2. Winterlude, Ottawa
Canada’s capital city hosts one of the best winter festivals in North America. The setting is picture perfect, with its castle-like architecture and stunning canal. The Rideau Canal Skateway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world’s longest rink stretching 7.8 km through the center of Ottawa. Cozy fires, hot cocoa and energy-fueling snacks (Beavertail pastries!) keep you warm during rest stops. There’s a flurry of activity during the three week carnival, including snow carving, a snow playground, super slides, skiing events, concerts and exhibits.