SnowBall Returns to 50 Sussex March 4 Supporting Ottawa Kids in Need
OTTAWA, February 4, 2026 – As winter continues across the capital, The Snowsuit Fund invites the community to come together for warmth, generosity and celebration at the annual SnowBall: A Cool Winter’s Eve, presented by Intega IT. The event returns to its original venue at 50 Sussex on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
SnowBall is The Snowsuit Fund’s signature fundraising gala, with proceeds supporting the purchase, storage and distribution of new snowsuits for children in need across Ottawa. The event brings together community leaders, sponsors and supporters for an unforgettable evening with a meaningful purpose.
What to Expect at SnowBall 2026
SnowBall at 50 Sussex will welcome hundreds of guests for a multi-level immersive experience combining entertainment, culinary excellence and community spirit.
Culinary Experiences from Ottawa’s Top Chefs
Guests will enjoy gourmet chef stations featuring offerings from some of Ottawa’s top culinary talent, including Beckta, Raphaël Peruvian Cuisine, Andaz ByWard Market, Heart & Crown, Essence Catering, Barrio, Tulips & Maple, Mādahòkì Farm, Social, E18hteen, and Pelican Seafood.
Drinks, Entertainment and Immersive Activations
The evening will feature bars serving wine, beer, signature cocktails and mocktails, thoughtfully designed décor creating a chic winter atmosphere, live music and DJ performances, experiential activations including photo opportunities and beauty and fragrance bars, along with silent and live auctions offering exclusive items and experiences.
A Growing Ottawa Charity Tradition
Since its inaugural edition six years ago, SnowBall has become one of Ottawa’s most anticipated social and charitable events. The gala consistently sells out while raising critical funds to meet growing community needs.
“SnowBall is a powerful example of how Ottawa’s business community can come together to make a real difference for local families,” says John Robinson, SnowBall 2026 Title Sponsor, The Snowsuit Fund Board Member and CEO of Intega IT. “We’re proud to support The Snowsuit Fund and help ensure children across our city stay warm, confident and included this winter.”
Last year’s SnowBall raised $90,000, and this year’s return to 50 Sussex aims to build on that momentum with the continued support of sponsors, donors and attendees.
Meeting Rising Demand for Winter Support
This winter, The Snowsuit Fund has already surpassed previous numbers, distributing more than 20,000 snowsuits to children aged 15 and under — the largest total in the organization’s 44-year history. As the cost of living rises and Ottawa’s population grows, more families are forced to make difficult choices between essentials like food, housing and warm winter clothing.
“We’re a city that embraces winter,” says Lauren Parkes, Board Member for The Snowsuit Fund and Co-Chair of SnowBall. “Providing a child with a new snowsuit means they can play outside, feel included and experience winter like every other child.”
Her Co-Chair and fellow Board Member Jon Sinden adds, “Eat, drink and be merry. I encourage Ottawans to come and sample delicacies from some of the finest chefs in the city, then dance the night away with friends. This one-of-a-kind cocktail event highlights the best of Ottawa with a strong community focus.”
Both Parkes and Sinden have witnessed the impact firsthand through volunteer work at The Snowsuit Fund’s Vanier depot, where children select their own snowsuits — often with visible excitement and pride.
Community Leaders and Sponsors Supporting the Cause
SnowBall is not only a celebration but also a meaningful networking opportunity for community-minded leaders. Past events have welcomed prominent figures from Ottawa’s business, sports and philanthropic communities, including senior executives, professional athletes and dedicated volunteers who support The Snowsuit Fund year-round.
Corporate and community supporters include Intega IT, Norton Rose Fulbright LLP, BMO Private Wealth / Nesbitt Burns, Humen Kind, Lansdowne Consulting Group, Ottawa Senators Foundation, Salon Fiorella, Ottawa Titans, Ottawa Fire Fighters Association, Brazeau Seller LLP, Rogers Sports & Media, Ottawa Business Journal and Expedia Cruises (Westboro & Kanata).
Tickets and Event Details
Tickets are $250 or $900 for a 4-pack. To become a SnowBall sponsor or purchase tickets, visit snowsuitfund.com/snowball-2026
About The Snowsuit Fund
The Snowsuit Fund purchases and distributes approximately 19,000 snowsuits annually to children aged 15 and younger from low-income families living in Ottawa. Every child deserves a warm snowsuit to play outside, stay healthy and feel a sense of belonging. For many families, purchasing winter clothing is a necessity they simply cannot afford as essential needs like food and utilities take priority.
A snowsuit can do more than protect against the cold — it can change lives by encouraging outdoor play, improving health and boosting confidence and social inclusion. The Snowsuit Fund is powered almost entirely by volunteers and receives no government funding, relying on the generosity of individuals, businesses and community groups to help keep Ottawa’s children warm.
lead photo by Roland Baste Photography
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