How to have a low-key New Year’s Eve in Ottawa

New Year’s Eve is often fraught with high expectations, but if you’re like most of us, the big shindigs and wild ‘n’ crazy to-dos never quite live up to the hype. If you’re weary of the same old, same old and want to step outside the box this year, try on one of these low-key New Year’s Eve destinations for size.

Beckta is located in a beautiful historic building with elegant, colorful interiors and a cheerful vibe. This year, Beckta offers 4 New Year’s Eve packages to help you ring in the new year just right: an early 3-course prix fixe dinner offers 5:30, 6:00, and 6:30 seating options, while the late seating at 8:30, 9:00, or 9:30 features a 5-course blind tasting menu. For groups of 8 to 12, private dining is available starting at 7pm. Alternatively, you can enjoy NYE in the wine bar with a special 3-course meal featuring the chef’s favorite classics.

When: Dec 31, 5:30pm – 9:30pm seatings
Where: 150 Elgin St

A little pampering will do wonders for your body, mind, and spirit as the new year creeps ever closer. Emerge into 2018 looking and feeling like a million bucks with the help of Nordik Spa, located just 20 minutes from Ottawa and offering full-service spa treatments like facials, massages, outdoor heated bathing pools, a floating saltwater pool, and yoga and meditation facilities. Whether you come solo, share the experience with your closest compadres, or make it a lover’s getaway, Nordik—the largest spa in North America—provides a one-of-a-kind pampering experience that sets a healthy, harmonious tone for the new year.

When: Dec 31, 9am – 1am
Where: 16 Chemin Nordik, Chelsea

Say farewell to Canada 150 with an epic closing celebration on the Hill. Activities, sights, and sounds abound for all ages, including interactive entertainment from drummers, dancers, stilt-walkers, and more. Enjoy special appearances by athletes, lawmakers, and other VIPs, and dance the night away with DJs and live bands. New Year’s Eve marks the very first time you can skate on Parliament Hill, which is reason enough to venture out into the cold. Vendors will hawk food and beverages, and the kiddos can get in on some special activities just for them. At 11:59pm, the countdown begins, and 2018 is ushered in with a dazzling fireworks display.

When: Dec 31, 9pm – 12:20am
Where: Wellington St

Support the Aquatopia Water Garden Conservatory at this year’s New Year’s Eve Gala, housed in Aquatopia’s warm, glass-enclosed greenhouses offering unfettered views of the winter sky. Executive Chef Reshad will serve up a delicious menu of tapas, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts, and a stocked-to-the-gills cash bar will keep the specialty cocktails, hand-picked wines, and craft beers flowing all night long. Dance the night away among the koi ponds and water gardens, or kick back and relax in the tropical greenhouse lounge. At midnight, enjoy a fireworks display through glass ceilings as you bask in warmth, comfort, and good vibes.

When: Dec 31, 8pm – 2am
Where: 2710 March Rd

If your idea of a low-key New Year’s Eve involves holing up on the couch binge-watching your favorite movies or Netflix series, let Uber Eats help to deliver the sustenance. Order up some Greek fare from Go4Greek, or opt for Middle Eastern eats from Sizzle ‘n Grill. If it’s more of a pizza kind of night, Juluca’s Bistro Café whips up delicious pies, along with burgers, pasta, and salads.

Sail into the new year on a chill note, and set the stage for a laid-back 2018. Get the crew together, make your reservations early, and start looking forward to an easy-going evening with the people you love best.