Where to Get Take Out Christmas Dinner in Ottawa

Farm Boy

This has been one of our go-tos for take out Christmas dinner in Ottawa for the last several holidays. Order online now and pick up December 22nd, 23rd, or 24th. The meal comes with the option of turkey or ham, and all meals come with potatoes, stuffing, carrotss and Brussels sprouts (don’t knock them! Farm Boy does GREAT Brussels sprouts!) With excellent packing and heating directions you can rest easy Christmas Day and throw everything in the oven to prepare to serve. This meal feeds 6-8 people. Serving extras? When you pick up your meal head to the prepared meal section and grab some extra sides that are ready to go!

Rutherfords Burger & BBQ

Head over to Wakefield for an amazing holiday dinner option that includes smoked chicken, savoury herbed stuffing, maple mustard glazed ham, house made sausages, scalloped potatoes, brown butter roasted vegetables, pecan praline sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy and yummy dessert.  Reheat for an hour and you have a delicious meal on your table that everybody will love. An all time family favourite this is a go to for any holiday and….well….any day!

Whole Foods

Head to Whole Foods and choose from a large variety of holiday meal options including vegetarian and vegan options.  Choose from a variety of meal sizes from 2 people to 12 and enjoy a holiday meal that fits your families tastes and meal desires. There are also a variety of holiday appetizers and a la carte entrees which are great to have on hand for when guests pop in or you want an easy meal after the holidays.

Chances R

ChancesR has turkey takeout options for one, two, four, or six people at a great price point and you can also add on other items for some yummy appetizers or to round out your holiday dinner. Enjoy chefs salad, roast turkey, seasonal vegetables, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberries and of course gravy! Follow it all up with your choice of cream pie or skor cheesecake.

Next

Michael Blackie, world renowned chef, is cooking up a holiday meal that is price savvy AND delicious! A 4-course plated dinner that is delivered right to your home and easy to reheat/plate? WIN! Your dinner crowd will be pleased from first bite all the way until the yummy pineapple and sweet potato pudding.

Meatings

With a great Christmas Dinner Feast and lots of add on options Meatings is a crowd pleaser! Smoked turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted root vegetables, gravy, and of course cranberry sauce can all be yours if you order by December 19th! Ready for pick up on December 23rd and 24th. Ps- consider ordering their Mac and Cheese as an addition…you won’t be disappointed

Bytown Catering

A fully loaded take out Christmas dinner in Ottawa that’s made from scratch with all the fixings for a great price? Bytown Catering has you covered with a large slow roasted turkey, chefs meat pie, traditional stuffing, mashed potatoes, roasted honey glazed root vegetables, field green salad with roasted apples and butternut squash, antipasto appetizer, fresh rolls and a chocolate Christmas log. With lots of extras to add on should you wish this is one of the most versatile holiday take out dinners in Ottawa.  Order now to reserve your dinner.

Swiss Chalet

Don’t knock it….the Swiss Chalet Festive Special is a holiday favourite of many Canadian families and if you haven’t grabbed one before you are missing out! Whether it’s for your holiday dinner or for a fun and easy family night around the holidays Swiss Chalet has you covered. Hot right to your door enjoy a quarter chicken, stuffing, your choice of side (fries, mashed potatoes, baked potato, salad and more!), bun, and of course Swiss Chalet sauce!

Here’s to savouring the special moments surrounded by family and not in the kitchen prepping, cooking and cleaning up!

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Spooktacular Family Fun for Halloween in Ottawa

Pumpkin Days and Fright Fest at Saunders Farm

Where: Saunders Farm, 7893 Bleeks Road, Munster
When: Friday & Saturday nights until Saturday November 1st 2025 (and every night during “Halloweek” October 22nd – November 1) from 6pm – 10pm
Saunders Farm is known for its epic fall festivals. Fall days = Pumpkin Days — hunt for the gourd-geous pumpkin of your dreams, explore the hedge mazes, hop on a hayride, and check out family-friendly versions of the Fright Fest haunted attractions. Fall nights = Fright Fest, the ultimate ghoul’s night out. Sip on a Saunders Cider, treat yourself to some farm-fresh bites, and keep the thrills going with ziplines, arcade games, Jumbo Jumpers, and live scary stage shows.

