After getting buried in snow, Ottawa celebrates Winterlude in style

The nation's capital has survived an avalanche of snow in recent days — just in time for Winterlude. This is the 39th year of the famous Ottawa winter festival. And it has taken on special significance as Canada celebrates its 150th birthday.

Winterlude runs for two weeks, loaded with activities ranging from ice sculpting competitions, outdoors concerts and skating on the world’s largest skating rink, the frozen Rideau Canal (yes, Winnipeg, you can have your longest rink). While it’s branded a national event, it really is more of a local family friendly affair, lasting from February 5^th to the 20^th.

The concerts have a local Canadian flavor, and the Beaver Tails hot pastry stands are omnipresent. An ice sculptures competition leans on the spectacular side around Confederation Park.

There’s still time to enjoy it if you’re in the area, whether in Ottawa or Gatineau, until the end of the weekend. Whether you make it not, here's a glimpse of the brisk festivities.