Ottawa Tourism’s Destination Development Fund Fuels ByWard Winter Market Season
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ByWard Market Unveils First Winter Market Season with Ottawa Tourism Support
OTTAWA, ON - November 18, 2024 - The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), is excited to launch of the first ByWard Winter Market, a ten-week celebration in the heart of Ottawa. Made possible thanks to the support of Ottawa Tourism's Destination Development Fund, the market will bridge the holiday shopping season with the iconic Winterlude festival, creating an unforgettable winter experience that contributes significantly to Ottawa’s visitor economy.
In line with Ottawa Tourism’s vision, the ByWard Winter Market is set to enhance community prosperity by driving economic growth. By expanding winter tourism, the BMDA will contribute to a broader economic impact, strengthening Ottawa’s status as a must-visit destination.
“Each year, tourism in Ottawa attracts nearly 9.8 million visitors, generating $2.6 billion in visitor spending,” says Catherine Callary, Vice President of Destination Development at Ottawa Tourism. “Events like the ByWard Winter Market play a critical role in this impact, drawing locals and visitors to enjoy unique seasonal programming, engage with local businesses, and experience Ottawa’s winter charm.”
The outdoor market component, which kicks off on November 22, 2024, aims to bring the community together creating a warm, inclusive environment leading up to Ottawa’s beloved Winterlude festival. Even after the outdoor market wraps up on January 5, 2025, special events and programming will continue in the district until January 30, 2025, ensuring a season filled with winter magic.
“The ByWard Winter Market is an exciting chapter in our story, bringing fresh energy and expanding our seasonal offering in the heart of Ottawa. Nearly 200 years ago, the city’s journey started right here in ByWard, and we’re keeping that spirit alive with spaces that celebrate community and local flavor,” said BMDA Executive Director Zachary Dayler. “This place is more than just a market—it’s a district where people gather, explore, and experience the magic of the nation’s capital in every season.”
A highlight of the inaugural ByWard Winter Market will be the introduction of a brand-new synthetic skating rink, made possible through the support of the Destination Development Fund. Unlike traditional ice rinks, this sustainable and eco-friendly 88ft rink offers a skating experience that’s accessible to everyone, regardless of the temperature, enhancing Ottawa’s winter landscape.
For more information about the ByWard Winter Market, including schedules and updates on programming, visit byward-market.com/winter-market.
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For more information, please contact:
Victoria Williston
Manager of Communications, BMDA
613-875-8830
victoria@bmda.ca
About the ByWard Market District Authority
Enhancing the experience for both residents and tourists alike, the ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) is a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) in Ottawa entrusted with overseeing the public market program in both the ByWard and Parkdale areas. As the steward of the ByWard Market District, the BMDA also supports a vibrant business community with over 350 permanent retail and restaurant establishments. Visit the BMDA website and be part of the tradition—stop By!
About Ottawa Tourism
Through its values of inclusivity, trust, collaboration, and innovation, Ottawa Tourism pursues its vision to be one of Canada’s most visited, sustainable, vibrant, and appealing urban destinations, as well as the tourism authority for key economic development and city-building decisions in Ottawa. Canada’s capital welcomes an estimated 9.8 million visitors annually who spend $2.6 billion in the community.