Billings Estate National Historic Site’s Halloween Heist

Where: Billings Estate National Historic Site, 2100 Cabot Street
When: Saturday and Sunday October 26 and 27 from 10 am to 4 pm
The Billings Estate hosts a fun and spooky Halloween event perfect for families with young children. Troublesome ghouls keep trying to sneak away with all of the Halloween candy. To keep it safe, it’s locked away in a top-secret hiding place. Explore the museum grounds in a fun, self-guided adventure while completing games and activities. Along the way, gather clues to gain access to the vault and collect a sweet treat for cracking the code. Costumes are encouraged! Suggested for ages 10 and under.

Halloween Hijinks at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum

Where: 901 Prince of Wales Drive
When: Weekends in October: 5-6, 12-14, 19-20, 26-27
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum brings Halloween fun to the farm with their Amazing Autumn Weekends event. Kids can enjoy trick-or-treating, Halloween-themed games, and spooky science experiments. There’s also a costume parade, pumpkin decorating, and visits with the animals, making it a fun-filled day for families who want to combine Halloween fun with a trip to the farm.

Ghost Tours of Ottawa

Where: Ottawa’s Haunted Locations (Departure from Bytown Museum, 1 Canal Lane)
When: Until the end of November
If your family loves ghost stories and historical tales, check out one of Ottawa’s famous Ghost Tours. The haunted walk takes you through Ottawa’s most eerie spots, including the Bytown Museum and Ottawa Jail Hostel, while tour guides share chilling stories of the city’s haunted past. The tours offer a mix of history and spookiness, suitable for kids aged 8 and up.

Trick or Treat with the Mayor

Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West
When: Saturday October 25
Mayor Jim Watson invites families to Ottawa City Hall for the annual Trick or Treat with the Mayor event. This free, fun-filled day includes Halloween-themed activities, face painting, and, of course, trick-or-treating. It’s a great way for younger kids to experience a safe and friendly Halloween celebration in the heart of the city.

A Barnyard Halloween at Valleyview Little Animal Farm

Where: 4750 Fallowfield Road
When: October 23 – 26; October 30 and 31
Valleyview Little Animal Farm is hosting a Barnyard Halloween, perfect for younger children who want to enjoy some not-so-spooky Halloween fun. Kids can dress up in their costumes, visit the farm animals, and enjoy Halloween-themed games, a spooky puppet show, and a fun scavenger hunt. It’s the perfect spot for families with little ones looking for a gentler Halloween celebration.

Halloween Fun at PumpkInferno

Where: Upper Canada Village,
When: Until Saturday November 1
Perfect for all ages, explore the magic of PumpkInferno, a nighttime walk-through experience where thousands of hand-crafted pumpkins come to life in a spectacular display of artistry and creativity along the streets and paths of Upper Canada Village’s historic landscape.

Halloween Skate

Where: Skate & Play, 1101 Baxter Rd., Ottawa
When: Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 25-26
For families looking for a unique way to celebrate Halloween, join the Halloween fun at Skate & Play. Kids can wear their costumes while gliding around and they’ll enjoy a festive, spooky roller skate with music, prizes, and treats. It’s a fun and active way to celebrate the holiday while keeping the spirit of Halloween alive and on wheels.

Ottawa is buzzing with exciting Halloween events for families this year, offering everything from fun farm visits to spooky ghost tours. Whether you’re looking for a mild-mannered pumpkin patch or a haunted adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Halloween. So grab your costumes, carve those pumpkins, and get ready for a spook-tacular time in the capital! Happy Halloween, Ottawa!

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Family Fun in Ottawa in September

Latin Sparks Festival

On Saturday September 6 enjoy Canada’s largest Latin festival at Lebreton Flats. Latin Sparks caters to the whole family with plenty of options to entertain all ages including live shows, food trucks, dance lessons, and more. Children 12 years of age or younger enter free.

AfroFest

From Saturday September 6th – Sunday September 7th you can enjoy this free festival with African-Canadian artists as they showcase their musical talent, fashion and designs, drumming, dance and so much more! This festival will be held at Mooneys bay and you can view the full festival line up and schedule on their website.

Enjoy a Country Fair

September is the month for Country Fairs!

From Thursday August 28th – Monday September 1, head to Shawville to enjoy a country fair like none other! Entrance fees include all rides and activities (where can you get that anywhere else?!). With a line up of music, farm events, demolition derbys, and tractor pulls you can definitely spend a full day here!

From Friday August 29th – Monday September 1 you can enjoy the Perth Fair as they celebrate their 178th year! With a midway (separate purchase) and a large agricultural focus (cattle, horses, 4-H clubs, homecrafts, poultry show) coupled with the tractor pull, lawn mower race, demolition derby, lawn tractor pull, and special childrens activities, this is a great country fair.

