local sports teams are also planned, including matches for the Ottawa Senators, appealing to sports-loving families.
With so many choices available this March Break, families are sure to find activities suitable for everyone's tastes. The array of options promotes educational experiences and creates lasting memories for children. It’s clear March Break is set to be filled with adventures around town, ensuring fun is at the forefront. So mark your calendars, gather the family, and take part! March Break is shaping up to be extraordinary!