OTTAWA – Mayor Jim Watson will host the Mayor’s 19th Annual Christmas Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 7 at Ottawa City Hall in support of the Ottawa Food Bank. 

“Celebrate the season in the brisk outdoors by roasting marshmallows around a campfire and visiting the eccentric baker at the Gingerbread Bakery in Marion Dewar Plaza,” city staff released in a statement Nov. 28. “Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus who will arrive from the North Pole and be housed in their very own outdoor cabin. Come skate on the Sens Rink of Dreams, take a horse-drawn wagon ride around City Hall, then indulge in delicious BeaverTails for only $2, with all proceeds raised going directly to the Ottawa Food Bank.”

 The fun continues inside in Andrew S. Haydon Hall with a magic show, live science experiments, and a performance from the dynamic Monkey Rock Music! Then don’t forget to stop by the café in Jean Pigott Place to enjoy hot chocolate, assorted juices, cookies, and fresh fruit before making your own craft in Santa’s Workshop.

The Mayor’s Annual Christmas Celebration is made possible by the generosity of the many corporate sponsors. In the spirit of giving and to help those in need, admission to this sponsored event is a non-perishable food donation to the Ottawa Food Bank.

OC Transpo will offer free bus and O-Train rides to and from City Hall from 1:30 to 6:30 pm to children 11 years and under when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. At fare gates, ask OC Transpo staff to let children through the gate, or use video-chat at one of the ticket machines.

This is not a nut-free event. Dress for the weather as most activities will take place outside. The event runs from 2 to 6 p.m. at City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave. W.