Head to the Richmond Fair September Thursday September 18th – Sunday September 21st for a weekend of family fun in Ottawa country fair style! Homecrafts, livestock, 4H club, scavenger hunt, special childrens entertainment, and a midway are all a part of this weekend fun.

The Carp Fair is back Thursday September 25th – Sunday September 28th with horse shows, live bands, midway, lawn tractor pull, horse jumping show, and special family circle/entertainment throughout the weekend.

Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival

From Wednesday August 27th to Sunday August 31st the Festival de Montgolfières is back in Gatineau! Get up close and personal as you watch the hot air balloons in action, check out the great music and food scene or hit up the amusement rides with the kids. With a silent disco, chill zone, mobile arcade and fireworks this is a fun filled weekend. The event is free for children 10 and under.

Metcalfe Night Market

Thursday September 4th is the last opportunity for this season to check out the Metcalfe Night Market at the Fairgrounds from 5-8p.m. With entertainment and lots of dinner options on site this makes it a fun evening out as a family while you check out local artisans and vendors. The Farmer’s Market continue to run Saturdays throughout September.

City Folk 2025

One of the last music festivals of the 2025 summer season City Folk returns from Wednesday September 10th to Sunday September 14th at Lansdowne. With Junkhouse, Indigo Girls, Melissa Etheridge, James, Morrissey, the Dropkick Murphys, and more, this festival is great for families and older children who enjoy live music. You will also find some little ones in strollers and carriers (just remember the ear bands for sound control!) throughout the festival.

Yummy Eats

Orleans ribfest and poutine is back Friday September 12th to Sunday September 14th on Centrum Blvd. With 5 Poutiners collectively having over 40 different kinds of poutines you will want to come with an empty belly so you have room to eat! Grab a rack of ribs, or challenge yourself to grab a taste from all the vendors on site, and don’t forget a delicious blooming onion. Bring the baby wipes……everybody eating will need some.

Ottawa International Animation Festival

This year, the annual Ottawa International Animation Festival takes place from Wednesday September 24 to Sunday September 28th, turning the ByTowne Cinema, Arts Court, Club SAW, Strathcona Park, the National Arts Centre, and the Ottawa Art Gallery into the epicentre of animation. Don’t miss the All-Ages Day schedule for the latest in their family-friendly line-up.

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Fun Family Events in Ottawa In August

Glengarry Highland Games

34 Fair Street, Maxville, Ontario
Friday August 1 – Saturday August 2

Don’t miss the exciting Glengarry Highland Games, taking place on Friday August 1 and Saturday August 2, just an hour away from Ottawa. This fun-filled event offers a rich experience of bagpipes, thrilling competitions, and engaging kids’ events, making it a perfect outing for the entire family. Get ready to immerse yourself in Scottish culture and create lasting memories at this vibrant celebration of tradition and talent.

Capital Pop‑Up Cinema

Various Parks Around Ottawa
Fridays and Saturdays August 1, 8, 9, 15 & 16

Thanks to Capital Pop-Up Cinema you can enjoy classic films under the stars like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off or Annie. Bring snacks and blankets for a cozy, budget-friendly night out the whole family will love.

Race for Wishes Family Fun Day

Hard Rock Casino Ottawa, Albion Rd.
Sunday August 3 (4–9pm)

Race for Wishes: A Night of Racing, Music & Hope is an evening of live music, family games, food trucks, silent auctions and raffles, all supporting Make‑A‑Wish Canada. Entry is free.

Navan Fair

1279 Colonial Road, Navan
Thursday August 7 – Sunday August 10

Get ready for a weekend of guaranteed fun as the Navan Fair makes a comeback from August Thursday August 7 to Sunday August 10! This classic fair offers a perfect blend of excitement with demolition derby, farm animals, rides, tractor displays, delicious fair food, and fantastic music. Don’t miss out on this event that promises endless enjoyment for all ages! Who can say no to a classic country fair?!

Ottawa International Busker Fest

Sparks St., Downtown
Friday August 8 – Sunday August 10

Join in the excitement at the Ottawa International Busker Fest, a  family favorite with an incredible lineup of entertainment. From Friday August 8 to Sunday August 10. Sparks Street comes alive with thrilling performances by jugglers, acrobats, magicians, and a myriad of other talented artists. Get ready for 3 days, 5 stages, 20+ performers, and unforgettable moments for the whole family to enjoy!

Kids Fest at Memorial Park

Memorial Park (Caboose area)
Saturday August 9 (10 am–1 pm)

The Go! Ottawa Kids Fest is a free annual event connects kids with local programs through interactive booths, crafts, and a snow-cone discount for the first 100 visitors.

Water Lantern Festival – Ottawa/Gatineau

Riverfront Park Area
Saturday August 9 (Evening)

They say it’s a night you’ll remember forever! At the Water Lantern Festival, families enjoy food trucks, live music, scavenger hunts, and the magical glow of floating lanterns that are launched together at dusk. Kids under 8 attend free.

Ottawa Greek Fest

1315 Prince of Wales Dr.
Thursday August 14 – Sunday August 17

Discover a feast of amazing cuisine, lively dancing, and thrilling live music and shows at Ottawa Greekfest from Thursday  August 14 to Sunday August 17. Immerse yourself in the rich Greek culture and indulge in a memorable experience that celebrates the best of Greece right in Ottawa. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that promises fun and entertainment for all!

Capital Pride Festival & Parade

Lansdowne Park & Downtown Ottawa
Saturday August 16 – Sunday August 24

Celebrate diversity and inclusion with free live performances, kids activities, community picnics, and the vibrant Pride Parade on Sunday, Aug 24. Check out all of the events at CapitalPride.ca

Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (FMG)

Parc de la Baie, Gatineau (15 min from Ottawa)
Wednesday August 27 – Sunday August 31

Don’t miss the Family Zone at the A stunning blend of colourful hot-air balloons, live music, food stalls, and crafts. Family-friendly and just a short bridge away.

Ottawa Serbian Festival

St. Stefan Serbian Orthodox Church, Prince of Wales Dr.
Saturday August 30 – Monday September 1

Celebrate Labour Day Weekend with traditional music, dance, folklore shows, kids’ crafts, and authentic Serbian food at the Ottawa Serbian Festival. Free admission for families.

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Water Safety Tips to Prevent Drowning

Supervise Constantly

Always keep a close eye on children when they are in or near water, regardless of their swimming abilities. Assign a responsible adult as a designated water watcher to provide undivided attention. Often drowning happens when we feel we are supervising but something takes away our attention for a few moments. Whether this be to attend to another child, to grab a snack for somebody or to reapply more sunscreen, drowning can happen in a split second.

Learn CPR and First Aid

Knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid can be crucial in case of emergencies. These skills can help save lives while waiting for medical professionals to arrive. It’s also important to refresh your skills every few years (or more often!). In stressful situations it’s common to forget the skills learned so by keeping it fresh in your mind you are readily prepared.

Teach Swimming Skills

Enroll your children in swimming lessons taught by certified instructors. Learning how to swim is an important life skill that can significantly reduce the risk of drowning. While learning to swim is important it’s also imperative to remember that drowning can happen to those who know how to swim as well. This is just another tool in our “water safe toolbox” to help set us up for a safe experience.

Wear Life Jackets

Be Cautious Around Open Water

Lakes, rivers, and oceans can pose additional risks compared to pools. Teach your children about the potential hazards of currents, undertows, and changing water conditions. Have a favourite rock that you love to jump off of? Remember that often conditions under the water can change without it being visible above the water. Always test and have a process in place to ensure it’s a safe environment before jumping.

Fence Home Pools

If you have a home pool, it should be adequately fenced on all sides to restrict access. Install a self-closing and self-latching gate to prevent young children from entering unsupervised. Even the best swimmers can get tired or injured in the blink of an eye.

Avoid Alcohol and Drugs

Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during any water activities. These substances impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents and drowning. I also enjoy a margarita around the pool with friends but it’s important that you have a “Designated Pool Watcher” just like you would have a designated driver.

Stay Hydrated and Use Sun Protection

Encourage regular hydration and apply sunscreen generously to protect against sunburn. Heatstroke and dehydration can be dangerous, especially during extended outdoor water activities. Both of these can lead to fatigue or increase chance of losing consciousness which can be extremely dangerous around water.

Educate Yourself

Stay informed about water safety guidelines, local swimming conditions, and potential hazards specific to the area you’re visiting. Be aware of any warning signs or restrictions in place.

Practice Water Awareness

Teach your children to respect the water and be aware of their surroundings. Encourage them to avoid dangerous behaviors, such as running near pool edges or diving in shallow water.

Remember, these tips are meant to supplement your own research and understanding of water safety practices. By prioritizing drowning prevention and following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for your family in and around water. Enjoy your summer spending time at your local beach, the waterpark, wading pools, and backyard pools!

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